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Noosa Chocolate Factory and Miniso Set to Join Westfield Chermside’s Retail Mix

Westfield Chermside is preparing to welcome two highly anticipated arrivals, with Noosa Chocolate Factory and international lifestyle retailer Miniso both set to open their doors in the coming weeks.

Read: Rev up the Fun with Disney and Pixar’s Cars at Westfield Chermside

The pair will add to a string of recent retail shake-ups at Queensland’s largest shopping centre, where some long-time tenants have closed while newer, trend-driven brands are moving in.

Noosa Chocolate Factory, which has built a loyal following through its handmade chocolate treats and popular stores in Brisbane’s CBD, will soon extend its footprint northside. For Chermside locals, the opening marks the first chance to enjoy the chocolatier’s signature creations without making the trip into the city.

Global brand Miniso, known for its wide range of affordable lifestyle goods spanning homewares, cosmetics, toys and gadgets, is also preparing to make its Chermside debut. The Japanese-inspired chain has been expanding across Australia in recent years, tapping into a growing demand for quirky and accessible everyday products.

The new arrivals come amid a period of change at the centre. Long-standing tenants including Reebok, Matchbox, and Famous Footwear recently closed, with industry sources pointing to rent pressures as one factor. While those departures signal the end of an era for some familiar names, management has moved quickly to fill the spaces with fresh draws.

Recent openings show how Westfield Chermside is leaning into retailers that connect strongly with customers online. In August, the launch of chicken tenders restaurant Pappa Flock attracted hundreds of people who had followed the brand’s growth on TikTok and Instagram.

Retail experts note that shopping centres like Chermside are increasingly turning to these so-called “viral” retailers to cement their reputation as destinations. Unlike high streets, where fragmented ownership can limit coordinated planning, centres operated by companies like Scentre Group can actively curate their mix of stores to reflect customer trends.

According to Scentre Group, portfolio occupancy across its Westfield destinations sat at 99.7 per cent as of June 30 — the strongest since 2017. The company said nearly 30 of its 42 Westfield centres, including Chermside, were at full occupancy.

That strong demand underscores the appeal of Australia’s second-largest regional shopping centre. Last year alone, Westfield Chermside recorded 17.6 million customer visits and generated $1.35 billion in retail sales. In a further sign of its value, property giant Dexus earlier this year acquired a 25 per cent stake in the centre in a deal that valued the whole complex at more than $2.7 billion.

Read: Brisbane Festival Brings Month-long Celebration to Westfield Chermside

For Chermside residents, the arrival of Noosa Chocolate Factory and Miniso will be more than just another retail shuffle. They represent the mix of local flair and global trends that continue to shape the shopping centre into a hub not only for retail but also for community life.

Published 29-September-2025

The Prince Charles Hospital Expansion Moves Ahead in Chermside

Photo Credit: TyrantVirusz/Google Maps

A $360-million expansion is underway at The Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside, with upgrades planned for Acute Services, emergency care, the operating theatre and other facilities, plus adult and paediatric care. Once complete, the facility will become Queensland’s second-largest paediatric health service.

The expansion is progressing under Queensland’s statewide hospital infrastructure program, despite a $6 billion cost blowout affecting the overall scheme.

hospital beds — *Photo Credit: Dale Olsen/Google Maps*

Project Details

As part of a $2.3-billion investment in Metro North Health infrastructure, the $360-million upgrade being delivered at TPCH includes a new Acute Services Building, 94 new beds for adult and paediatric patients, expanded emergency departments for both groups, new paediatric outpatient and operating theatre facilities, and additional green spaces.

Once complete, the facility will become Queensland’s second-largest paediatric health service.

The Acute Services Building is expected to open in late 2027. Hutchinson Builders was appointed as the managing contractor in June 2023.

Additional Infrastructure at the Chermside Site

Alongside the clinical expansion, a nine-storey car park is under construction at the TPCH campus. Once complete, the new facility will add 1,500 spaces, increasing the total number of multi-storey parking spots on site to 2,000. The structure is being built next to the existing car park on Main Road and is designed to support future growth at the hospital.

