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

Over 900 metres of the Gympie Road transitway have been completed in both directions as part of efforts to alleviate congestion and enhance travel efficiency for commuters in Chermside and other areas in North Brisbane.

The Northern Transitway, stretching from Sadlier Street to Rode Road, is slated for full opening in April 2024, marking a milestone in the ongoing project’s completion. These dedicated bus lanes are designed to facilitate more efficient bus travel, thereby separating buses from general traffic and resulting in substantial travel time savings.

Whilst progress is commendable, attention is now shifting towards the remaining section of the project, from Rode Road to Hamilton Road. This segment will change to better integrate with the proposed Gympie Road Bypass project.

Northern Transitway Chermside — Photo Credit: Translink

Anticipated to align with the release of the Gympie Road Bypass Investment proposal later this year, this shift aims to enhance the integration of the transitway with the broader transportation infrastructure, including proposed upgrades to the Chermside Bus Interchange.

Undoubtedly, the delivery of the Northern Transitway project has not been without its challenges, with considerable cost pressures and unexpected complexities, particularly in replacing old underground stormwater drainage structures. Nonetheless, efforts to mitigate these issues are already underway, ensuring the project’s completion aligns with the broader vision of enhancing transportation networks in the region.

The impact of these developments on the community is substantial, as articulated by Member for Stafford, Jimmy Sullivan.

“More than 9,000 people currently use buses to travel along Gympie Road between Kedron and Chermside each weekday,” Mr Sullivan said.

“By separating buses from general traffic, the Northern Transitway is reducing congestion, delivering higher frequency services, improving service reliability and bonus travel time savings during peak periods.

As the project progresses, all Gympie Road bus stops from Stafford Road to Rode Road are set to open in April, further alleviating congestion and improving traffic times along this critical corridor. With completion milestones reached in April 2023 and December 2023, the project continues to forge ahead, with the next section to Rode Road anticipated for completion in April.

For commuters seeking information and planning their journeys, resources such as the MyTranslink app, the Translink website, and customer service helpline 13 12 30 remain invaluable tools

Published 13-Feb-2024

Expanding Horizons: Stepping Stone Clubhouse Opens in Chermside

Stepping Stone Clubhouse has opened a new clubhouse in Chermside, servicing locals within the suburbs of North Brisbane, including Wavell Heights and Geebung.

Stepping Stone Clubhouse was founded in 1994, born out of a pressing need for comprehensive mental health support services in Brisbane. Its establishment was driven by the philosophy of the Clubhouse model, which emphasises the value of a supportive community environment for individuals recovering from mental illness.

For over a decade, the dream of having a Clubhouse in the northside has been nurtured by Stepping Stone, and this dream has finally come true in 2024.

Members of the Stepping Stone Clubhouse hail from the entire Brisbane region and adjacent catchments. A substantial 29 per cent of Stepping Stone’s membership resides in the northern suburbs, with only one-fifth of them attending the current Clubhouse located in Coorparoo for more than 10 hours in the last calendar year.

Distance has been a major barrier for Northside members, hindering consistent participation. This new venture aims to bridge this gap and provide support to individuals living with mental illness in the Northside communities.

Finding the Perfect Spot

A meticulous analysis was conducted by a business consultant to determine the ideal location for the new Clubhouse. The assessment took into account existing services in the north and identified crucial gaps that needed addressing.

Additionally, proximity to public transport and employment opportunities was a key consideration. Chermside emerged as the chosen location, owing to its vibrant atmosphere and potential for collaboration with local businesses and services.

Stepping Stone Clubhouse Chermside — Photo Credit: Stepping Stone Clubhouse

Overcoming Challenges

Securing recurring funding posed the most significant challenge in establishing the northside clubhouse. However, earlier this year, Stepping Stone received promising news as Queensland Health committed funding to kickstart this transformative initiative.

The new Clubhouse promises to foster a sense of community, belonging, and fulfilment for individuals grappling with mental health concerns. Operating in a non-clinical, psychosocial environment, it aims to facilitate members’ journey towards rebuilding their lives.

This approach not only enhances the well-being of members but also reduces reliance on clinical support services, including hospitalization. As members regain confidence, reintegrate into the workforce, and actively engage with the local community, the benefits ripple outwards, positively impacting families and the broader community.

Programs and Progress

Similar programs to those offered at the existing Clubhouse, such as the Work Ordered Day and the Healthy Active Lifestyle Program (HALP), will be available at the new facility.

The Work Ordered Day program focuses on collaborative efforts between members and staff to manage daily tasks and share meals. HALP will initially offer lunchtime options like walks, meditation sessions, and swimming, gradually expanding to include evening and weekend activities. Social recreation programs will also be emphasized, recognizing the importance of community engagement in fostering friendships and a sense of connection.

