Chermside Archives - Page 5 of 17

The Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside Saves Mum’s Life with Groundbreaking Transplant

A mother with cystic fibrosis was saved by a pioneering heart and double lung transplant, a complicated and rare procedure, at the Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside.

Since birth, Tina Lee, a 39-year-old Yeppoon teacher, has had cystic fibrosis (CF). A genetic disorder that affects the lungs and other organs, CF frequently results in serious health complications. Ms Lee received a second chance at life after undergoing a double lung transplant last 2015, in her early 30s.

In 2023 February, she and her partner, Tom, found out they were expecting their first child years later, they were ecstatic. However, Ms Lee was in critical condition after a severe rejection of her transplanted lungs at 34 weeks into her pregnancy.

Her baby, Henry, was delivered by emergency caesarean section and was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) right away. But Ms Lee’s health kept getting worse.

The Prince Charles Hospital Takes the Lead

As her condition deteriorated, Ms Lee was moved to The Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside, which is renowned for its proficiency in cardiothoracic care. With limited traditional treatment options available, her case became urgent.

Under the direction of Professor Peter Hopkins, the hospital’s medical staff decided to try tocilizumab, a drug typically used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. This medication had never been tested on cystic fibrosis patients in Australia before. To everyone’s relief, Ms Lee’s condition stabilised within just one day, giving her much-needed time for further treatment.

A Record-Breaking Transplant

In 2024 May, Ms Lee was added to the transplant waiting list. Amazingly, donor organs were available six hours later. She had a heart and double lung transplant at The Prince Charles Hospital, a rare and difficult procedure that went well.

With medical professionals like Professor Hopkins highlighting the impact that prompt donations can have on patients in critical condition, Ms Lee’s story serves as a reminder of the significance of organ donation for critically ill patients.

Chermside Community and Family Support

The Prince Charles Hospital has long been acknowledged by the Chermside community as an essential local centre for cutting-edge medical care. Ms Lee’s experience serves as more evidence of the hospital’s commitment to offering patients state-of-the-art treatment.

Ms Lee attributed her persistent perseverance during her recovery to her baby boy, Henry. Seeing him, she claimed, gave her the willpower to keep going.

A Call for Organ Donors

Ms Lee’s story highlights the continued need for organ donors. Many of the thousands of Australians waiting for transplants depend on the generosity of donors to stay alive, according to DonateLife.

Her story demonstrates the importance of these contributions and the efforts made by institutions such as The Prince Charles Hospital to oversee such life-saving operations.

A Brighter Future

Ms Lee is loving being a mother today and treasures her time spent with her family. She continues to promote organ donation and urge others to do the same.

Stories like Ms Lee’s attest to the commitment of the hospital’s staff and the value of community health resources, demonstrating the exceptional medical care that The Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside continues to provide.

Published 26-Dec-2024

Brisbane’s Suburban Shift: Why Chermside is Poised to Thrive

With its established health precinct and strategic location, Chermside is seen as a strong candidate to evolve into a major employment and lifestyle hub, contributing to solutions for Brisbane’s housing and infrastructure challenges.

Read: New Health Care Facility Proposed for Chermside

According to Ross Elliott, Suburban Futures director and chair of the Lord Mayor’s Better Suburbs Initiative, Chermside has the potential to become a regional powerhouse similar to Parramatta. He noted that the suburb, currently home to 16,000 jobs, primarily in health, could grow to support 50,000 jobs with the right urban planning and investment.

Photo credit: Zeglar “Zeg” Fergus/Google Maps

Mr Elliott highlighted the untapped potential of Chermside’s green spaces, such as the Downfall Creek corridor and the nearby Marchant Park. These areas, he said, could serve as active transport routes linking residential neighborhoods with employment hubs. He emphasized that urban renewal efforts must integrate job creation and social infrastructure alongside addressing housing needs.

The Vision for Chermside

Photo credit: The Prince Charles Hospital/Google Maps

Chermside’s transformation could build on its existing strengths, including The Prince Charles Hospital and Westfield Chermside, one of the country’s largest shopping centers. These institutions provide a foundation for further development, such as mixed-use precincts and high-density housing designed to support modern urban lifestyles.

