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Study Reveals ‘Grim’ Outlook for Queensland’s Iconic Koalas

A University of Queensland study has uncovered alarming trends for koalas admitted to veterinary hospitals in South East Queensland.

Read: Uncovering History: Toohey Forest’s Hidden Past

The research, analysing records from 1997 to 2019, shows that euthanasia was the most common outcome for these iconic marsupials.

The study, led by PhD candidate Renae Charalambous, examined over 50,000 koala sightings and hospital admissions. Only 25 percent of rescued koalas were released back into suitable habitats, while diseases like chlamydia accounted for nearly 30 percent of admissions. Car strikes and dog attacks, linked to habitat loss, emerged as significant threats.

“Many of the animals died before arriving at a vet hospital and those that did make it were often euthanised on the grounds of welfare, despite vets and carers doing their best to save them,” said Ms Charalambous.

Ms Charalambous describes the statistics as “grim,” noting that koalas hit by cars were four times more likely to be found dead than treated and released. Adult females and those with chlamydia faced higher risks of euthanasia.

“Seven percent of the koalas admitted to hospital had been attacked by dogs but were twice as likely to be found dead, and if they were taken into care alive, they were twice as likely to be euthanised than released.

This research comes at a critical time, following the reclassification of koalas as endangered in Queensland in 2022. Population estimates suggest koala numbers have halved over the past decade.

Toohey Forest: A Koala Haven at Risk

Koala at Toohey Forest (Photo credit: Bunami/Google Maps)

Toohey Forest, a known koala hotspot in Brisbane, also faces an uncertain future as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic Games. Recent plans to redevelop the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC) for the Olympics have raised alarm among conservationists.

The Quirk Review, assessing potential Olympic venues, suggested that this redevelopment might require clearing local bushland and widening the pathway between QSAC and Griffith University.

Read: Toohey Forest in Tarragindi Continues To Show a Spike in Wildlife Sightings

As planning for the Olympics continues, stakeholders are being urged to consider innovative solutions that can accommodate both urban development and koala conservation. The situation in Toohey Forest serves as a microcosm of the larger challenges facing koala populations across Queensland, emphasising the need for careful urban planning and strong conservation measures.

Published 10-September-2024

Lola’s Coffee Bar in Tarragindi Captivates Brisbane with Filipino Flavours

Photo Credit: Lola’s Coffee Bar

A tiny cafe tucked within a barbershop is making waves far beyond its humble location in Tarragindi. Marie David’s Lola’s Coffee Bar has unexpectedly become a social media sensation, drawing lengthy lines of eager customers each morning.

While viral fame with its ube shakes and strawberry matcha lattes has put Lola’s on the map, Marie’s true passion lies in sharing her Filipino heritage and family recipes.

She explains that she’s doing this for her family – her driving force is her desire to showcase Filipino cuisine to a wider audience. Lola’s menu is a delightful fusion of traditional and contemporary, built upon the pillars of ube, pandan, and mango.

These flavours shine through in various desserts and drinks, from ube leche flan and pandan slice cakes to the signature Filipino-inspired shakes. Coffee lovers can also indulge in flat whites, cappuccinos, or unique iced pandan and ube coffees.

The savoury side of the menu is equally enticing, featuring empanadas, siopao, and longganisa sausage rolls, among other tempting treats—Marie’s playful approach to tweaking traditional recipes results in light, fluffy cakes and innovative flavour combinations.

*Photo Credit:* Screengrab from Google Map

With its vibrant hues and complementary pairings, the matcha selection has proven particularly popular, captivating both taste buds and Instagram feeds.

Lola’s success story is a testament to Marie’s dedication to quality and authenticity. She meticulously researches and perfects each new addition to the menu, ensuring it meets her high standards. Moreover, she values customer feedback, crediting the community for helping shape Lola’s unique offerings.

She reflects that it was like a team effort, where someone’s unusual drink order became one of their main drinks. They are open from Tuesday to Sunday, but arrive early to ensure you get all their sought-after treats.

