tarragindi Archives - Page 5 of 8

Police Unearth Tarragindi Drug Lab for Meth and Magic Mushrooms

The Queensland Police have uncovered a clandestine drug laboratory hidden beneath a trapdoor inside a suburban home in Tarragindi. The operation, allegedly run by a 51-year-old man, involved the production of methamphetamine and magic mushrooms.

Acting on a tip-off, officers from Queensland’s Synthetic Drug Operations Unit executed a raid on the property over the weekend. Inside the living room, they stumbled upon the concealed entrance to the drug lab. The hidden space was located underground in the garage of the residence.

The 51-year-old man, who was living at the property, was promptly arrested and charged with possession of dangerous drugs. According to Detective Inspector Bradley Phelps from Queensland’s Synthetic Drug and Serious Crime Group, a significant lab processing operation was underway, involving the unlawful production of methylamphetamine.

Inspectors on the scene observed numerous bongs, bottles, and containers filled with dark-colored liquids, indicating the presence of various drug-making substances. The findings have raised significant concerns for the health and safety of the surrounding community, as the drug lab could pose serious risks to both the alleged offender and vulnerable members of society who might be exposed to the drugs produced.

Tarragindi Drug Bust — Photo Credit: Queensland Police Service

“This arrest is another example of the dedicated work underway to take these dangerous and highly-addictive drugs off our streets and keep the community safe,” said Inspector Phelps.

The man in custody is scheduled to appear before the Holland Park Magistrates Court to face the charges leveled against him. Meanwhile, authorities are continuing their investigations into the drug lab to gather more evidence and uncover any potential accomplices or suppliers.

This incident comes in the wake of similar raids in New South Wales (NSW), where police recently seized $7 million worth of drugs in multiple properties located in Sydney’s west. Seven men were arrested and charged with possession and distribution offenses after authorities discovered over 6 kilograms of methamphetamine and 1.5 kilograms of cocaine across the properties.

Law enforcement agencies in both Queensland and NSW remain vigilant in their efforts to combat drug-related crimes and protect the communities from the dangers posed by illicit drug manufacturing and distribution networks.

Published 4-Aug-2023

Construction of The Green in Tarragindi Progressing Well

Photo Credit: The Green Tarragindi

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

Just in time for the start of another school year, a Speed Awareness Monitor (SAM) was installed near St Elizabeth’s School in Tarragindi. It’s one of 22 ‘Slow for SAM’ sites added across Brisbane to ensure the safety of children.

Brisbane City Council announced that the initial installation for the 2023 school year is up at these locations but more sites will be determined as the program rolls out:

Acacia Ridge State School
Holland Park State School
Anglican Church Grammar School, East Brisbane
Villanova College, Coorparoo
Petrie Terrace State School, Paddington
Upper Brookfield State School
Mount Gravatt State High School
Seville Road State School, Holland Park
Sunnybank State School
St Dympna’s Parish School, Aspley
St Williams Primary School, Everton Park
Yeronga State School
St Elizabeth’s School, Tarragindi
Eagle Junction State School
Windsor State School

Speed Awareness Monitors, also known as SAM, was launched in 2013 to advise motorists to slow down, especially in school zones where pedestrian activity is high.

Since the launch, more than 200 SLOW for SAM monitors are actively in place in Brisbane. Motorists have also made it a habit to reduce an average of eight kilometres across all locations.

The monitors do not issue notices but work to detect a speeding car and then display ether three messages:

a smiley face for vehicles going within the speed limit
the car’s speed with a “slow down” message for vehicles going beyond 9 kilometres per hour of the speed limit
a big “slow down” message for vehicles driving above 10 kilometres of the speed limit

The Transport Planning and Operations of Brisbane City Council determines where SLOW for SAM signs should be installed. However, locals may contact their ward office or phone Council via 07 3403 8888 if they think a location qualifies for a SLOW for SAM sign.

Survey Says Locals Have Problems with Pathways Around Popular Tarragindi Primary School

Photo credit: Department of Transport and Main Roads / tmr.qld.gov.au/

Pathways surrounding a popular primary school in Tarragindi emerged as Brisbane’s top pathway hotspot, receiving the most concerns raised by respondents in the inaugural RACQ’s Safer Pathways Survey.

RACQ Transport Planning and Infrastructure Advisor Tim Mitchell said that the pathway network surrounding Wellers Hill State School in Tarragindi received the most number of complaints from hundreds of Queenslanders in the Club’s inaugural survey.

“One of the biggest concerns identified by Tarragindi residents was a lack of footpaths to accommodate school traffic on Chamberlain Street and pedestrian crossings,” Mr Mitchell said.

“This is a popular local primary school with more than 900 students; however, our survey has revealed there is a deficiency in safe and accessible pathways which makes it difficult for parents and children to get around.”

Meanwhile, on-road bike lanes on Sylvan Road in Toowong are also a hotspot for pathway issues, added Mr Mitchell, with residents describing the location as “narrow and intimidating”.

He said that in the third-ranking Brisbane CBD, safety issues were the most common concern why locals compete for footpath space, as well as a desire for more pathway connections. Whilst in Wooloowin, the major problem was the ending of the separated cycle path along the Northern Bikeway, where it transitions to an on-road bicycle lane at Price Street.

Active infrastructure appeared to be more in demand, the survey results revealed, particularly among Queenslanders walking or using e-scooter, e-bikes, and cycling. RACQ said that this highlights the importance of having pathway networks that are safe, connected, and accessible for the whole community.

The inaugural Safer Pathways Survey which ended on 17 August 2022, allowed residents to nominate multiple locations. The results were forwarded to councils and the State Government to help the state improve its active transport networks providing vital information about how the pathway network is used and where the current gaps and faults are.

The top five southeast Queensland suburbs for Safer Pathways Survey responses are Tarragindi (80), Toowong (29), Brisbane CBD (23), Wooloowin (19), and Nerang (16).

Find the map of the full survey results here: https://www.racq.com.au/saferpathwayssurvey

Brisbane’s Bus Network Services to Change But Have Your Say First

Brisbane’s bus network services are set to evolve with the activation of Brisbane Metro in a few years and Tarragindi residents now have a chance to provide their feedback on the expected changes.

Brisbane City Council will be conducting a series of community information sessions until the 14th of December 2022 in various suburbs to gather feedback from commuters who will be affected by any changes or adoption to this transportation service.

Some of these changes include:

The introduction of two new Brisbane Metro lines
Reducing the bottlenecks and congestions with a simplified bus network
Increasing connections to other public transport modes, such as the Cross River Rail.

For Tarragindi locals, the community information sessions will be on Saturday, 10 December 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Wellers Hills Bowls Club.

Other sessions in South Brisbane will take place on these dates and locations:

Date/Time	Location
Saturday 26 November 2022 10:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m.	Coopers Plains Library 107 Orange Grove Rd Coopers Plains QLD 4108
Saturday 3 December 2022 10:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m.	Warrigal Square Shopping Centre 261 Warrigal Rd Eight Mile Plains – a Mandarin interpreter will be available

Locals may also participate by completing the online survey if they cannot go to the in-person sessions.

Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Ryan Murphy is encouraging locals to participate in these drop-in sessions to help the Council map out a solid new bus network services plan.

“By 2041 our population will increase by almost 25 per cent and it is important the bus network evolves as our city grows,” Mr Murphy said.

“At peak times there are currently more than 385 buses jamming up the Cultural Centre Station, which is a result of our current over-reliance on direct bus journeys from the suburbs to the CBD.

“As part of the changes, a number of routes will be combined to simplify the network and some routes with extremely low patronage will be removed.

“This allows us to make better use of our resources to give high-frequency services to more streets, introduce new routes and deliver more reliable services from the suburbs to the city.

“The improvements being delivered through the Brisbane Metro will help to significantly ease bottlenecks in the current network and prevent future problems as we grow.

“Brisbane’s New Bus Network redesigns services to connect customers to the two high-frequency Metro lines between Eight Mile Plains and Roma Street and the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and the University of Queensland.

“There is also significant scope to expand the Metro further into Brisbane’s north and east through investment into the dedicated bus network.

“We want residents to join the conversation and provide their feedback to help us create the best possible transport network.”

After the community information sessions, Council will work with Translink and release the new network plan. The bus network services changes will be adopted in late 2024.

Ekibin, Before It Became Part Of Tarragindi

Did you know that before it became part of Tarragindi, Ekibin was a suburban locality with a rich indigenous history? Here’s a look back at the establishment of this locality, which was home to an aboriginal settlement in the early 19th century.

Read: Tarragindi Tasserone: The Man Behind The Suburb’s Name

Name Origin

The Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Mines said the name ‘Ekibin’ was a modern name derived from the aboriginal word ‘Yekkabin’ which pertains to aquatic plants with edible roots which grew in the creek.