Mr Elliott suggested that improved transport links, such as expanded busways and cycling corridors, could enhance the suburb’s connectivity, making it an even more attractive place to live and work. He also pointed to the importance of leveraging natural assets like Marchant Park and Downfall Creek to create a sustainable and vibrant urban environment.

A Suburban Strategy for Growth

Moorooka’s Magic Mile (Photo credit: Google Street View)

While Chermside leads the charge in Brisbane’s suburban renewal plans, other areas, including Moorooka and Mount Gravatt, are also being considered for transformation. For example, proposals for Moorooka’s Magic Mile include replacing car yards with bike paths and mixed-use developments, reflecting the city’s focus on sustainable, community-centric growth.

Mr Elliott underscored the importance of investing in suburban areas, pointing out that the vast majority of Brisbane residents live and work in these neighborhoods. He argued that for Brisbane to thrive, it must focus on where its population actually resides and operates.

Read: Hidden Family History Inspires Local to Create New Chermside Ancestry Group

As Brisbane prepares for the 2032 Olympics, Chermside’s potential rise as a mini Parramatta could become a model for suburban renewal, helping the city grow as a balanced and inclusive metropolis.

Published 3-December-2024

A Water Wonderland: Aquatic Oasis in Chermside

Chermside’s heart beats with community spirit, and its beloved Aquatic Centre is the lifeblood. This sprawling water wonderland offers fun for everyone, from families to fitness fanatics.

The centre’s crowning jewel is undoubtedly its expansive water park. With a dazzling array of water slides, a splash lagoon, and a leisure pool, it’s a summer paradise for children of all ages. As the temperature rises, the park becomes a hive of activity filled with squeals of delight and laughter.

But the fun doesn’t stop when the summer sunsets. The centre’s heated indoor pool provides year-round swimming opportunities, making it a popular spot for lap swimmers and fitness classes.

The outdoor 25-metre lap pool is perfect for those who prefer a more traditional swimming experience.

Chermside Aquatic Centre is more than just a place to cool off; it’s a place to connect with the community. The centre hosts various swimming programs, from learn-to-swim classes for young children to advanced squad training for competitive swimmers. Additionally, it offers a variety of fitness classes for adults, including aqua aerobics and water walking.

For those who prefer to relax, the centre’s sun loungers and picnic areas provide the perfect setting for a leisurely day out. The on-site kiosk offers a range of refreshments, from ice creams to hot drinks, making it easy to refuel after a swim.

Street Spotlight: Kilburn St, Chermside

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Kilburn Street in Chermside tells a compelling story of Brisbane’s northern suburban evolution. Historical records from 1946 reveal a sparsely populated landscape with only a handful of houses dotting the streetscape, a stark contrast to today’s established residential community. The street’s growth is reflected in its real estate history, with notable transactions like 18 Kilburn Street changing hands for $30,000 in June 1981.

Today, the street boasts 42 properties with a strong sense of community, evidenced by its 75% owner-occupier rate and remarkable average residency of nearly 13 years. The fact that 56% of residents have called Kilburn Street home for over a decade speaks to its enduring appeal and the stability of this Chermside pocket.

Kilburn St, Chermside Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 42
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 75%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 12 years and 11 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 56%

Kilburn St, Chermside – As It Looked in 1946

Kilburn St, Chermside in 1946

SOME RECENT SALES ON KILBURN ST, CHERMSIDE

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
2/22 Kilburn St, Chermside	$850,000	Jul 2024
23 Kilburn St, Chermside	$873,000	Jan 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON KILBURN ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
18 Kilburn St, Chermside	$30,000	Jun 1981
12 Kilburn St, Chermside	$110,500	Aug 1990
39 Kilburn St, Chermside	$162,000	Aug 1994

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Chermside in 2024 was $935,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Chermside in 2020 was $625,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN CHERMSIDE SINCE 2020 : $310,000

The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Chermside in 2024 was $403,000
The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Chermside in 2020 was $330,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 1 BEDROOM UNIT IN CHERMSIDE SINCE 2020 : $73,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Chermside in 2024 was $550,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Chermside in 2020 was $359,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN CHERMSIDE SINCE 2020 : $191,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Chermside in 2024 was $700,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Chermside in 2020 was $467,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN CHERMSIDE SINCE 2020 : $233,000

If you know Kilburn St, Chermside well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Multiple Drink Driving Offences in Chermside Police Operation

Photo Credit: myPolice Brisbane North

Police detected six drink driving offences during a targeted operation on Gympie Road, Chermside on Friday, November 1, 2024.

