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Kelvin Grove Teacher Recognised in Prestigious State Awards

Photo Credit: Queensland College of Teachers/ Facebook

A Kelvin Grove State College teacher has been recognised as one of Queensland’s most influential educators at the 2024 TeachX Awards.

*Photo Credit:* *Kelvin Grove State College/ Facebook*

Danielle Alympic is among 31 teachers from across the state who are celebrated for their outstanding contributions to their school communities and the teaching profession.

The annual awards, hosted by the Queensland College of Teachers, highlight the exceptional work of educators across various categories. This year’s winners have demonstrated remarkable achievements, from boosting attendance rates among at-risk students to pioneering innovative digital learning programmes.

Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) Board Chair Emeritus Professor Wendy Patton acknowledged the winners, emphasising their dedication to enhancing students’ education and inspiring fellow teachers.

*Photo Credit:* *Kelvin Grove State College File Photo 2021/ Facebook*

She praised their passion, creativity, and steadfast commitment to educational excellence.

Ms Alympic has made a significant impact at Kelvin Grove State College through a range of initiatives. In Food Studies, she spearheaded the “Masterchef Mystery Box Challenge,” engaging 300 students in a culinary competition judged by faculty members.

As Student Representative Coordinator, she facilitated student participation in inter-school events and projects, including Amnesty International workshops, the Queensland Global Youth Summit, and various charitable fundraising activities.

Furthermore, Ms Alympic led 18 colleagues as Year 9 English Team Leader, focusing on enhancing classroom instruction and mentoring early-career teachers.

The TEACHX Awards ceremony will be held in Brisbane on Thursday, October 24, leading to World Teachers’ Day in Queensland.

Published Date 08-October-2024

Madge MaGuire Comes To Red Hill

Cast your mind back to Origin 2 at the MCG on June 26 earlier this year. All the build-up was focused on the Maroons completing the series and heading for the whitewash at Suncorp.

The NSW Blues coach was considered a caretaker unlikely to move the dial. The Maroons were rampant, and how could this guy that had been sacked by the worst team in the NRL, do a better job than Freddy Fittler.

Game 1 had ended up a decisive win for Billy Slater’s Maroons, 38-10, though the 8th-minute sending off of Joseph Sua’ali’i was with hindsight an even bigger impact on the battle than we realised at the time.

Frequent camera cutaways in Game 1 to the NSW box showed their new coach, “Madge” Maguire watching on without too much emotion, a cold, hard gaze on proceedings going badly. Not an easy situation for the baptism of a new coach and securing a new record loss for the Blues at home in Sydney.

Many coaches would have been like a rabbit in headlights but he kept it together, said all the right words post-match, and most importantly galvanised his troops to deliver brutality in Game 2 at the MCG.

And so Billy’s Maroons found themselves down 34-0 at halftime! The Blues had gone from zeros to heroes. That was an extraordinary turnaround because Billy would not have allowed any early crows or chest-beating, the Maroons were ready to win and the Blues under Maguire destroyed them.

So now we have the destroyer of Maroons dreams, as head coach at Red Hill.

Maguire also coached New Zealand to a 30-0 win against the Kangaroos last year and the Kiwis were desperate to keep him.

The appointment appears to be an act of genius by the Broncos board.

Only time will tell, it seems amazing how quickly the board forgot about Kevvie’s 2023 Grand Final run, where only the Cleary Mafia could have destroyed Kevvie’s season that day. The 2024 disaster – an errant season that can happen at Red Hill, ask Anthony Seibold, a quality coach that could not get any tune out of the Broncos.

Brisbane is a city where frankly life can be too easy. The omnipresent sun, quality eateries on every corner, Bronco fans everywhere, a beautiful home stadium that is now the home of the Magic Round, sellouts even in terrible seasons. It’s no wonder that Wayne the former Ipswich copper, was the man to find the right balance between discipline and man management.

The naysayers will want to point to Madge being shunted by the Tigers and the Rabbits, but what he did a few months ago against the Maroons should not be forgotten, it was mission impossible and yet he delivered for the Blues.

Let’s hope he can do the same for the Broncos in 2025.

