Wellers Hill Bowls Club Among Community Groups Receiving Funding for Climate Action

The Weller Hills Bowls Club in Tarragindi joins 67 other clubs in Queensland as the recipients of a much-needed funding boost to tackle climate change and promote sustainability.



The Palaszczuk Government’s Community Sustainability Action grant program is disbursing over $3.4 million to different organisations to support projects that help reduce emissions, lower energy costs, and build local resilience. Groups receiving the grants have the opportunity to implement renewable energy systems, including solar panels, batteries, and energy-efficient replacements like lighting, whitegoods, and hot water systems.

The funded projects will not only contribute to environmental protection but also create a positive impact on the lives of residents by providing affordable and clean energy solutions.

The Wellers Hill Bowls Club Inc will get $89,695 from the program. With this funding, the club plans to purchase and install a solar system, inverter, and battery storage in their clubhouse. By doing so, they aim to significantly reduce their energy costs and carbon emissions. The project exemplifies the commitment of the community to take decisive action against climate change.

Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Minister for Science, and Minister for Multicultural Affairs, The Honourable Leanne Linard, expressed her enthusiasm for the overwhelming interest shown by various community groups in this round of grants.

“The overwhelming interest shown by community groups in this grant round points to the priority Queenslanders now place on taking climate change action,” she said.

“Our community groups do such incredible work on the ground and it’s great to see funding go towards projects that can help them reduce their costs as well as their emissions.

“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to taking action on climate change and increasing renewable energy use in our state to 80 per cent by 2035.

“Our $62 billion energy and jobs plan will deliver cheaper, cleaner power as we move to net zero emissions, and we are proud to support community groups that want to realise that future.”



The Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to funding community-driven sustainability initiatives showcases their dedication to a greener and more resilient Queensland. As more organisations like the Wellers Hill Bowls Club take action to embrace renewable energy, the state moves one step closer to achieving its ambitious environmental goals.

Check the list of Climate Action grant recipients here.

Published 19-July-2023

Salisbury Farm-to-Door Innovator Food Connect Enters Voluntary Liquidation, Leaves Enduring Legacy

Pioneering farm-to-door company Food Connect has announced its voluntary liquidation, a decision made by fourth-generation dairy farmer Robert Pekin, who established the business after losing his farm. 



Founded in 2005 by Robert Pekin and his wife Emma-Kate Rose, Food Connect aimed to create a fairer food system for farmers and buyers by reconnecting consumers with local producers who farmed sustainably. Over the years, the company has worked with more than 120 farmers and producers.

In 2018, the couple launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise $4 million in order to purchase the warehouse they had been renting for a decade on Textile Cres in Salisbury. The campaign received support from Australian gardening guru Costa Georgiadis, and the funds were successfully raised within 30 days. 

The warehouse, known as Food Connect Shed, became a central hub for the company’s operations.

However, declining customer orders and the increasing costs faced by farmers forced Mr. Pekin to start winding down the business in early 2023. Despite the challenges, he prioritised ensuring that all farmers and producers were paid before filing for voluntary liquidation. 

Food Connect Shed Limited, the public unlisted company responsible for operating the warehouse, is not affected by the liquidation and continues to operate as normal, along with its tenants.

Food Connect
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Food Connect Shed has become an essential space for various initiatives and organisations. It currently houses OzHarvest, Australia’s largest food rescue organisation, which diverts food that would otherwise go to waste to charities that support those in need. 

The warehouse also features for-rent commercial kitchens, hosts local bands, and eco-friendly community events, and supports micro-enterprises with a community or green focus. As Brisbane’s first community-owned food hub, it has provided a stable market for local growers.



Whilst the voluntary liquidation of Food Connect Pty Ltd marks the end of an era for Robert Pekin and Emma-Kate Rose’s pioneering venture, the impact and legacy of their farm-to-door business and community-driven initiatives, as exemplified by Food Connect Shed, will continue to thrive.

Published 28-June-2023

Construction of The Green in Tarragindi Progressing Well

Construction is well underway at The Green, a planned retirement community in Tarragindi with over 70 per cent  of the space dedicated to open spaces and sprawling community gardens.



The shared green space at The Green is slowly transforming into a lush landscape, thanks to a number of newly planted trees that are taking root in their new homes.

Construction of the Bowls Clubhouse and bowling green are now over 50 per cent complete. Once finished, the clubhouse is expected to become the go-to place for socialisation, with its planned cafe and amenities.

Experts from Retirement Care Solutions offered helpful downsizing tips and tricks to prospective residents during a presentation held o the 15th of June 2023. Updates on the construction status of the apartments and community spaces were also provided. A new partnership with a local business was also announced.

The Green offers a range of 11 floorplans, each with different orientations corresponding to the points of a compass. Whether residents desire sweeping views of the city, a prime spot to watch competitive matches on the Tarragindi Bowls Club’s championship green, or a secluded forest ambience, the developer’s intent is to have an apartment to suit every preference. 

The development also emphasises the advantages of accessibility to transportation, parks, restaurants, shops, and health services are readily available, enhancing the convenience and comfort of everyday living.



Amenities at The Green include a community centre, activity and multipurpose spaces, gymnasium, yoga lawn, bowls green, and clubhouse. Residents will have access to a workshop, cinema, library, resident lounge, barbecue area, resident kitchen and dining area, and a community garden.

To learn more about this exciting community and secure your place in this vibrant neighbourhood, visit their website here.

Published 17-June-18

South Brisbane Faces Wave of Break-Ins: Authorities Seek Public’s Help

Authorities are seeking public assistance in gathering information about a string of break-ins south of Brisbane. The incidents involve a group of unidentified individuals attempting to gain entry into various establishments.


Read: Investigation Underway On Fast Food Outlet Robberies in Salisbury and Other Areas


The first incident took place on June 8 at approximately 1:15 a.m. when the group tried to force their way into a convenience store on Denham Terrace in Tarragindi, using an angle grinder. Despite causing damage to the shopfront, the group failed to gain access and eventually fled the scene.

Shortly after, at around 1:30 a.m, the same group smashed the glass door of a service station located on Evans Road in Salisbury. The alarm system was triggered, prompting the group to leave the premises empty-handed in a grey SUV.

South Brisbane
Photo credit: QueenslandPolice/YouTube

Approximately 20 minutes later, at 1:50 a.m, the group successfully forced entry into a service station on Annerley Road in Dutton Park. They attempted to use an angle grinder to steal cigarettes but were unsuccessful. Fleeing the scene, they left behind their failed heist.

Around 2:10 a.m, the group targeted a business on Blunder Road in Oxley, managing to steal a cash register before making their escape. Shortly thereafter, at 2:40 a.m, they struck another business on Parkwood Drive in Heathwood. This time, they smashed the front glass door and made off with not only the cash register but also other valuables.

Around 2:45 a.m, the group tried to gain entry into two businesses on Joseph Banks Avenue in Forest Lake, but their efforts proved fruitless.

A little after 3:00 a.m, the unidentified offenders succeeded in accessing a service station on Learoyd Road in Acacia Ridge. However, they left the scene empty-handed.

Finally, at 3:15 a.m, a grocery store on Kameruka Street in Calamvale fell victim to a break-in. The perpetrators made off with cash and cigarettes.

Investigating authorities believe that all eight incidents are connected. They are urging anyone who may have witnessed or captured the crimes on CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward with their information and contact the police.


Read: Tarragindi Property Market Shows Strong, Consistent Performance


Investigations into these incidents in South Brisbane are ongoing, as authorities work diligently to apprehend the responsible individuals.

To provide information to the police, you can contact Policelink through the online suspicious activity form available 24 hours a day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. Alternatively, you can call 131 444 to report any information you may have.

Published 11-June-2023

How the Australian Breastfeeding Association Tarragindi Group Fosters A Supportive Space For Mothers

Did you know that the Australian Breastfeeding Association Tarragindi Group holds weekly Connect and Share sessions for breastfeeding mums?


Read: 5 Interesting Facts About Tarragindi


ABA Tarragindi is a local community group dedicated to providing a supportive and non-judgmental space for mothers and their families. 

With a focus on breastfeeding, they offer valuable resources, accurate information, and regular meetings to share the joys and challenges of parenting. The association’s activities include Connect and Share sessions, Chat and Play sessions, as well as Breastfeeding Education Classes. 

Supportive Community Atmosphere

Australian Breastfeeding Association
Photo credit: breastfeeding.asn.au

At the Australian Breastfeeding Association Tarragindi, mums and their families find a safe and welcoming environment where they can freely discuss their experiences, frustrations, and joys of parenting. 

The group fosters a non-judgmental atmosphere, allowing individuals to connect, share stories, and seek support from like-minded parents who understand the unique challenges of breastfeeding.

Connect and Share Sessions

Australian Breastfeeding Association
Photo credit: Australian Breastfeeding Association Tarragindi/Facebook

The Connect and Share sessions, held fortnightly on Wednesdays during school terms, are a cornerstone of the Tarragindi group’s activities. These sessions provide an opportunity for mothers to come together, build friendships, and benefit from a supportive community. 

By sharing their personal experiences, challenges, and triumphs, participants receive emotional support and practical advice from fellow parents, forming lasting bonds and friendships along the way.

Chat and Play Sessions

Australian Breastfeeding Association
Photo credit: Australian Breastfeeding Association Tarragindi/Facebook

In addition to their regular Connect and Share sessions, the group also organises Chat and Play sessions during school holidays. These gatherings offer parents and children the chance to socialise, engage in fun activities, and form connections beyond breastfeeding support. 

The Tarragindi group aims to facilitate a sense of belonging and community among its members by creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for families.

Breastfeeding Education Classes

Photo credit: Australian Breastfeeding Association Tarragindi/Facebook

The association understands the importance of providing comprehensive education about breastfeeding. To address this need, they conduct Breastfeeding Education Classes, with the next session scheduled for 29 May 2023 at the Holland Park Library. 

These classes cover essential topics such as how breastfeeding works, getting started with positioning and attachment, managing the early weeks, and dealing with potential breastfeeding challenges. 

Moreover, the classes offer guidance on adjusting to life with a new baby and provide information on obtaining further support. Further details about the upcoming class can be viewed through the group’s Events page on Facebook. 


Read: Tarragindi Community Garden Helps Recycling Efforts, One Bottle Cap at a Time!


The group covers an extensive area south of the Brisbane River to Springwood, east to Tingalpa, and west to Sherwood. By fostering a sense of community and connection, the Tarragindi group contributes to the overall well-being and success of breastfeeding mothers and their families in South Brisbane.

Published 18-May-2023

Get Ready to Indulge in Modern Asian Delights at Tarragindi’s Oh Monk Asian

Oh Monk Asian, a vibrant new modern Asian eatery in Tarragindi, is set to delight foodies with its mouth-watering menu that incorporates Thai, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese influences.



Oh Monk, a new modern Asian eatery, is set to open in Tarragindi on May 11th. This 20-seater corner eatery is located on Denham Terrace and features a vibrant atmosphere with terracotta walls, neon lights, and hanging white wicker lanterns.

Chef Batt, the head chef and co-owner, brings an impressive culinary background to Oh Monk. Having honed his skills at prestigious establishments such as Bangkok’s Michelin-starred Le Du, as well as Brisbane’s renowned restaurants Pawpaw and Longtime, guests can expect an explosion of bold and exciting flavours on the menu.

 Oh Monk Asian has loads of snacks that are vegan, gluten-free, and even deep-fried for coeliacs
Oh Monk Asian has loads of snacks that are vegan, gluten-free, and even deep-fried for coeliacs | Photo Credit:  Facebook / Oh Monk Asian 

Oh Monk’s menu features a fusion of Thai, Korean, Chinese, and Japanese influences that changes with the seasons. The restaurant’s offerings revolve around pushing the limits of traditional Asian cuisines. 