The operation, which involved officers from Hendra, Boondall and Stafford Stations alongside North Brisbane Highway Patrol, conducted 707 Random Breath Tests (RBT) and Random Drug Tests (RDT).

Blood alcohol readings among the offenders ranged from 0.053 to 0.143.

The operation also resulted in one drug driving detection. A separate driver was charged with possession of dangerous drugs, failing to properly dispose of needle and syringe, and possession of tainted property. Another motorist was charged with obstructing police.

Officers issued five additional infringement notices for offences including unlicensed driving and unregistered vehicles.

Police have advised that traffic operations and patrols will increase in the North Brisbane area as year 12 students finish school and holiday periods approach.

The Queensland Police Service continues its efforts to reduce road fatalities by targeting the ‘Fatal Five’: speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction.

Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. Learn more about staying safe on Queensland roads: https://www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads

Published 8-November-2024

Brisbane Emergency Services Expo Draws Thousands to Chermside

Over 10,000 people gathered at 7th Brigade Park in Chermside for the Brisbane Emergency Services Expo, an annual event designed to educate the public on how to prepare for emergencies.

Held on Saturday, October 12, the event was organised by the Brisbane City Council, with a focus on storm season preparedness and providing the community with crucial information on handling natural disasters. The expo featured multiple emergency service units, including the Mounted Unit, Dog Unit, Crime Stoppers, Police Recruiting, Crime Prevention Unit, and Highway Patrol.

Community Engagement

This year marked the first time the expo was held at Chermside’s 7th Brigade Park, after previously being hosted at Victoria Park in Brisbane City. The new venue proved successful, with a large turnout from the local community. Attendees were able to interact with different units of the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and learn more about their work.

Brisbane Emergency Services Chermside — *Photo Credit: QPS*

The Mounted Unit and Dog Unit were particular crowd favourites, with demonstrations from the Dog Unit showcasing their skills in police operations. The event also provided an opportunity for Crime Prevention officers and Community Supporting Police to share tips on staying safe during emergencies and ways to report crimes.

Career Opportunities Highlighted

The expo also placed a spotlight on recruiting efforts for the Queensland Police Service. Representatives from the Police Recruiting team were present to inform visitors about the wide variety of roles available within the service. They highlighted that a career in policing offers numerous paths, from responding to emergencies to investigating crimes and engaging with the community. Officers described the work as both challenging and rewarding, encouraging those interested to explore career opportunities by visiting the official recruitment website.

Success of the Event

The overall success of the event demonstrated the value of connecting emergency services with the community. It provided a platform for local residents to learn important safety information while also fostering positive relationships between the public and emergency service personnel. The large turnout and enthusiastic response from attendees showed strong support for events of this kind in the future.

For more information about joining the Queensland Police Service, interested individuals can visit PoliceRecruit.qld.gov.au.

Published 21-Oct-2024

Chermside Community Leader Jodi Traves Wins $20,000 Westfield Local Hero Grant

Westfield Chermside has awarded Jodi Traves, CEO of Bridgecare Limited, a $20,000 grant to expand her organisation’s services that support homeless individuals and people facing challenges in the local community.

Expanding Services for the Homeless

Jodi leads Bridgecare Limited, an organisation that provides judgement-free assistance, including weekly food hampers, help with gardening, and odd jobs for those in need. With a team of 80 volunteers and two part-time employees, the group focuses on aiding the homeless and vulnerable in the Chermside area.

She plans to use the grant to purchase a commercial fridge and freezer to increase the organisation’s food storage capacity, enabling them to launch a new community pantry. This pantry will be stocked with fresh and frozen food, provided in part by OzHarvest, to help feed locals.

The grant will also allow Bridgecare to use additional storage space at a nearby church, further enhancing its capacity to serve the community.

