The fashion giant is set to open two new retail havens in October 2023, adding to its growing portfolio of Australian outlets. The two upcoming stores,will be located in prime shopping destinations on Australia’s east coast.
One will be situated in Victoria’s esteemed Highpoint Shopping Centre, while the other will grace Queensland’s Westfield Chermside Mall. These locations have been carefully chosen to bring the timeless elegance and style of Polo Ralph Lauren closer to fashion enthusiasts in these regions.
Shoppers can anticipate a delightful array of fashion offerings. The stores will showcase the latest creations from the Polo Ralph Lauren Spring Summer 2023 collections, ensuring that patrons are always at the forefront of fashion trends.
Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to explore exclusive capsule collection pieces tailored for both men and women, adding an extra layer of excitement to their shopping experience.
This move follows Ralph Lauren’s recent success in Australia, with the launch of its flagship store on Sydney’s bustling Pitt Street earlier this year. The brand also made its mark with the introduction of Polo Ralph Lauren stores within the luxurious confines of Chadstone Shopping Centre and a standalone store in Sydney’s iconic The Rocks.
With a current presence in 94 physical stores, including concessions within Myer and David Jones, Ralph Lauren continues to make its mark in the Australian fashion landscape. The addition of the Highpoint Shopping Centre and Westfield Chermside locations is poised to further cement the brand’s reputation as a leading purveyor of timeless fashion.
For further information and updates, visit the Polo Ralph Lauren store opening soon at Chermside, located on Level 1, near David Jones. Ample parking options are available, including the Lime Car Park or valet service down the Banfield Street ramp.
Join the excitement of a turtally awesome gelato range with Gelatissimo’s latest collaboration in celebration of the release of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” hitting theatres this September 2023.
Gelatissimo is introducing an array of flavour sensations to mark this occasion, featuring five fantastic flavours: Mutant Madness, Donatello’s Dragonfruit and Lychee, Leonardo’s Lolly Wonderland, Raphael’s Raspberry, and Michelangelo’s Mango.
Photo Credit: Supplied/Matt King/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)
Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary experience with their limited-edition Mutant Madness Gelato, launched on 7 Sept 2023.
A mouthwatering adventure promises as you indulge in the “radioactive” sour green apple gelato, adorned with irresistibly awesome sprinkles. It’s sure to be a hit among both the green ninja heroes and their human companions.
Each turtle has carefully chosen their favourite gelato flavour to help unleash their turtle powers. Get ready to go turtally wild for Raphael’s Raspberry or embrace the powers of Michelangelo’s Mango. Donatello has wisdom…and Dragonfruit and Lychee Sorbet! Or step into Leonardo’s Lolly Wonderland, where sweetness meets ninja skills… All served up in limited edition Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles cups and cone holders (whilst stocks last).
Photo Credit: Supplied/ Matt King/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures
“Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are loved by all generations. We are extremely excited at Gelatissimo to be partnering with such an enduring, iconic and loved brand. Personally, I can’t wait to go wild with Raphael’s Raspberry, one of my favourites too!” says Brad Richter, GM Marketing & Product Development Gelatissimo.
To celebrate the campaign, Gelatissimo hosted a FREE scoop event at their Darling Quarter (NSW) store, giving out over 1,000 scoops in only three hours!
Photo Credit: Supplied/Matt King/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures
Donatello did not take his cravings lightly with fans selling out Donatello’s Dragonfruit and Lychee in record time, followed closely by Michelangelo’s Mango! With long lines and excited families who had the chance to snap a shell-fie with Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael and Michelangelo while enjoying their free scoops of their limited edition Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem flavours, fun was had by all.
Want another reason to shout Cowabunga!? Straight from the turtle lair, Gelatissimo are giving you the chance to pocket a staggering $5,000 cold hard cash*. To enter, simply head to the link below, embrace your inner hero and let the turtles guide you to that sweet $5k. Enter Here.
Feeling that turtle power? Consumers can head into any Gelatissimo store Australia wide dressed as your favourite Ninja Turtle to score yourself a free scoop of any of their Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem flavours until 5 Oct 2023. Available via the Gelatissimo Club Gelato app only.
In a classic David v. Goliath scenario, a small Chermside kindy finds itself embroiled in a battle to protect its play area against the $18-million expansion project of a local high school.
C&K West Chermside Pre Prep, the community kindergarten at the centre of the dispute, boasts a natural play area complete with chickens, beehives, and compost bins. However, the proposed three-story building, part of the high school’s expansion, is set to be erected just meters away from the kindergarten’s fence.
This has ignited a back-and-forth dispute between the kindergarten, various government departments, and the construction arm of the government, QBuild.
The director of C&K West Chermside Pre Prep, Robyn Whittaker, has been leading the charge in advocating for design changes that would mitigate the impact of the planned expansion. She is concerned about the noise, dust, and overall disruption that the year-long construction could bring to the kindergarten’s peaceful environment.
Ms Whittaker emphasized the kindergarten’s focus on natural play and sustainability, expressing concern that the expansion would replace trees and grass with buildings, disrupting the children’s outlook and experiences.
One of the key points of contention revolves around the buffer zone between the new building and the kindergarten. While residents on the opposite side of the building are set to have a 9-meter buffer, the kindergarten would only have a 3-meter buffer. Ms Whittaker has questioned why both sides can’t have a 6-meter buffer, highlighting the inconsistency and raising concerns about the impact of noise and disturbance on the children during school hours.
Photo Credit: QueenslandGovernment
Photo Credit: QueenslandGovernment
Additionally, the Chermside kindergarten has expressed concerns about the footpath’s location, which would lead high school students past the kindergarten. Worries about inappropriate behavior like swearing or vaping have prompted the request for the footpath to be moved to the other side of the building.
While Ms Whittaker clarified that the kindergarten is not opposed to the high school’s development, she stressed the need for consideration of their unique needs. She highlighted that the families of the 44 children attending the kindergarten should also be given due consideration, especially in comparison to the three households on the opposite side of the building.
The dispute has led to communication with QBuild, with an email from a QBuild manager suggesting potential alternatives to address some of the kindergarten’s concerns.
The email indicated that the current location of the building cannot be changed but expressed a willingness to explore options for alternative access to minimize interactions between high school students and kindergarten children. The email also mentioned a review of landscaping opportunities to enhance privacy and screening between the two facilities.
The new building project is a collaborative effort between the Department of Education and the Department of Tourism, Innovation, and Sport.
The proposal for the multipurpose sports hall at Craigslea State High School originates from a commitment made by Bart Mellish MP during an election campaign.
“This upcoming facility is set to firmly establish Craigslea as a premier institution for volleyball in Queensland, thereby transforming the northern region into a pivotal hub for the advancement of volleyball,” Mr Mellish said. “I am eagerly anticipating witnessing some of the current students from Craigslea making their mark in the 2032 Olympic teams.”
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 Programare 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 9th September.
Photo Credit: Supplied
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.
Photo Credit: Supplied
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.
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.’
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.
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.
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.