Lola’s Coffee Bar is more than just a trendy cafe; it’s a celebration of Filipino culture and a testament to the power of passion and community. So, next time you’re in Tarragindi, stop by and experience the magic of Lola’s for yourself.

Follow them on Instagram for updates, opening time and the menu.

Published Date 29-August-2024

Inside Dijon Toasties, Tarragindi’s New Hotspot for Sandwich Lovers

Tarragindi’s culinary scene has a delicious new addition with the arrival of Dijon Toasties, a café specialising in toasties and sandwiches.

Read: Umu Kitchen Owners Launch Sister Venue ‘Vaiola’ in Tarragindi

Located at 48 Esher Street, this charming spot is set to become a favourite among sandwich enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike.

The brainchild of GDB Group, the same team behind popular cafés Deedot Coffee House in Holland Park West and Never Been in Underwood, Dijon Toasties is the result of four years of meticulous planning and development.

The owners’ dedication to perfecting their concept is evident in every aspect of the café, from the carefully curated menu to the selection of high-quality suppliers.

Dijon’s menu is a testament to the art of sandwich-making. The star of the show is undoubtedly the Reuben, featuring wagyu beef pastrami, herb mayo, sauerkraut, pickles, and mustard pickles on toasted white sourdough. For cheese lovers, the ham and three-cheese sandwich combines mortadella with vintage cheddar, provolone, and gruyere, topped with house-made tomato chutney.

Those preferring fresh options aren’t left out. The classic cold-cuts sandwich, spiced shredded chicken sandwich, and salad sanga with chunky hummus and beetroot relish offer lighter alternatives. Breakfast items include an egg-and-cheese muffin (with optional bacon or sausage patty) and smashed avocado with beetroot dukkah and fetta.

Coffee aficionados will appreciate the specialty brew supplied by Roast by Yili, featuring a unique blend with chocolate and caramel notes that shine in both milk-based and black coffees. For those with a sweet tooth, Dijon offers NYC-style cookies and indulgent Biscoff-infused shakes.

The spacious café can accommodate around 50 people, making it an ideal spot for casual catch-ups or leisurely lunches. With its focus on quality ingredients, innovative combinations, and welcoming atmosphere, Dijon Toasties is set to become a must-visit destination in Tarragindi’s growing food scene.

Read: Tarragindi’s Good Things Grocer Revives Former Fruit Barn

Whether you’re in the mood for a crispy toastie, a fresh sandwich, or simply a great cup of coffee, Dijon Toasties invites you to experience their passion for good food in the heart of Tarragindi.

Published 26-August-2024

Man Admits to Hit-and-Run That Killed Doctor in Tarragindi

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Thomas Hill, 37, has pleaded guilty to the hit-and-run that killed Doctor Peter Dunne, who was struck and killed by a vehicle in Tarragindi last February 2019.

According to prosecutors, the groaning noises neighbours initially thought were those of a distressed resident were actually from Dr. Dunne after Hill deliberately hit him with a car. The court heard that in the months leading up to the incident, Hill had become increasingly angry and confrontational, believing his neighbours were bullying and gossiping about him.

Prosecutor Elizabeth Kelso said that on the night of the incident, Hill and his mother were driving separately when they encountered Dr. Dunne on his regular morning run. Hill’s mother claimed Dr. Dunne had called out “idiot or something” and shone his torch into their car, which sparked Hill’s decision to confront the doctor.

Hill then made a U-turn, accelerated, reversed, and struck Dr. Dunne on the calf with the car before driving off. Medical evidence suggested Dr. Dunne fell and hit his head hard on the road, sustaining a catastrophic brain injury. He died six weeks later in the hospital.

**Strathfield Street where Dr. Dunne was found before taken to the hospital.**
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Defence barrister Gregory McGuire told the court that Hill had been mentally unwell for years, with his behaviour escalating before the incident. Neighbours had reportedly heard Hill yelling in the street that he was being stalked and lied about.

Dr. Dunne’s daughters described him as a “pillar of support” and said they felt robbed of future memories like walking down the aisle or their children meeting their grandfather. His sister Lisa McKay called the crime “an evil act” that was “preventable” and “senseless.”

Hill has been in custody since April 2019 and will be sentenced by Justice Michael Copley on August 27. The judge will take into account that Hill had intent to cause serious harm to Dr. Dunne but had a substantially impaired ability to control himself and know he ought not to have acted.

If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health issues, help is available. Please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.

Published 19-August-2024

Tarragindi’s Rising Stars: St Elizabeth’s Aerobics Team Headed to Nationals

The young Sports Aerobics superstars of St Elizabeth’s School in Tarragindi delivered outstanding performances at the 2024 State Championships held in July and are now preparing to compete in the 2024 National Championships in the Gold Coast. The 2024 national competition is set to be the biggest yet, spanning five days and expecting to host nearly 2,500 athletes and over 5,000 spectators.

Read: Speed Awareness Monitor Installed Near St Elizabeth’s School in Tarragindi

The school’s young athletes demonstrated their skill, dedication, and teamwork, bringing home impressive results and securing a spot in the upcoming National Championships.

Leading the charge was the Year 5-6 Team Illuminate, who clinched an impressive 3rd place finish. This stellar performance has earned them a coveted qualification for the National Championships, set to take place next month.

The Year 3-4 Team Starstruck also put on a commendable display, securing 9th place in their category.

Photo credit: St Elizabeth’s School, Tarragindi/Facebook

The school’s success can be attributed in part to their partnership with Meg Ryan Sport Aerobics, which has been running this extra-curricular activity at St Elizabeth’s on a weekly basis.

Established in 2020, Meg Ryan Sport Aerobics specialises in competitive and recreational sport aerobics programs at both school and club levels. Their expertise in school-based programs aligns perfectly with government initiatives promoting health, physical activity, and well-being education.

2024 National Championships

The 2024 National Championships is scheduled for 28 August to 1 September 2024. The event will be held at the Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre, transforming the Gold Coast into a hub of aerobic activity and competitive spirit.

Read: Check It Out: New Scooter Track at Shaftesbury Street Park

As Team Illuminate prepares for the national stage, the entire school community rallies behind them, eager to see their hard work and talent shine on a national level.

Published 8-August-2024

Tarragindi Reservoir Valve Replacement Highlights Historical Legacy

Seqwater plans to replace two valves at the Tarragindi Reservoir, an integral part of Brisbane’s water system constructed in 1923. The project is anticipated to result in minor inconveniences, but no water supply interruptions are expected.

Historical Significance

Built in 1923, the Tarragindi Reservoir is essential for Brisbane’s early water supply. It shows how the city grew and improved its engineering in the early 20th century. The reservoir was one of the first to use new water supply technologies and has been working for over 100 years.

The construction demonstrates Brisbane’s capability to create important public infrastructure in the period between the two World Wars. Its position on Tarragindi Hill enabled the effective distribution of water through gravitational force.

In its initial stages, the Tarragindi Reservoir represented advancement and played a crucial role in the city’s infrastructure, demonstrating the pioneering mindset of that era. The reservoir has been able to stay in operation for over 100 years due to its design and functionality, showing the long-lasting effectiveness of engineering from the early 1900s.

Shack Dwellers

In 1924, behind the reservoir, there was a community of elderly pensioners living in makeshift homes. These men constructed their dwellings using items like kerosene tins, and they established a self-reliant society. They cultivated their own vegetables and utilized water from the reservoir. This concealed settlement represented strength and camaraderie within the community.

The shack dwellers, numbering about 20 to 30, were a diverse group that included war veterans and other pensioners. They built their homes from discarded materials, showcasing their resourcefulness. Living on seven acres of land and neighboring private property, these people exemplified the independent spirit of that time.

