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Brewing Brands Joins CafeSmart Campaign for Homeless Relief

Murarrie-based Brewing Brands and its subsidiary Origin Tea have announced their participation in this year’s CafeSmart campaign, a nationwide initiative aimed at combating homelessness.

Read: Celebrity Chef Manu Feildel Joins Murarrie Processing Plant in Celebrating Community and Diversity

The annual CafeSmart event, now in its 14th year, will see over 700 cafes across Australia donate $1 from every coffee sold on Friday, August 16, to StreetSmart Australia. The funds raised will support local organisations providing essential services to those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Brewing Brands is taking an additional step by leveraging its Ordermentum system to raise funds from August 10-16. The company has pledged to match all customer donations made during this period, effectively doubling the impact of contributions.

The funds collected will be directed towards local grassroots organisations, supporting critical services such as food relief, emergency support, and housing programs.

“Homelessness is a big problem in south-east Queensland where the cost of housing has gone through the roof in recent years. On any given night across the state, there are thousands of people without a safe home, including families,” Chris Seaton, CEO at Brewing Brands, and Origin Tea, said.

“We want to do whatever we can to make them more comfortable at this time and are working with our partners and customers to tackle homelessness one hot cuppa at a time,” Mr Seaton said.

Liz Bayrak, Community Campaign and Events Coordinator at StreetSmart Australia, said that with the number of people struggling to make ends meet and living below the poverty line remaining high, community support is more crucial than ever.

“We are thrilled to have Brewing Brands and Origin Tea join us for CafeSmart this year, helping us respond to homelessness. It’s a powerful example of how industry brands can unite to drive positive social change right in their own backyards,” Ms Bayrak stated.

Customers can support the cause by visiting participating cafes on August 16 or by making donations through Brewing Brands’ Ordermentum system from August 10-16.

Read: Rivermakers Precinct Launches New Farmers and Artisan Markets

For more information about CafeSmart and participating locations, visit the StreetSmart Australia website.

Published 15-August-2024

From Brisbane to Paris: The Powerlifting Journey of Hani Watson to the Paralympics

As the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games approaches, Australia’s para-athletes are gearing up for their moment on the world stage. Among them is Hemmant resident Hani Watson, a rising star in para-powerlifting who has quickly become a force to be reckoned with in the sport.

Read: Easts Josh Nasser Joins Joe Schmidt’s First Wallabies Squad

Para-powerlifting, also known as para-lifting, is an adaptation of powerlifting for athletes with disabilities. In Paralympic competition, the discipline focuses solely on the bench press, showcasing incredible upper body strength and technique.

Watson’s journey to the Paralympics is nothing short of remarkable. Born with bilateral metaphyseal dysplasia, a condition that affected the development of her leg bones, she underwent multiple surgeries throughout her childhood. However, it was her father Charlie, a bodybuilder, who instilled in her a love for strength training and a belief in her abilities.

Rapid Rise to International Competition

This mindset propelled Watson into competitive powerlifting in 2018. Under the guidance of Australian para-powerlifting coach Simon Bergner, she made rapid progress. In 2021, just three years after beginning her competitive journey, Watson was representing Australia on the international stage at the World Championships in Georgia, breaking an Oceania record and finishing eighth overall.

Watson’s breakthrough moment came at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. There, she ended Australia’s 16-year medal drought in the sport, claiming bronze in the women’s heavyweight division with an impressive lift of 127 kg – nearly 30 kg more than her own body weight. This achievement echoed the last Australian medal in the sport, won by Darren Gardiener at the 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games.

Eyes on Paralympic Glory

Now, with the Paris Paralympics on the horizon, Watson has her sights set on the ultimate prize. The para-powerlifting events are scheduled for September 4-8, and Watson is determined to make her mark.

Watson’s rapid rise in the sport is even more impressive considering she balances her training with a full-time career as a hospital manager. Her dedication and success serve as an inspiration to aspiring para-athletes across Australia and beyond.

As the Paralympic movement continues to grow, Watson’s story highlights the evolving landscape of para-sports. Weightlifting first appeared as a Paralympic event in Tokyo in 1964, with powerlifting making its debut 20 years later. It wasn’t until the Sydney Games in 2000 that women’s powerlifting was finally included in the Paralympic program.

Read: Morningside’s Tammie Lauritsen Selected for National ‘She Can Coach’ Program

When the cauldron is lit on 28 August 2024, at the Place de la Concorde in Paris, Hani Watson will be among the 4,400 athletes from around the world ready to showcase their talents. Her journey from Brisbane to Paris is a testament to the power of perseverance, family support, and the transformative nature of para-sports.