Membership at Stepping Stone has been instrumental in transforming lives across various domains, including health, social interactions, employment, and education. The supportive and non-judgmental community provided by the Clubhouse empowers individuals to achieve their goals and integrate into their local communities with newfound confidence and skills.

Published 9-Feb-2024

St Vincent’s Private Hospital to Open Advanced Radiation Centre in Chermside

St Vincent’s Private Hospital in Chermside is set to inaugurate a state-of-the-art radiation therapy centre in collaboration with the Icon Cancer Centre.

For a comprehensive and seamless cancer care experience, the new facility is expected to eliminate the need for patients to seek radiation therapy services elsewhere, underscoring a commitment to providing integrated, high-quality cancer care to the local community.

This groundbreaking initiative comes as a response to the evolving needs of cancer patients, where treatment often involves a combination of therapies ranging from surgery to chemotherapy and radiation.

Around 50 per cent of all patients diagnosed with cancer require radiation oncology treatment, and until now, they haven’t had access to these services at St Vincent’s Northside.

Icon Cancer Centre’s selection as a partner stems from its reputation in designing and constructing world-class radiation oncology centres and delivering top-tier cancer care.

Chermside — Photo Credit: St Vincent’s Private Hospital Northside/Google Maps

The new radiation therapy centre will offer a range of advanced treatment options, including Varian’s HyperArc for advanced brain cancer, Surface Guided Radiation Therapy, and tattoo-free advanced radiation therapy. The Varian linear accelerator, capable of delivering 18,000 radiation therapy treatments annually, represents a significant leap forward in treatment technology.

“Many patients going through chemotherapy are quite unwell, and with those patients that also require radiation treatment, it’s extremely beneficial to provide on-site, integrated cancer care,” St Vincent’s Northside medical oncologist, Dr. Rick Abraham, emphasised the positive impact of an on-site radiation facility on patient care.

The collaborative effort promises a multidisciplinary approach, excellent facilities, and robust collaboration to create a service that will make a difference to patients in Brisbane’s northside.

The new radiation therapy centre is expected to commence operations in late 2024.

Tragic Incident in Chermside Park: Pet Dog Fatally Mauled

A pet dog, incapacitated and resting in a pram, was viciously dragged out and mauled to death in a deeply disturbing incident at the 7th Brigade Park in Chermside, raising serious concerns about public safety and animal control in the area.

Per reports, a pig dog, unaccompanied and unleashed, perpetrated the shocking attack. It dragged a 14-year-old arthritic Maltese named Phoenix from its pram, leading to the pet’s tragic demise despite desperate efforts to save it.

This horrific incident unfolded amid the park’s tranquil setting, a stark contrast to the violent act that transpired.

The residents of Chermside have expressed deep distress and fear following this incident.

With a history of similar attacks in the area, the community is increasingly worried about the safety of their children and pets. The fact that Phoenix was extracted from a pram adds a chilling dimension to the threat, highlighting the potential danger to even the most vulnerable park-goers.

Chermside 7th Brigade Park — Photo Credit: Engin Akyurt/Unsplash

In the wake of the attack, immediate measures were taken. The pig dog was restrained and subsequently seized by authorities. The local Council has been urged to intensify patrols and consider additional safety measures in the park, frequented by families and pet owners.

Civic Cabinet Chair for City Standards, Kim Marx, has underscored the Council’s serious approach to animal attacks. Investigations are ongoing, and the incident has cast a spotlight on the broader issue of dog attacks in the region.

With over 300 recorded attacks in Queensland in the latter half of 2023 alone, the urgency for effective solutions is needed.

Published 19-Jan-2024

Stay Caffeinated In Style With The New Thrills x Allpress Collection

Westfield Chermside clothing retailer Thrills Co and specialty coffee company Allpress Espresso are brewing up something exciting. The two brands have come together to launch an exclusive, limited-edition collaboration celebrating the fusion of fashion and coffee culture.

Read: Westfield Chermside Welcomes Ella Baché Revival

Dubbed “Great Minds Drink Alike,” the collection brings Thrills’ contemporary aesthetic together with Allpress’ artisanal approach to coffee.

The Thrills x Allpress lineup includes T-shirts, hats, reusable coffee cups, and diner-style mugs, all showcasing custom co-branding that merges the brands’ distinctive visual identities.

The collection also includes sleek white diner-style mugs for that retro coffee shop vibe and Project Pargo reusable cups, especially designed for conscientious caffeine addicts.

Thrills expressed excitement to present its latest collaborative capsule collection with longtime partners Allpress Espresso.

“Blending contemporary style with the refined world of artisanal coffee, this thoughtfully curated capsule seamlessly merges our design ethos with an unwavering commitment to quality,” Thrills wrote in their Instagram page.