And even guests with dietary restrictions will be treated to an abundance of gluten-free and vegan options on the menu. Some of these noteworthy options include gluten-free karaage chicken, which is prepared with a unique Japanese curry roux made from alternative flour. 

Oh Monk uses soy, oyster, and fish sauce from MegaChef which are free from wheat and gluten. Another highlight is the Malaysian-inspired murtabak, which features Fable Food mushroom as a substitute for beef mince.

Chicken Katsu Sando
Chicken Katsu Sando | Photo Credit:  Facebook / Oh Monk Asian 

The small plates menu includes chicken katsu sandos with slaw and sriracha mayo, vegan spring rolls filled with cabbage, vermicelli and pea served with chilli-caramel sauce, nori pepper calamari, popcorn cauliflower, and shoyu-cured salmon on rice-paper crackers. Larger plates include slow-cooked Angus beef-cheek massaman curries, wok-tossed tempeh with seasonal greens (gluten-free and vegan), gluten-free prik king dry curry stir-fry, and lemongrass honey chicken.

The salads at Oh Monk are just as impressive, featuring slow-cooked beef rib and pawpaw salad, Oh Monk’s duck jang mien with sweet-potato noodles, and coconut grilled pork belly salad.

 Get Ready to Indulge in Modern Asian Delights at Tarragindi's Oh Monk Asian
Photo Credit:  Facebook / Oh Monk Asian 


Oh Monk Asian officially opens to the public on 11 May 2023. They will be running an opening special where orders above $40 will receive a free serving of karaage chicken (valid until May 21st).  So be sure to be among the early birds and celebrate Oh Monk’s opening.

Published 9-May-2023

From Worker’s Cottage to Industry Leader: Queensland Gaskets Celebrates 70 Years of Success

Queensland Gaskets, a family-owned Brisbane-based manufacturing company, is celebrating its 70th anniversary. The milestone marks the company’s journey from a small worker’s cottage to an international player in the gaskets, cutting and sealing solutions industry.



The company started as a supplier of industrial gaskets to the burgeoning market in South East Queensland. However, over the years, the company has expanded its product and service range to encompass far more than gaskets. The team has invested in new technologies and processes to stay ahead of the competition and now offers a comprehensive range of cutting and sealing solutions.

Today, Queensland Gaskets is still a family-run business, and it is now in its third generation of family ownership. The company is based in Salisbury, Brisbane, and it has expanded its facilities across the road on Jaybel St. to accommodate its 25 staff.

“To have clocked seven decades as a family-run business that is still based out of Brisbane is an incredible feat,” said owner and Managing Director Carl Quarterman.

“From that humble old worker’s cottage where Quentin carefully crafted gaskets for just a handful of companies, we have become industry leaders who are now delivering more complex, large-scale projects than ever before to our clients.

Over the years, Queensland Gaskets has achieved several major milestones. The company was one of the first in the state to adopt the ISO9001:2015 standard, and it implemented a new Enterprise Resource Planning system to improve its manufacturing efficiencies. The company also partnered with Pronto Software to further optimise its machine-cutting capabilities.



Despite these achievements, community and customer relationships remain at the forefront of what Queensland Gaskets does. Two of the company’s core values, Relationships and Teamwork, provide a day-to-day environment that allows it to continually improve and engage with suppliers to support its customers. The other two core values, Quality and Accountability, sustain that capability.

“At Queensland Gaskets, we believe in providing solutions to our customers’ challenges.  By supporting and engaging with our community we continue to improve what we do, improve the skills we have, and set a foundation for our future,” Mr Quarterman said.

“And after 70 years we’re thrilled to not only celebrate our platinum anniversary with the community, but also look forward to working with them on the next stage of our exciting journey.”

Published 2-May-2023

New And Improved Outdoor Gym Coming Soon To Tarragindi’s Shaftesbury Street Park

Locals can look forward to an upgraded outdoor workout experience with the upcoming exercise equipment upgrade at Tarragindi’s Shaftesbury Street Park.


Read: Scooter Track Opens at the Shaftesbury Street Park in Tarragindi


The upgrade will include the installation of new equipment and upgrading of existing equipment, enhancing the functionality and user experience of the outdoor gym at the Tarragindi park.

