In 2022, a Brisbane mum gave birth to premature twins in an ambulance at the Tarragindi exit of the Pacific Motorway, only to be diagnosed with endometrial cancer days later while her newborns fought for life in hospital.
Tara Bishop, 33, from Sunnybank Hills, was being rushed to Mater Mothers’ Hospital in October 2022 when her labour progressed rapidly. The ambulance crew had to pull over at the Tarragindi exit, where Evelyn and Harvey were born two months early.
“What was supposed to be a happy time of our lives very quickly turned into an emotional rollercoaster,” Ms Bishop said.
Cancer Diagnosis Shock
Just 11 days after the twins’ dramatic birth, while they were still in the Neonatal Critical Care Unit (NCCU), Ms Bishop received devastating news.
“I was in a state of shock, dealing with the twins coming so early and then the diagnosis,” she explained. Routine pathology tests on her placenta had detected endometrial cancer.
Photo Credit: Tara Bishop Tarragindi
Dr Naven Chetty, a gynaecological oncologist at Mater Private Hospital Brisbane, described the case as rare.
“It is extremely rare for a patient to be diagnosed with this type of cancer during pregnancy,” he said.
Treatment and Recovery
Ms Bishop underwent a hysterectomy and removal of her fallopian tubes. Dr Chetty stated, “Given her low stage and low grade cancer, we would expect a cure.”
The couple is sharing their story during Uterine Cancer Awareness Month this June. Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecological cancer in Australia, claiming around 550 lives annually.
Dr Chetty urged women to seek medical attention if they experience:
– Any bleeding in post-menopausal women
– Persistent or abnormal bleeding in younger women
Family’s Positive Outlook
Despite the challenging start, Ms Bishop remains optimistic. “When I look at my babies today I believe they are my little lifesavers,” she said.
The twins, now almost two, are thriving. “At no point would you look at the twins and know they were born two months’ premature,” Ms Bishop added, highlighting the resilience of her family through this extraordinary journey.
‘Onival’ in Tarragindi stands as a quiet witness to the transformation of Brisbane, from a rugged bushland to a thriving suburb. Built circa 1919 for motor mechanic Joseph Edyvean-Walker, his wife Jeanne, and their children, this Interwar multi-gabled residence was among the first homes constructed in the then-undeveloped Sandy Creek area.
The property’s roots trace back to 1862 when a 55-acre parcel of land was sold for freehold purposes. Over the following decades, the land changed hands several times, was gradually subdivided, and was eventually sold to William J. Cook in 1916. Jeanne Edyvean-Walker purchased a portion of Cook’s land in 1917, securing a mortgage loan to build their new home.
Construction and Naming
Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map
The house, completed in 1919, was named ‘Onival’ after a French seaside resort in the Somme District, holding sentimental value for the couple. The Edyvean-Walkers further expanded their property holdings in the subsequent years, owning a substantial piece of land by June 1922.
The early 1920s marked a period of significant development for the area. The formation of the Sandy Creek Progress Association, the opening of Andrew Avenue in 1925, and the inclusion of the area in Brisbane’s water grid in 1923 all contributed to its growth. By 1928, the area had even become home to a semi-permanent encampment of old-aged pensioners.
Transformation of the Area
‘Onival’ itself underwent several changes, expanding with the Edyvean-Walker family. The addition of a third bedroom, two side verandahs, a new enclosed back landing, and a new kitchen were among the modifications made in the late 1920s. Tragically, in 1933, the family experienced the loss of their son Ian, who drowned in the nearby Sandy Creek.
Despite this devastating event, Jeanne continued to reside at ‘Onival’ with her remaining children, further altering the house during the 1930s. The extension of tram lines in the late 1930s spurred further development, and by 1946, Tarragindi Road was lined with houses.
The post-World War II housing boom in the 1950s saw the complete urbanisation of Tarragindi. In 1951, Jeanne began to subdivide her property, selling portions to different buyers. Since Onni W. Lindstrom bought “Onival,” it has remained on its current piece of land.
‘Onival’ serves as a living reminder of Tarragindi’s evolution, its architectural style reflecting the transition from a semi-rural district to a suburban landscape.
The house’s alterations and extensions mirror the changing needs of the Edyvean-Walker family and the broader community over time. As Tarragindi continues to grow and evolve, ‘Onival’ remains a cherished part of its history, a testament to the resilience and adaptability of both a family and a suburb.