Two Boys Critical After Car Accident in Auchenflower

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons / bertknot

On September 27, 2024, at approximately 1:15 PM, a serious car accident occurred in Auchenflower. The incident took place on Vincent Street when a car collided with a pole, resulting in injuries to four children.

Paramedics responded to the scene and found two primary school-aged boys with life-threatening injuries. One boy suffered abdominal injuries, while the other sustained head injuries. Both were immediately transported to Queensland Children’s Hospital in critical condition.

Two other boys involved in the crash were also taken to Queensland Children’s Hospital. Their injuries were reported as minor, though the full extent of their conditions is not yet known.

A Queensland Ambulance Services spokesperson reported that paramedics treated a man at the scene for injuries. However, the man declined further medical care and was not transported to the hospital. The extent of his involvement in the crash remains unclear.

Local authorities are investigating the circumstances of the accident. No further details about the cause of the crash or the identities of those involved have been released at this time.

Published 27-September-2024

High-Speed Crash in Paddington Sparks Calls for Jail Time for Driver

A dangerous high-speed crash in Paddington left a vehicle overturned, caused significant damage, and may result in jail time for the driver responsible.

Crash on Hale Street

The incident occurred on a busy Friday night along Hale Street in Paddington, near Suncorp Stadium. Around 9:30 pm, Tyson Elias Huezo attempted to drive between two cars at high speed, causing a collision that led to a Mitsubishi Pajero flipping multiple times.

The crash happened in an area with moderate traffic, as nearby events brought more vehicles to the road.

According to the Brisbane Magistrates Court, Huezo’s vehicle ricocheted off the Pajero, hit another car, and became airborne. His car landed hundreds of metres further down the road, with all four wheels off the ground during the incident.

Witnesses reported that Huezo drove erratically and well above the 60km/h speed limit.

Crash in Paddington — *Photo Credit: Dash Cam Owners Australia/Facebook*

Major Disruption and Injuries

The crash caused significant disruption to traffic and emergency services were called to the scene. The driver of the Pajero, who sustained serious psychological trauma, was taken to hospital for treatment. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, but the incident caused distress and chaos for other motorists.

In court, it was revealed that Huezo had two young passengers in his car at the time of the crash. Despite the severity of the incident, Huezo reportedly showed no remorse when police visited his home 10 days later to discuss the crash. He refused to view the dashcam footage and did not answer any questions from the authorities.

Police prosecutor Bimal Raut provided details of the crash, stating that Huezo’s actions endangered multiple lives and caused considerable damage. He explained that Huezo’s vehicle was travelling at a dangerous speed, leading to the major collision and the flipping of the Pajero.

Guilty Plea and Legal Consequences

In court, Huezo pleaded guilty to dangerous driving. His solicitor, William Kennedy, acknowledged that Huezo had a poor driving history, including two demerit point suspensions. Given the driver’s background, Kennedy argued that imprisonment should be considered a last resort.

However, Magistrate Tina Previtera stated that imprisonment was still “clearly on the table” due to the serious nature of the crash and the need for deterrence. She said the court needed to consider additional information before sentencing, such as the full extent of the injuries, damage caused, and the psychological impact on the victim.

Sentence Delayed for Further Evidence

The sentencing of Huezo was delayed to allow the court to gather more evidence, including dashcam footage, medical reports, and other vital details. Magistrate Previtera made it clear that if the evidence showed severe injuries and significant damage, a jail sentence could be inevitable.

This case raises questions about how dangerous drivers are penalised, especially when their actions lead to significant harm. Huezo’s solicitor argued that imprisonment should only be considered a last resort. This reflects a typical situation where drivers involved in serious incidents may face penalties like fines or licence suspensions, rather than prison time, despite the risks posed to others.

The case was adjourned to October 28.

Published 27-Sept-2024

Bridging Brisbane: Cleary’s ‘The Comfort of Figs’ Roots in Red Hill History

Photo Credit: Simon Cleary/ Website

Red Hill has long held a prominent place in Brisbane’s literary landscape. Author Simon Cleary adds his voice to the chorus with ‘The Comfort of Figs’, a novel that delves into Brisbane’s history and spirit as witnessed from the slopes of Red Hill.

The Story Bridge: A Symbol of Progress and Ambition

The Comfort of Figs by Simon Cleary — *Photo Credit:* *Simon Cleary/ Facebook*

With its elevated vantage point, Red Hill has long served as both muse and backdrop for literary giants like David Malouf and Nick Earls. Cleary’s narrative unfolds during a transformative period in Brisbane’s history—the construction of the majestic Story Bridge. This symbol of progress and ambition casts a long shadow over the story, mirroring the hopes and dreams of the city’s inhabitants.

The O’Shea Family: Navigating Change and Resilience

At the core of ‘The Comfort of Figs’ lies the O’Shea family, whose once-tranquil existence is disrupted by the bridge’s construction and the broader societal shifts it embodies. Through their experiences, Cleary paints a vivid portrait of a community in flux, navigating the complexities of love, loss, and resilience against the backdrop of a transforming urban landscape.

Exploring Themes of Obsession, Family Secrets, and Trauma

Cleary’s inspiration for the novel stems from a personal connection to Brisbane and its historical significance, notably the Story Bridge. The narrative intertwines two timelines: the bridge’s 1939 construction and its impact on future generations, focusing on the relationship between Robbie, a contemporary landscape gardener, and his father, a bridge worker.

Themes of obsession, family secrets, and the emotional consequences of trauma are woven into the narrative. The novel reflects on how monumental structures shape cities, familial relationships, and individual identities. Robbie’s passion for nurturing Moreton Bay fig trees contrasts with his father’s building obsession, highlighting a generational divide and differing approaches to growth and legacy.

Capturing the Human Stories Behind the Landmark

Cleary, a seasoned observer of Brisbane’s cultural tapestry, infuses his narrative with meticulous historical detail and a deep affection for his setting. The idea for the book sprouted from his fascination with the Story Bridge and its impact on the surrounding suburbs. He wanted to explore the human stories behind the landmark, to capture the everyday lives of those who witnessed its creation.

Brisbane as a Character: A Sense of Place

His depiction of Brisbane is rooted in his experiences living there for over four decades, adding authenticity to his portrayal of the city and its landscapes. He aims to evoke a sense of place that resonates with readers familiar with Brisbane, making the city a character in the story. The book also addresses contemporary issues, such as violence and personal trauma, linking them to the historical context of the bridge’s construction and enriching its narrative depth.

Celebrating Brisbane’s Unique Character and Enduring Spirit

‘The Comfort of Figs’ is more than just a historical novel; it’s a celebration of Brisbane’s unique character and the enduring spirit of its people. Cleary’s prose is evocative and insightful, capturing the essence of the city and its inhabitants with warmth and authenticity. He paints a picture of a Brisbane that is both familiar and surprising, inviting readers to rediscover the city’s hidden depths and timeless allure.

A Refreshing Perspective: Brisbane’s Heart Beats Strong

In a literary landscape often dominated by tales of the outback or the coast, ‘The Comfort of Figs’ offers a refreshing perspective. It reminds us that the heart of Brisbane beats strong in its suburbs, hills, and bridges. Cleary’s novel is a testament to the power of place and the enduring human connections that shape our lives.

Published Date 26-September-2024

Rebuilt Paddington Home Sells for $3 Million After 2016 Fire

Photo Credit: Ray White Paddington

A Paddington home at 25A Warmington St, destroyed by fire in 2016, has been rebuilt and sold for an impressive $3,017,777. This price significantly exceeds the suburb’s median house price of $1.9055 million.

The property was one of two neighbouring houses that caught fire in early September 2016, reportedly due to a faulty refrigerator in the adjacent home. The owners, who had just completed renovations before the fire, were forced to rebuild from scratch.

Over the past six years, the owners transformed the property into a contemporary five-bedroom, three-bathroom home. The new construction was only occupied by the family who rebuilt it.

Ray White Paddington agent Judi O’Dea managed the auction, which saw competition between two registered bidders. Bidding started at $2.7 million and increased in $50,000 increments. After an additional $200,000 was offered, one bidder dropped out.

O’Dea described the final negotiations as “a slow process.” The property eventually sold for $3,017,777.

Vendor Michael MacKay, who witnessed the 2016 fire, had previously commented on the incident. O’Dea characterised the rebuilding process as “a real ordeal” for the vendors but noted they were “very happy” with the sale outcome.

The new owners are a family from St Lucia with one child, who had been searching for a home since March 2024. They were attracted to the property’s newly-built condition and its location within desirable school catchment areas.

The home’s proximity to Milton State School, Kelvin Grove State College, St Joseph’s Primary School, Brisbane Grammar School, and Brisbane Girls Grammar School was a key factor in the purchase decision.

Published 23-September-2024

Student from Kelvin Grove Astronomic Ambitions Catapult Him to National Scholarship

Photo Credit: Queensland Academy for Creative Industries/ Facebook

A Kelvin Grove student’s childhood fascination with space has propelled him to new heights, earning him a coveted national scholarship.

Nayl Fassi Fihri, a Year 12 student at the Queensland Academy for Creative Industries, has been selected as one of only 25 recipients of the prestigious Tuckwell Scholarship for 2025.

QACI, a selective entry senior state high school located in Kelvin Grove, is renowned for its innovative educational environment and focus on creative disciplines. Established in 2007 as part of the Queensland Academies network, it is Queensland’s first vertical school, designed to accommodate a modern educational framework within a compact urban setting.

The academy offers the globally recognised International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, attracting academically gifted students from across the state and internationally.

*Photo Credit:* *ANU Tuckwell Scholarships/ Facebook*

This remarkable achievement will pave the way for Nayl’s relocation to Canberra next year. He will embark on a Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics at the Australian National University. The scholarship, valued between $76,000 and $136,000, will provide comprehensive financial support for three to five years of his undergraduate studies.

Nayl’s journey exemplifies the power of unwavering determination in pursuing one’s dreams. He has always harboured a profound passion for space exploration and has consistently demonstrated the academic rigour necessary to realise his aspirations.

The road to success, however, was challenging. Nayl faced a steep learning curve when he commenced the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Year 11. Despite initial difficulties, he exhibited remarkable resilience and rapidly improved his grades, a testament to his work ethic and commitment to excellence.

Nayl’s selection for the Tuckwell Scholarship underscores his exceptional potential and inspires aspiring astronauts and scientists nationwide.

As he prepares to embark on the next chapter of his academic journey, Nayl’s story reminds him that even the most ambitious dreams can be within reach with dedication and perseverance.

Published Date 18-September-2024

Star Chef Dario Manca Opens Attimi, His Dream Restaurant in Paddington

Photo Credit: Attimi/ Instagram

After a decade of anticipation and planning, renowned chef Dario Manca has finally unveiled his passion project, Attimi, on Given Terrace in the heart of Paddington.

Attimi, meaning ‘moments’ in Italian, promises to be a haven for those seeking unique dining experiences. The 28-seater restaurant offers a dual concept, with a set menu degustation on weekends and a la carte dining from Tuesday to Friday.

Manca’s degustation menu, available in eight or 12 courses (or ten with dietary requirements), invites guests on a culinary journey through his native Italy. Each dish comes with a personal explanation, highlighting its regional significance.

The eight-course menu provides a “quick Italian tour.” At the same time, the extended option offers a “sensory exploration of Italy,” blending traditional Italian cuisine with innovative twists inspired by Michelin-starred European and Nordic dining.

For those seeking a more casual dining experience, the a la carte menu promises exceptional quality without the formality of the degustation. Manca aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for locals and regulars to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.

Manca’s vision for Attimi extends beyond the food. He emphasises sustainability, particularly with the degustation menu, and draws inspiration from ‘cucina povera’ or ‘poor food.’ His trout from Abruzzo, featuring a sauce made from repurposed prosciutto scraps, exemplifies this philosophy.

Attimi also showcases Manca’s artistic flair. He hand-painted the menus, created the artwork adorning the walls, and commissioned whimsical Italian expression statues for each table.

