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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On a cool Sunday morning in Chermside, scooters will line up outside the Kedron Wavell Club, not for a race, but for a cause that will take them thousands of kilometres across Queensland. When the Radschool Association Inc first dreamed up the idea of Scootaville, the plan was simple: gather a group of ex-service men and women, climb aboard small scooters, and travel the country raising funds for veterans in need. Over the years, that idea has grown into a rolling community event that blends camaraderie, charity and a love of the open road. On the 24th of Aug 2025, the ride once again begins in Chermside, a suburb that has become the symbolic launch pad for this unlikely but determined convoy. The journey begins with more than just the hum of engines. Locals will join for a barbecue fundraiser in the Kedron Wavell Club car park before Air Force Cadets form a Guard of Honour along Kittyhawk Drive. Riders will pass through this moment of tradition and respect before turning their scooters towards the Darling Downs. It is a scene that has become familiar to returning supporters but still manages to stop traffic and spark conversations about the cause. Scootaville 2025 – Queensland Route (24 Aug – 13 Sept) This year’s Scootaville will deliberately steer towards parts of outback Queensland still recovering from devastating floods. Towns such as Cunnamulla, Thargomindah and Quilpie are not only overnight stops but places where events are planned to lift community spirits. Organisers say it is a small but meaningful way to bring people together, even for a few hours, as they continue to rebuild. The route also includes Toowoomba, Goondiwindi, St George, Charleville, Blackall, Barcaldine, Emerald, Biloela, Gayndah and Kingaroy before the convoy returns to Brisbane on 13 September. Behind the colour and spectacle of scooters on country roads lies a serious purpose. The funds raised will go to Legacy, which supports the families of veterans, and to the Air Force Association, which will direct money to programs assisting homeless veterans. For organiser Trevor Benneworth, who has steered the event since its beginning, the ride represents both connection and action. He has explained that the aim is to reconnect people, highlight the issues many veterans face, and ensure the wider community understands the challenges of life after service. Queensland will not be the only state to see the scooters this year. In November, riders will gather again, this time in Laverton, Victoria. That leg will stretch over two weeks through towns including Beechworth, Sale, Geelong and Ballarat before circling back to Laverton in early December. Like the Queensland route, it will rely on local communities to embrace the event, join the activities, and support the fundraising efforts. For Brisbane locals, the send-off is a chance to see the ride come alive at street level. For those along the route, it will mean barbecues, small-town events and the sight of dozens of scooters rolling into town. For anyone moved by the cause, details on registration, route maps, and fundraising are available at the Scootaville website. Published 19-Aug-2025 After months of overwhelming demand from Queensland fans online, Sydney’s legendary crispy chicken phenomenon Pappa Flock finally answered the call with its first-ever Sunshine State location in Chermside. The much-anticipated restaurant began service at Westfield Chermside this past Saturday, August 16th. Hundreds of eager locals formed massive queues, reminiscent of previous Pappa Flock launches in Sydney, where some fans waited up to seven hours. To celebrate its first Queensland location, the company offered a voucher for a free Flock Box to every person who was in line by midday. The popular meal deal, valued at $17.90, includes chicken tenders, seasoned chips, buttery toast, a signature sauce and a drink. The launch in Chermside marks a major milestone for the Australian-owned business and was the direct result of a long-running campaign from fans. According to Chief Marketing Officer Rachel Korbel, the company’s social media channels were flooded with messages from Queenslanders asking them to expand north. The company stated the wait is finally over, and they are excited to be in the Sunshine State. Pappa Flock’s success is built on a commitment to quality and freshness. Head Chef Eddie Cofie explained that the restaurant’s unique flavour comes from careful on-site preparation. Each free-range and halal-certified chicken tender is hand-breaded in-store with a unique spice blend to achieve its signature crunch. The dedication to fresh ingredients extends across the menu. The kitchen crew at each store squeezes over 2,500 lemons every day to make the iconic house-made lemonade. The menu also features a family recipe from Chef Cofie for the popular buttery toast. Beyond the famous Flock Boxes, the restaurant serves a full menu of handcrafted sandwiches and loaded wraps. The Chermside restaurant is the tenth location for the rapidly growing brand, which has nine other stores across Sydney. Following the successful weekend launch, Pappa Flock is already planning its next move in Queensland. A new restaurant is scheduled to begin trading in Mt Gravatt by the end of September, with more locations planned for 2025. Published Date 18-August-2025 Italian street food brand Scugnizzi has opened a new kiosk at Westfield Chermside, expanding its Brisbane footprint with pizza al taglio, pasta dishes, and value meal options. Scugnizzi has extended its reach beyond the Brisbane CBD with a second outlet at Westfield Chermside, officially opening on 11 August 2025. The launch comes after strong demand from northside residents for a more convenient location. Founders Simone Presta and Carmine Guarino said the concept was created to be replicated, with ambitions for further expansion across Australia. The kiosk continues to serve Scugnizzi’s signature items such as pizza al taglio by the slice, arancini, and tiramisu. An exclusive addition at Chermside is the pasta al forno range, featuring baked pasta dishes designed as comfort meals. The menu also includes a selection of value meal options. Pasta meals, such as Napoli with focaccia and a drink, Carbonara with guanciale, and Truffle Funghi with mushroom ragu, range from $23.50 to $25.50. Options with seafood and meat, including Gamberi & Vodka, Lamb Ragu, and Genovese, are also available. Pizza meal deals feature favourites like Margherita, Porchetta with nduja, and Prosciutto, each paired with truffle chips and a drink. For lighter choices, burrata bowls with mortadella, prosciutto or tomato and basil are on offer, alongside snacks such as arancini, truffle chips, and crumbed olives. Desserts include tiramisu, served with coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone. The opening has been well received, with customers praising the authenticity of Scugnizzi’s dishes and its connection to Italian street food culture. Regulars have highlighted pasta favourites such as Calamari & Pistachio, Carbonara, and Octopus Ragu, while others have pointed to the pizzas as some of the best in Brisbane. Support continues from fans of the brand’s founders since their 2024 appearance on My Kitchen Rules, with calls for future outlets in Sydney and Melbourne. The Chermside location cements Scugnizzi’s position as a growing presence in Brisbane’s dining scene. With its accessible price point and expanded menu, the brand aims to bring its Italian street food model to more communities across the country. Published 16-Aug-2025 A small team with a big impact, Wesley Mission Queensland’s Volunteer Relations unit has been named best in the country for teamwork at this year’s Ageing Australia awards. Wesley Mission Queensland’s Volunteer Relations team has won the Team – Teamwork category at the 2025 Ageing Australia You Are ACE! Awards. Selected from over 500 national nominations, the team was recognised for its collaboration, clear communication, and positive impact on thousands of volunteers and those they support. The awards were announced on 7 August during Aged Care Employee Day, which celebrates staff and volunteers in aged care, retirement living, and community services. This national recognition highlights the team’s vital role in supporting Wesley Mission Queensland’s volunteer network. The Team – Teamwork award is one of 15 categories in the You Are ACE! Awards, which honour excellence in the aged care sector. Wesley Mission Queensland stood out for how its small Volunteer Relations team manages a large, diverse network of more than 2,500 volunteers. Judges praised the team’s effective collaboration and ability to keep volunteers connected to the organisation’s mission and values. Their work ensures volunteers have the support and resources needed to deliver consistent care across aged care, disability, mental health, and community programs. Beyond rostering and daily communication, the Volunteer Relations team works to foster a sense of belonging and purpose for volunteers. This includes training opportunities, recognition programs, and ongoing support that align with Wesley Mission Queensland’s values of compassion, justice, and integrity. The team’s approach directly contributes to the quality of care provided, whether it’s companionship in aged care homes or practical assistance in community programs. Winning this award highlights Wesley Mission Queensland’s volunteer support and the vital role volunteers play in community services. For the organisation, it’s both recognition of the team’s commitment and a chance to inspire more people to get involved. With services across 60+ Queensland locations, the Volunteer Relations team helps create positive outcomes for people of all ages in the community. Published 14-August-2025 A new residential development is planned for Chermside, adding dozens of new apartments to one of Brisbane’s busiest and fastest-changing suburbs. A development application lodged in July proposes a multi-storey residential building on Davenport Street, Chermside. The plans feature a modern design with private balconies, secure parking and landscaped