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Westfield Chermside Heroes Making a Big Impact: Here Are Your 2023 Community Champions

Whether it’s to provide a guiding light, provide comfort in times of need, or spread compassion one meal at a time, these three finalists for Westfield Chermside’s Local Heroes Program are among the individuals who go above and beyond to create positive change within their local communities. Find out more about them.

Guy Mauger – Guiding Light for Vision-Impaired Individuals

Guy Mauger, a dedicated member of Guide Dogs Queensland (GDQ), has been shortlisted as a Westfield Local Hero for his unwavering commitment to assisting vision-impaired individuals. Whilst Guide Dogs are undoubtedly an essential part of the organization’s mission, Guy’s work extends far beyond this. He provides support to those who are newly adjusting to their changed circumstances due to visual impairments.

One of Guy’s significant contributions involves regularly welcoming new clients arriving from upstate for residential courses at the Bald Hills Campus. He helps them navigate the emotional and psychological challenges associated with their new reality. By the time he takes them back to the airport at the end of the week, their transformation is remarkable – from apprehensive and shy to confident and cheerful.

Westfield Local Heroes Guy Mauger — Photo Credit: Westfield Chermside

Guy’s efforts aren’t limited to adults; he also engages vision-impaired children in activities that foster camaraderie and self-assuredness. In addition, Guy and his wife, Wendy, extend their support by taking guide dogs to the Queensland Children’s Court. These furry companions provide comfort and solace to children facing difficult situations, making the legal proceedings less intimidating.

Guy’s work is a testament to the impact that empathy, care, and community involvement can have on people’s lives.

“In the event that my nomination ends up the winner, the $20,000 will make a huge difference, and help to ensure that the many and varied services offered by GDQ can continue to assist those in need,” Guy said.

John Bigmore – Bringing Comfort and Care to Families in Need

John Bigmore’s involvement with Hummingbird House, the only children’s hospice in Queensland, highlights the profound impact of his nomination as a Westfield Local Hero. Hummingbird House offers specialized palliative care services to children with life-limiting conditions and their families. John’s personal connection with the organisation, having experienced their care firsthand with his granddaughter, inspired him to become a volunteer.

John’s dedication goes beyond personal experience. He recognises the critical role that Hummingbird House plays in providing solace and support to families during unimaginably difficult times.

Westfield Local Heroes John Bigmore — *Photo Credit: Westfield Chermside*

If chosen as a Local Hero, John aims to direct the $20,000 grant toward funding more nursing hours, ensuring that the children and their families receive the best care possible. The money would help provide over 300 nursing hours, offering comfort and care to those who need it most.

“If I win, it means the wonderful staff at Hummingbird House will be able to support more children and their families experiencing unimaginable times,” he said.

Olive Volavola – Spreading Compassion One Meal at a Time

Olive Volavola’s compassion shines through her work as the founder of Compassion 4 Community. This volunteer-run charity operates in Nundah, preparing hundreds of nutritious meals for people in need. Olive’s dedication to ensuring no one goes hungry is matched by her commitment to providing companionship and emotional support to those who seek their services.

Compassion 4 Community isn’t just about feeding the hungry; it’s about creating a warm, welcoming environment where individuals can find not only a meal but also a friendly hug or a chat.

Westfield Local Heroes Olive Volavola — *Photo Credit: Westfield Chermside*

Olive’s nomination as a Westfield Chermside Local Hero could significantly impact the charity’s operations. If successful, the grant would be used to acquire essential kitchen equipment, such as a commercial stove and dishwasher. These upgrades would enhance their ability to prepare meals efficiently and continue serving their community.

VOTE UNTIL 11 Sept 2023

The Westfield Chermside Local Heroes program continues to highlight the profound influence that individuals can have when they dedicate themselves to making a difference in their communities. These three finalists – Guy Mauger, John Bigmore, and Olive Volavola – embody the program’s values and exemplify the power of compassion, care, and dedication.

Published 28-Aug-2023

Packer Leather: Standing the Test of Time

Did you know that the Packer Leather tannery in Narangba has its roots as a wool scouring and fellmongering business in Chermside in the late 19th century?

The Packer family has been in the tanning business since 1891, surviving recessions and near collapse, and continuing to thrive eves as other tanneries have shut down.

Humble Beginnings of Packer Leather

In 1891, Joseph Packer started a wool scouring and fellmongering business in Chermside. The tannery was just a small side business at the time. For decades Packer processed wool and sheepskins at its Chermside factory.

