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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

Five-Year Prison Sentence for Chermside Lego Store Manager Following Theft and Arson

The former store manager of a Lego store in Chermside has been sentenced to five years in prison for stealing $60,000 in cash and merchandise, and causing $70,000 in fire damage to conceal the theft.

In 2020, the store manager of a Westfield Chermside Lego outlet misappropriated 40 boxes of Lego and nearly $60,000 from the store to support a gambling addiction. The theft led to an elaborate cover-up attempt, where the manager set fire to the shopping centre’s stockroom, significantly damaging stock from Lego and neighbouring stores, Specsavers and Macpac.

Upon discovering the theft and subsequent arson, an investigation quickly focused on the manager. The escalation of the case resulted in the manager’s attempt to evade consequences by committing further thefts in Longreach while on bail. These actions led to an additional $10,000 stolen from a new employer.

Presented before the Brisbane District Court on Tuesday, 26 March 2024, the Chermside Lego store manager pleaded guilty to charges of aggravated fraud, endangering property by fire, and stealing by a clerk or servant.

The court handed down a sentence of five years for aggravated fraud, with concurrent two-and-a-half-year sentences for the other charges, highlighting the premeditated nature of the crimes and the breach of trust involved.

The prosecution and defence addressed the court on the impact of the manager’s actions and her personal circumstances, including mental health issues tied to her gambling addiction.

The Chief Judge emphasised the sentence’s role in punishment, deterrence, protection of the community, and the offender’s rehabilitation.

Published 3-April-2024

Fatal Traffic Crash Along Kittyhawk Dr and Murphy Rd

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

A fatal traffic crash involving a pedestrian occurred in the early morning of 21 March 2024 at the intersection of Kittyhawk Drive and Murphy Road.

Emergency services were alerted to the incident at approximately 5:15 am at the intersection.

The pedestrian involved in the crash was transported to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in critical condition, where he was later pronounced dead.

The vehicle involved in the incident fled the scene, and police are currently searching for the suspect.

Authorities are urging anyone with information, CCTV, or dashcam footage related to the incident to come forward.

Information can be provided to Policelink using the online suspicious activity form, available 24 hours a day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

For those wishing to remain anonymous, crime information can be reported via Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or reporting online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

When providing information, please quote the reference number QP2400499386.

Published 23-March-2024

New Adina Apartment Hotel Coming to Chermside

Toga Far East Hotels (TFE Hotels) is expanding its Adina apartment hotel brand into the fast-growing Chermside with the signing of the new Adina Apartment Hotel Chermside.

Read: Major Residential Project Proposed for Kelso Street

The 148-key hotel is being developed in partnership with local firm Limitless Developments and is slated to open in 2025.

Designed by WMK Architecture, the new-build hotel will be centrally located in the heart of Chermside, about a 20-minute drive north of Brisbane’s central business district.

Photo credit: Adina Hotels/WMK Architecture

The hotel aims to offer a modern experience for guests with amenities like an all-day dining restaurant, cafe/bar, lobby lounge, meeting room, gym, rainwater harvesting, and on-site parking.

The signing of Adina Chermside Brisbane is a significant milestone for TFE Hotels, providing an opportunity for them to expand their Adina footprint from two hotels to three in the powerhouse state of Queensland.

“Adina Chermside brings a homegrown hotel brand to this important suburb, filling a gap in the accommodation market for the north side of Brisbane and the Prince Charles Hospital,” the company website stated.

The new hotel is being developed in anticipation of the transformative decade ahead as Brisbane prepares to host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Chermside itself is one of Brisbane’s fastest-growing suburban areas, with the population projected to nearly double by 2036 as it emerges as a secondary CBD for the northern suburbs.

The Adina will be owned by local developer Limitless Developments, which has over $150 million of completed projects in its portfolio and another $160 million in active developments underway in Southeast Queensland.

Owner Nick Barr has more than 25 years of experience in the Brisbane market and is deeply involved in community philanthropy, including an annual 1,000km charity cycle to raise funds for The Prince Charles Hospital Foundation.

Read: Easing Traffic in Chermside: Over 900m of Gympie Road Transitway Completed

With its prime suburban location and community-minded ownership, the new Adina Apartment Hotel Chermside Brisbane looks to be an exciting addition to the booming Brisbane hospitality scene in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics.