Westfield Chermside Archives

Westfield Chermside to Host Disney Princess ‘Spark Magic’ Event

As part of World Princess Week celebrations, Westfield and Disney are set to bring the “Spark Magic” event to Westfield Chermside, featuring storytelling sessions and interactive experiences with beloved Disney Princess characters.

Magical Meet and Greet

Starting the 14th of September, Westfield Chermside will transform into a fairy-tale hub where young fans and families can enjoy an up-close experience with Disney’s Cinderella. The event promises several days of enchantment, with scheduled appearances of Cinderella on the 14th, 15th, 17th, 18th, and 19th of September.

This unique opportunity allows attendees to interact directly with one of Disney’s most iconic princesses, fostering a memorable connection between the characters and their admirers.

Community Engagement and Impact

The meet-and-greet sessions are designed to entertain and give back to the community. A booking fee of $5 per group is required, and all proceeds will go towards Make-A-Wish Australia.

This collaboration highlights Westfield’s commitment to community enrichment through exciting and meaningful events.

“We are thrilled to bring the magic of Disney Princesses to Chermside,” said Jacqui Waine, Westfield’s General Manager of Marketing and Community. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories while supporting a fantastic cause.”

Event Details and Booking

Booking is essential for those wishing to meet Cinderella, ensuring an organized and enjoyable guest experience. Families interested in attending are encouraged to secure their spots early to avoid missing out on this special occasion.

Additional information on booking and event specifics can be found on Westfield Chermside’s official website.

Enhanced Magical Experience

To enhance the magical experience, Westfield Chermside has planned various activities around the Cinderella meet and greet. These include Disney Princess-inspired face painting, storytelling sessions, and craft activities such as wand-making and crown decorating.

Throughout the event, Westfield Chermside will also feature Spark Magic Stations, designed to enhance the enchanting atmosphere of the Disney Princess celebrations. These stations are crafted to provide a hands-on experience that allows children to engage creatively with the themes and characters they adore, making their visit to Westfield Chermside even more memorable and magical.

Dream Holiday Competition

In conjunction with the Disney Princess event, Westfield Chermside offers an extraordinary opportunity for attendees to win a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. This prize includes a one-night exclusive experience in the Cinderella Castle Suite, a dream come true for any Disney fan.

The competition runs from the 12th of September until the 13th of October, with the winner announced on the 18th of October. This competition highlights the partnership between Westfield and Disney and provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience that promises to delight and amaze the lucky winners.

This Disney Princess event is part of a larger series of activities at Westfield locations across Australia, celebrating the magic and inspiration of Disney characters. Following the success of similar events centered around Star Wars and Marvel characters earlier this year, Westfield continues to provide exclusive entertainment experiences that attract families from all over the region.

Published 27-Aug-2024

Westfield Chermside Hosts Unprecedented Star Wars Fan Experiences

Westfield and Disney have joined forces to transport Star Wars fans at Westfield Chermside into the heart of the galaxy with a series of immersive and interactive experiences, marking a stellar celebration of the iconic franchise in Australia and New Zealand.

This collaborative campaign introduces “A Star Wars Experience,” created exclusively for Westfield, alongside large-scale May the Fourth fan celebrations, aiming to connect fans with the beloved saga in the most authentic ways possible.

A Portal to the Galaxy

Running from 15 April to 9 May 2024, “A Star Wars Experience” at Westfield Chermside offers an immersive tour of the planet Batuu, as seen at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort, California.

This exclusive event invites fans to explore a remote outpost on the galaxy’s edge, further deepening their connection to the Star Wars universe.

Additionally, thanks to a partnership between Westfield, Disney, and Flight Centre, visitors can enter a competition to win one of 10 family vacations to the amusement park in California.

Westfield Chermside Star Wars Experience — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Competition Details

Westfield Members can enter to win 1 of 10 family holidays to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort in California thanks to Westfield, Disney and Flight Centre.

Entries open 28 March to 24 April inclusive, with winners announced on 4 May 2024.

Competition Conditions apply, see www.westfield.com.au/terms-and-conditions.  NSW/ACT/WA/QLD/SA & VIC res 16+ only.

Must be a Westfield member with access to the Westfield App. Ends: 29 April, 2024. Max 1 entry permitted p/person p/day p/centre (max 5 entries per day). Draw: 3 Amy Cl Wyong NSW 2259 at 12pm (noon) AEST on 2/5/24. Winners’ names published in the App on 4/5/24.

Spark Stations and More

To combat school holiday boredom, Westfield Chermside and other centres have introduced “Spark Stations,” featuring Star Wars-inspired activities to entertain families and fans, ensuring the Force is strong with visitors of all ages:

Balloon bending to create iconic characters, spaceships and lightsabers
Arts and crafts activities
Face painting of iconic Star Wars characters
And more surprise and delight moments

A Universe of Excitement

Jacqui Waine, Westfield’s General Manager of Marketing and Community, and Tim Everett, Vice President and General Manager of Consumer Products at The Walt Disney Company Australia & New Zealand, expressed their thrill at bringing such a rich tapestry of Star Wars experiences to fans.

“We’re thrilled to be bringing a slice of the Star Wars universe to Westfield destinations with ‘Spark Excitement,’” Ms Waine said. “Through our unique collaboration with Disney, we’re proud to offer experiences for fans and customers of all ages to celebrate the Star Wars universe. It’s going to be a fantastic couple of months, and we know our customers are going to love it.”

“We are so thrilled to continue our collaboration with Westfield, sparking excitement, adventure and bringing the Disney magic to their customers and our fans throughout 2024,” Mr Everett said.

This collaboration is just the beginning. Plans to “Spark Joy in the Everyday at Westfield” throughout 2024 are underway, also celebrating Marvel (“Spark Adventure”) and Disney Princess (“Spark Magic”) franchises.

Published 11-April-2024

Five-Year Prison Sentence for Chermside Lego Store Manager Following Theft and Arson

The former store manager of a Lego store in Chermside has been sentenced to five years in prison for stealing $60,000 in cash and merchandise, and causing $70,000 in fire damage to conceal the theft.

In 2020, the store manager of a Westfield Chermside Lego outlet misappropriated 40 boxes of Lego and nearly $60,000 from the store to support a gambling addiction. The theft led to an elaborate cover-up attempt, where the manager set fire to the shopping centre’s stockroom, significantly damaging stock from Lego and neighbouring stores, Specsavers and Macpac.

Upon discovering the theft and subsequent arson, an investigation quickly focused on the manager. The escalation of the case resulted in the manager’s attempt to evade consequences by committing further thefts in Longreach while on bail. These actions led to an additional $10,000 stolen from a new employer.

Presented before the Brisbane District Court on Tuesday, 26 March 2024, the Chermside Lego store manager pleaded guilty to charges of aggravated fraud, endangering property by fire, and stealing by a clerk or servant.

The court handed down a sentence of five years for aggravated fraud, with concurrent two-and-a-half-year sentences for the other charges, highlighting the premeditated nature of the crimes and the breach of trust involved.

The prosecution and defence addressed the court on the impact of the manager’s actions and her personal circumstances, including mental health issues tied to her gambling addiction.

The Chief Judge emphasised the sentence’s role in punishment, deterrence, protection of the community, and the offender’s rehabilitation.

Published 3-April-2024

Stay Caffeinated In Style With The New Thrills x Allpress Collection

Westfield Chermside clothing retailer Thrills Co and specialty coffee company Allpress Espresso are brewing up something exciting. The two brands have come together to launch an exclusive, limited-edition collaboration celebrating the fusion of fashion and coffee culture.

Read: Westfield Chermside Welcomes Ella Baché Revival

Dubbed “Great Minds Drink Alike,” the collection brings Thrills’ contemporary aesthetic together with Allpress’ artisanal approach to coffee.

The Thrills x Allpress lineup includes T-shirts, hats, reusable coffee cups, and diner-style mugs, all showcasing custom co-branding that merges the brands’ distinctive visual identities.

The collection also includes sleek white diner-style mugs for that retro coffee shop vibe and Project Pargo reusable cups, especially designed for conscientious caffeine addicts.

Thrills expressed excitement to present its latest collaborative capsule collection with longtime partners Allpress Espresso.

“Blending contemporary style with the refined world of artisanal coffee, this thoughtfully curated capsule seamlessly merges our design ethos with an unwavering commitment to quality,” Thrills wrote in their Instagram page.

The full Thrills x Allpress collection will launch at Thrills’ Pacific Fair and Chermside stores, featuring an Allpress coffee cart pop-up shop for the ultimate physical fusion. Select pieces will also be available online for fashion meets coffee enthusiasts near and far seeking to elevate their everyday style and their daily cup of joe.

As Thrills succinctly put it, this exclusive collab “not only embodies the slow-living philosophy but also serves as a means to elevate your everyday routine.”

Read: Make Time for Kate and Gemma’s Bestie Brunch at Westfield Chermside!

On December 16, Thrills Co in Westfield Chermside will host a special pop-up event spotlighting Allpress’ latest lineup of iced coffee specialties. Coffee lovers can stop in to enjoy free samples and tastings of Allpress’ newly launched iced drinks menu.

Published 14-December-2023

Westfield Chermside Welcomes Ella Baché Revival

Photo Credit: Ella Baché

Facing the looming possibility of closure earlier this year, the fate of Westfield Chermside Ella Baché hung in the balance. That has changed, thanks to beauty enthusiast Jenny Gibson the woman behind the launch of the beauty brand’s largest salon yet, located in Westfield Chermside

Jenny Gibson, renowned for her success in spas across Ipswich, Brookside, and Springfield, stepped in to save the beleaguered salon, breathing new life into the brand.

Ella Baché embodies a tradition steeped in beauty for over 70 illustrious years. Gibson reveres this legacy, fostering a familial environment within the salon. It’s a celebration of diversity, with a team predominantly comprising women from various age groups.

Ella Bache Chermside — Photo Credit: Ella Bache/Facebook

The dynamic businesswoman finds immense delight in witnessing heartwarming connections take place in the salon everyday. Mothers pamper daughters, sisters bond, and friends revel in shared spa experiences. Ella Bache Chermside has transformed into more than a salon—it’s a sanctuary for cherished moments.

Central to Ella Baché Chermside’s ethos is their dedication to providing an unparalleled skincare experience. Education, personalised service, and a touch of emotional support—akin to counselling—are the pillars upon which they’ve built their reputation.

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A post shared by Ella Bache Chermside (@ellabachechermside)

Amidst the allure and rejuvenation, Ms Gibson imparts a crucial skincare tip to all residents: prioritise sun protection. Understanding Queensland’s high skin cancer rates, she emphasises the significance of investing in skincare and advocates for the use of SPF products.

With a team of 38 dedicated Skin Therapists, Gibson is geared to elevate the skincare journey for Chermside’s discerning residents. Ella Baché’s reopening isn’t just about business—it’s a celebration of empowerment, bonding, and the art of skincare.

Residents of Chermside can anticipate not just a beauty salon but an experience crafted to foster happiness and confidence through radiant, healthy skin.

Published 2-December-2023

Capture Christmas Moments at Westfield Chermside

Photo Credit: Facebook / Westfield Chermside

Come and create unforgettable Christmas moments! With an array of photo packages available, it’s time to secure your booking to meet Santa at the Santa Photography set, located at the Level 1 Centre Court in Westfield Chermside.

This year, Westfield Chermside has tailored its offerings to suit everyone:

Family and Friends

Gather your loved ones, whether it’s family, friends, sports teams, school groups, or coworkers. There’s an online booking system with various photo session times and packages to accommodate your group size.

book your santa photo session today!

Sensitive Santa

Westfield Chermside understands that everyone should have the opportunity to meet Santa. Sensitive Santa offers a relaxed, sensory-friendly experience. These sessions occur before stores open, providing a peaceful atmosphere suitable for children with sensory sensitivities. Remember to book online; it’s essential for these special sessions.

book your sensitive santa experience today!

Auslan Santa

Continuing their tradition of inclusivity, Westfield Chermside offers Auslan Santa, where children who use Auslan as their primary form of communication can communicate directly with an Auslan-fluent Santa. Developed in collaboration with Deaf Australia, these sessions feature extended times and include helpers and an interpreter to assist. Ensure you book your Auslan Santa experience online; online bookings are vital.

book your auslan santa experience today!

Pet Photography Sessions with Santa

Your beloved pets are part of the family, and they can join in the holiday fun. Make sure to book online as these sessions fill up quickly. Please note that walk-ins are not available. Dress up your pets in their festive best to create a memorable Christmas keepsake.

book your pet photography session today!

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit at Westfield Chermside.

Book your Santa Photography session online today and make lasting memories that will warm your heart for years to come.

Published 29-October-2023

Client Liaison Set to Get Fans Grooving at Westfield Chermside

Indie pop duo Client Liaison are set to get crowds up and dancing when they take to the stage at Westfield Chermside this week.

Read: Ralph Lauren Announces Expansion With New Store in Chermside

The Melbourne-based act will headline the shopping centre’s ‘Feel Your Rhythm’ live music tour with a high-energy performance and Q&A session for fans.

Client Liaison, made up of Monte Morgan and Harvey Miller, are known for their upbeat, retro-infused dance tracks like ‘Off White Limousine’ and ‘A Foreign Affair.’