Tough Times and Adapting to Survive

In the mid-1960s, the wool scouring business fell on hard times as cheaper options became available overseas. The Packers had to shut down that side of the business. Then the patriarch passed away, leaving Lindsay and Graham Packer to take over the family business in their early 20s.

By the 1970s, suburbia was encroaching on the large Chermside property. The Packers fought to get approval to rebuild the tannery in Narangba. Although they faced a backlash, they eventually won a court case and opened the new factory in 1972.

Just as the new factory opened, the fledgling kangaroo leather business was threatened. In 1972, the Whitlam government banned kangaroo exports, stalling growth until the ban was lifted in 1976.

In the 1980s, the Packers increased their kangaroo leather exports. It was during this time that Adidas recognised the benefits of kangaroo leather for sports footwear and started using it for their football boots. This opened up the market, and Packer continued to develop new niche markets for the unique leather.

But a high Australian dollar and the global financial crisis nearly sank the business in 2008. The company was forced to pivot, developing new domestic products and becoming less reliant on exports.

Still Going Strong Today

Packer Leather: Chermside Legacy Stands the Test of Time — Photo Credit: Facebook/Packer Leather Shop

Having survived recessions and near collapse, Packer Leather still operates the Narangba tannery today. It supplies leather to major sporting goods brands and luxury car companies. The company remains family-owned, with Lindsay Packer at the helm at the age of 70.

Although most tanneries closed in the 1970s, the business has remained true to its principles. Through tenacity and innovation, Packer Leather continues to thrive after more than a century.

For more information about Packer Leather and its products, visit the website here.

Published 23 August 2023

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

Residents near Beneke’s Bush beside Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside are disappointed and concerned, as what is understood to be protected bushland was bulldozed to make way for a new car park.

In late July 2023, heavy machinery descended upon the site, known as Beneke’s Bush. Trees were cut down to pave an access road to facilitate the car park construction.

The destruction included the removal of several large Norfolk Island pines and other trees, much to the dismay of the community.

Beneke’s Bush is supposedly safeguarded under a 99-year conservation agreement involving MP Terry Sullivan, the father of local Stafford Labor MP Jimmy Sullivan. The agreement, however, was voluntary, which meant that there were no enforceable penalties in place to prevent its violation.

“The south-western boundary of the Prince Charles Hospital has an area called Beneke’s Bush. It is part of the only original bushland in the northern suburbs of Brisbane. For the past four years, Cr Terry Hampson—a very dedicated environmentalist—and I worked with Neighbours of Huxtable Park, Men of Trees and other local groups to retain Beneke’s Bush for future generations,” MP Sullivan said in a 1999 statement.

“Because of the redevelopment of the cardiac facilities at Prince Charles Hospital, it was not possible for the department or Ministers to give a final answer until they knew what shape the hospital development would take. With the final plan having been settled on in recent times, it then came down to the hard work of dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s to work out exactly what would happen.

“I am pleased to have been at the ceremony at which the Health Minister, Wendy Edmond, and Councillor Terry Hampson signed a voluntary conservation agreement which will protect that property for the next 99 years. I thank the Minister who is beside me, Rod Welford, for the efforts of his department and the contribution and support that they gave to bring about the VCA. I believe that it has been a win/win all round.

“The Neighbours of Huxtable Park have indicated that they would be prepared to do work in that part of the area which will not be needed for medical or hospital services. It will provide not only a buffer for the heavy traffic on Webster and Rode Roads but also a beautiful outlook for patients who are recovering from cardiac medical services. I thank all of those people involved and believe that those four years of hard work have ended in an excellent result.”

Marchant Ward Councillor Fiona Hammond said the destruction of Beneke’s Bush was “environmental vandalism.” Residents are appalled that such an important and protected natural space was sacrificed for a temporary construction access route.

“Some of the trees in this area were more than 100 years old. Our community deserved much better than this appalling effort,” Ms Hammond said in a video. “While I understand the need for more car parking at the hospital to relieve pressure on local streets, there are many alternative locations that should have been explored that did not impact our bushland.”

Despite claims from Metro North Health that proper consultation was carried out, a hospital employee contradicted these assertions, revealing that many locals and staff had not received adequate notifications through flyers, emails, or other means. Some learned about the clearing only when the bulldozers arrived on site.

Prince Charles Hospital — Photo Credit: Metro North Health

Metro North Health Executive Director Kate Copeland defended the decision, emphasizing the necessity for additional parking facilities due to the growing demand at Prince Charles Hospital. A 1500-space multistorey car park will be constructed on the site, which is expected for completion in 2024.

However, the construction process will not be without ecological considerations. Metro North committed to revegetating some of the cleared areas and restoring greenery once construction is complete.