Published 14-August-2024

Celebrity Chef Manu Feildel Joins Murarrie Processing Plant in Celebrating Community and Diversity

To celebrate workplace diversity, celebrity chef Manu Feildel recently visited Ingham’s Murarrie Primary Processing Plant in Brisbane, engaging with over 1,300 team members who are pivotal in delivering fresh, locally farmed chicken across Australia.

Mr Feildel’s visit to the Murarrie plant allowed the team members to showcase their workplace and the intricate processes involved in poultry production.

The chef, known for his expertise in the culinary arts, actively participated in the day’s activities, which included a comprehensive tour of the processing lines and interactions with employees across various departments.

“Meeting such a diverse range of people at Murarrie and hearing their different journeys was wonderful. Everyone worked so collaboratively together, and I saw in action how the shop floor workers contribute to continuous improvement,” Mr Feildel said, highlighting the innovative spirit at the plant.

Community at the Core

The Murarrie Processing Plant, ran by Ingham, is known for its strong sense of community and dedication to fostering a culture of inclusion and diversity.

Brenton, the General Manager of Ingham’s Murarrie facility, expressed pride in introducing Mr Feildel to the team.

“We are committed to fostering strong culture and diversity at Ingham’s, and this is cemented at Murarrie. It was a pleasure to introduce Manu to our team, and to have him contribute to our workplace community,” Brenton remarked.

Christina, the Continuous Improvement Coordinator at Murarrie, shared her enthusiasm for displaying their workflow to Mr Feildel.

“Showing Manu our processes, automations, innovations, and the consistency and quality we produce was incredibly rewarding,” she noted, adding that Mr Feildel’s approval of their operations was a testament to their hard work and dedication.

Manu Feildel — *Photo Credit: Ingham’s Chicken/YouTube*

Culinary Highlights and Recipe

A special feature of the visit was the cooking session where the chef teamed up with Meena, the Quality Assurance Manager at Murarrie, to prepare a traditional Sri Lankan chicken curry. Using Meena’s family recipe, this culinary collaboration was a highlight of the day, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the plant’s employees.

“Cooking with Meena was an absolute highlight. I love working with new people and hearing their stories of food and family, and Meena’s Sri Lankan Chicken Curry was absolutely delicious,” Mr Feildel shared after the session.

Below is the cherished recipe they prepared together:

Meena’s Sri Lankan Chicken Curry Recipe

Ingredients:

– 1kg boneless chicken thighs, cut into 5cm chunks

– 2 teaspoons turmeric powder

– 2 tablespoons fresh ginger paste

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 3 sprig sticks curry leaves

– 1 stick cinnamon

– 1 brown onion, finely diced

– 2 tomatoes, roughly chopped

– 3 long green chilies, slit, seeds removed

– 2 tablespoons Sri Lankan Curry Powder (recommended: Kings Curry Powder)

– 2 tablespoons tomato paste

– ½ cup (125ml) coconut milk

– Steamed basmati rice and roti bread, to serve

Method:

1. In a bowl, combine chicken, turmeric powder, and ginger; set aside.

2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add curry leaves and cinnamon stick; cook for 2 minutes. Add onions; cook until fragrant and translucent, about 7–8 minutes.

3. Add tomatoes, chilies, and tomato paste; cook until tomatoes have softened. Stir in curry powder and cook for 2 minutes.

4. Add marinated chicken pieces, mix through and fry for 5 minutes. Stir in coconut milk and 60ml water; season with salt flakes.

5. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes or until the curry has reduced. Serve with steamed rice and roti bread.

Published 14-Aug-2024

Hockey Queensland in Colmslie Highlights Critical Facility Shortfall Ahead of Brisbane 2032 Olympics

Hockey Queensland in Colmsie has highlighted the severe lack of suitable facilities in Brisbane, despite the city’s status as a future Olympic host and Queensland’s reputation for producing top hockey talent.

The call for improved infrastructure comes as Brisbane prepares to host the 2032 Olympic Games. A recent Hockey Major Infrastructure Feasibility Study by Oltium Planning revealed a significant deficit in synthetic pitches, with seven more needed to meet current community demands and an additional ten required by 2042.

Current State of Facilities

The existing State Hockey Centre in Colmsie has been described as the worst hockey facility in Australia.