They burst onto the music scene in 2012 with their debut music video “End of the Earth.” In the ten years since, the festival favorites have continued to refine their ethereal sound. Client Liaison recently unveiled their new album Divine Intervention, which contains 14 tracks.

The record includes previously-released hits like “The Real Thing,” “Champagne Affection,” and “The Beat Supreme,” as well as the brand new single “House of Holy.”

Their Westfield Chermside show forms part of the centre’s month-long music event, which has already featured acts like Amy Shark, Jessica Mauboy, and Kate Ceberano at Westfield locations across Australia and New Zealand.

Save the Date

The free concert event will take place this coming Thursday, October 19 at 5:00 p.m. in the main Centre Court area of Westfield Chermside, located near the centre’s Coffee Club cafe.

The first 50 audience members who arrive and line up early will be treated to an exclusive meet and greet experience with indie pop stars Client Liaison, where they will get the chance to chat with and get autographs from band members Monte Morgan and Harvey Miller before the performance.

This is a special opportunity for fans to interact directly with the talented duo, who are known for their funky onstage energy and retro-inspired dance tunes.

Read: Westfield Chermside Heroes Making a Big Impact: Here Are Your 2023 Community Champions

To accommodate the crowds expected for the special event, Westfield Chermside will open its doors earlier than usual, at 6:00 a.m. on the morning of Thursday. Visit www.westfield.com.au for more details.

Published 16-October-2023

Ralph Lauren Announces Expansion With New Store in Chermside

Photo Credit: Westfield Chermside

Fashion enthusiasts in Australia have something exciting to look forward to, as Ralph Lauren plans to open at Westfield Chermside.

The fashion giant is set to open two new retail havens in October 2023, adding to its growing portfolio of Australian outlets. The two upcoming stores,will be located in prime shopping destinations on Australia’s east coast.

One will be situated in Victoria’s esteemed Highpoint Shopping Centre, while the other will grace Queensland’s Westfield Chermside Mall. These locations have been carefully chosen to bring the timeless elegance and style of Polo Ralph Lauren closer to fashion enthusiasts in these regions.

Shoppers can anticipate a delightful array of fashion offerings. The stores will showcase the latest creations from the Polo Ralph Lauren Spring Summer 2023 collections, ensuring that patrons are always at the forefront of fashion trends.

Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to explore exclusive capsule collection pieces tailored for both men and women, adding an extra layer of excitement to their shopping experience.

This move follows Ralph Lauren’s recent success in Australia, with the launch of its flagship store on Sydney’s bustling Pitt Street earlier this year. The brand also made its mark with the introduction of Polo Ralph Lauren stores within the luxurious confines of Chadstone Shopping Centre and a standalone store in Sydney’s iconic The Rocks.

With a current presence in 94 physical stores, including concessions within Myer and David Jones, Ralph Lauren continues to make its mark in the Australian fashion landscape. The addition of the Highpoint Shopping Centre and Westfield Chermside locations is poised to further cement the brand’s reputation as a leading purveyor of timeless fashion.

For further information and updates, visit the Polo Ralph Lauren store opening soon at Chermside, located on Level 1, near David Jones. Ample parking options are available, including the Lime Car Park or valet service down the Banfield Street ramp.

Published 19-Sept-2023

Westfield Chermside Heroes Making a Big Impact: Here Are Your 2023 Community Champions

Whether it’s to provide a guiding light, provide comfort in times of need, or spread compassion one meal at a time, these three finalists for Westfield Chermside’s Local Heroes Program are among the individuals who go above and beyond to create positive change within their local communities. Find out more about them.

Guy Mauger – Guiding Light for Vision-Impaired Individuals

Guy Mauger, a dedicated member of Guide Dogs Queensland (GDQ), has been shortlisted as a Westfield Local Hero for his unwavering commitment to assisting vision-impaired individuals. Whilst Guide Dogs are undoubtedly an essential part of the organization’s mission, Guy’s work extends far beyond this. He provides support to those who are newly adjusting to their changed circumstances due to visual impairments.

One of Guy’s significant contributions involves regularly welcoming new clients arriving from upstate for residential courses at the Bald Hills Campus. He helps them navigate the emotional and psychological challenges associated with their new reality. By the time he takes them back to the airport at the end of the week, their transformation is remarkable – from apprehensive and shy to confident and cheerful.

Westfield Local Heroes Guy Mauger — Photo Credit: Westfield Chermside

Guy’s efforts aren’t limited to adults; he also engages vision-impaired children in activities that foster camaraderie and self-assuredness. In addition, Guy and his wife, Wendy, extend their support by taking guide dogs to the Queensland Children’s Court. These furry companions provide comfort and solace to children facing difficult situations, making the legal proceedings less intimidating.