Local Heroes Program Marks Seventh Year

The Westfield Local Heroes program, now in its seventh year, recognises individuals and organisations that positively impact their communities. This year, over 71,500 votes were cast by the public across Australia and New Zealand to select local heroes from each of the 42 Westfield destinations.

Westfield Chermside Centre Manager, Pietta Lacey, expressed her enthusiasm for the program and the contributions of Traves and her team. She noted how the initiative continues highlighting the extraordinary efforts of community members like Traves, who directly support those in need.

Other Grant Recipients in Chermside

In addition to Jodi, two other finalists from the Chermside area received $5,000 grants.

Benjamin Bjarnesen, founder of the LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Foundation, was recognised for his work in providing education and resources to support victims of domestic violence within the LGBTQ+ community. Benjamin’s organisation has reached over 7.3 million people through its awareness campaigns, which aim to promote safer, more inclusive support systems.

Bianca Campling, the Baby Bundle Coordinator at A Brave Life Ltd, also received $5,000 for her efforts in supporting vulnerable new mothers facing domestic violence, homelessness, and mental health challenges. Through her work, Campling provides essential baby items to over 1,500 mothers each year, helping them care for themselves and their newborns during difficult times.

Westfield’s Ongoing Community Support

Since 2018, the Westfield Local Heroes program has contributed $8.6 million to over 860 community organisations across Australia and New Zealand. This year’s program awarded 126 grants, totalling $1.25 million. The initiative continues to grow, with nominations for the 2025 Westfield Local Heroes now open.

Residents can visit the website of their local Westfield centre for more information on the program and this year’s recipients.

Published 18-Oct-2024

Chermside and Carindale Fruit Shop Owner Crowned Mango King at Brisbane Auction

John Nicolaou, owner of Fresh Sensations at Chermside and Carindale, placed a winning bid of $32,000 to be crowned the Mango King at the 2024 Brisbane Markets Mango Auction.

The auction took place in October 2024, where Nicolaou won the symbolic first tray of mangoes, supplied by the Northern Territory Mango Industry Association. This was his second time winning the title, having previously been named Mango King in 2013.

Funds Raised for Charity

The auction raised a total of over $44,000, with proceeds benefiting two key charities. Redkite, which supports families of children with cancer, and The Lady Musgrave Trust, which provides assistance to young women at risk of homelessness, will receive the funds. Nicolaou’s winning bid alone contributed A$32,000 to this total.

Brisbane Markets Limited chair, Anthony Kelly, emphasised the importance of the event in helping local families facing hardship. He highlighted that the auction provides a chance for the mango industry to give back to the community.

Promising Mango Season Ahead

Kelly also commented on the outlook for this year’s mango season, noting an expected increase in the quantity and quality of mangoes compared to last year. He said consumers could look forward to more affordable prices and a better product overall.

The event was celebrated by many in the community, with Nicolaou’s achievement shared across social media, where he was praised for his generosity and crowned the “Mango Monarch” by followers.

About Fresh Sensations

Fresh Sensations is a family-owned gourmet grocery business based in Brisbane, with stores located in Capalaba Park, Westfield Chermside, and Westfield Carindale. Established in 1993 by brother-in-laws John Nicolaou and Jim Mousikos, the business has grown over the years and now offers both in-store shopping and online delivery to selected suburbs. John and Jim, both originally from Cyprus, immigrated to Australia at different times and found their passion for fresh produce through various jobs in the supermarket and fruit shop industries before teaming up.

John and Jim opened their first store together in Capalaba, and over time, expanded the business to four stores throughout Brisbane. Their focus on customer service and quality products, including fruit, vegetables, meat, and deli items, has helped them grow into a well-loved local brand. With support from their sons, who are now involved in the business, they continue to work closely with staff and suppliers to ensure the best for their customers. Fresh Sensations is built on strong family values and a commitment to the community.

Published 17-Oct-2024

Emergency Services Expo to Prepare Chermside for Summer Storms

Photo Credit: My Unsplash

Residents of Chermside and the nearby suburbs are invited to 7th Brigade Park to learn about vital summer storm preparation tips from emergency services at the Brisbane Emergency Services Expo.