Hockey Queensland chief executive Alison Lyons stated that regional centres like Townsville, Mackay, and Cairns boast better facilities than Brisbane’s main hockey venue. This situation has left the sport’s governing body unable to host sanctioned international events in the state capital.

Queensland has invested over $14 million in community hockey since January 2015. This includes $481,177 allocated to Hockey Queensland for constructing change rooms and an officials room to support female participation at Colmslie. However, officials have shown reluctance to commit to a new facility, citing financial constraints.

Future Plans and Opportunities

Hockey Australia desires to bring international events to Queensland, recognising the state’s enthusiastic hockey community and its track record of producing high-performance players. However, more suitable infrastructure is needed to prevent this from happening.

Ms Lyons emphasised the need for facilities that would not only support the Olympic Games but also bring other major events to Brisbane. She suggested the possibility of hosting a 2030 hockey World Cup as a lead-up event, which would benefit both the Brisbane community and the wider Queensland region.

If elected, the opposition has announced plans for a 100-day review of Games infrastructure by an Independent Infrastructure Co-ordination Authority. This review would consider the Games’ requirements and deliver a comprehensive plan for transport, infrastructure, and legacy projects.

Published 29-July-2024

Rivermakers Precinct Launches New Farmers and Artisan Markets

The Rivermakers Precinct is set to unveil its highly anticipated Farmers and Artisan Markets, establishing a new social and shopping hub in Morningside.

Known for its blend of industrial and retail spaces, the Rivermakers Precinct, will host the grand opening of the Rivermakers Farmers and Artisan Markets on 21st July from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

The Irvine Family, owners of the precinct, have transformed the area into a vibrant community focal point that combines local produce and artisan crafts with industrial innovation. By partnering with Goodwill Projects, they aim to fulfil the community’s long-standing wish for a genuine market experience.

Rivermakers Precinct Morningside — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Features and Attractions

The market promises an array of attractions, including live music on two stages, roving entertainers, and a range of activities for children such as jumping castles and an animal farm.

Over 150 vendors will offer a variety of goods from handmade sourdough and unwaxed apples to artisanal soups and spice mixes. Notable local businesses like The Bakeologists, Low & Slow Meat Co, and Gourmet Taste Creations are some of the highlights, ensuring that attendees can purchase products directly from the producers.

Located at 82 Colmslie Road, Morningside, the Rivermakers Precinct is easily accessible with two traffic lights to the Gateway Motorway. It boasts 450 free parking spots to accommodate a large number of visitors.

The markets will continue to be a weekly event, happening every Sunday following the grand opening, providing a consistent and vibrant weekend destination for Brisbane residents and visitors alike.

With its scenic riverside location and a wide array of offerings, it is set to become a staple for those seeking quality, freshness, and community spirit every weekend.

Published 17-July-2024

Brewdog Dogtap in Morningside to Host Paw-some Pups and Pints Winter Edition

Calling all dog lovers and beer aficionados! Brewdog Dogtap Brisbane is about to become the ultimate doggy destination for Pups and Pints Winter Edition.

Prepare for an epic afternoon overflowing with furry cuddles, ice-cold brews, and heartwarming camaraderie, all supporting the incredible work of Safe Haven Animal Rescue Inc (SHARI).

The event on Sunday, 28 July will run from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and promises an afternoon of furry fun and fundraising in the dog-friendly patio area. While entry is free, attendees are encouraged to book a table to secure a spot for their pack.

The canine companions are in for a treat with a special menu from L’Barkery featuring doggie beers and a Barkuterie Board. Brewdog’s full food menu will be available for humans, and a Karma Keg will be on tap. Proceeds will go towards SHARI’s ongoing vet bills.

Adding to the excitement, professional pet photographer Hairypaints Photography will be on hand to capture memorable moments, and a Puppy Cuddle Pen will feature a mix of adoptable dogs and SHARI ambassadors.

SHARI, established in 2014, has rescued and rehomed over 2,500 cats and dogs. All animals are fostered in carers’ homes rather than a traditional shelter. This event presents a unique opportunity for the community to support SHARI’s mission while enjoying an afternoon of good food, great beer, and even better company.

So, gather your furry friends and head to Brewdog Dogtap this Sunday for a tail-wagging good time, all for a great cause.

Published Date 16-July-2024

Panic in Morningside: Family Lock Themselves During Home Invasion By Teens

A Morningside family cowered inside a locked bedroom in terror when a group of teens broke into their home, in the latest of a series of home invasions that police say have seen homes in up to eight Brisbane suburbs targeted in quick succession within the past few days.

