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Chermside Drag Queens Honour Sister with Charity Shows for Leukaemia Foundation

The iconic Kedron Wavell Services Club in Chermside is set to host one of two dazzling charity performances by The Golden Girls of Drag, a trio of seasoned drag queens known for their international tours and vibrant stage presence.

The second show, aptly titled “ABBA-solutely ABBA-licious,” will grace the club’s stage on 17th August at 7:00 p.m., with all profits going to The Leukemia Foundation in memory of the late Judy Krause.

A Night of Glitz, Glamour, and Giving Back

*Photo Credit:* *The Golden Girls of Drag*

Patrons can expect an evening of light-hearted entertainment filled with classic pop hits, humorous parodies, and the chance to win lucky door prizes and raffles. Tickets for the Kedron Wavell show are priced at $30 and can be purchased directly from the venue via phone (3350 0916) or website with a QR code available for convenient booking.

BOOK TICKETS HERE

The Golden Girls: A Drag Dream Team

The Golden Girls of Drag—Lucy Lockjaw, a celebrated honouree of The Sportmans Hotel Wall of Fame; Carla M’World, known for her zany energy; and Vira Brator, a beacon of scintillating joy—will be joined by special international guest drag queens, promising a night of unforgettable performances.

A Tribute to Judy Krause and The Leukemia Foundation

The Golden Girls of Drag have a deeply personal connection to The Leukemia Foundation, as the organisation provided invaluable support to their late sister Judy Krause during her battle with leukemia. The shows are a heartfelt tribute to Judy’s life and the foundation’s compassionate care.

Judy’s sisters’ decision to honour her memory in this way deeply touched Judy, who dedicated her life to spreading love, equality, and respect. Though she won’t be physically present, her spirit and legacy will undoubtedly fill the room. Both shows have been formally endorsed as charity events by the Leukaemia Foundation, underscoring their significance and impact.

The first show, “Divas Do Christmas in July,” will be held on 6th July at the Ipswich Football Club, and tickets can be obtained directly from The Golden Girls of Drag. For those in Brisbane, the “ABBA-solutely ABBA-licious” show at Kedron Wavell Services Club offers a unique opportunity to support a worthy cause while enjoying a night of exceptional entertainment.

Published Date 14-June-2024

Chermside Welcomes YOMG Burgers and Frozen Yoghurt to Queensland

Photo Credit: YOMG

Melbourne’s beloved burger establishment, YOMG (Yo-My-Goodness), has crossed state lines, landing in sunny Queensland with its first store at Westfield Chermside.

The grand opening on Saturday, 8th of June, promises a treat for burger enthusiasts, offering free burgers from 11:00 a.m. to midday and $10,000 worth of free frozen yoghurt on Sunday.

Co-founder Justin Wilson expressed his excitement about bringing YOMG to Brisbane, citing the city’s vibrant atmosphere and market as the driving force behind their interstate expansion. The restaurant aims to be a family-friendly hub where customers can savour a wide range of flavours.

YOMG prides itself on using quality Australian Angus beef, house-made sauces, and a unique milk bun recipe. Notably, the Chermside team is composed entirely of residents.

Mr Wilson hinted at ambitious plans, revealing that Chermside marks just the beginning of YOMG’s growth across the Sunshine State. Beyond their signature burgers, YOMG’s menu boasts shakes, artisanal frozen yoghurt, acai bowls, and a self-serve toppings bar featuring both vegan and Angus beef options.

The restaurant’s aesthetic blends modern design with YOMG’s signature purple, and gold accents, and LED lights, creating a welcoming space for customers to enjoy their meals. Mr Wilson emphasised their commitment to providing quality ingredients and value for money.

YOMG Chermside will operate with extended hours from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. on weekends, offering an inviting space for burger lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

Published Date 12-June-2024

James Morton Mason: Man Who Set Fatal Fire Loses Appeal Bid

Photo Credit: Facebook / Zoey Kramar

James Morton Mason, the man who brutally murdered his partner Alexis Parkes by setting fatal fire to her home in a horrific act of domestic violence loses in his attempt to overturn his conviction on appeal.

**Alexis Parkes**
Photo Credit: Change.org

James Morton Mason was sentenced to life in prison in December 2022 after being found guilty by a jury of the callous murder of 50-year-old Parkes. On Tuesday, the Brisbane Court of Appeal dismissed Mason’s claims that there were errors in how the trial judge instructed the jury.