Published 11-Aug-2023

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

The incidence of residential break-ins, where intruders enter through fly screens and unlocked or open doors, has increased, according to North Brisbane Police. These types of offences have lately taken place in the suburbs of Hamilton, Geebung, Fitzgibbon, Chermside, Newmarket, and Nudgee.

In North Brisbane’s suburbs, fly screens were cut or otherwise destroyed to gain entry on nine separate occasions in July, according to North Brisbane Police intelligence checks.

Unlike insect screens, which are only intended to keep insects out, security screen products are made to keep both people and insects out. They are also exempt from Australian security regulations.

Hence, the Queensland Police Service is encouraging residents to assess their home security with the below layered approach.

How to conduct a home security assessment

A simple and effective way to review your home security is to start from the outside and work inwards, using a layered approach. For most homes, including multi-residential buildings, units and townhouses, there are six layers that can be used to identify existing and desirable security.

Layer one: External perimeter
Layer two: External walls and access
Layer three: Internal walls
Layer four: Internal areas
Layer five: Property
Layer six: People

Reviewing your home security using a layered approach is a straightforward way to apply the key home security principles.

The video below demonstrates how you can apply the layered approach to your own home.

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

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

Published 11-August-2023

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

Kate Reeves and Gemma Pranita, mainstays of the ‘We Don’t Have Time For This’ Podcast, are heading out on the road this August and September, bringing their sharp and honest wit to a series of Bestie Brunches at Westfield Chermside and other Westfield destinations across the country.

After kicking off at Westfield Doncaster on Thursday 17th August, the Bestie Brunch tour will visit Westfield Chermside for its Brisbane leg, then head on out to adelaide and Sydney before finishing at their local centre, Westfield Warringah on Saturday 9^th September.

Kate and Gemma will be hosting an interactive panel discussion centered around the style ‘dilemons’ of ticket purchasers. The duo will discuss the evolution of their style into motherhood, all things post-partum, capsule Mum wardrobe, great basics and the secret to grab and go looks.

Guests will enjoy brunch and games, as well as the opportunity to meet and have a photo moment with the duo.

With a ticket price of just $40, guests will be able to attend the exclusive event at the Gold Class Lounge of Event Cinemas. During the brunch, new season looks will also be displayed with trending styles, exclusively selected by Westfield stylists.

Jacqui Waine, General Manager Marketing and Community at Westfield said the Bestie Brunch is an opportunity for mums to connect and support each other.

“The Bestie Brunch with Kate and Gemma from the WDHTFT Podcast reinforces our focus on providing unique social experiences for the community. It is an opportunity for busy mums from all walks of life to come together and build friendships with like-minded people. We are so excited to partner with Westfield and take the ‘Bestie Brunch’ on tour. Grab your besties and join the ultimate D&M… we’ve got lots to catch up on. Gemma and I hope to see you there, DL’s! ”
Kate Reeves

Attendees will receive a gift bag and lucky door prizes from Westfield’s retail partners will be drawn during the event.

For more information about the Bestie Brunch and to see when you can purchase tickets, visit participating Westfield destinations at westfield.com.au.

Published 31-July-2023

Ella Bache Salon Chermside’s Future Uncertain as Logan-Based Sister Closes

Photo Credit: Ella Bache / ellabache.com.au

The continued Covid pandemic’s negative effects on businesses around the world have forced the Ella Bache beauty salon franchise to close another location. The future of Ella Bache salon at Brisbane’s Westfield Chermside is currently unknown.

The Logan-based salon that has been serving customers for 19 years permanently closed its doors, leaving both customers and employees with heartfelt memories and a sense of loss.

Owner of the EBQ Nominees firm, which ran three Ella Bache salons, Roslyn Rudd, announced the closure with sadness. She attributed the difficult choice to the Covid pandemic’s extensive impacts, which have left numerous businesses around the world facing economic hardship and uncertainty.

This is not Ms. Rudd’s company’s first setback; in 2021, their Brisbane branch in Toowong suffered the same fate, which led to its closure. Businesses, particularly those engaged in the retail and service sectors, have found it increasingly challenging to survive as a result of the ongoing pandemic and the ensuing economic difficulties.

An EBQ Nominees liquidator had been selected, and the Chermside store was specifically mentioned in a winding-up notice published by the Australian Securities and Investment Commision. However, no official announcement regarding the Chermside salon’s future has been made at this time.

The devoted customers of the salon, who had been an important part of their journey for more than 19 years, received a touching statement from Ms. Rudd that she shared on Instagram. In the message, she expressed her regret and gratitude to them.

