Helmed by Milanese chef Jacopo Corbetta, the eatery combines traditional recipes with fresh Australian ingredients, offering both dine-in and take-home options for food enthusiasts.
A Culinary Journey from Italy to Brisbane
Mr Corbetta’s culinary expertise is rooted in his Milanese heritage and enriched by international experience. Having worked at the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio and serving as head chef at Icebergs in Sydney for five years, Mr Corbetta relocated to Brisbane in 2020. He began by selling lasagne through local retailers before opening Corbetta’s Kitchen in December 2024 to meet growing demand.
A Menu to Please Italian Food Lovers
Corbetta’s Kitchen offers a variety of traditional Italian dishes that cater to both casual and refined tastes. Popular menu items include:
Lasagna alla Bolognese – from $26.99
Cannelloni – Spinach & Ricotta (800g) – $27.99
Polpette al Pomodoro – from $35.99
Parmigiana di Melanzane – from $38.99
Napoli Sauce – from $9.99
Ragu alla Bolognese – from $12.99
Lunch options such as pork sausage rolls, ricotta and spinach rolls, and margherita focaccia pizza add a casual touch to the menu. Patrons can enjoy their meals outdoors at the picnic tables available on site, making it a welcoming spot for locals and visitors alike.
Location and Emphasis on Freshness
The eatery is strategically located next to The Morningside Meat Market and The Fish Factory, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality, fresh ingredients. This focus on freshness has been a cornerstone of Mr Corbetta’s approach to cooking, resonating with locals and food enthusiasts alike.
Community Impact and Retail Availability
Beyond its dining experience, Corbetta’s Kitchen offers ready-to-cook meals available online and through various Brisbane retailers. Popular stockists include All About Fruit in New Farm, Frescos in The Gap, and Hillsdon Grocer in Taringa. The kitchen also caters to businesses and home cooks with wholesale and bulk order options.
Future Prospects
As Corbetta’s Kitchen continues to flourish, it has become a staple in Morningside’s dining scene, delighting patrons with its cozy dine-in experiences and versatile retail offerings. The eatery’s commitment to quality and authenticity resonates strongly with local Italian cuisine enthusiasts.
Whether customers visit for a delightful meal or to purchase products for their own kitchens, Corbetta’s Kitchen remains a beloved fixture in the community, celebrated for its culinary excellence.
The two-storey home on Gatling Road was significantly damaged when a fire broke out shortly after midday, quickly engulfing the upper level.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFD) crews responded at approximately 12:05 p.m., finding the house well alight. Fortunately, the residents who were home at the time managed to evacuate safely before fire crews arrived. Paramedics assessed the occupants and confirmed they were unharmed and did not require further treatment.
Firefighters battled the blaze and successfully extinguished it by 12:45 p.m. While the top floor of the residence sustained extensive damage, the ground floor remained largely unaffected. Neighbours who had been temporarily evacuated as a precaution were given the all-clear to return to their homes.
Authorities are now working to determine the cause of the fire, with investigations by both QFD and Queensland Police underway. Preliminary findings suggest the fire originated in an upstairs bedroom before spreading rapidly throughout the top level of the house.
Train services at the Morningside Station have resumed following nearly a year-long closure for significant accessibility upgrades, with some access challenges still in place for commuters.
The station resumed operations before the New Year’s Eve 2025 celebrations, as part of the Station Accessibility Upgrade Program. Despite the reopening, work on additional features and finishing touches will continue into early 2025.
The reopening aims to provide long-term benefits by improving accessibility, ensuring that all passengers can travel more safely and without barriers.
Construction, which started in late January 2024, was impacted by significant rainfall, with South East Queensland experiencing its wettest December in nearly 15 years.
This also delayed the reopening of Banyo Station, which is now expected to be operational in early 2025. Meanwhile, Buranda Station is scheduled to reopen mid-year.
Community Adjustments and Challenges
While Morningside Station has reopened, access remains challenging, particularly from Wynnum Road. Commuters using this entrance face lengthy detours, either over an old overpass or via Jack Flynn Memorial Drive, which involves navigating high-speed traffic and uneven footpaths.
Cyclists from East Bug Inc. have expressed concern over the inconvenience, citing the difficulty of carrying bikes across these routes and the absence of a secure bike storage facility at the station.
They recommended that bike users allow extra time for their journey and use the rear carriage for inbound trains, as it is closest to the station entrance. However, they noted this area often becomes crowded as it is popular among other passengers for the same reason.
More Improvements Underway
Morningside Station is set to receive additional improvements, including a bicycle storage cage, which will address some of the current concerns of the cycling community. The accessibility upgrades are part of a broader effort to modernise the network, ensuring stations are equipped to serve the needs of all passengers.
A driver in Murarrie had quite the fright after an eastern brown snake was spotted poking out from under his car bonnet while out on a recent shopping trip.
The unexpected encounter happened recently when something unusual was noticed under the bonnet. Recognising it as one of Australia’s most venomous snakes, professionals were quickly called in to handle the situation.
Eastern brown snakes (Pseudonaja textilis) are well-known around Australia for their venom and quick reflexes. They are often spotted in dry, open spaces but aren’t strangers to suburban areas either, especially during warmer months.
While their venom is highly dangerous, these snakes usually avoid humans unless they feel cornered. Experts recommend staying calm, backing away slowly, and calling a professional snake catcher if one is spotted.
Why Do Snakes End Up in Cars?
It’s not unheard of for snakes to sneak into car engines, especially when seeking warmth or shelter. The engine bay offers a cosy hideaway, and snakes can climb up from the underside of vehicles without being noticed.
In most cases, they will move on by themselves, but attempting to remove them without help can be risky.
Snake Catcher Luke to the Rescue
Snake Catchers Brisbane & Gold Coast was called to handle the situation. It was snake catcher Luke who arrived on the scene to manage the removal. The eastern brown snake was carefully extracted, with the snake catcher confirming it had likely climbed up from underneath the car’s engine.
The snake was safely relocated to a more suitable environment, ensuring no harm came to either the driver or the snake.
Regular inspections are advised by snake experts particularly in cases where vehicles have been parked close to grassy areas or bushland. A quick visual check under the bonnet and around tyres will help to prevent unanticipated interactions.
Should a snake be ever seen in or close to a vehicle, the best course of action is to remain calm, maintain a safe distance, and immediately call a qualified snake catcher.
On a quiet February morning in 1957, the idyllic suburban life of Cannon Hill was shattered in a storm of violence. By the time the smoke cleared on Narella Street, six people lay dead, and one brave policeman’s quick actions had prevented an even greater catastrophe.
It began like any other day on Narella Street, a dusty strip of modest homes in Brisbane’s Cannon Hill. The children were preparing for school, neighbours were brewing morning tea, and the air was filled with the comforting predictability of suburbia. Then, at 7:30 a.m., the sharp cracks of gunfire broke through the stillness.
Constable John “Jack” Strickfuss, off-duty and enjoying his breakfast just a few doors away, immediately sprang to his feet. A large man with a commanding presence and a reputation for action, Strickfuss grabbed his garden hose and rushed toward the smoke billowing from the Majka household. What he encountered would haunt the community for years to come.
Inside the Majka home, Marian Majka, a Polish immigrant who had survived five years in Nazi labour camps, had snapped. Armed with a .30-calibre American Army carbine, he had stabbed and bludgeoned his wife, Gisela, and their five-year-old daughter, Shirley, before setting the house on fire. But Majka’s rampage wasn’t over.
As flames consumed his home, Majka crossed the street to the Irvine household, where Belinda Irvine and her daughters Annie, 12, and Maureen, 9, were having breakfast with 10-year-old neighbour Lynette Karger. In cold blood, Majka opened fire, killing them all before setting the home ablaze.
Smoke and screams filled the air as neighbours began to realise the enormity of the situation. Strickfuss, undeterred by the chaos, attempted to force his way into the Majka home but was driven back by flames. Then he saw the Irvine house, also burning, and sprinted toward it with neighbours Jim Ainsworth and Fred Ganter.
As the men approached, Majka fired at them, sending bullets whizzing past their heads. One struck the sole of Strickfuss’s boot, but he pressed forward. Ainsworth retrieved Strickfuss’s service revolver, and the constable charged into the inferno through the back door.
What Strickfuss found was devastating. Majka was dead, having turned the gun on himself, but the damage had already been done. In the kitchen, Strickfuss discovered the lifeless bodies of Mrs. Irvine, her daughters, and Lynette, their small forms still smouldering from the fire. Amid the carnage, he heard the faint cries of a baby.
Six-month-old Elaine Irvine was found beneath her mother’s body, her tiny foot injured by a bullet and her hair singed by flames. Wrapping her in a blanket, Strickfuss rushed her to safety, yelling for a taxi to take her to the hospital. His decisive actions saved her life.
Photo Credit: National Library of Australia
The Aftermath of Tragedy
By the end of the morning, six lives had been lost: Gisela and Shirley Majka, Belinda, Annie, and Maureen Irvine, and Lynette Karger. Majka’s motives for the attack were never determined, leaving the community and investigators to speculate on what could drive such violence.
The massacre sent shockwaves across Brisbane, shattering the sense of safety and trust that had defined suburban life in the 1950s. Cannon Hill, once a symbol of quiet family living, became synonymous with one of Queensland’s darkest days.
Heroism Recognised
Constable Strickfuss’s courage did not go unnoticed. For his bravery under fire and his unflinching resolve to save lives, he was awarded the George Medal, one of the Commonwealth’s highest honours for civilian bravery. Neighbours Jim Ainsworth and Fred Ganter received Queen’s Commendations for Bravery for their roles in assisting Strickfuss.
The George Medal is one of the Commonwealth’s highest civilian honours for bravery. Instituted by King George VI during World War II, the medal is granted to individuals who display extraordinary courage in non-combat situations. Constable Strickfuss’s actions that day in 1957 became a defining moment in his career and a symbol of selflessness and duty, reminding the community of the extraordinary sacrifices ordinary people are willing to make in times of crisis.
Photo Credit: National Library of Australia
Elaine Irvine, the sole survivor of the Irvine household, recovered from her injuries and later moved to Adelaide with her father, Neil. The Karger family, however, suffered another heartbreak when Lynette’s mother passed away two years later, unable to bear the weight of her loss.
Photo Credit: National Library of Australia
A Lasting Legacy
More than six decades later, the Cannon Hill massacre remains a grim chapter in Brisbane’s history, remembered both for its senseless violence and for the selflessness of those who risked their lives to protect others. Constable Strickfuss retired as a highly respected sergeant and passed away in 2012, leaving behind a legacy of bravery that continues to inspire.
The events of that day are a stark reminder of how quickly lives can be changed forever, but also of the courage that can emerge in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
The Do-Op Shop in Morningside, known for its community focus and sustainable practices, has raised over $85,000 for local charities in the past three years.
Do-Op Shop isn’t your typical store. It wants to make buying second-hand clothing cool and encourage people to reuse items. It offers free and low-cost workshops showing people how to upcycle their old clothes into something new.
Anything that can’t be sold or upcycled is given to companies that can use the fabric for other purposes. It also ensures that any electrical items they sell are safe, using special equipment to test them.
The shop to be more than just a place to buy clothes. They want to create a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable. The shop provides a place for people to connect and feel like they belong. It’s a place where people can find affordable items and volunteers feel appreciated.
It also supports other charities. For example, they recently gave $15,000 to Ocean Crusaders to help them clean up the Brisbane River.
Do-Op Shop is passionate about protecting the environment. They believe encouraging people to buy second-hand goods can help keep items out of landfills. They also want to show people that upcycling is a fun and creative way to give old clothes a new life.
Morningside station is set to reopen on 31 December, just in time for New Year’s Eve celebrations. After 11 months of closure, the station returns with a host of modernized features, aimed at enhancing accessibility, safety, and convenience for all commuters.
Key features of the upgraded Morningside station include:
– A new footbridge with lift access, improving accessibility for all passengers
– Improved accessible parking, including additional spaces to meet growing demand
– Full-length high-level platforms, making boarding and disembarking easier
– Upgraded hearing augmentation loops and tactile ground surface indicators to support commuters with disabilities
– Enhanced security cameras and lighting to increase safety
– New wayfinding and platform signage for better navigation
– Upgraded station office and facilities to improve customer service
Photo credit: Queensland Rail
Although trains will resume stopping at Morningside, some finishing touches, including the completion of lifts, landscaping, and civil works, will continue into early next year.
Queensland Rail highlighted the significance of reopening for the local community:
“We’ve listened to our customers, who told us they’ve been looking forward to the stations reopening so they can catch the train again from their local. While trains will be stopping at the stations soon, construction on additional upgrade features and finishing touches will continue into early next year.”
Lindum and Banyo Stations Updates
While Morningside prepares to reopen, Lindum station will also welcome commuters back ahead of Christmas on 23 December. This will provide much-needed relief for locals, especially with traffic congestion caused by construction in the area.
On the other hand, Banyo station’s reopening has been delayed to early 2025 due to challenging site conditions and the impact of heavy rainfall. Southeast Queensland has recorded its wettest December in nearly 15 years, significantly affecting construction timelines.
Community Reactions
Photo credit: Queensland Rail
The reopening of Morningside station has been met with relief and enthusiasm on social media. Some commuters voiced concerns about parking, with Queensland Rail confirming that over 50 car parks will be available from opening day, with more spaces to be added in the coming months.
The reopening of Morningside station signals a step forward for local commuters, providing a modern, accessible, and safer transit hub as the community looks ahead to celebrating the festive season and the new year.
The ambitious project, spearheaded by Potentia Solutions Leisure, the group behind popular venues like Soko Rooftop and Lina Rooftop, will breathe new life into the existing Rivermakers site on Colmslie Road. This 30-hectare space, already home to Revel Brewing Co and Mas & Miek Ceramic House, will now boast an array of exciting additions centred around the historic Commonwealth Acetate of Lime Factory.
Food lovers can rejoice with a wide variety of culinary offerings. The Hills will feature a pizzeria serving ten different kinds of pizza, a gelateria scooping over 20 flavours of homemade gelato, and a seafood counter offering fresh catches and classic fish and chips. A cafe and bakery will provide delicious daily treats, while coffee aficionados can enjoy freshly roasted beans from the on-site roastery. The Roadhouse will offer a casual pub experience with classic meals and a lively atmosphere.
In 2025, The Providore will open its doors, offering a curated selection of meats, dairy products, and fresh produce. An urban winery will provide a sophisticated space to enjoy locally made wines, charcuterie boards, and cheese platters, with indoor and outdoor seating.
The Hills of Rivermakers is designed to be a destination for the whole family. A petting zoo will operate every weekend and throughout the school holidays, allowing children to interact with alpacas, rabbits, chickens, and other friendly animals. An indoor play area will allow kids to burn off energy while parents can relax and enjoy the precinct’s many offerings. An open-air cinema will screen films for those seeking entertainment under the stars, creating a unique outdoor movie experience.
Ross Ledingham, founder of Potentia Solutions Leisure, expressed his confidence in the project and its appeal to families, young adults, and professionals in the area. The Hills aims to provide a much-needed hub for the community, offering a diverse range of activities and experiences. The development also incorporates sustainable practices, with increased parking, solar panels, improved irrigation systems, and a 200-square-metre garden providing fresh produce for the precinct’s kitchens.
The Hills of Rivermakers will also cater to a variety of events. The Engineers Hut provides an intimate setting for weddings and private celebrations, while a large heritage hall can accommodate up to 400 guests for larger functions. The open-air cinema, lawn, picnic area, and petting zoo can also be booked for private events.
The cameras, equipped with cutting-edge surveillance software, transmit live footage directly to a 24/7 security monitoring center, enabling officers to track activity and respond quickly to any incidents. This modern system is designed to deter unlawful behavior and assist authorities with critical evidence when required.
Photo credit: Scott Nicholls/Google Maps
Minnippi Parkland, which features sprawling meadows, looped cycling and hiking trails surrounding a lagoon, and a scenic birdwatching deck, remains a favorite spot for families, nature lovers, and fitness enthusiasts. With the recent addition of CCTV cameras, visitors can now feel even safer while spending time in the park.
The rollout, which is part of Brisbane’s Suburban Safety Cameras program, follows increasing concerns over suburban crime across the region.
Photo credit: QPS – Online Crime Map
According to the Online Crime Map, Murarrie recorded 96 offences in the last quarter, from September to December 2024. These cameras are expected to help reduce criminal activities and offer additional support to law enforcement agencies.
Minnippi Parkland is one of several prominent locations to receive fixed CCTV cameras as part of broader efforts to address safety issues. Other locations include:
Luxworth Place, Moorooka
Tinchi Tamba Wetlands, Boondall
People’s Park/West End Community Park
Frew Park, Milton
Caxton Street, Milton
Musgrave Park, West End
Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve
These installations aim to improve safety in popular suburban and recreational areas, ensuring they remain accessible, secure, and enjoyable for the community.
With the continued expansion of CCTV cameras across Brisbane’s suburbs through the Suburban Safety Cameras program, the initiative promises to deliver enhanced security and peace of mind for all residents and parkgoers.
The $35 million project, a joint venture between the Federal Government and Brisbane City Council, will feature state-of-the-art criterium tracks, a 500-metre inline skating track, a new clubhouse, and upgraded parking facilities.
Construction commenced in March 2022, with demolition, repurposing, and significant infrastructure development taking place over the past year. The project is nearing completion, with landscaping, clubhouse fit-out, and track works underway.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner expressed excitement about the new facility, highlighting its significance for Brisbane’s sporting future. He said this investment will benefit local cyclists and contribute to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games legacy.
The park, located at 1238 Wynnum Road, is poised to become a hub for local and international cycling events. It will complement existing facilities such as the 1.4-kilometer cycling track, skate park, and basketball court.
The project is part of a broader vision for the Murarrie Recreation Reserve, which aims to transform the area into a premier sporting and recreational destination.
The final concept plan, developed through extensive community consultation, outlines the phased development of the reserve, with the cycle park being a key component.