Preparation: Check the Council’s website to see what qualifies for kerbside collection and explore alternative options for usable items.
Collection Day: Place accepted items on the kerbside in front of your property by 6:00 a.m. on the first day of the collection period.
Think Twice Before You Toss:
The Council encourages residents to donate usable items to friends, family, charities, or reuse organisations like GIVIT or Charitable Recycling Australia. The Endeavour Foundation runs Brisbane’s Treasure Troves, which also accepts donations in good condition.
Acceptable: bathtubs, bicycles, carpets, electronics (minus batteries!), furniture, appliances, mattresses, small appliances, and wood under 1.5 metres.
Unacceptable: hazardous materials, garden waste, construction debris, car parts, liquids, batteries (dispose of them at Council’s resource recovery centres!), and large piles exceeding two cubic metres.
Important Tips:
Ensure easy and safe lifting for collection crews by keeping items manageable.
Remove the refrigerator and cupboard doors for easier handling.
Secure items during bad weather forecasts.
The council won’t collect unacceptable items left on the kerb, and illegal dumping fines may apply.
By utilising the kerbside collection service responsibly, Tarragindi residents can declutter their homes and contribute to a more sustainable environment.
Passchendaele Street in Tarragindi is named to commemorate the Third Battle of Ypres, often referred to as the Battle of Passchendaele, serving as a reminder of the significant Australian involvement and the devastating losses they suffered in one of the war’s most brutal battles of World War I.
The Battle of Passchendaele, officially known as the Third Battle of Ypres, took place in the Ypres Salient area of the Western Front, near the town of Passchendaele (modern Passendale), Belgium. Australian troops faced not only the entrenched German defences but also the horrendous conditions of mud and rain, which turned the battlefield into a marshland, impeding movement and contributing to the high casualty rates.
Photo Credit: Australian War Memorial
Key dates during this prolonged battle include:
31 July 1917: The battle begins with initial British attacks.
September 1917: Australian forces join the battle, achieving critical gains at Menin Road and Polygon Wood.
4 October 1917: Australians capture Broodseinde Ridge, marking a significant but costly victory.
12 October 1917: The first major attempt to capture Passchendaele village resulted in heavy Australian and New Zealand casualties. About 6,405 Australians were killed in action or dying of wounds in less than a month near Ypres. Additionally, a further 19,194 were wounded.
26 October to 10 November 1917: The battle’s final phase involved further Australian support, but primary efforts transitioned to Canadian forces who captured Passchendaele on 6 November 1917.
This battle was part of a series of battles in this region, characterised by its strategic importance due to the elevated ridge that offered the occupier significant tactical advantages.
Heroism in the Face of Adversity
On the sombre morning of 12 October 1917, Captain Clarence Jeffries demonstrated extraordinary leadership and courage under dire conditions. Before the assault, the battlefield’s transformation into a muddy marsh posed severe challenges. Jeffries, commanding B Company, took proactive steps with Captain T.G. Gilder to locate the battalion’s starting line, ensuring their unit was correctly positioned for the attack despite the obliterated direction tapes.
As the attack commenced under a British artillery barrage, Jeffries and his men faced intense machine gun fire from German strong points, particularly around Hilside Farm. The German defences included fortified pillboxes and entrenched positions, significantly hindering the Australian advance.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Displaying quick thinking and bravery, Jeffries organised a small bombing party to outflank and capture these enemy positions. His group succeeded in taking control of multiple machine guns and capturing several prisoners, briefly reviving the Australian advance.
However, the German resistance was fierce, and as Jeffries attempted to push towards further objectives, he was mortally wounded by machine gun fire during a bold maneuver to neutralise another enemy position. His actions, though costly, marked a significant moment in the battle, showcasing the determination and sacrifice of the Australian forces.
Jeffries’ leadership paved the way for temporary gains and exemplified the spirit of the Australian soldiers who fought at Passchendaele.
Despite their efforts, the Australian units faced overwhelming odds, and the intense enemy fire forced them to retreat, leaving behind many wounded and fallen soldiers, including Jeffries.
Photo Credit: Australian War Memorial
His bravery at Passchendaele was later recognised with a posthumous Victoria Cross, commemorating his bravery and leadership in one of the most challenging battles of the First World War.
Cultural and Memorial Impact
The battles at Passchendaele left a profound impact on Australian military history and are memorialised in various forms, including street names like that in Tarragindi. This serves as a perpetual memory of the sacrifices made by the Australians, illustrating the deep connections between local landscapes and global history.