She disclosed that the mall had given them a challenging choice: either move because their lease was about to expire, or leave. They took the unfortunate decision to close its Logan Hyperdome location because the financial burden brought on by the pandemic prevented them from making more investments in a new salon.

‘Financially, after all of the COVD impacts to our business these past years, we are unable to reinvest in a new salon.

“To all our valued clients, we are sadly advising that as our lease has finished we have faced a terrible decision from the shopping centre to relocate or leave,” her message reads.

‘So we have finished at the Logan Hyperdome with the salon now closed.

‘Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your lives these past 19-plus years.

‘Our staff and I will always remember our shared memories of your visits some for so many, many years.’

Your Say on the Gympie Arterial Road and Murphy Road Intersection Upgrade Plan

Plans to upgrade the Gympie Arterial Road and Murphy Road intersection, which includes the historic Downfall Creek Bridge built in 1927, are now moving forward.

According to the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), approximately 67,000 vehicles passing through the Gympie Arterial Road and Murphy Road intersection on a daily basis so the need for an upgrade has become increasingly evident.

As part of the planning process, TMR is actively seeking feedback from the community regarding the proposed design options. The input from residents, commuters, and local workers will play a vital role in determining the course of action for the upgrade.

The plan aims to tackle the growing issue of congestion at the intersection, enhance traffic flow and safety, and ensure a more reliable transport network for the future. The proposal will not only address the immediate concerns of traffic congestion and safety but will also strengthen the flood resilience of the road network, crucial in this flood-prone area.

As the consultation phase commences, residents and stakeholders are encouraged to participate and share their perspectives on the proposed upgrades, including new bridge structures and intersection improvements. Additionally, TMR is keen on understanding the transport priorities of individuals who live, work, and travel through this area.

Gympie Arterial Road — Photo Credit: TMR

The planning study aims to identify potential bridge and road upgrades that not only address current safety and structural concerns but also cater to the ever-increasing demands of public transport, general traffic, and active transport in the region.

By future-proofing the carriageway, the project aims to create a sustainable and efficient transport system that can cope with the expected growth and demands of the area in the coming years.

Mark Bailey, the Transport and Main Roads Minister, emphasised the significance of community engagement in shaping the final design.

“The proposed upgrade will not only improve the flood resilience and reliability of the road network, but also address the key issues of traffic congestion and safety, and provide for active and public transport users,” Mr Bailey said.

The community consultation period will remain open until 20 Aug 2023. Residents are encouraged to provide their valuable feedback before the submission deadline to ensure their voices are heard in shaping the future of this vital intersection.

Have YOur SAy

Once the consultation process is complete, the community will be informed of the outcomes, and all feedback will be thoroughly considered and collated in the final planning decisions. TMR aims to achieve a comprehensive and community-focused design that addresses the intersection’s challenges while improving the overall transportation experience in the region.

“Feedback on the proposed new bridge structures and intersection upgrade will be used in the business case phase, which is expected to be completed in mid-2024,” Mr Bailey said.

For more information, contact TMR Metropolitan Region on 3066 4338 or metropolitanregion@tmr.qld.gov.au

Published 28-July-2023

Plans Submitted for Ambitious 14-Storey Tower Project in Chermside

Chermside is set to witness a towering addition to its skyline as architect-developer Carver Leung of Iplus Architects reveals plans for a 14-storey mixed-use structure in the suburb.

The development proposed for 33-37 Latham Street in Chermside has been lodged under DA A006310686 in April 2022. Iplus Architects designed the Chermside tower with multiple dwellings (54 units), three ground-level retail or office tenancies, 95 car spaces, and a rooftop terrace, promising a seamless integration of residential, commercial, and leisure spaces.

Chermside Lantham St — Photo Credit: DA A006310686

“The proposal delivers a fourteen (14) storey built form from the street with a rooftop terrace that adopts a high-quality architectural style, with significant articulation, building recesses, modulation, as well as the use of variation of materials and finishes to present as a development with high aesthetic value.” Town Planning Alliance, the consultant, stated in the DA assessment report filed with Brisbane City Council.

The proposed site of the tower is adjacent to a nine-storey development approved and constructed in 2015. What sets this development apart is Iplus Architects’ commitment to maintaining harmony with the surrounding neighborhood.

The firm’s design for the Chermside building showcases an active ground floor, inviting pedestrians to interact with the commercial and retail spaces, while its aesthetic complements the existing architectural style of nearby developments.

Chermside boasts other similarly-sized towers, ensuring the new structure remains in sync with the existing skyline and maintains a compatible scale and design that maximizes the potential of the subject allotment.