It’s believed that the aquatic plants being referred to are the Telmatoblechnum indicum or the swamp water fern which is often seen growing on sandy soils in swampy areas.

These edible roots, which are dried, roasted, and pounded, were part of the diet of the Aboriginals in Moreton Bay.

Referring to the good supply of edible roots there, the name ‘Ekibin’ has also been associated with “good eating.”

The name Ekibin has been used for the watercourse with headwaters from Toohey Forest Park, Holland Park West and Greenslopes. The swampy watercourse (formerly called Burnett Swamp) is now one of the tributaries of Norman Creek, alongside Sandy Creek.

Early Settlers

One of the early pioneers and land owners in the Ekibin district was Thomas Blackett Stephens, a wealthy businessman and newspaper proprietor who also served as an alderman and mayor of Brisbane Municipal Council.

Thomas Blacket Stephens (Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)

Stephens established a fellmongery business in 1862 and later on a farming business in the area.

His home, called Cumbooqueepa, was considered as one of the grandest homes in the South Brisbane area until it was demolished around the 1890s, to make way for the South Coast railway line.

The Baynes family, known for establishing a buthcering business in South Brisbane was also among the early settlers in the area. The location of their business was commonly referred to as Baynes’ Paddock, on the Norman Creek.

Ekibin became part of Tarragindi

A number of unofficial homeless camps were built around Brisbane as a result of the housing shortage during the Great Depression of the 1930s. As with many countries in the world, Australia experienced years of deflation, low profits, poverty, and plunging incomes during that period.

In Ekibin, there were as many as 600 families living at one time. But it eventually decreased to 148 families by 1954, after many of the huts were destroyed and the people relocated into housing commission homes. The camps were bulldozed shortly after some of the remaining residents were relocated.

Read: Tarragindi Property Market Shows Strong, Consistent Performance

Until the early 1970s, Ekibin was identified as a census district that extended from the Boggo Road Gaol to the Tarragindi reservoir.

Scooter Track Opens at the Shaftesbury Street Park in Tarragindi

After more than two months of construction, a new scooter track has opened at the Shaftesbury Street Park in Tarragindi, one of four new scooter tracks in Brisbane that are expected to deliver more opportunities for play, exercise, and recreation for families.

The scooter tracks are based on the award-winning recreational facility that was opened at Kedron’s Bradbury Park in 2020. The Shaftesbury Street Park improvements include a new picnic shelter as well.

“I am told by the designers that this track is the only one of its kind in Brisbane with the slalom design,” Cr Krista Adams said following the park’s official re-opening.

Aside from Tarragindi, Wittonga Park in The Gap has commenced construction as of August 2022. Paul Conti Park in Hemmant and Kathleen Street Park in Forest Lake are also going to have their own scooter parks, according to Council.

“As Richlands, Hemmant, The Gap and surrounding areas continue to grow, it is important to ensure that our parks continue to meet the recreational needs of residents and visitors, and Council is looking to enhance and diversify the recreational opportunities in these popular green spaces to ensure they cater to a broad spectrum of the community,” the Council said.

“Long gone are the days of a few trees and an old swing set. Our parks offer options for kids of all ages from scooter tracks and ninja warrior courses to nature playgrounds and water features,” per Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.

The Green Retirement Site Adjoining Tarragindi Bowls Club To Open in Early 2023

Construction is well underway at The Green, the new retirement community that is also expected to rejuvenate the Tarragindi Bowls Club. The site is expected to open in early 2023.

Since mid-2021, the Tarragindi Bowls Club has temporarily made the Salisbury Sports and Community Club its home following the start of the retirement village’s construction.

According to RetireAustralia, the bowls club will remain the central recreational site of the community, once it opens, and will feature a 10-rink championship-quality bowling green.

All residents of The Green will automatically get a free membership to the bowls club, where they could also invite friends to play or enjoy great food at the cafe. The redevelopment will also see additional car parking areas for the visitors.

“So whether you take bowls seriously or you just seriously want to have fun, you’ll be able to socialise over a friendly bowls match or establish your legendary status as a fierce competitor on the lawn.”

The Green provides 92 units with at least a dozen carefully considered apartment designs. Emergency support will also be available 24/7, while professional home care services can also be accessed on your terms—occasionally or daily.

Meanwhile, the Tarragindi Bowls Club has been holding regular play days at the Salisbury Bowls Club every Tuesday (9:00 a.m.), Thursday (1:00 p.m.), Saturday (1:00 p.m.). The Brekky Bowls held every second Sunday of the month has also been maintained.