As Mother’s Day approaches, the community of Tarragindi is gearing up for a celebration that goes beyond mere tradition – the Tarragindi Mother’s Day Markets.
This annual event, which will be held on May 4th, 2024 at Wellers Hills Bowl Club, has become a symbol of community spirit and creativity. It’s also a great place to honour and enjoy the amazing women in our lives.
The Tarragindi Mother’s Day Markets have been an important part of the community’s calendar for years, and people from nearby neighbourhoods look forward to them every year. As a heartfelt tribute to mothers, grandmothers, and all other maternal figures, this beloved custom shows appreciation for their unwavering love, devotion, and sacrifices.
Photo Credit: Facebook/ Mothers Day Market 2022
A Showcase of Local Talent and Creativity
The event focus on creative and talented people from the area. From jewellery made by hand to chocolates made by hand, each stall shows a different side of the creative scene in Tarragindi and the nearby places. People can find one-of-a-kind gifts here that not only honour mums but also help local artists and companies.
Photo Credit: Facebook/ Mothers Day Market 2022
A Culinary Journey of Delight
There aren’t any celebrations that are complete without tasty treats, and the Tarragindi Mother’s Day Markets take this very seriously. There’s something for everyone, from fancy food trucks serving delicious treats to stands selling homemade cakes and pastries. The food at the markets is sure to please, whether you’re looking for a relaxing lunch with your family or a sweet treat to give mum as a gift.
Photo Credit: Facebook/ Mothers Day Market 2022
A Day of Family Fun and Entertainment
This event has a lot of fun things for the whole family to do besides shopping and eating. The air is filled with the joyful sound of live music, making it a great place to enjoy the day. The event is fun for kids of all ages because there are lots of different things to do, like face painting and craft classes.
The Tarragindi Mother’s Day Markets are a celebration of community spirit and getting to know each other. On this day, neighbours honour the important women in their lives by getting together and making memories that will last a lifetime. The friendly people of Tarragindi will make a mark on you, whether you’ve lived there for a long time or this is your first time visiting.
As Mother’s Day approaches, mark your calendars for a day of celebration, appreciation, and community spirit at the Tarragindi Mother’s Day Markets. Whether you’re shopping for the perfect gift, indulging in delicious food, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, this beloved event promises a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Come join us as we celebrate mothers and the bonds that unite us all.
A detailed analysis by Ray White data analyst Jemima White shows that there are currently 127 Labrador Retrievers in Tarragindi. The data is based on the number of animal registrations by breed from the current BCC animal registration dataset. With spacious backyards and lush surroundings, Tarragindi’s more active and friendly dogs love it here.
Tarragindi’s Labradors are just a small part of the larger story of Brisbane’s love for dogs. The city has a preference for a certain breed, which happens to be the Labrador. From the leafy suburb of Alderley to the busy streets of Annerley, Labradors have become a popular choice for dog owners in Brisbane.
Much like their human counterparts, the Labradors of Tarragindi are cherished by their family units for their sociable nature. During sunny spells or between showers, the parks of Tarragindi and other parts of the suburb become a happy hunting ground for dogs and their doting owners alike.
Top Dogs of Brisbane
1 Labrador Retriever 9,605
2 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 7,019
3 Border Collie 6,995
4 Maltese 6,712
5 Staffordshire Bull Terrier 5,534
6 Poodle 4,760
7 Golden Retriever 4,223
8 Dachshund 4,127
9 Australian Kelpie 4,016
10 Jack Russell Terrier 3,365
The Labrador’s status as the top dog among Tarragindi dog-owners has influenced the suburb’s housing profile. There is a higher percentage of larger blocks to accommodate families and their pets.
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Brisbane’s typically smaller block sizes in the inner city have proven less conducive to Brisbane’s dog owners’ canine ambitions. So it seems that families have, by and large, sought housing and the park-and-play space accompanying it so that every member of the family could enjoy a little peace.
In Tarragindi, Labradors are more than just pets; they represent companionship, joy, and the simple pleasures of owning a pet. These dogs embody community, family, and the unspoken bond between two and four-legged creatures. From Brisbane’s top dog to beloved family companions, Labradors contribute to the friendly and warm atmosphere that surrounds this unique suburb.
A newly constructed residence in Tarragindi has shattered previous records in Brisbane, marking a defining moment in the area’s property market dynamics with a staggering sale price of $3.7 million.