The harrowing details presented at trial were that in February 2020, after an argument with Parkes, Mason deliberately set fire to a car parked under her home in Chermside while she was inside. He then watched as the flames engulfed the house, trapping the defenseless Parkes.

Despite bystanders’ frantic efforts to rescue her, Parkes suffered catastrophic burns to 80% of her body. The mother of four endured unimaginable agony before succumbing to multiple organ failure just four days later when her life support was withdrawn.

Mason’s unconscionable actions robbed four children of their mother in the most painful way imaginable. Yet at his appeal, his lawyer Sally Robb incredibly tried to argue the jury was not adequately informed on whether Mason meant to kill Parkes or just cause her grievous bodily harm.

However, the Appeal Court judges ruled the jury was properly instructed, with Justice Philip Morrison writing the defence’s position “was simply and clearly put” at trial. Mason’s murderous intent was laid bare by his shocking disregard for human life as he watched his partner’s home become an inferno.

This ruling confirms that Mason’s despicable crime met the highest legal standard of guilt for murder. While nothing can undo this unspeakable tragedy, the judges’ dismissal of his appeal provides a small measure of justice for Parkes and her loved ones.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please contact 1800 RESPECT for support and services, or call 000 if you are in immediate danger.

Published 4-June-2024

Chermside Welcomes Longest Sushi Train in Southern Hemisphere

Photo Credit: Sushi Jiro

Hold onto your chopsticks, Brisbane! Chermside has officially become a sushi lover’s paradise, boasting the Southern Hemisphere’s most epic sushi train. Spanning an astonishing 115 metres and accommodating a whopping 171 diners, this culinary conveyor belt is set to redefine the sushi experience.

Sushi Jiro in Chermside — *Photo Credit:* *Sushi Jiro*

These strategic locations were chosen for their vibrant shopping scenes, aligning with the brand’s commitment to providing unique and immersive dining experiences. In under two years, CEO Anna Kasman has nearly doubled the business’s sushi train presence in Australia, catering to the nation’s growing appetite for sushi while pushing the boundaries of dining innovation.

“The demand for high-quality Japanese cuisine in a relaxed setting is clear, and diners want experiences that are fresh and exciting,” Kasman stated. “We aim to fill that gap with everything Sushi Jiro does, offering one-of-a-kind experiences every time.”

Both the Chermside and Pacific Fair restaurants are designed to captivate customers from the moment they enter.

“We designed both restaurants with the customer journey at the forefront, from the atmosphere of our interior design to the interactive nature of our sushi train,” Kasman explained. “We’ve incorporated elements that not only streamline dining but create an immersive experience that connects our guests with traditional and modern sushi making.”

Sushi Jiro‘s menu showcases traditional Japanese favourites while surprising guests with creative dishes like the Nori Taco, a fusion of traditional Japanese flavours presented uniquely, rarely seen in the quick-service restaurant space.

order online

Looking ahead, Sushi Jiro plans to continue expanding its footprint in Australia. “We’re exploring opportunities to bring Sushi Jiro restaurants to more locations across Australia,” Kasman said. “Our goal is to continuously improve and innovate upon our elevated sushi train experience with each new store opening.”

Sushi Jiro’s new Queensland stores are open seven days a week, inviting sushi enthusiasts to experience the Southern Hemisphere’s longest sushi train firsthand.

Published Date 04-June-2024

Hidden Potential of Chermside: Underground Tunnel to Spark Transformation

Photo Credit: Facebook/ Fix Gympie Road & Hamilton Road Intersection

Chermside could soon undergo a significant transformation, with the proposed development of an underground tunnel that aims to alleviate traffic congestion, improve pedestrian access, and enhance urban connectivity.

The proposed tunnel would run beneath Gympie Road, a major thoroughfare that currently acts as a barrier between Westfield Chermside shopping centre and the surrounding areas. By diverting traffic underground, the project would free up valuable surface space for pedestrian-friendly zones, green spaces, and potentially even new residential and commercial developments.

Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map

In a recent episode of 4BC Brisbane, journalist Peter Gleeson explored this ambitious project, highlighting its potential to unlock a wave of new opportunities for the community.

The Chermside underground tunnel project is not the first attempt to improve the area. Council has explored various options to enhance safety and access, including a proposed upgrade of the Hamilton Road and Staib Road intersection.

However, this plan was contingent on funding from the Queensland Government and faced community opposition. An alternative interim option was also proposed but did not garner community support.