Guy’s work is a testament to the impact that empathy, care, and community involvement can have on people’s lives.

“In the event that my nomination ends up the winner, the $20,000 will make a huge difference, and help to ensure that the many and varied services offered by GDQ can continue to assist those in need,” Guy said.

John Bigmore – Bringing Comfort and Care to Families in Need

John Bigmore’s involvement with Hummingbird House, the only children’s hospice in Queensland, highlights the profound impact of his nomination as a Westfield Local Hero. Hummingbird House offers specialized palliative care services to children with life-limiting conditions and their families. John’s personal connection with the organisation, having experienced their care firsthand with his granddaughter, inspired him to become a volunteer.

John’s dedication goes beyond personal experience. He recognises the critical role that Hummingbird House plays in providing solace and support to families during unimaginably difficult times.

Westfield Local Heroes John Bigmore — *Photo Credit: Westfield Chermside*

If chosen as a Local Hero, John aims to direct the $20,000 grant toward funding more nursing hours, ensuring that the children and their families receive the best care possible. The money would help provide over 300 nursing hours, offering comfort and care to those who need it most.

“If I win, it means the wonderful staff at Hummingbird House will be able to support more children and their families experiencing unimaginable times,” he said.

Olive Volavola – Spreading Compassion One Meal at a Time

Olive Volavola’s compassion shines through her work as the founder of Compassion 4 Community. This volunteer-run charity operates in Nundah, preparing hundreds of nutritious meals for people in need. Olive’s dedication to ensuring no one goes hungry is matched by her commitment to providing companionship and emotional support to those who seek their services.

Compassion 4 Community isn’t just about feeding the hungry; it’s about creating a warm, welcoming environment where individuals can find not only a meal but also a friendly hug or a chat.

Westfield Local Heroes Olive Volavola — *Photo Credit: Westfield Chermside*

Olive’s nomination as a Westfield Chermside Local Hero could significantly impact the charity’s operations. If successful, the grant would be used to acquire essential kitchen equipment, such as a commercial stove and dishwasher. These upgrades would enhance their ability to prepare meals efficiently and continue serving their community.

VOTE UNTIL 11 Sept 2023

The Westfield Chermside Local Heroes program continues to highlight the profound influence that individuals can have when they dedicate themselves to making a difference in their communities. These three finalists – Guy Mauger, John Bigmore, and Olive Volavola – embody the program’s values and exemplify the power of compassion, care, and dedication.

Published 28-Aug-2023

Make Time for Kate and Gemma’s Bestie Brunch at Westfield Chermside!

Kate Reeves and Gemma Pranita, mainstays of the ‘We Don’t Have Time For This’ Podcast, are heading out on the road this August and September, bringing their sharp and honest wit to a series of Bestie Brunches at Westfield Chermside and other Westfield destinations across the country.

After kicking off at Westfield Doncaster on Thursday 17th August, the Bestie Brunch tour will visit Westfield Chermside for its Brisbane leg, then head on out to adelaide and Sydney before finishing at their local centre, Westfield Warringah on Saturday 9^th September.

Kate and Gemma will be hosting an interactive panel discussion centered around the style ‘dilemons’ of ticket purchasers. The duo will discuss the evolution of their style into motherhood, all things post-partum, capsule Mum wardrobe, great basics and the secret to grab and go looks.

Guests will enjoy brunch and games, as well as the opportunity to meet and have a photo moment with the duo.

With a ticket price of just $40, guests will be able to attend the exclusive event at the Gold Class Lounge of Event Cinemas. During the brunch, new season looks will also be displayed with trending styles, exclusively selected by Westfield stylists.

Jacqui Waine, General Manager Marketing and Community at Westfield said the Bestie Brunch is an opportunity for mums to connect and support each other.

“The Bestie Brunch with Kate and Gemma from the WDHTFT Podcast reinforces our focus on providing unique social experiences for the community. It is an opportunity for busy mums from all walks of life to come together and build friendships with like-minded people. We are so excited to partner with Westfield and take the ‘Bestie Brunch’ on tour. Grab your besties and join the ultimate D&M… we’ve got lots to catch up on. Gemma and I hope to see you there, DL’s! ”
Kate Reeves

Attendees will receive a gift bag and lucky door prizes from Westfield’s retail partners will be drawn during the event.

For more information about the Bestie Brunch and to see when you can purchase tickets, visit participating Westfield destinations at westfield.com.au.

Published 31-July-2023