The Chermside campus also recently opened the $14-million Nujum Jawa Crisis Stabilisation Unit, addressing the growing number of mental health crisis presentations. Opened in September 2024, the modular building facility offers 24/7 support in a culturally informed, home-like setting, developed in collaboration with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

The Prince Charles Hospital — *Photo Credit: Metro North Health*

With construction set to intensify through 2025 and the new Acute Services Building slated for completion in 2027, the Chermside community is expected to see sustained development activity at the TPCH site.

Statewide Comparisons and Broader Implications

Queensland’s Capacity Expansion Program (CEP), introduced first in 2022, aims to deliver 2,200 additional hospital beds across the state by 2028. The program includes three new hospitals in Bundaberg, Toowoomba and Coomera, a new Queensland Cancer Centre, and 11 hospital expansions, including the project in Chermside. Originally announced under a $9.78 billion plan, the estimated cost has since risen to $16 billion.

Despite the budget escalation, the State has confirmed it will continue with the projects. Health Minister Tim Nicholls reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the program, which includes the Chermside hospital expansion.

The TPCH expansion is one of 15 major projects under the CEP, which includes hospital developments and upgrades in Townsville, Ipswich, Logan, Cairns, Mackay, and Hervey Bay, among others. While several projects have faced delays and funding gaps, Nicholls indicated that an independent review was underway to determine funding reallocations and ensure project completion.

The Prince Charles Hospital expansion is delivering 94 of the planned 2,200 beds, making it a key component in the government’s plan to address healthcare demand in growing urban areas like Chermside.

While funding shortfalls remain across the broader program, the city officials have confirmed its intention to continue delivering the expansion projects to meet rising healthcare demand statewide.

Published 26-Mar-2025. Updated 1-Oct-2025

Rev up the Fun with Disney and Pixar’s Cars at Westfield Chermside

Families in Brisbane’s northside are in for a turbocharged treat, with Westfield Chermside set to transform into a playground of creativity and fun inspired by Disney and Pixar’s Cars.

Read: Brisbane Festival Brings Month-long Celebration to Westfield Chermside

From Tuesday 30 September to Saturday 4 October, the centre will host Cars Imagine the Thrills Activity Zones, giving children the chance to dive into hands-on experiences with their favourite characters, Lightning McQueen and Mater.

The free sessions, running daily from 10:0 am to 2:00 pm at Level 1, Centre Court, invite little fans to unleash their imagination. Kids can design their own personalised pencil cases, paint Cars-themed plasters, and take part in activities that bring the spirit of Route 66 to life.

It’s all part of Westfield’s wider partnership with Disney, rolling out Cars-themed activity zones across Queensland shopping centres these school holidays. Each event aims to give families a fun, interactive day out while keeping the school holiday buzz alive.

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A post shared by Westfield Chermside (@westfieldchermside)

Adding even more excitement, Westfield members can go in the running to win a family holiday to Disneyland Resort in California. The prize includes three nights’ accommodation and return economy airfares for two adults and two children, with entries open daily through the Westfield app until 13 October. The winner will get to experience the ultimate thrill, stepping into the real-life world of Cars Land.

Read: Scugnizzi Expands to Westfield Chermside with Pizza, Pasta and New Meals

For Brisbane families, Westfield Chermside is the place to be this school holiday season—where the joy of Disney and Pixar meets the energy of one of the city’s busiest shopping destinations.

With creativity, entertainment, and the magic of Disney all in one place, Westfield Chermside offers families more than just shopping, it’s a destination where memories are made, laughter is shared, and kids can live out their racing dreams.

Published 22-September-2025

Brisbane Festival Brings Month-long Celebration to Westfield Chermside

Brisbane Festival is set to brighten the city once again this September, and at Westfield Chermside the celebration will be bigger, bolder and more vibrant than ever. As a proud Gold Partner of the 2025 Festival, the northside shopping destination is transforming into a hub of music, art and performance, offering visitors a chance to experience the magic without leaving the suburbs.

Read: Westfield Local Heroes Finalists Announced in Chermside

From 1 to 25 September, Level 2 of the centre – under the Dome and throughout the Outdoor Dining Precinct – will showcase a packed program of free events that blend art, music and entertainment for all ages.

Festival Highlights at Westfield Chermside

Craig & Karl Art Trail (1–25 September)

Large-scale installations by the acclaimed Brisbane-born duo will transform the Outdoor Dining Precinct with colour, energy and playful design. This art trail offers striking, Instagram-ready backdrops for visitors to explore all month long.