The newly built five-bedroom, three-bathroom home located at 53 Chamberlain St has clinched the title of the suburb’s highest-priced property. Surpassing the suburb’s record in 2023 by an impressive $250,000 margin, this remarkable achievement highlights the enduring appeal of Tarragindi’s real estate market.
The property, meticulously built by Mondo Constructions, embodies executive living and resort-style entertaining on a spacious 771 sqm allotment. Despite spending over 100 days on the market, the home garnered immense interest, with 214 groups acknowledging its exceptional quality and design.
Photo Credit: Desire Media/YouTube
Denis Najzar, a director at Place Woolloongabba, underscores the significance of the sale, attributing it to both the property’s construction excellence and the burgeoning demand for new homes in the market.
Mr Najzar further said that newly built homes command premium prices due to the cost and time associated with construction or renovation projects. He highlights consumer sentiment as a key driver, noting that in an era where convenience reigns supreme, many prospective buyers opt for newly constructed homes to streamline the process and alleviate the complexities associated with renovation endeavours.
The home’s expansive living and dining areas afford breathtaking views of the poolside oasis and verdant surroundings. Boasting a triple-car garage, multiple living spaces, an alfresco terrace, and a sparkling pool, this residence exudes opulence and functionality in equal measure.
Looking ahead, Mr Najzar predicts a robust real estate market in Brisbane, buoyed by the city’s international status and increasing interstate migration. However, he cautions that rising interest rates may introduce uncertainties for prospective buyers, particularly those seeking stability amid a competitive market landscape.
Toohey Forest, a tranquil retreat known for its ecological significance and scenic beauty, was the site of a significant discovery of artefacts in the late 19th century. Over one hundred years later, a new round of efforts are being made to uncover the story behind that discovery.
Toohey Forest, a part of the Brisbane area known as Meanjin to the Turrbal and Yuggera Peoples, is rich in Indigenous history. This land was home to abundant natural resources and served as a hub for traditional activities. From hunting and crafting using the local fauna to spiritual and ceremonial practices, the forest was integral to the Indigenous way of life.
Even in the post-European settlement era, indigenous people continued their traditional practices in the forest, albeit with increasing challenges due to displacement.
The Discovery by George Thomas McDonald
In the late 19th century, a significant discovery was made by George Thomas McDonald, a surveyor and farmer. While exploring Toohey Forest, McDonald stumbled upon a cave that housed a collection of ochre-painted human bones, alongside stone and shell knives.
Mr McDonald, who was born in Scotland in 1835 and later settled in Brisbane, played a pivotal role in bringing these historical pieces to light. He passed away on 29 Jan 1915 in Wynnum at the age of 79.
Since then, the artifacts have been carefully preserved and later housed at the Queensland Museum.
Recent Developments and Research
Fast forward to the 21st century, and these artefacts have once again sparked interest. The Annerley Stephens History Group is leading the charge and recently organised a conference to delve deeper into the nature and history of the artefacts.
The event aimed to shed light on the local history, with a focus on the First Nations’ heritage. A key aspect of the conference was to discuss the significance of these artefacts and their connection to the local Indigenous people.
Photo Credit: Annerley Stephens History Group
With the consent of Aboriginal elders, a thorough examination of these artefacts has gotten underway to determine their age and deeper historical context.
Toohey Forest Today
Today, Toohey Forest stands as a testament to Brisbane’s rich and diverse history. It is not only a natural sanctuary but also a bridge connecting the present to the past. The discovery of these artefacts has opened a new chapter in understanding the Indigenous heritage of the area, offering insights into the lives and practices of Australia’s First Peoples.
As research continues, Toohey Forest is poised to reveal more of its hidden stories, enriching our understanding of the land and its original inhabitants.
As the 31 finalists of the 2023 WasteSMART People’s Choice Award are unveiled, Tarragindi Community Garden takes the spotlight for its outstanding contributions to sustainability and waste reduction.
The Tarragindi Community Garden volunteers have been at the forefront of sustainable change in Brisbane, setting an impressive example for the entire community. They go the extra mile by actively composting organic and food waste from various sources, including households, childcare centres, cafes, schools, and businesses.
Notably, their Recycling Hub, an iconic feature, diverts thousands of kilograms of waste from landfill every year. This 24-hour recycling facility effectively tackles challenging waste streams that are otherwise hard to recycle through conventional means.