Details of the Ordeal

Robyn Sinclair and her family experienced sheer terror early Wednesday morning, 10 July 2024, when a group of teenagers forcibly entered their home. Sinclair, along with her husband Doug Newnham and their two young children, barricaded themselves in a bedroom.

Amid the chaos, the parents tried to protect their children and themselves whilst continuously informing the invaders that the police had been called. Unfortunately, their warnings seemed to provoke the teenagers further. The offenders, described as hooded youths, then attempted to force their way into the family’s barricaded bedroom, damaging the door and door frame significantly, whilst demanding car keys.

The terrifying experience has left the family deeply shaken, fearing for the long-term psychological effects on their young children. Queensland Police are investigating the incident, which occurred shortly after 1:30 a.m. They have confirmed that while the offenders left without stealing any property, they left behind a trail of psychological and physical damage.

Morningside family lock themselves from thieves — *Photo Credit: QPS*

Widespread Crime Spree

The assault on their home is believed to be part of a larger string of burglaries and car thefts that have plagued Brisbane during the week. Teenagers allegedly forcing entry to homes in MacGregor and Sunnybank, and climbing a fence to enter property in Paddington, are among the appalling scenes captured on CCTV footage by terrified homeowners.

In response to this and similar incidents across the Brisbane area, police have intensified their search for the group. They are reviewing CCTV footage from affected areas and conducting patrols in high-risk suburbs to deter further incidents.

Queensland Police spokesperson urged the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The police also highlight the importance of community collaboration in these efforts, encouraging the public to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 with any information that could lead to the apprehension of the suspects.

In light of these events, Ms Sinclair, a healthcare worker, stressed the importance of securing homes and being vigilant. She remarked on the broader social issues contributing to such crimes, including mental health issues and socio-economic pressures. The family, though safe, remains on high alert.

Ms Sinclair gave this exclusive interview to 9News:

Adult Crime, Adult Time?

In line with this Morningside incident, a proposal to apply adult sentences to juveniles for serious crimes has ignited a complex discussion on the most effective approach to juvenile justice. During the recent convention of the LNP, David Crisafulli, the party’s leader, suggested that juveniles found guilty of serious offenses such as murder should receive adult sentences. He believes that this change would ensure that the consequences align with the severity of the crimes committed.

However, this proposal has met with skepticism from various advocacy groups, who question its efficacy in deterring crime. Katherine Hayes, CEO of the Youth Advocacy Centre, pointed out a lack of evidence supporting the idea that longer sentences curb reoffending. She emphasised that current measures already impose significant penalties on young offenders, with Queensland recording the highest youth incarceration rates in the country.

The Queensland Council for Civil Liberties has also weighed in, suggesting that the focus should perhaps shift towards addressing findings from the auditor-general’s report on juvenile justice. This report highlighted a need for better rehabilitation and educational opportunities for juveniles to decrease future offences genuinely.

The Justice Reform Initiative has voiced worries that harsher penalties could lead to deeper entrenchment of youths in the criminal justice system, ultimately increasing their likelihood of reoffending as adults.

Whilst the debate continues, experts agree that a balanced approach focusing on rehabilitation alongside appropriate penalties might offer a more effective solution to reducing juvenile crime.

Published 11-July-2024

Rising Star from Seven Hills: Freya Callaghan’s Journey from Local Dance Studio to Netflix

At just 16 years old, Seven Hills resident Freya Callaghan is already making waves in the entertainment industry. This young talent is proving herself to be a true triple threat – actress, dancer, and singer – with piano skills to boot.

Read: Meet the Future Superstars from Kimberley Woodger Dance Academy

Freya’s artistic journey began at the tender age of 4 when she started dancing at Kick Dance Studio in Morningside. Over the past three years, she has expanded her horizons into the world of film and television, amassing an impressive portfolio of over 13 short films and 3 feature films.

Her most notable appearance was in the Netflix movie “True Spirit,” where she worked alongside acclaimed actors Anna Paquin and Josh Lawson, portraying Young Emily Watson.

The stage has also been a platform for Freya to showcase her talents. She starred as Young Fiona in Gordon Frost’s production of “Shrek the Musical” and as Young Cosette in the Queensland Conservatorium’s rendition of “Les Misérables.” In the realm of short films, Freya has taken on lead roles, including the character of Vee Metzger in “Wendy & Vee,” collaborating with industry professionals Andrew Condor and Jean-Baptiste Canac.