Tarragindi Reservoir Shack dwellers — *Photo Credit: Brisbane John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland*

Despite their modest lifestyles, they were characterized by a strong sense of camaraderie and reciprocal support. They created a sustainable way of life with limited resources, drawing water from the nearby reservoir and cultivating vegetable gardens. Although now gone, this community remains a poignant chapter in the history of Tarragindi, reflecting a bygone era of resilience and camaraderie.

Valve Replacement Project

Seqwater’s planned maintenance at the Tarragindi Reservoir involves replacing two critical valves to ensure continued reliability in the region’s water supply. The project is scheduled in phases, with preparation and preliminary works occurring in July, followed by the main valve replacements in late July and early August 2024.

While minor disruptions such as increased traffic and construction noise are anticipated, Seqwater has assured residents that the water supply will remain unaffected throughout the process.

The valves must be replaced to ensure the reservoir remains functional. This project highlights the importance of balancing the preservation of history with the demands of modern infrastructure.

Community Interest

Local residents are strongly interested in the reservoir’s history. Discussions on platforms like Reddit demonstrate the community’s appreciation for this historic location. The reservoir is viewed as both an essential piece of infrastructure and a significant historical site, and locals share historical maps and anecdotes to highlight its importance.

The Tarragindi Reservoir is a significant part of Brisbane’s past and present, with modern upgrades highlighting its historical importance and community value. Preserving this site, which serves as both a historical landmark and essential infrastructure, ensures its continued significance for Brisbane’s future.

Published 22-July-2024

Salisbury State School Faces Overcrowded Classrooms Amid Growing Concerns

Photo Credit: Salisbury State School

Six Brisbane primary schools are dealing with a serious problem with overcrowded classrooms, and Salisbury State School is at the forefront of it.

Recent reports reveal that these schools have exceeded Education Queensland’s class-size targets, sparking debates on the impact of class sizes on educational quality.

*Photo Credit:* *Salisbury State School*

Education Queensland’s targets set a maximum of 25 students for prep to year 3 and years 11 and 12, and 28 students for years 4 to 10. However, Salisbury State School, along with Mackenzie State Primary School and Wavell Heights State School, failed to meet these targets for the younger grades.

Salisbury State School reported an average class size of 27 for prep to year 3, highlighting the strain on resources and the need for additional support.

*Photo Credit:* *Seville Road State School*

Seville Road State School, with an average class size of 30 students, along with Eight Mile Plains State School and Petrie Terrace State School, each with 29 students, also struggled to meet the target for years 4 to 6. The impact of these overcrowded conditions is most acute at Seville Road State School, which, despite having the smallest student population of 121, reported the largest average class size.

*Photo Credit:* *Wavell Heights State School*

Wavell Heights State School, the largest among the six with 418 students, also faces similar challenges. Despite these numbers, some parents argue that class size alone does not determine the quality of education.

*Photo Credit:* *East Brisbane State School*

East Brisbane State School serves as a contrasting example. With an average class size of 24 for years 4 to 6, it boasts one of Brisbane’s smallest class sizes. This school also recently celebrated a community victory, securing its location through 2026 after plans for a redevelopment of the Gabba were shelved. Parents and students here report high satisfaction rates, with 100 percent of surveyed students expressing enthusiasm for their school and teachers.

*Photo Credit:* *Earnshaw State College*

Earnshaw State College, a prep to year 12 school in Brisbane’s north-east, represents another positive outlier. It has managed to keep its class sizes well below the target, with an average of 13 students in years 11 to 12 and only 7 percent of prep to year 3 classes exceeding the target. An Education Queensland spokeswoman highlighted that most classes above the target were only slightly over, often by one or two students. She stressed that class-size targets are guidelines rather than strict limits.

Cresta Richardson, President of the Queensland Teachers’ Union, argued that smaller class sizes enable more individual attention and better educational outcomes. She called for full funding of state schools to ensure every child receives the necessary support to thrive.

As these schools continue to grapple with the challenges of overcrowded classrooms, the debate on the importance of class size versus additional support remains critical. The experiences of schools like Salisbury State School and East Brisbane State School highlight the complexities of providing quality education in diverse and often challenging conditions.

Published Date 06-June-2024