Live Music under the Dome (11, 13, 18 & 20 September)

Photo credit: westfield.com.au

Local talents including Zane Taylor, Between The Covers and Camali will bring soulful tunes and lively performances. These free sessions promise a festival atmosphere that’s perfect for families, friends and late-night diners.

Pop-up Dance Battles

High-energy showcases will take over the stage with spontaneous dance-offs and Mad Dance House performances. Expect a burst of rhythm and movement that will surprise and delight shoppers as they pass through.

Pop Art After Dark (25 September)

Brisbane Festival — Photo credit: westfield.com.au

The festival wraps up with a one-night-only event featuring DJs, immersive activations, giveaways and a dazzling fireworks display. It’s a chance to see Westfield Chermside come alive after sunset in a spectacular finale.

What makes the experience even more inviting is that every activity is free to attend. Whether browsing the art trail during the day, catching a live set in the evening, or dancing under the Dome at night, Westfield Chermside’s program makes Brisbane Festival accessible to everyone.

Read: What’s All the Hype? Pappa Flock Brings Its Viral Chicken to Chermside

For northside residents, the partnership means the Festival’s spirit has never been closer to home. From bold art to live music and fireworks, Westfield Chermside offers a full cultural experience without needing to head into the CBD – ensuring Brisbane Festival 2025 is celebrated across the city in true style.

Published 16-September-2025

Major Property Crime Bust Nets 17 Charges as Police Step Up Chermside Patrols

Photo Credit: myPolice Brisbane North

A 35-year-old West End man is behind bars facing 17 criminal charges following his arrest during heightened police patrols at Chermside shopping centre earlier this month.

The arrest forms part of Operation X-Ray Scutter, an ongoing coordinated policing initiative targeting crime prevention in and around Chermside’s retail precincts. Queensland Police allege the man committed various property crimes across multiple Brisbane suburbs between late June and early August.

The charges span a wide range of offences, from motor vehicle theft and breaking and entering to fraud and assault. Police arrested the man on 10 September during proactive patrols and he was subsequently remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court on 8 October.

The suburbs allegedly affected by the man’s activities include Spring Hill, Highgate Hill, Camira, Bellbird Park, Ipswich and New Farm, highlighting the widespread nature of the alleged offending.

Community Safety Focus

Operation X-Ray Scutter represents a collaborative approach to crime prevention, bringing together North Brisbane District Police, Griffith University, Workforce Resilience and other community partners. The operation launched in September with the specific aim of improving safety perceptions around Chermside shopping centres through strategic deployment of police resources.

As part of the initiative, officers from the Crime Prevention Unit have been conducting door-to-door visits in residential areas, including Playfield Street, distributing safety information to residents of multi-storey buildings and apartment complexes.

The community engagement aspect of the operation emphasises practical crime prevention measures that residents can implement themselves. Police are advising residents about the importance of securing communal building access, maintaining quality door and window locks, and ensuring balcony doors remain locked even when at home.

For residents with vehicles, police recommend removing all valuables from cars, securing registration plates with anti-theft screws, and ensuring garage doors close completely after each use. Bicycle owners are encouraged to photograph their bikes including serial numbers and store them in secure areas where possible.

Ongoing Presence

Chermside residents can expect to see continued police presence throughout the area as Operation X-Ray Scutter progresses. Officers are actively encouraging community members to approach them with concerns or simply to have a conversation about local safety issues.

The operation’s community-focused approach reflects a broader shift towards collaborative crime prevention, where police work alongside residents, educational institutions and other organisations to address safety concerns proactively rather than simply responding to incidents after they occur.

Anyone with information relevant to ongoing investigations can contact Policelink through their online reporting system at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444.

Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 13-September-2025

Kedron-Wavell Services Club in Chermside Club Prepares to Announce Recipients of $200,000 Community Fund

Photo Credit: Kedron-Wavell

Fifty-two community organisations across north Brisbane are about to receive a significant boost, with a total of $200,000 in grants set to be awarded by the Kedron-Wavell Services Club in Chermside.

A Lifeline for Local Initiatives

Kedron-Wavell Services Club — *Photo Credit:* *Kedron-Wavell*

The funding comes from Kedron-Wavell’s annual Community Grants program, which is designed to support the groups doing essential work in the local area. After a competitive application period, the chosen recipients will receive individual grants of up to $10,000. These funds will support a wide variety of local causes, including animal welfare, disability support, multicultural programs, environmental projects, and local sports clubs.