Councillor for Holland Park Ward Krista Adams announced that the works for the exercise equipment upgrade at Shaftesbury Street Park are set to begin on 27 March 2023 and anticipated to be complete by May 2023, weather permitting.

Shaftesbury Street Park
Photo credit: Councillor Krista Adams/Facebook

During the construction period, residents in the vicinity may experience minor detours or closures, as well as noise and dust associated with the use of construction tools. Additionally, there may be a reduction in available parking in the area.  

For everyone’s safety, Brisbane City Council will limit public access around the construction area for the duration of the project. Work hours will be from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

To find out more about the works or the project, contact Council at 3403 8888.

About the Shaftesbury Street Park 

Shaftesbury Street Park
Photo credit: freeoutdoorfitness.net

The park is located at 59 Shaftesbury Street. It has a barbecue, basketball half court, dog off-leash area (including a small dog dog off-leash area), outdoor fitness/exercise trail, picnic area, playground, toilet – accessible , shared pathway and water (bubbler/tap).

The existing outdoor gym, which can be accessed via Laura St, features exercise equipment perfect for strength, cardio, and mobility training.


Read: 5 Interesting Facts About Tarragindi


Tarragindi’s Shaftesbury Street Park also has its own scooter track, which is one of the four new tracks for Brisbane. Others can be found at Paul Conti Park in Hemmant, Kathleen Street Park in Richlands; and Wittonga Park in The Gap.

Published 17-April-2023

Chester Park Reserve Gets New Shade Cover Under Sun-Safe Suburban Playgrounds Program

New shade sails at Chester Park Reserve in Mount Gravatt East and other playgrounds across the city, under BCC’s Sun-safe suburban playgrounds program.



The first 41 playgrounds to be retrofitted with shade covers were revealed in late 2022 which Cr Schrinner said will ensure every playground in Brisbane has shade will help protect parents, carers and children and potentially save lives.

Under this $10 million program, Council will identify those playgrounds that need cover and ensure they receive it over the next three years. 

Installation of poles and frames, measurement and installation of shade sails, and, when required, temporary closure of playground equipment will be part of the construction works. The time required for installation, which normally lasts between three and five weeks, depends on the size and site conditions of each playground.  

“Brisbane has an enviable lifestyle as well as a network of more than 2000 fantastic parks that make for great free fun for families,” Cr Schrinner said.

“However, we also live in a state that’s known as one of the world’s skin cancer capitals.

“While we incorporate shade in all our new playgrounds when required, there are unfortunately some that still need to be retrofitted with some form of cover.

“This program is in addition to our ongoing investment in new and improved parks and playgrounds throughout Brisbane suburbs.”

According to Cancer Council Queensland Chief Executive Officer Mr Andrew Donne, Australia has the highest rate of melanoma globally, and skin damage can occur in just 15 minutes without sun protection. However, he also emphasizes that skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer. 

He also praised the efforts of the Lord Mayor in creating shaded recreational areas for children in Brisbane and suggests that individuals can also take measures to improve their sun safety by wearing protective clothing, applying SPF 30+ sunscreen, wearing a broad-brimmed hat, seeking shade, and using wraparound sunglasses.



The playgrounds to receive shade over the six months period are the following:

ParkSuburbTiming
Akuna Street ParkKenmoreMarch – April
Austin Uhlmann ParkMorningsideMarch – April
Bacton Road ParkChandlerTo be confirmed
Barwin Street ParkWakerleyMay – June
Beckett Road ParkMcDowallMay – June
Bliss Street ParkGaythorneApril – May
Breene Court ParkCarindaleTo be confirmed
Broula ParkStafford HeightsApril – May
Buckley Street ParkCarina HeightsMarch – April
Cannon Hill Bushland ReserveCannon HillMarch – April
Castamore Way ParkRichlandsMay – June
Chester Park ReserveMount Gravatt EastApril – May
Crawford Road ParkWynnum WestApril – May
Dianthus Street Park (South)WakerleyMarch – April
Doulton Street ParkCalamvaleMarch – May
Ed Kuepper ParkOxleyApril May
Ekibin Park EastGreenslopesTo be confirmed
Ekibin Park SouthAnnerleyApril – May
Fernwood Place ParkTaigumTo be confirmed
Ferny Grove Picnic Ground ParkFerny GroveApril – May
Fiddlewood Crescent ParkBellbowrieMarch – April
Fig Tree Pocket Riverside ReserveFig Tree PocketApril – May
Frank Sleeman ParkBoondallTo be confirmed
Garrett ParkRuncornMarch – May
Gordon CrescentWakerleyMarch – April
Greenhills ParkAlderleyMarch – April
Hamish Street ParkCalamvaleTo be confirmed
Harry Kirby ParkAspleyApril – May
Heers ParkManly WestApril – May
Kalinga ParkKalingaMay – June
Kings ParkKeperraApril – May
Kitchener ParkWynnum WestTo be confirmed
Kuranda Street ParkBalmoralMarch – April
Lambertia Close ParkMount Gravatt EastTo be confirmed
Linacre Street ParkDurackApril – May
Milton Urban CommonMiltonTo be confirmed
Mingoola ParkMurarrieTo be confirmed
Moora ParkShorncliffeApril – May
Narrung Street ParkMiddle ParkApril – May
Nixon ParkOxleyApril – May
O’Callaghan ParkZillmereTo be confirmed
Orleigh ParkWest EndTo be confirmed
Robert Hanley ParkSeven HillsMarch – April
Robinson ParkRichlandsTo be confirmed
Ross ParkNundahTo be confirmed
Rotary ParkHeathwoodMarch – May
Sanananda ParkDarraApril – May
Selkirk Crescent ParkUpper KedronTo be confirmed
Sunset Place ParkMcDowallTo be confirmed
Tryon Street ParkUpper Mount GravattMarch – May

Cr Schrinner remarked that parents, like himself, are aware that playgrounds lacking shade are unavailable for extended periods in Brisbane’s hotter months, but this initiative will make the city’s parks cooler for all.

Published 12-April-2023  

Salisbury Community Garden To Host Free Workshops

Heads up, green thumbs of the community! The Salisbury Community Garden, located within Salisbury State School, will be hosting two FREE workshops this April and May 2023. 


Read: Tarragindi Community Garden Helps Recycling Efforts, One Bottle Cap at a Time!


Salisbury Community Garden will be hosting these workshops so people could learn how to grow local food to save money and become healthier and connected to their community. Here are the details on the upcoming workshops.

Waterwise Gardening and Design

Salisbury Community Garden
Doreen Jachmann (Photo credit: Bloomfield’s Homestead/Facebook)

To be held on Sunday, 2 April from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon, the first of the two workshops will focus on garden design and water saving strategies. You will also learn how to fill a raised garden bed sourcing local materials, such as compost, leaves, and branches.

The workshop will be facilitated by Doreen Jachmann from Bloomfield’s Homestead, who is an expert on Permaculture Consulting and Design. She has formal education in Environmental Monitoring of Soil and Water and achieved a Bachelor in Horticulture.

Register on Eventbrite to join Session One: Waterwise Gardening and Design.

How to Create a Food Forest

Salisbury Community Garden
Photo credit: Salisbury Community Garden/Facebook

On Saturday, 6 May, from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon, Ms Jachmann will once again hold a workshop, this time focusing on creating a food forest. Soil health and nutrition will also be discussed, aside from introductory strategies on creating your own food forest in your own backyard.

Register on Eventbrite to join Session Two: How to Create a Food Forest. Registering is highly encouraged so they will be able to manage the guestlist and attendance.

Don’t forget to bring your own gardening gloves, a chair, water bottle and sun safe equipment for yourself when joining these workshops. Again, these sessions are free and open for all ages. You don’t also need to be a member of the Salisbury Community Garden to come along.


Read: How PLOYS Transforms Old Inflatable Pools Into Useful Items


The workshops are supported by Oxley Creek Catchment Association, with funding support from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.

Published 24-March-2023