In late 2022, Council put forth a design to install traffic lights at the Hamilton Road and Western Avenue intersection, but this plan has been deferred following a review of Council’s infrastructure programme.

With the underground tunnel project still in the planning stages, everal details, including funding and timelines, are yet to be finalised. However, several ongoing discussions, including those spurred by the Gleeson podcast, have sparked a wider conversation about the future of Chermside and the potential for innovative infrastructure solutions to transform the suburb.

Published Date 27-May-2024

Wesley Mission Queensland in Chermside Fights Loneliness Through Volunteers

One in four adults in Australia have volunteered since the Covid-19 pandemic, but Wesley Mission Queensland based in Chermside is providing flexible volunteering opportunities that are reviving interest and combating loneliness in aged care facilities across Brisbane.

Wesley Mission Queensland runs the volunteer-led, government-funded Aged Care Volunteer Visitor Scheme (ACVVS) in its aged care communities. The scheme aims to reduce the impacts of isolation and boredom amongst older Australians by pairing them with volunteer visitors for weekly or fortnightly visits over a cup of tea and a chat.

Changing Volunteering Landscape

While volunteering rates have steadily declined across Australia since 2010, Wesley Mission Queensland has maintained a steady volunteer base by offering flexible, short-term opportunities tailored to people’s lifestyles.

“With the average age of our volunteer network now being 49 years old, we understand that people wish to give back in ad hoc opportunities which suit their lifestyle. They also seek to be engaged in a number of short-term volunteer opportunities to grow their portfolio and ‘try before they buy’,” said Volunteer Relations Manager Nicole Mujdrica.

The ACVVS combats social isolation and loneliness among older Australians and offers a profound sense of purpose to volunteers from diverse backgrounds.

“Volunteering and spending time with Maureen (aged care resident) has really put things in perspective for me. It helps me to be more present and value my good health and age now because I know it doesn’t last forever,” Lisa Bellamywells, a 52-year-old mother balancing part-time work and family responsibilities, said.

Mitchell Ward, a 32-year-old former support worker who joined in February 2024.

“I love spending time with the oldies, making them feel comfortable and to brighten their day it makes me feel good giving back to the community.”

Wesley Mission Queensland National Volunteer Week — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Call to Action for National Volunteer Week

As National Volunteer Week is celebrated from May 20-26, Wesley Mission Queensland invites individuals of all ages to volunteer and drive positive change in their communities through the Aged Care Volunteer Visitor Scheme.

“It’s only an hour out of your week that makes a massive difference to the residents’ entire week – I hope someone is compassionate enough to spend an hour with me in my older years,” Lisa said.

Published 24-May-2024

Chermside Op-Shop Celebrates Vital Role of Volunteers During National Volunteer Week

Volunteer Sri Puspa Atkinson continues to make a profound impact at Save the Children Chermside op-shop, dedicating over a year to helping those in need and bringing joy to the community.

Sri, originally from Indonesia and a Brisbane resident for nearly 24 years, embodies the spirit of altruism at the Chermside op-shop. With a diverse background spanning film production and documentary work, Sri’s passion for volunteering has been a constant thread throughout her life.

“For me, there is no happier feeling than to be able to help those in need and see them happy,” Sri shared, reflecting on her over a year of volunteer work at the op-shop, as Australia commemorates National Volunteer Week from the 20th to 26th of May 2024.

Save the Children volunteer Sri at Chermside — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Her creative skills as a former make-up artist and costume designer in the film industry play a significant role in her current volunteer work, especially when creating engaging displays from donated items.

Community Impact

Andrena Nowlan, Save the Children Australia’s Director of Retail, highlighted the essential role of volunteers like Sri.

“Without the support of volunteers, including the wonderful volunteers in our op shops, it would be much harder to carry out our work that protects and supports children across Australia and around the world,” she said.

Ms Nowlan emphasised that National Volunteer Week is an opportunity to recognize the significant contributions of volunteers within their communities and their dedication to the organisation’s mission.

Chermside op-shop volunteer Sri — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

A Legacy of Helping Children

Save the Children has been an active part of the Australian community for over a century and stands as one of the country’s leading child rights charities.

The Chermside Op-Shop, located at 755 Gympie Road, has been operational since October 2015 and continues to support the organisation’s lifesaving programs through the sale of donated items.

These funds aid children both locally and globally, ensuring they receive the support and protection they need during critical times.

Published 22-May-2024

$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