areas. The building will include several levels of apartments, each with contemporary layouts and private outdoor spaces. One-bedroom and two-bedroom units are planned, catering to individuals, couples and small families. Ground-floor amenities and communal landscaping are also proposed. Located near major shops, medical centres and public transport, the development aims to support Chermside’s shift toward medium-density living. Chermside is quickly transforming, with more apartment buildings replacing older homes to keep up with demand and limit urban sprawl. Just under 10 kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD, the suburb is becoming a hotspot for higher-density living. Recent projects on streets like Wallace and Playfield are helping reshape the area into a busier, more walkable neighbourhood. As more residents move in, local cafés, health services and shops are stepping up to meet the growing needs of the community. The proposal is now under assessment by Brisbane City Council. If approved, construction would likely begin after demolition of existing dwellings on the site. Timelines will depend on further design checks, public submissions and final approval stages. Residents in the area can typically view submitted plans via the council’s planning portal and provide feedback. Developers often use this phase to make adjustments to height, setbacks, traffic flow and landscaping based on community and council input. As Chermside grows, new developments are being designed to balance convenience with liveability. The Davenport Street proposal must meet council standards for noise, access, open space and visual impact. It’s not just about adding more housing, it’s about fitting in with the character and needs of the local community. If given the green light, the building will add to the wave of medium-density projects reshaping the suburb. Planners are aiming for smarter growth that works for both new and existing residents. Updated 4-August-2025. Published 15-July-2025 A 25 per cent stake in Westfield Chermside has been acquired by Dexus for $683 million, marking a major property investment in one of Brisbane’s key retail centres. On 23 July 2025, Dexus confirmed the acquisition of a quarter interest in Westfield Chermside through its Dexus Wholesale Shopping Centre Fund. The purchase was made from Scentre Group, valuing the entire property at over $2.7 billion. Westfield Chermside, located 20 minutes north of Brisbane’s CBD, originally opened in 1957 as the Chermside Drive-In Shopping Centre. It was Australia’s first retail development of its kind and has since evolved into the country’s largest single-level shopping centre. The $683 million acquisition was an off-market transaction reflecting Scentre Group’s book value as of 30 June 2025, with a capitalisation rate of 5 per cent. Westfield Chermside generated $1.35 billion in retail sales and recorded 17.6 million customer visits in the past calendar year. The centre includes major anchor tenants such as Myer, David Jones, Coles, Woolworths, Kmart, Target, Apple, and an Event Cinemas complex, supported by approximately 476 specialty stores and a leisure and dining precinct. Scentre Group retains a 75 per cent interest in the asset and will continue to manage property, leasing, and development operations under the new ownership structure. The company has adopted joint ventures as a strategic method to secure capital for redevelopment plans, including housing projects around existing retail assets. Instead of diluting equity through public raisings during market downturns, it has relied on divestments and funding partnerships. Proceeds from the Chermside transaction will support these long-term objectives. Dexus, having recently exited a separate stake in Sydney’s Macquarie Centre, directed funds from that sale into this Brisbane deal. The company also increased its commitment to the Dexus Wholesale Shopping Centre Fund by $170 million, bringing its total investment in the fund to $300 million. The Chermside acquisition is positioned as a strategic win for the fund, following earlier legal and operational setbacks. This transaction continues a history of collaboration between Dexus and Scentre Group. Previous joint ventures include residential approvals in Perth and the exchange of retail assets in Adelaide, such as Westfield Tea Tree Plaza and Westfield West Lakes. The Westfield Chermside joint venture strengthens Dexus’s retail portfolio and advances Scentre Group’s capital management plans without altering control of day-to-day operations. Both parties intend to pursue further strategic collaborations while maintaining their respective roles in asset performance and redevelopment. Updated August-2025. Published 30-July-2025 A 41-year-old man from Tingalpa is facing multiple charges after allegedly breaking into a Geebung business and stealing copper wiring in the early hours of 22 July. Police were called to a Bilsen Road business around 4.15am following reports of an intruder allegedly cutting copper wiring from the premises. Officers responding to the incident later intercepted a silver