Characterised by its rapid growth and urban transformation, Chermside, has become a coveted location for property developments. The suburb’s strategic position, anchored by the popular Westfield Chermside, has propelled it into the spotlight as a mixed-use central frame zone.

As a result, multiple apartment buildings have been replacing single homes, with this particular project combining four lots to form a generous 1,623 square metre site.

Chermside has seen a steady influx of diverse housing options in recent times. Earlier this year, plans were announced for an affordable housing block in the area, contributing to the diverse residential mix.

Published 18-July-2023

No More Sweet Treats: Cowch Closes After Trying Times

Following the closure of its Chermside store earlier this year and amidst hopes from loyal patron of an eventual reopening, popular dessert chain Cowch has shut down the business and closed its other locations across Queensland, a little over three months after the business entered voluntary administration.

Read: Oh, No! Cowch Has Entered Into Voluntary Administration

Cowch, known for its indulgent dessert cocktails and sweet treats, first opened in South Bank in 2014. Founded by husband and wife duo Arif and Havva Memis, the business rapidly expanded to locations in Chermside, Mt Gravatt, and other parts of Queensland after launching franchising in 2019.

The closure represents a major loss for Brisbane’s dessert scene. Cowch was beloved by many for its inventive menu and lively, vibrant locations across the city.

The company hit hard times earlier this year, prompting it to enter voluntary administration in March, as it sought an investor to keep the business afloat.

The Memis family (Photo credit: Cowch/Facebook)

In a recent LinkedIn post, founder Arif Memis shared that despite exploring every option over the last four months, Cowch was still unable to find the necessary financial support to continue operating.

Photo credit: Cowch Chermside/Google Maps

“We explored every avenue, leaving no stone unturned, in the hopes of finding a lifeline that would allow Cowch to continue serving our delightful dessert cocktails and mouthwatering desserts,” Mr Memis wrote.

“As founders, owners, and husband and wife team, we have poured our hearts and souls into building Cowch from the ground up, and it pains us deeply to reach this difficult decision.”

Photo credit: Jo W (TheStick)/Google Maps

The owners shared a special thanks to their incredible team members, who have become like family and worked tirelessly to create a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with laughter in all of their stores.

The couple also thanked their loyal customers, who they consider their extended family. The support of their staff and devoted customers was what made building their business so rewarding for the Memis family.

Read: Step into a World of Playful Nostalgia: Brisbane’s Hijinx Hotel Delivers Fun-Fueled Adventure

As a result, the company has permanently closed all of its Queensland stores, just nine years after the first location opened its doors in South Bank. Its Chermside operations closed in April 2023.

Published 17-July-2023

Aboriginal Artist’s Mural Transforms St Vincent’s Private Hospital Brisbane’s Entrance

Visitors to St Vincent’s Private Hospital Brisbane will now be welcomed by a vibrant mural, ‘Original Healer,’ by contemporary Aboriginal artist Xoe Mazzoni.

Read: 90-Year-Old Chermside Local Defies Odds, Continues to Beat Australia’s Deadliest Female Cancer

This remarkable artwork, a sister mural to the artist’s earlier installation at St Vincent’s Private Hospital Northside in Chermside, serves as a powerful visual connection between traditional healing practices and western medicine.

Mazzoni, an art student at Griffith University, has skillfully incorporated the healing power of medicinal native flora into Original Healer.

Through her artistic vision, she has beautifully bridged the gap between the hospital’s commitment to high-quality, patient-centred care and the traditional knowledge of Aboriginal healing.

St Vincent's Private Hospital — Photo credit: St Vincent’s Private Hospital Northside/Facebook

The mural showcases traditional Aboriginal symbolism, depicting the gathering places surrounding the Brisbane hospital, where people come together and connect. Its purpose is to gently guide visitors to the heart of the hospital, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment.

The Arts in Health Program, spearheaded by the hospital, received a generous grant from the Queensland State Government in early 2022 to support this extraordinary project.

The grant aimed to provide an opportunity for the professional development of an emerging Aboriginal artist. Xoe Mazzoni’s talent and dedication have culminated in the completion of both the murals at the two hospitals, enriching the hospital’s spaces and fostering a sense of community and cultural diversity.

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

Expressing gratitude for Mazzoni’s contribution, hospital representatives commended her for sharing her cultural and artistic gifts with the St Vincent’s community.

These captivating murals stand as testaments to the hospital’s commitment to embracing and celebrating Aboriginal culture whilst providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for patients, their families, and staff members.

Published 7-July-2023