Impressive Statistics Tell the Story
In the last financial year, the Tarragindi Community Garden, powered by 50 dedicated volunteers, 1800 social members, and over 1000 hours of manpower, achieved remarkable milestones. They recycled 51.6 kilograms of bread tags, approximately 2.5 tonnes of bottle tops, 520 kilograms of metal lids, and assorted metal items.
Furthermore, the group composted over 2400 kilograms of food waste and contributed to a heartwarming cause by sewing 180 reusable nappies for expecting mothers in Papua New Guinea through Rotary Brisbane’s appeal.
The Gindi Garage: A Sustainable Venture
In an exciting new initiative, the Tarragindi Community Garden is currently embarking on a project to create the very first share shed in Tarragindi, aptly named the “Gindi Garage.” Volunteers are constructing the shed using reclaimed building materials salvaged from homes in Tarragindi that are being demolished for modern home developments.
This innovative venture aims to promote a culture of sharing and caring within the community by allowing residents to borrow items and equipment from the Gindi Garage for free, thus reducing excess consumption.
A History of Excellence
The group’s dedication to sustainability and waste reduction has not gone unnoticed. They previously received the WasteSMART Community Award in 2021 and the WasteSMART Outstanding Award in 2022, making them an All-Star finalist for the 2023 WasteSMART People’s Choice Award. This recognition underscores their consistent and exceptional contribution towards making Brisbane cleaner, greener, and more sustainable.
Supporting Brisbane’s Sustainability Vision
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, the driving force behind the WasteSMART Awards, encouraged all Brisbane residents to participate in the People’s Choice Award and cast their votes in support of their preferred sustainability champion. As Brisbane continues its journey to become Australia’s cleanest and greenest capital city, these awards play a pivotal role in celebrating and promoting sustainability initiatives throughout the city.
Public voting for the 2023 WasteSMART People’s Choice Award is now open and will continue until Monday, October 16. To cast your vote and explore the complete list of finalists, visit the WasteSMART Awards website.
The WasteSMART Awards are administered by the Brisbane Sustainability Agency on behalf of Brisbane City Council and are proudly sponsored by Containers for Change Queensland, Cleanaway, and The University of Queensland. The winners of the 12 WasteSMART Award categories, which boast a combined prize pool of over $4,000, will be announced at a ceremony to be held at Brisbane City Hall in November.
Construction has commenced on the Barr Street Bridge in Tarragindi, a vital link for pedestrians and cyclists connecting Shaftesbury Park to the Southeast Freeway Bikeway. The aging wooden bridge is set to be replaced with a modern, three-metre-wide bridge to enhance safety and accessibility for the local community.
The Barr Street Park bridge has served as a crucial connector in the local active transport network, facilitating travel between the Southeast Freeway Bikeway and Shaftesbury Street Park, Tarragindi Recreation Reserve, and the wider southeast network. Recognising the need for improvement, the bridge was selected for an upgrade as part of the Bridges and Culverts Reconstruction and Rehabilitation program.
This renovation will accommodate the increasing number of pedestrians and cyclists using the bridge and enhance its resilience against flooding, aligning with the flood resilience action plan. Funding for this project is being provided jointly by the Australian Government’s Roads to Recovery program and the Brisbane City Council.
Constructing a new three-meter-wide cyclist and pedestrian bridge, situated approximately five meters north of the existing wooden bridge
Creating a raised three-meter-wide shared pathway connecting Barr Street and Sunshine Avenue.
Erecting a stone retaining wall to stabilize the surrounding terrain
Installing new LED lighting along the pathway
Undertaking topsoiling and landscaping in the vicinity
Removing the existing 1.35-meter-wide wooden bridge
Photo Credit: BrisbaneCityCouncil
To facilitate the project, the removal of two trees has been deemed necessary. However, this will be offset by the planting of new trees within Barr Street Park, in accordance with Council’s environmental policy. Professional arborists will handle tree removal, with safeguards in place to protect the local environment.
During construction, residents in proximity to the site may experience:
The presence of construction machinery and vehicles
Elevated levels of dust, noise, and vibrations
Increased activity by construction workers
Temporary access changes across the creek in Barr Street Park
Notably, the existing bridge will remain operational until the new one is ready, ensuring uninterrupted community connectivity.
For questions and concerns about this project, phone the team at 1800 669 416 during business hours and Council at 07 3403 8888 outside business hours.