The free community event, running from 10:00 am to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, 12 October, will feature a range of activities for all ages, including educational sessions with emergency crews, live music, food trucks, and entertainment like Paw Patrol and jumping castles. It aims to help Brisbane locals create emergency plans to safeguard their homes and families ahead of Queensland’s notorious summer storm season.

Preparing for Storm Season

With severe weather events such as storms, floods, and bushfires common in Queensland during summer, local emergency services are urging families to make early preparations. Representatives from the Public Safety Training & Response Group will be on hand to discuss practical ways to prepare for emergencies. They will also showcase their Bell 206 Jet Ranger helicopter, which can assist in rescue, disaster response, and firefighting operations.

In addition to safety presentations, the expo will include family-friendly activities such as live music, food trucks, and Paw Patrol appearances, making it an engaging event for all age groups. The expo aims to balance fun with essential safety information, making it easier for attendees to take away valuable lessons while enjoying the day out.

Summer Storms in Brisbane — *Photo Credit: Get Ready Queensland*

A Storm-Ready Brisbane

The Brisbane City Council, which is hosting the event, is partnering with the Queensland Government’s Get Ready Queensland program to ensure that locals are informed about the importance of being storm-ready. The program promotes creating emergency plans, assembling disaster kits, and securing homes to minimise damage during extreme weather.

No bookings are required to attend the event, which will be held at 7th Brigade Park, located at the corner of Newman Road and Delaware Street in Chermside.

For more information about how to prepare for summer storm season, attendees are encouraged to visit the Get Ready Queensland website.

Published 4-Oct-2024

Chermside Paramedic: Finalist in QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards

Photo Credit: QBank

Zak Tilbury, a highly skilled healthcare professional from Chermside, has been named a finalist in the prestigious 2024 QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards.

Mr Tilbury’s dedication to patient care and diverse expertise across multiple roles have earned him recognition in the “ownership” category. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the awards, which acknowledge the outstanding contributions of Queenslanders working in essential services such as police, fire, health, ambulance, corrections, public service, education, and volunteer organisations.

A Triple Threat in Healthcare

His impressive career trajectory shows Mr Tilbury’s commitment to serving the community. He is a qualified Advanced Care Paramedic with the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS), a registered Nurse at The Prince Charles Hospital, and a Midwife with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS).

He explained that his motivation stems from a desire to ensure patient safety and make their experience with the healthcare system as smooth as possible, acknowledging that it can be stressful for many.

Going Above and Beyond

In his various roles, Mr Tilbury takes on a range of responsibilities. As an Advanced Care Paramedic, he works in the Clinical Hub, assessing patients and determining the best healthcare pathway for them. He also acts as an Operations Supervisor, focusing on the well-being of ambulance crews and ensuring ambulances are efficiently dispatched back into the community.

QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards — *Photo Credit:* *QBank*

At The Prince Charles Hospital, he serves as a Clinical Nurse Consultant, supporting staff, advocating for patient safety, and managing patients experiencing health deterioration. Furthermore, he contributes to the RFDS as a Flight Nurse and Midwife on their Network Support Team.

Reaching Remote Communities

While on secondment in North West Queensland with the RFDS in late 2023, Mr Tilbury participated in several critical rescues. One notable instance involved an inter-agency retrieval of a patient injured in a motorcycle accident in a remote area three hours North West of Mount Isa.

He worked alongside a LifeFlight helicopter crew, a local paramedic ground crew, and an RFDS doctor to stabilise the patients and transport them to a hospital equipped to handle their injuries. Mr Tilbury highlighted the crucial role of the RFDS in delivering intensive care level healthcare to isolated communities with limited resources.

Honoured to be Recognised

Mr Tilbury expressed his surprise and gratitude at being nominated for a QBANK Everyday Heroes Award. He stated that he enjoys his work and is driven by a desire to positively impact people’s lives.

On 11 October, a ceremony at the W Hotel Brisbane will announce the QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards winners. Each winner will receive $2,000 deposited into a QBANK account and $2,000 donated to their chosen charity.

Published 1-Oct-2024