The program aims to strengthen connections within the community and support the organisations that make Brisbane’s northside a more inclusive place to live. The club’s leadership has stated that this initiative is a core part of its commitment to giving back to the community it serves.

The Final Reveal

The application window for the 2025 grants ran from May 1 until July 31, drawing interest from a broad range of not-for-profit groups. Now, the successful applicants are set to be formally recognised.

A special presentation will be held to celebrate the grant recipients on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. The event is scheduled from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Kittyhawk Room at the club’s 21 Kittyhawk Drive location. The organisations will be joined by local representatives as well as the Kedron-Wavell board and senior leadership team for the announcement.

Published Date 09-September-2025

Adina Hotel Project Reaches Topping Out in Chermside

Photo Credit: Limitless

Construction has reached a major milestone in Chermside with the structural completion of the new Adina Chermside Brisbane hotel, set to open in February 2026.

Background and Context

The Adina Chermside Brisbane will be the largest hotel built in Brisbane’s northern suburbs. Developed by Limitless Developments and operated by TFE Hotels, the project is located at 523 Hamilton Road, directly beside The Prince Charles Hospital.

Construction officially topped out in August 2025, marking the completion of the building’s structure. Interior fit-out is now underway, with the opening scheduled for February 2026.

Facilities and Design

The 148-room hotel will feature apartment-style accommodation designed to suit medical, corporate, and leisure visitors. Facilities include in-room kitchens and laundry, a café, bar, all-day dining restaurant, gym, meeting rooms, conference space, and car parking.

Designed by WMK Architecture, the project incorporates sustainability principles such as passive solar design, cross-ventilation, low-E glazing, rainwater harvesting, and deep planting zones. Façade greenery and natural ventilation aim to reduce heat load and energy use, while water-saving systems support long-term conservation.

Connection to Local Growth

The development sits adjacent to The Prince Charles Hospital, which is undergoing a $300 million expansion that began in December 2024. The project will add 93 new beds and a four-storey extension, with completion scheduled for 2028.

The hotel’s location also places it within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, one of Australia’s largest shopping centres, and near the parklands and bikeways along Downfall Creek. These amenities position the hotel to serve both short and long-stay guests.

Chermside hotel development — Photo Credit: TFE Hotels

Future Outlook

Adina Chermside Brisbane is part of TFE Hotels’ growing suburban and health-adjacent portfolio, joining 44 Adina hotels across Australia, New Zealand, Europe, and Asia. It will also add to the existing Brisbane CBD properties already operating under the Adina brand.

With structural works complete, the hotel is expected to welcome guests from February 2026, aligning with Chermside’s continuing growth as a health, retail, and business hub.

Published 5-Sep-2025

Chermside to Get Unique Solo Dining Hot Pot Spot

Photo Credit: Donana Mini Hotpot/ Instagram

Hot pot fans in Chermside will soon have a brand-new and exciting spot to enjoy as Donana Mini Hotpot prepares to launch its second restaurant in the area.

A New Dining Experience for Chermside

Word is spreading that Westfield Chermside is getting a vibrant new eatery, Donana Mini Hotpot, which aims to offer a unique and enjoyable experience for everyone, especially those eating alone. The new 90-seat restaurant promises a fun atmosphere with bright pink colours and neon lights, creating a visually interesting space that people will likely want to share on social media.

While the design focuses on making solo dining a pleasant experience, groups of friends and families will also be welcome to enjoy what this new place has to offer.

What to Expect from Donana Mini Hotpot

Those familiar with the original Donana Mini Hotpot in Kelvin Grove will know about their special way of serving food. Customers can choose from a wide selection of over 80 fresh ingredients as they travel past on a conveyor belt, much like a sushi train. Once selections are made, a robot “train” delivers the chosen soup pot right to the diner’s table. Another popular feature is the self-serve sauce bar, where people can mix and match different sauces to create their own perfect flavour combinations.

The team behind Donana Mini Hotpot mentioned that this new Chermside location is not just another restaurant but a step up in the hot pot experience. They have designed a space that celebrates the enjoyment of eating by yourself in a way that is fun, comfortable, and perfect for taking photos. Adding to the excitement, the Chermside restaurant will have a special soup base that you can only get at this location, making it a worthwhile visit even if you have been to their Kelvin Grove restaurant before.