Subaru Forrester travelling on the same street. During a search of the vehicle, police allegedly discovered multiple spools of copper wiring in various lengths and sizes, along with bolt cutters, drug paraphernalia, and personal documents belonging to someone else. The investigation revealed that the registration plates on the intercepted vehicle had allegedly been stolen from a nearby vehicle dealership, and the driver was unlicensed. The incident reflects a broader trend across Queensland, where copper theft has become a growing community concern, impacting energy, communication and transport networks, as well as local schools, sporting clubs and other properties. Police in Townsville have reported that more than 1,000 kilograms of copper has been stolen from local businesses since the start of 2025, highlighting the scale of the issue facing communities across the state. The accused has been charged with seven offences: entering premises and committing an indictable offence, receiving tainted property, possessing equipment intended for use in break and enter activities, possessing drug utensils, driving without a licence, stealing, and using a vehicle with false number plates attached. He appeared in Brisbane Magistrates Court and has been remanded in custody until his next court appearance on 28 August. The case underscores the serious nature of copper theft, which causes unnecessary costs and disruption to utility providers, businesses, residents, and community organisations. Local authorities have been working to address the issue, with detectives running Operation Victor Surface targeting copper theft across North Brisbane and the Moreton Bay area. Residents and business owners are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Anyone with information about this incident can contact Policelink at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or phone 131 444. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au. The reference number for this case is QP2501280553. Published 28-July-2025 Police conducted metal detector searches at Chermside’s shopping precinct and bus interchange as part of a statewide crackdown targeting concealed weapons. Jack’s Law, named after a fatal stabbing in 2019, was introduced to allow police to use handheld metal detectors in designated areas. Initially limited to Safe Night Precincts and selected public spaces, the law was trialled across Queensland beginning in May 2021 and expanded over time. In June 2024, Queensland passed the Making Jack’s Law Permanent Act 2025, amending the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000. From 18 July 2025, police gained the permanent authority to scan anyone in any public area without prior authorisation, widening the reach of these operations beyond previous limits. Between January and March 2025, Queensland Police conducted scanning operations at various high-traffic locations across the state. At Chermside Shopping Centre and its nearby bus interchange, police scanned 86 individuals. Four weapons were located at the Chermside Shopping Centre, resulting in five persons being charged and eight total charges laid. The offences included breaches of the Weapons Act, Drugs Misuse Act, and other statutory provisions. The group scanned included 61 adults and 25 juveniles, with the majority being male. Chermside recorded one of the highest numbers of weapons detections among Brisbane shopping centres, equal to the total found at Grand Central Shopping Centre in Toowoomba during the same period. Under the permanent law, officers may now stop and scan members of the public with a handheld detector in any location deemed necessary, including transport hubs, retail areas, and entertainment venues. Searches can also be authorised for up to 12 hours in areas not previously defined as relevant places. Individuals scanned may be required to produce any object that sets off the detector and to comply with further scanning or confiscation procedures. While police describe the law as a preventative tool, some legal and academic figures have raised concerns. From over 12,400 scans between January and March 2025, fewer than 3 per cent resulted in weapons charges. Critics argue that resources are being spent in areas where low detection rates suggest minimal risk. Community groups and experts have also pointed to the potential for discriminatory practices in how scans are conducted, especially in areas with higher youth or homeless populations. These concerns remain under observation as the law continues to be enforced. The application of Jack’s Law in Chermside is part of ongoing enforcement at high-traffic locations across Queensland. With the law now permanent, similar scanning operations are expected to continue, particularly in areas where previous offences have occurred. Chermside remains a focus point due to its high foot traffic and transport interchange activity, with law enforcement maintaining a visible presence in the area. Published 26-July-2025 A small Ford dealership in Chermside became the starting point of one of Queensland’s most remarkable business journeys, led by a