The full Thrills x Allpress collection will launch at Thrills’ Pacific Fair and Chermside stores, featuring an Allpress coffee cart pop-up shop for the ultimate physical fusion. Select pieces will also be available online for fashion meets coffee enthusiasts near and far seeking to elevate their everyday style and their daily cup of joe.

As Thrills succinctly put it, this exclusive collab “not only embodies the slow-living philosophy but also serves as a means to elevate your everyday routine.”

Read: Make Time for Kate and Gemma’s Bestie Brunch at Westfield Chermside!

On December 16, Thrills Co in Westfield Chermside will host a special pop-up event spotlighting Allpress’ latest lineup of iced coffee specialties. Coffee lovers can stop in to enjoy free samples and tastings of Allpress’ newly launched iced drinks menu.

Published 14-December-2023

Westfield Chermside Welcomes Ella Baché Revival

Photo Credit: Ella Baché

Facing the looming possibility of closure earlier this year, the fate of Westfield Chermside Ella Baché hung in the balance. That has changed, thanks to beauty enthusiast Jenny Gibson the woman behind the launch of the beauty brand’s largest salon yet, located in Westfield Chermside

Jenny Gibson, renowned for her success in spas across Ipswich, Brookside, and Springfield, stepped in to save the beleaguered salon, breathing new life into the brand.

Ella Baché embodies a tradition steeped in beauty for over 70 illustrious years. Gibson reveres this legacy, fostering a familial environment within the salon. It’s a celebration of diversity, with a team predominantly comprising women from various age groups.

Ella Bache Chermside — Photo Credit: Ella Bache/Facebook

The dynamic businesswoman finds immense delight in witnessing heartwarming connections take place in the salon everyday. Mothers pamper daughters, sisters bond, and friends revel in shared spa experiences. Ella Bache Chermside has transformed into more than a salon—it’s a sanctuary for cherished moments.

Central to Ella Baché Chermside’s ethos is their dedication to providing an unparalleled skincare experience. Education, personalised service, and a touch of emotional support—akin to counselling—are the pillars upon which they’ve built their reputation.

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A post shared by Ella Bache Chermside (@ellabachechermside)

Amidst the allure and rejuvenation, Ms Gibson imparts a crucial skincare tip to all residents: prioritise sun protection. Understanding Queensland’s high skin cancer rates, she emphasises the significance of investing in skincare and advocates for the use of SPF products.

With a team of 38 dedicated Skin Therapists, Gibson is geared to elevate the skincare journey for Chermside’s discerning residents. Ella Baché’s reopening isn’t just about business—it’s a celebration of empowerment, bonding, and the art of skincare.

Residents of Chermside can anticipate not just a beauty salon but an experience crafted to foster happiness and confidence through radiant, healthy skin.

Published 2-December-2023

Chermside’s Myer Store Unveils Major Revamp

The landmark Myer store in Chermside, a familiar destination for shoppers since 1959, has undergone a significant transformation, re-emerging with a fresh, modern design.

The store, located in Westfield Chermside, opened its doors to the public after a comprehensive refurbishment process that started in 2022.

The refurbishment has introduced a raft of changes aimed at enhancing the shopping experience. New lighting, flooring, and fixtures have been installed, and the store’s layout has been opened up by removing many existing walls.

Myer Chermside — Photo Credit: Si Vi/Google Maps

The entrance and customer amenities, including modern change rooms, have also received upgrades. These improvements aim to present Myer’s brands and extensive offerings in a new light.

The store now features 27 new brands, including popular names like Mimco, American Eagle, Witchery, Jo Malone, Country Road, and Politix. This expansion has been well received by customers who appreciate the new lighting and vibrant colours. Patrons are also expressing excitement about the new brands. Younger customers have noticed more options catering to their tastes.

With its fresh look and expanded brand offering, Chermside Myer is poised to provide a revitalised shopping experience, maintaining its long-standing presence in the community and evolving with the changing retail landscape.

Whilst the Chermside store’s revamp marks a significant milestone, the future of Myer’s iconic CBD store remains uncertain after its recent closure. Myer CEO John King confirmed the search for a new location in Brisbane CBD, demonstrating the company’s ongoing commitment to its customers and the local community.

Published 24-Nov-2023

Precautions Taken Following Alleged Fungal Infection Outbreak at Chermside Hospital

The Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside warned immunosuppressed patients to wear masks when visiting for appointments and passing near construction occurring for a new hospital car park last week, as authorities investigate occurences of fungal infections that have been linked to two recent patient deaths.

Read: Protected Bushland in Chermside Bulldozed for Prince Charles Hospital Car Park Construction

Dr Muhammad Hussain, a 55-year-old doctor from Mango Hill, was the first fatality potentially connected to a fungal infection cluster at the hospital. He and recent heart transplant patient Adam Retmock, 45, both suffered from fungal infections prior to their deaths.

