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Chermside Library Among Brisbane Libraries Facing Program Reductions

Families who regularly visit Chermside Library are noticing changes to their favourite early literacy programs as Brisbane adjusts its budget for library services.

Read: Half a Million Visits: How Chermside Library Became Brisbane’s Second-Favourite Library

Popular sessions such as Books, Babies & Rhymes (BBR) and Toddler Time have been reduced, impacting parents and caregivers who rely on these programs for their children’s early learning and social development. Both programs are part of First 5 Forever, a statewide initiative aimed at building strong early literacy foundations for Queensland children aged 0-5 years.

Previously held three times per week, Books, Babies & Rhymes has now been cut to two sessions per week, currently scheduled on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Toddler Time, which was previously held twice a week, has been reduced to just one session, now running on Fridays. These reductions came into effect after December 25 as part of broader adjustments across Brisbane’s library network.

The reductions have left some families disappointed, with many seeing these programs as an important opportunity for children to engage in structured learning, develop social skills, and foster a love of books from an early age.

A recent e-petition, which recently closed, gathered more than 1,300 signatures from community members calling for the full reinstatement of First 5 Forever story time sessions at Brisbane’s public libraries.

Concerns from Library Staff

Similar cuts have occurred at other libraries across the city, including reductions to the First 5 Forever program and various community activities. Library staff have reported increased workloads and concerns over future changes as Council implements further budget measures.

A recent workplace survey conducted by The Services Union revealed significant dissatisfaction among library workers. The results showed that 96.9 percent of respondents felt workplace changes had been poorly planned, while 82.1 percent believed the way Council is implementing these changes is negatively impacting their psychosocial health. Additionally, 52.7 percent of surveyed staff members indicated they were considering leaving their roles due to the strain on their well-being.

Read: Chermside Library and Downfall Creek Centre Offer New Recycling Options

Despite these adjustments, Brisbane libraries remain committed to providing essential services to the community. Parents and caregivers in Chermside are encouraged to check the updated schedules and explore alternative programs available at other branches.

Published 4-March-2025

New Five-Storey Unit Building Proposed for Chermside

Photo Credit: DA A006624446

Plans for a five-storey residential building, featuring twenty-one-bedroom units, have been proposed for 84-86 Wallace Street, Chermside. The development seeks to replace two existing houses on the corner site.

Building Specifications

New Five-Storey Unit Building Proposed for Chermside — *Photo Credit:* *DA A006624446*

The proposed structure will reach a height of 19 metres and consist of single-bedroom dwellings, each designed with individual outdoor courtyard spaces ranging from 16.64 to 20.42 square metres.

The plans include a new driveway and 25 car parking spaces, some of which will be reserved for visitors. The development site covers 1,900 square metres.

Site Features and Amenities

A significant portion of the grounds, totalling 157 square metres, or 14% of the entire site, is allocated for landscaped deep planting in both the front and rear setbacks.

The building will occupy 56.28% of the site, exceeding the council’s accepted site coverage of 45%. The ground floor will house a lobby area, and a 188.97 square metre communal rooftop space is planned for residents.

Modifications and Approvals

The two current residential houses on the property will be demolished to make way for the new building. The development application is now under review by the council, and approvals are required before any construction work can commence.

Published Date 27-Feb-2025

Chermside Library and Downfall Creek Centre Offer New Recycling Options

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Every year, thousands of household items that could be recycled end up in landfill, contributing to environmental harm. A new trial program aims to change that, with community recycling hubs now open at Chermside Library and Downfall Creek Bushland Centre to collect materials often overlooked in regular recycling bins.

The Community Recycling Hubs allow locals to drop off items that typically cannot be recycled in household bins, such as blister packs, CDs, DVDs, cosmetic packaging, and small e-waste. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce landfill waste and provide accessible recycling options in Brisbane suburbs.

A New Recycling Trial for Chermside Locals

The new recycling hubs at Chermside Library and Downfall Creek Bushland Centre in Chermside West are part of a pilot project introduced in Brisbane. The trial aims to measure ease of use, collection volume, and recycling feasibility for a range of household waste materials. If successful, this program could expand to more locations across the city.

With over 50 Council-operated community recycling hubs already available across Brisbane, these trial locations offer an enhanced drop-off experience for residents. Unlike standard recycling hubs, which accept limited materials, these trial sites accommodate multiple household items, making it easier for residents to dispose of everyday waste responsibly.