An extensive wine list featuring over 100 selections from Italy and worldwide complements the dining experience. In-house gelato and sorbet made in Attimi’s gelataria provide a sweet finish.

Manca’s passion for his craft and dedication to offering something unique shine through in every aspect of Attimi. He believes in celebrating diversity within Italian cuisine and hopes to provide Brisbane with an unforgettable dining experience.

Published Date 10-September-2024

Express Delivery Incident Raises Concerns in Auchenflower

Photo Credit: reddit.com / @birribama

On September 9, 2024, an Auchenflower resident reported an incident with Australia Post‘s express delivery service. The customer, who wishes to remain anonymous, captured video footage of an Australia Post delivery van passing his house without stopping to deliver an express parcel.

The incident occurred just before 11:30 am. The footage shows the white Australia Post van slowing down near the customer’s house, with the driver briefly holding a phone out the window, apparently to photograph the letterbox, before driving away without attempting delivery.

Video Credit: reddit.com / @birribama

The Auchenflower resident had paid for express delivery of air conditioner parts. He reported being at home at the time of the incident, caring for his children. Despite being present, he received a notification stating he wasn’t home during the delivery attempt.

This prompted the customer to file a complaint with Australia Post. He expressed frustration at being unable to receive his express delivery as planned and had to collect the parcel himself on Wednesday from the Toowong Business Centre.

Australia Post conducted an investigation into the incident through the Pinkenba Parcel Delivery Centre. They confirmed that the issue had been addressed with the staff member involved, and that measures were taken to prevent similar occurrences.

Australia Post charges between $14.45 and $31.35 for express postage, depending on parcel size. In response to this event, an Australia Post spokeswoman acknowledged that the incident fell short of their expected standards for driver contractors and apologised to the customer.

Published 11-September-2024

New Chapter for Given Terrace: Proposal for Mixed-Use Development Announced

Given Terrace in Paddington is set for a dramatic transformation with a proposal submitted for a new mixed-use precinct.

Read: Given Terrace Estate in Paddington is 100 Years Old!

The proposal aims to rejuvenate a 2,830 square metre site at 208-220 Given Terrace, blending restored heritage charm with modern amenities to breathe new life into this iconic high street.

The development application by Core Property Partners and P&MV Constructions aims to strike a balance between restoration and innovation. It seeks to revitalise the existing character retail strip while introducing 12 luxury apartments and 31 short-stay accommodation suites.

Designed by DAH Architecture, a key feature of the plan is an activated laneway, designed to enhance connectivity and foot traffic in the area.

given terrace — Proposed laneway (Photo credit: DAH Architecture)

Nick Vidakovic of P&MV Constructions expressed enthusiasm for the project, describing it as a rare opportunity to reinvigorate Paddington’s retail heart. He emphasised that transforming this section into a precinct rather than a mere destination would boost foot traffic not only on Given Terrace but also on nearby Latrobe Terrace.

Proposed communal space (Photo credit: DAH Architecture)

Vidakovic highlighted the proposed laneway, which will connect the precinct to a neighbouring childcare centre. This civic space is set to feature a timeline of the area’s history dating back to 1881, potentially catalysing broader rejuvenation efforts in the surrounding businesses.

Core Property’s development manager, Bikram Kaler, underscored the project’s focus on restoring the character retail strip. He noted that while Given Terrace was once the epicentre of Brisbane’s high fashion and cafe culture, it had lost some of its allure in recent years.

Kaler expressed hope that the development would help attract more food and fashion enthusiasts back to the high street, thereby preserving Paddington’s unique character.

Read: Developer Targets Paddington for 48-Unit Residential Care Facility

Looking ahead, Kaler pointed out the strategic importance of the site’s location, particularly in light of the upcoming 2032 Olympics. He emphasised Paddington’s excellent connectivity to key sporting and entertainment venues, including Suncorp Stadium and the proposed Brisbane Arena precinct at Roma Street.

The development, he suggested, would not only enhance existing retail spaces but also provide a mix of residential and short-stay options, potentially boosting visitation and creating new job opportunities in the lead-up to the Olympics and beyond.

Published 11-September-2024