Freya’s versatility extends beyond acting and dancing. She has appeared in music videos and television commercials, and even dedicated six months to stunt training in 2023. Her hard work and dedication were recently recognized when she became a semi-finalist in the 7News’ Young Achievers Awards in the Career Category.

Outside of her artistic pursuits, Freya is equally committed to personal growth and community service. She is currently completing her Gold Programme for the Duke of Edinburgh Award, a program that challenges young people to develop new skills, embark on adventures, and give back to society through various service opportunities

Born and raised in Seven Hills, Freya is a dual citizen of Australia and Ireland. Her passion for all things creative was evident from an early age, and she continues to hone her craft by exploring various aspects of acting. This includes participating in stunt work, attending acting courses, seeking guidance from mentors, and remaining open to new opportunities.

Read: Morningside’s Tammie Lauritsen Selected for National ‘She Can Coach’ Program

Freya Callaghan’s story is one of dedication, talent, and ambition. As this Seven Hills resident continues to tick boxes across multiple disciplines, she stands as an inspiration to young artists everywhere, proving that with hard work and passion, one can achieve remarkable things at any age.

Published 7-July-2024

Cricket Legend’s Former Morningside Home Fetches $5 Million

Photo Credit: Place

A Morningside home once owned by Australian cricket fast-bowling legend Jeff Thomson fetches $4,965,000, more than quadrupling the suburb’s median house price. The historic Queenslander home is located at 28 Algoori Street.

The median house price in Morningside currently stands at $1.15 million, having surged an impressive 66.4% over the past five years. This latest high-profile sale is likely to further boost property values in the area.

Known as “Toronto,” the five-bedroom, four-bathroom Queenslander sits on a generous 4,047 square meter lot, a rarity in this increasingly sought-after suburb. The property’s size and historic significance make it a standout in Morningside’s real estate landscape.

Sarah Hackett from Place Estate Agents Bulimba, who handled the sale, noted the broad appeal of the property. “The campaign for this property resonated widely, attracting a diverse array of interested buyers from locals seeking more space to expats and interstate buyers,” Hackett stated. This interest reflects Morningside’s growing attraction to a variety of homebuyers and investors.

The property’s amenities, including a pool, outdoor kitchen, and even Thomson’s original cricket pitch, showcase the potential for luxury living in Morningside. Such features are likely to set new standards for high-end properties in the area.

Published 6-July-2024

Morningside Quarry: A Historical Chronicle of Tragedy and Transformation

Photo Credit: Mapping Brisbane History

The Morningside quarry, once a pivotal site for bluestone extraction in the aftermath of World War I, has a history steeped in utility and tragedy.

This site, now transformed into Keralgerie Park, played a significant role in shaping the local infrastructure and community of Brisbane’s growing suburbs.

Initially, the quarry was integral in providing the much-needed bluestone for road construction, which was crucial for the expanding suburbs during the early 20th century. However, the quarry’s operations were fraught with danger. In 1933, Victor Kelsey tragically lost his life after a fall, and in 1936, C. Callaghan perished in an explosion. These incidents underscored the perilous nature of the quarry’s working conditions.

By the 1940s, the quarry had ceased its industrial use and had transformed into a community swimming spot. The quarry’s waters, reaching depths of 5 to 20 metres, became popular for swimming and diving, even hosting the 1948 Australian diving championships. However, the allure of the deep waters came with a dark side. The locals ominously dubbed it ‘The Devil’s Pool,’ a name that proved prophetic.

The tragic deaths of several individuals marred the quarry’s reputation. In 1952, Edith Zeiner, aged 38, drowned in the quarry. The following year, two youths, William McKinnon and Victor Miller, also met their untimely deaths in the same waters.

These repeated tragedies prompted the Brisbane City Council to take decisive action. The council erected fences around the pool and imposed a swimming ban. Subsequent testing revealed traces of typhoid in the water, leading to the decision to drain and fill the quarry.

Today, the once-dangerous site of the Morningside quarry has been transformed into Keralgerie Park, a serene community space that belies its tumultuous past. The park serves as a sombre reminder of the region’s history, which has seen both the highs of neighbourhood gatherings and the lows of tragic losses. This transformation highlights the resilience and evolution of Morningside, from a vital industrial site to a place of recreation and remembrance.

Published Date 02-July-2024