What Can Be Recycled?

Each trial hub accepts different materials, so residents are encouraged to check the Council website or on-site signage before dropping off items. Commonly accepted materials include:

Blister packs, which will undergo mechanical separation to extract aluminium and plastic.
CDs and DVDs, which will be broken down for plastic recycling.
Cosmetic packaging, sorted into plastics, metals, and glass before being repurposed into building materials.
Small e-waste, such as cables and accessories, processed for metal and hard plastic recovery.
Mobile phones, which will have components extracted, including glass, aluminium, and valuable metals.
X-ray films, chemically processed to recover silver and plastic.

The program ensures these materials do not end up in landfills, where they could take decades to decompose. Instead, they are sent to specialist recycling partners for repurposing into new products.

How to Use the Recycling Hubs

Residents can collect their recyclable items at home and bring them to the Chermside Library or Downfall Creek Bushland Centre. Items must be clean and empty, and only household quantities are allowed, with a maximum of 20 items per category per visit. Items should be placed in the correct designated bins, ensuring efficient sorting and recycling.

Community Recycling Hubs Chermside — *Photo Credit: BCC*

What If the Hub Doesn’t Accept Certain Items?

For items that are not accepted at the trial locations, such as vapes and e-cigarettes, Brisbane residents can visit Council resource recovery centres for proper disposal. Additionally, many retailers offer special recycling programs for products like batteries, ink cartridges, toys, and gardening tools.

Residents can also check the Brisbane Bin and Recycling App, Planet Ark Recycling Near You, or the Recycle Mate website for more drop-off points and recycling solutions.

Published 24-February-2025

Brooki Bakehouse Arrives at Chermside: Is It Worth the Hype?

A photo snapped in the heart of Westfield Chermside has sparked online debate, showing Aussies eagerly queuing up for a taste of one of Brisbane’s most talked-about treats. The latest store of Brooki Bakehouse, a viral sensation in the baking world, has opened its doors—bringing its cult-favourite cookies to Brisbane’s north. But is it really worth the wait?

Read: Chermside Welcomes YOMG Burgers and Frozen Yoghurt to Queensland

The Debate

On Reddit, locals have mixed feelings about the phenomenon. Some question whether the cookies truly live up to the excitement.

“I think the hype far outweighs the quality of the cookies. They’re good, but is it really worth spending hours lining up for them?” one user wrote.

Others see the appeal beyond just the product. “These people have been following the founder’s journey for years on social media. It’s an emotional connection thing,” another said. “I haven’t tried them, but my sister begged us to take her there.”

Another commenter pointed out that waiting in line can be part of the fun: “I dunno about three-hour waits, but sometimes just going to a place and lining up for a bit is a fun little activity. You’re in line, chatting with friends, doing the whole thing.”

Supporters also appreciate the success of a homegrown business. “Good to see a Brisbane small business blossoming in this economic climate,” one Redditor noted.

From TikTok to Thriving Business

Brooki Bakehouse is the brainchild of Brooke Bellamy, who first launched the bakery in Fortitude Valley in 2022. But her journey started much earlier. Bellamy honed her baking skills through cooking classes in Paris and online tutorials before opening Charlie’s Dessert House in Launceston, Tasmania, in 2016. There, she built a reputation for macarons, cupcakes, and, of course, cookies.

Her big break came in late 2021 when she moved to Brisbane with her now-husband, Justice. When her only employee fell ill with Covid-19 for three weeks, Bellamy turned to TikTok, filming herself working in the bakery. A “day in the life” video in her chef’s attire went viral, catapulting Brooki Bakehouse to social media fame.

Now, the bakery sells an astonishing 1,000 cookies daily in-store, with thousands more shipped to eager fans across the country. On top of that, Bellamy’s book has become a bestseller, solidifying her status as a baking influencer.

A Sweet Expansion

The latest Westfield Chermside store opened just in time for Valentine’s Day, allowing even more fans to get their hands on Brooki’s famous cookies. Alongside their bestsellers, the store offers weekly specials that keep customers coming back for more.

Read: Westfield Chermside Hosts Unprecedented Star Wars Fan Experiences

For those wanting to see what all the fuss is about, Brooki Bakehouse is located on Level 1 of Westfield Chermside, near Glassons. Whether you’re a loyal fan or a curious first-timer, the question remains: Is it worth the wait? That’s for your tastebuds to decide.

Published 19-February-2025

Brisbane Netball Clubhouse Revamp to Move Forward After Approval

Plans for a new clubhouse for the Brisbane Netball Association (BNA) in Chermside have been approved, with several conditions attached to the development approval.

Read: Brisbane Netball Association Aims High with New Clubhouse Plans

The project, designed by Red Door Architecture, involves the demolition and redevelopment of the existing clubhouse and associated facilities.

One key condition of the approval requires that the landscape plan must include a reticulated drip irrigation system for all planting areas, with drainage connected to the stormwater system. Additionally, the irrigation system must be connected to a non-mains water source.

In response, the project’s planners submitted a representations letter contesting the requirement. They argued that the landscape concept plan assessed as part of the Development Application (DA) is not an approved document. They also noted that an irrigation system is only proposed for roof-covered areas on the eastern edge of the building, which does not cover all planting areas as stipulated in the condition.

Project Details

The redevelopment will modernise the BNA’s facilities while maintaining the existing netball courts. The project includes the demolition of the existing clubhouse and associated buildings, covering approximately 321 square metres of gross floor area. A new, consolidated clubhouse will be constructed, occupying a similar footprint with a slight increase in setback from 4.72 metres to 6 metres on the western boundary.

The new clubhouse will be a single-storey structure with a maximum height of 6 metres. Part of the existing car park will be integrated into the building footprint to enhance the club’s functionality. As a result, four parking spaces will be lost; however, a minor expansion of the southern car park will add seven new spaces, leading to a net gain of three additional spaces. The redevelopment will also introduce five bicycle racks and nine motorcycle spaces.

The plan includes new landscaping and a 1.8-metre-high fence along the western boundary. Traffic flow within the site will be improved by upgrading the car park from a one-way to a two-way system. Importantly, the number of patrons allowed on-site will remain unchanged.

Read: Take it to the Streets Program to Reach Chermside Youth

The BNA’s new clubhouse is expected to enhance functionality and accessibility for players and visitors while aligning with community and environmental standards. Despite concerns regarding irrigation requirements, the redevelopment is set to proceed, with further discussions likely to address the outstanding conditions.

The timeline for construction and completion has not yet been announced, but the approval marks a significant milestone in improving the netball facilities in Chermside.

Published 10-February-2025

Take it to the Streets Program to Reach Chermside Youth

A new youth program is set to make a difference in Chermside by meeting young people where they are, providing mentorship, engagement, and an opportunity to develop their skills through sport. Take it to the Streets, an initiative targeting at-risk youth, is expanding its reach across North Brisbane, and Chermside is the next location on its map.

Read: New Community Partnerships Target Youth Anti-Social Behaviour

The program aims to empower young people aged 13 to 18 by using 3×3 basketball as a tool for positive change. More than just a sport, basketball serves as a bridge—breaking down social barriers, boosting confidence, and fostering discipline. For those at risk of disengaging from education or engaging in anti-social behaviour, this initiative offers an alternative path towards personal and community growth.

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Run by professional 3×3 basketball player Deola D’Brown, the program does more than teach technical skills—it provides consistent mentorship. Participants develop emotional regulation, community engagement, and mental wellbeing through structured activities and support networks. With over 130 young people already involved and an average of 22 attending each session, the impact is clear: youth engagement is rising, and lives are changing.

Chermside’s Turn to Shine

Photo credit: Department of Sport, Racing and Olympic and Paralympic Games

From 8 May to 26 June 2025, Chermside will host weekly sessions, ensuring that local youth have access to this free program without the need to travel far. By bringing the initiative directly into the community, organisers hope to reach those who might otherwise miss out on crucial guidance and support.

Youth Programs Unit Acting Inspector Lester Brooks emphasised the importance of such initiatives, highlighting how structured engagement significantly reduces the risk of young people reoffending or dropping out of school.

“Evidence shows that when disengaged or at-risk young people are engaged through programs and given the tools to change their behaviour, their risk of reoffending or leaving school reduces,” he said.

“This means not only a better future for our young people, but a safer community.”

Beyond immediate mentorship, Take it to the Streets could also provide young athletes with a pathway towards Brisbane 2032. The Olympic dream is closer than ever for some participants, with organisers already identifying outstanding talent among the program’s attendees.

“These young people could not only change their lives but become the local Olympians of our future,” D’Brown said.

Read: Chermside Man’s Story Sheds Light on Public Housing Challenges

Funded through the Queensland Government’s Youth Development Partnership Fund, Take it to the Streets is among 26 programs designed to create long-term, positive community change. By investing in early intervention and grassroots programs, Queensland is strengthening its future—one young person at a time.

For more details about the program or how to get involved, visit Queensland Government’s Youth Development Partnership Fund.

Published 7-February-2025

Prince Charles Hospital Foundation to Stop Serving Strawberry Sundaes at Ekka

Photo Credit: The Common Good

After 35 years, Chermside’s Prince Charles Hospital Foundation has decided to end its tradition of serving strawberry sundaes at the Ekka, to prioritise other fundraising initiatives.

Ekka's Strawberry Sundae to Continue Despite Withdrawal of Prince Charles Hospital Foundation — *Photo Credit:* *The Common Good/ Facebook*

This decision marks the end of a long-standing partnership that has raised millions for vital medical research and patient care initiatives. The foundation will now concentrate its efforts on new, sustainable programs.

For over thirty years, the foundation’s involvement with Ekka’s iconic dessert has been a major fundraising effort. The operation grew into a large-scale undertaking, requiring nine months of planning and the dedication of over 2,000 volunteers annually. These volunteers scooped more than 100,000 sundaes each year, contributing to a grand total of over three million sundaes served since the late 1980s.

The funds generated by the sundaes have supported numerous important causes. These include a world-first ICU redesign at the Prince Charles Hospital, the development of Charlie’s Village, a dedicated space for dementia patients, advancements in donor heart transportation, and the establishment of Queensland’s first child life therapist.

The foundation’s chief executive, Steve Francia, acknowledged the difficulty of discontinuing the program. He emphasised that the move will allow the organisation to concentrate on initiatives with the greatest potential to improve lives. He deeply appreciated the volunteers whose hard work made the program successful.

RNA chief executive Brendan Christou expressed sadness at the end of the partnership with the Prince Charles Hospital Foundation. He recognised the foundation’s long-standing contribution to the Ekka.

He also confirmed that the Strawberry Sundae will remain a fixture at the Ekka, with the RNA taking over its preparation and service. He assured Ekka visitors that the beloved treat will continue to be available. The RNA understands the foundation’s need to explore new fundraising avenues.

Published Date 31-Jan-2025

Chermside Man’s Story Sheds Light on Public Housing Challenges

Wayne McGee, a 46-year-old man, has shared his decision to live in a tent in Samford Valley rather than return to a public housing unit in Chermside, where he says he was subjected to a brutal attack.

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

According to police documents, on 21 March 2024, another resident allegedly entered Mr McGee’s unit while under the influence of methamphetamines, shackled him to a toilet, and assaulted him over several hours. Mr McGee was allegedly threatened with a knife, told not to report the attack to authorities, and later discovered that several of his belongings had been stolen.

public housing — Photo credit: Northwest Community Group Inc/Facebook

In the aftermath of the assault, Mr McGee expressed deep fear for his safety and chose to live outdoors, refusing to return to the unit.

Following the attack, Queensland Police requested the Department of Housing to urgently relocate Mr McGee, citing concerns about the ongoing threat.

In January 2024, the Department of Housing approved a transfer for Mr McGee. However, as of January 2025, he remains on the waiting list with no clear timeline for when another unit will be available.

Mr McGee has also highlighted his ongoing struggles with living in the public housing complex, describing it as a “living hell.” He reported frequent incidents of theft, abuse, and violence, particularly during the night when drug activity and disturbances were common. Though living in a tent has been challenging, he feels it is safer than returning to the unit.

Paul Slater, a homelessness volunteer and founder of the Northwest Community Group Inc, has been supporting Mr McGee by providing essential supplies and emotional assistance. He emphasised the severe isolation and frustration Mr McGee is experiencing, pointing out the lack of emergency accommodation or substantial support from housing authorities.

Mr Slater has actively contacted government agencies and homelessness support organisations, including mental health outreach teams and crisis response units, to advocate for urgent intervention.

This situation brings attention to the broader issue of Queensland’s social housing crisis, with nearly 48,000 people waiting for accommodation as of December 2024. The challenges faced by vulnerable individuals like Mr McGee reflect ongoing concerns about safety, housing availability, and the adequacy of support for those in need.

Read: Chermside Welcomes 34 New Homes for Seniors and Essential Workers

While Mr McGee’s case is a personal tragedy, it also raises important questions about the capacity of the state’s social housing system to address the needs of its most vulnerable residents and the resources required to ensure safe and stable living conditions for all.

Published 23-January-2025

Chermside Welcomes 34 New Homes for Seniors and Essential Workers

Photo Credit: BHC Development

Thirty-four new social and affordable housing units have been completed in Chermside, providing much-needed accommodation for seniors, people with disabilities, and community workers.

The newly completed development on Ethel Street, Chermside, includes 28 one-bedroom and six two-bedroom apartments. Designed by Brisbane-based architectural firm Ultralinea, the building incorporates environmentally sustainable features such as rainwater collection for garden irrigation and solar panels to power communal areas.

The development also includes communal spaces, such as an alfresco rooftop and ground-floor common areas, to encourage social connection among residents.

Supporting the Community

Chermside development — *Photo Credit:* *DA A006215374*

The project aims to provide long-term housing for those on the social housing register, including individuals at risk of homelessness, seniors, and people with disabilities. The social housing component, consisting of 17 units, is allocated to tenants paying rent at 25% to 30% of their household income.

The development also features 17 affordable units aimed at essential workers, such as retail and healthcare staff, offering rents set 25% below market rates.

The building has been constructed to meet accessibility standards, with 31 units achieving Gold level and one unit achieving Platinum level under the Livable Housing Design Guidelines. These features include wider hallways, step-free access, and provisions for grab rails to accommodate mobility aids.

Sustainability and Accessibility

Sustainability has been a key focus in the development’s design, with the building targeting a 7+ star NatHERS energy efficiency rating. Bike storage facilities, natural ventilation features, and proximity to public transport aim to reduce reliance on private vehicles. The development offers 31 car parking spaces, including 22 for residents, 9 for visitors, and 43 bicycle spaces.

The housing complex’s location provides easy access to essential services, with the Prince Charles Hospital, Chermside Regional Centre, and various public transport links nearby. Residents will also have convenient access to supermarkets, medical centres, and community facilities such as the local library and aquatic centre.

Future Housing Plans

Completing the Chermside project is part of a broader initiative to increase social and affordable housing across Queensland. To address the housing shortage, the government has committed to building new homes rather than purchasing existing properties.

More projects are expected to follow, with partnerships between community housing providers and financial institutions playing a key role in expanding housing options for vulnerable Queenslanders.

A spokesperson from BHC, the community housing provider involved in the project, expressed enthusiasm about the development and indicated plans to deliver an additional 600 homes as part of their ongoing efforts to tackle the housing crisis.

Published Date 20-Jan-2025

Chermside Man Plans New Car Surprise for Wife with $75,000 Windfall

Photo Credit: Pexels

A $75,000 windfall has brought immense joy and excitement to a Chermside family as the recipient plans to surprise his wife with a brand-new car.

The ticket, purchased at Kedron-Wavell on Kittyhawk Drive, secured the financial blessing through a combination of chance, thoughtful play, and sheer luck, making it an unforgettable moment.

Chermside man windfall — Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

The news of the win quickly spread across Kedron-Wavell, with staff and patrons expressing excitement for the fortunate winner. Management at the venue was delighted to see such good fortune within their community, describing the atmosphere as electric when the win was confirmed.

General Manager Vjorn Bradow highlighted the shared joy and elation among staff, guests, and the winner, noting how such moments foster positivity and unity within the local community. The multiplier feature on the ticket made it a particularly memorable event for all involved, creating a buzz of excitement and leaving everyone thrilled.

Details of the $75,000 Win

The Chermside man secured his $75,000 prize through a Keno Classic ticket with a x3 Bonus multiplier in draw 111, held on 12 January 2025. The inclusion of the Bonus feature significantly increased the prize amount, turning it into a life-changing moment for the lucky winner.

Keno data from FY24 highlights the popularity of the game, with Queensland players enjoying over 28.5 million wins, totalling $441.6 million. The state also produced nine major prize winners during the year, sharing a combined $46.7 million in winnings.

Chermside man wins $75,000 — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pexels*

Future Plans

With the funds allocated towards a new car, the Chermside man views the win as a chance to enhance his family’s life and begin the year with an unforgettable milestone. The win joins a growing list of Queensland success stories, showcasing the joy and happiness such financial blessings can bring to local families, making a significant difference and creating long-lasting memories.

Published 18-Jan-2025