woman who defied expectations and transformed both her industry and her community. Betty Byrne Henderson AM, who passed away at 93 earlier this year, was posthumously honoured in the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame on 24 July. She was recognised for breaking ground in the male-dominated automotive industry and for her lasting contributions to community health. Her journey began in the 1970s in Chermside, where her husband had established Byrne Ford. After his sudden death in 1977, she took over the business, despite the rarity of women in such roles at the time. Under her leadership, the dealership grew from 35 to over 140 staff, driven by her values of teamwork, respect, and accountability. Ms Byrne Henderson’s flair for business emerged young, at just 15, she left school and landed a job as an office girl, where she once stepped in and sold an AGA cooker while the salesmen were out, impressing her boss. That unexpected sale ignited a lasting passion for enterprise. Years later, when she took charge of Byrne Ford, she brought fresh ideas rather than simply keeping the business afloat. She introduced performance incentives and championed a workplace culture built on trust and positivity. Her children say she had a sharp eye for talent and a natural ability to lead with fairness and respect. Through challenges like the 1974 Brisbane floods, when cars floated down the streets and stock was written off, Ms Byrne Henderson showed resilience. Her staff rallied to help, and so did she. Her family recalls this as one of the few moments when the pressure overwhelmed her, but it didn’t stop her. Offers to buy the dealership came and went, but she stood firm, committed to continuing what her family had built in Chermside. She became a respected figure not just in business circles but across the wider community. Outside of business, Ms Byrne Henderson poured her energy into helping others. She was especially passionate about women’s health and was instrumental in bringing mobile breast screening units, travelling mammograms, to remote and Indigenous communities throughout Queensland. Her work earned her multiple honours, including being named a Queensland Great and receiving the title of Queenslander of the Year. But for her children and many who worked with her, her greatest strength was her quiet persistence, generosity, and dedication to people. Published 25-July-2025Scootaville Riders to Depart from Chermside on Mission for Veterans
A Ride that Began with an Idea
Date Time Event / Activity Location / Notes Sunday, 24 Aug 8:00 a.m. Community barbecue fundraiser Kedron Wavell Club car park, Chermside Sunday, 24 Aug 9:30 a.m. Kittyhawk Drive closed, Air Force Cadets form Guard of Honour Chermside Sunday, 24 Aug 10:00 a.m. Official Scootaville 2025 departure Riders head to Toowoomba (2 nights) 26 Aug — Overnight stop Goondiwindi 27 Aug — Overnight stop St George 28–29 Aug — Community events and overnight stops Cunnamulla (2 nights, flood-affected) 30–31 Aug — Community events and overnight stops Thargomindah (2 nights, flood-affected) 1–2 Sept — Community events and overnight stops Quilpie (2 nights, flood-affected) 3–4 Sept — Overnight stops Charleville (2 nights) 5–6 Sept — Overnight stops Blackall (2 nights) 7 Sept — Overnight stop Barcaldine 8 Sept — Overnight stop Emerald 9 Sept — Overnight stop Biloela 10–11 Sept — Overnight stops Gayndah (2 nights) 12 Sept — Overnight stop Kingaroy Saturday, 13 Sept — Ride concludes, return to Brisbane Brisbane Through Flood-Affected Towns
Riding for Legacy and the Air Force Association
How to Be Part of It
What’s All the Hype? Pappa Flock Brings Its Viral Chicken to Chermside
A Community Welcome
More Than Just Chicken
Queensland Expansion Continues
Scugnizzi Expands to Westfield Chermside with Pizza, Pasta and New Meals
Background and Expansion
Menu and New Offerings
Community Reception
Looking Ahead
Wesley Mission Queensland Team Wins National Honour for Volunteer Support
Supporting Thousands Across Queensland
Recognised for Teamwork on a National Scale
More Than Just Volunteer Coordination
Strengthening Community Impact
Chermside’s Urban Expansion Continues with Davenport Street Build
Community Living in Focus
Chermside’s Changing Landscape
What’s Next for the Development
Balancing Growth With Liveability
Dexus Buys 25% Stake in Westfield Chermside for $683 Million
Background and Context
Transaction Details and Asset Profile
Capital Strategy and Investment Direction
Dexus Investment and Fund Repositioning
Ongoing Collaboration Between Companies
Looking Ahead
Tingalpa Man Faces Multiple Charges After Geebung Business Break-In
Metal Detector Searches Conducted at Chermside Under Expanded Law
Statewide Law Now Permanent
Photo Credit: QPSChermside Scanning Activity and Results
Scanning Powers and Implementation
Photo Credit: QPSConcerns Around Effectiveness and Oversight
Looking Ahead in Chermside
From Chermside Showroom to State Recognition: Betty Byrne Henderson AM Honoured
Betty Byrne Henderson’s Legacy Remembered
From Office Girl to Industry Leader
Staying Strong Through Tough Times
A Life of Giving Back