Earlier this year, four other post-heart transplant patients allegedly contracted fungal infections, with another developing a lomentospora infection. Three aspergillus fungus types and a bacterial strain were reportedly detected in the outbreak patients.

According to one St Vincent’s Private clinician, who asked not to be named, oncologists and haematologists at the hospital have advised at-risk patients to wear masks when on facility grounds or near ongoing construction activity.

The same clinician also said there is widespread belief among infectious disease and transplant specialists that the parking site excavation work has a high likelihood of being the underlying cause of the recent fungal infection outbreak.

Infectious disease experts advised the mask guidance amidst concerns the construction may be stirring up fungal spores. However, Queensland Health has stated there is no clear evidence yet tying the infections and deaths to the ongoing works.

Queensland’s Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard said he would still undergo a heart transplant at Prince Charles, which has “a world-class transplant unit.” Authorities also reiterated no known link exists between the deaths and separate fungal detection in hospital storage zones.

Read: Companies Shortlisted For QLD’s New Hospitals, Expansion Of Major Hospitals Including Prince Charles Hospital

The heart transplant unit has undergone cleaning and affected storage equipment was discarded, officials stated. Recent air tests also showed no lingering fungus concerns, according to Queensland Health.

Published 23-November-2023

Chermside Residents Urged To Be Vigilant After Series of Car Park Thefts in North Brisbane

Police are urging residents of unit complexes across Brisbane’s north, including Chermside, to be vigilant following a spate of car park thefts in the area.

Read: North Brisbane Police Encourages Chermside, Other Nearby Suburbs Residents to Review Home Security

Since October 21, there has been an uptick in stealing offences from secure basement carparks, particularly overnight between 9:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. Several complexes in suburbs including Kedron, Chermside, and Mitchelton have been targeted.

The offenders have stolen items such as tools, wallets, bicycles, and motorcycles. In one incident, a Nissan TIIDA was allegedly stolen from a Chermside complex.

Police have released images of suspects wanted in connection with the car park theft. Anyone who recognises the individuals or notices suspicious behaviour around carparks is asked to contact Policelink.

To protect their property, police advise residents to properly lock cars, storage units, communal doors, and balcony doors. Storing fewer items in carpark lockups may also deter thefts.

Bicycle owners should store their bikes in locked storage when possible and think about detaching the wheel or seat when the bicycle is not in use.

Residents should also identify their building management’s role and have their phone number saved in case issues arise that require contacting them. It is vital that residents are familiar with evacuation routes and protocols in the event of emergencies.

Read: Local Police Officer Scores Big Community Points in Backyard Soccer Game

Installing quality locks, securing bikes to fixed objects, and noting serial numbers can also help secure items. Anyone with further information should provide it via Policelink’s online form or by calling 131 444.

Theft in Chermside

According to Queensland Police Service’s Online Crime Map, reported thefts in the Chermside area have declined slightly in the last six months compared to the previous six-month period.

Between 16 May and 15 November 2023, Chermside saw approximately 510 theft offences. In the preceding period from November 2022 to May 2023, Chermside dealt with 675 such incidents – a drop of around 25 percent. So whilst concerning, this current spree does not reflect an overall rising trend in local theft rates.

Published 16-November-2023

Crime Prevention Week Is In Full Swing

Photo Credit: myPolice Brisbane North

Crime Prevention Week, organised by District Crime Prevention Coordinators, is in full swing from November 6 to 12. This initiative offers practical tools to boost community safety and security.

police and bunnings staff in car park for Crime Prevention Week — *Photo Credit:* myPolice Brisbane North

On Wednesday, November 8, Virginia Bunnings hosted a collaborative event by the Gateway and Inner West Crime Prevention Offices. The ‘Turn the Screws on Crime’ initiative involved fitting anti-theft number plate screws to vehicles. These unique screws can only be removed by police, providing an added layer of security against registration plate theft.

police officer fitting one-way screws to vehicle for Crime Prevention Week — Photo Credit: myPolice Brisbane North

Simultaneously, Carseldine Bunnings saw the presence of Gateway Crime Prevention and the local Neighbourhood Watch group for a ‘Coffee with a Cop’ event. Attendees engaged with law enforcement officers, gaining insights into home security and safety measures.

Police officer with Neighbourhood Watch representative for Crime Prevention Week — *Photo Credit:* myPolice Brisbane North

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant throughout the week as Crime Prevention officers continue to visit various Bunnings locations. These events serve as an opportunity for the community to actively participate in crime prevention and stay informed about safety measures.

The ‘Turn the Screws on Crime’ initiative underscores the commitment of law enforcement to collaborate with the public in fostering a safer environment. Chermside residents are reminded that community safety is a shared responsibility, and these events provide practical steps towards achieving that goal.

By securing registration plates with anti-theft screws, vehicle owners can significantly reduce the risk of plate theft, contributing to the broader effort to combat crime in the local area.

Published 9-November-2023