Location and Existing Option

While everyone waits for the new Donana Mini Hotpot to arrive in Westfield Chermside, those eager for a hot pot experience can visit their current location in Kelvin Grove.

Donana Mini Hot Pot – Kelvin Grove is located at Shop 1/31 Musk Ave, Kelvin Grove QLD 4059, Australia. They can be contacted by phone at +61 402 390 690, and more

Published Date 26-August-2025

Multimillion-Dollar Chermside Pool Upgrade Planned

Photo Credit: BCC

The Chermside Aquatic Centre is set for a multimillion-dollar redevelopment, with new pools, modern amenities, and upgraded facilities planned to meet community demand.

Upgrade Plans

The redevelopment will deliver a 50-metre outdoor heated pool with a movable swim wall, a 25-metre indoor heated program pool with a ramp, new water play features, and modern change rooms. The project also includes an upgraded café, kiosk, and administration area, alongside new plant and filtration systems designed with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind. Existing slides may be replaced, and parking could be expanded under a later application.

Background and Community Role

The Chermside Aquatic Centre, located on Hamilton Road, spans about 10,000 square metres and has recorded more than 863,000 visits over the past three financial years. The site sits within a community precinct that includes Kedron-Wavell Services Club, Chermside Library, Brisbane North Hockey Centre, and 7th Brigade Park.

Redevelopment Process

A long-term delivery partner is being sought to design, deliver, and operate the upgraded facility. Expressions of interest opened on 18 August 2025, with a contract expected to be awarded in the second half of 2026. The selected operator will be responsible for construction, management, and ongoing maintenance under a long-term lease, with project funding supported by the operator and contributions from organisers.

Brisbane pool upgrade — Photo Credit: BCC

Community Sentiment

Public comments on local forums and social media reflected both anticipation and concerns. Residents welcomed the modern pools, accessibility upgrades, and family-friendly features. Some raised issues about parking congestion, water quality, and potential increases to entry costs once a private operator is involved. Others requested additions such as handrails for older swimmers and improved shower and toilet facilities.

Next Steps

Procurement will continue through 2025, with design and construction schedules to follow once a delivery partner is secured. The facility will remain at its current site, with plans aimed at maintaining access for the northside community as Brisbane’s population continues to grow.

Published 20-Aug-2025

Westfield Local Heroes Finalists Announced in Chermside

Finalists for the 2025 Westfield Local Heroes program have been announced at Chermside, with the community encouraged to cast their vote.

Chermside Finalists Revealed

Westfield Chermside has confirmed three finalists for the 2025 Westfield Local Heroes program. The initiative highlights individuals and organisations contributing to community support and environmental sustainability.

The finalists are Jan Schutt of Stationery Aid, Madonna Holscher of St Vincent de Paul, and Michael Andreotti of Community Canteen. Voting for this year’s program opened on 19 August 2025.

Stationery Aid’s Focus on Education

Jan Schutt co-founded Stationery Aid with his wife Alison to collect and recycle used school stationery for disadvantaged children. The program has provided assistance to more than 2,700 students and diverted over 60 tonnes of materials from landfill. If successful, a grant will help equip 300 students with essential learning supplies for one year.

Daily Volunteer Work at St Vincent de Paul

Madonna Holscher volunteers daily to assist people experiencing homelessness, financial hardship, or ill health. She provides food, financial aid, and support services across her community. A grant would allow her to expand assistance for rent, food vouchers, utility bills, and school-related expenses.

Community Canteen Extending Support

Michael Andreotti leads Community Canteen, a not-for-profit delivering more than 1,100 meals every fortnight to people who are homeless or living in temporary accommodation. Drawing from his own lived experience of homelessness, he coordinates volunteers, kitchen facilities, and food supply. Funding would extend the group’s capacity to purchase fresh produce and staple foods for Brisbane residents in hardship.

Program Background

The Westfield Local Heroes program, now in its eighth year, recognises 126 finalists across Australia and New Zealand in 2025. Since its launch, it has awarded more than $8.6 million in grants to 865 community organisations. This year, Westfield will distribute up to $1.25 million in community grants across 42 centres.

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