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Chermside Welcomes Longest Sushi Train in Southern Hemisphere

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.

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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

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