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SecondBite’s Major Expansion: New Warehouse in Morningside to Double Food Rescue Efforts

Did you know that Morningside has become the focal point of a significant advancement in the fight against food insecurity, thanks to the not-for-profit organisation SecondBite? The opening of a new warehouse in this suburb marks a major step forward in their mission to rescue and distribute food to those in need.

This new facility is a game-changer for SecondBite. It doubles the internal floor space to an impressive 1,200 square metres and includes extended chiller and freezer capacity.

This expansion is not just in size but also in impact, as it enables the organisation to double its food rescue operations in Queensland. The goal is to increase from the 6 million kilograms of food rescued last year to a staggering 12 million kilograms, equating to about 24 million meals annually.

“With the number of food insecure Australian households going from one in five to one in three in the past year, the increased capacity of the new location couldn’t come at a better time,” Daniel Morefield, CEO of SecondBite, highlighted the timely nature of this expansion.

A Community Effort

The expansion was made possible through a mix of government support and private generosity. A significant portion of the funding came from a $500,000 grant by the Queensland government, coupled with over $500,000 in donations from the Charles and Cornelia Goode Foundation, Bowden Marstan Foundation, and the Pavetta Foundation.

The contributions were utilised for a variety of needs including a freezer, cool room installation, modular buildings, signage, pallet racking, a forklift, lease costs, temperature sensors, food containers for the Domestic Violence Meal Program, and power upgrades.

Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills, Dianne Farmer, who officially opened the site, emphasised the impact of this funding.

“It will ‘flow through’ to help Queenslanders on the ground who are grappling to make ends meet,” she said.

Strategic Location and Operations

The choice of Morningside for the new warehouse was strategic, considering its close proximity to the gateway motorway, making it convenient for major donors and charity partners to access. The site includes a 600m2 covered yard fit for semi-trailers, a secure yard, and dual roller doors, enhancing the operational efficiency.

Secondbite Morningside — Photo Credit: Secondbite/Facebook

Currently, the warehouse operates with a team of 12 employees and is equipped with five fleet vehicles used for collecting food from donors.

These vehicles are crucial in bringing back produce and other items to the warehouse, where they are sorted and packed for distribution to over 50 charity partners each week.

A Widespread Impact

Mr Morefield further elaborated on the scope of SecondBite’s operations.

“We work with more than 227 charity partners in Queensland and this warehouse will service both metro and regional areas, helping to feed millions of hungry Queenslanders from as far as Mossman and Mt Isa in the north all the way to Burleigh Heads in the south.”

This expansion by SecondBite represents a vital step in addressing food waste and insecurity in Queensland, proving that with community support and strategic planning, substantial progress can be made in the fight against hunger.

Published 27-Nov-2023

The Sim Range: Extraordinary Golfing Experiences Await in Cannon Hill’s Newest Gem

Photo Credit: The Sim Range

Did you know that the Sim Range, a family-owned and operated 24/7 driving range and 18-hole golf course simulator, has opened in Cannon Hill, offering a remarkable fusion of technology, entertainment, and community?

The new recreational site is more than just a golfing facility; it’s a visionary venture that seeks to elevate the essence of golf. Founded with a passion for the sport and a commitment to making golf accessible to all, The Sim Range is a haven for golfers of all levels, from novices to experts.

The Sim Range’s goal is to provide golf enthusiasts with top-notch simulator technology and exceptional customer service. The owners also want to create a vibrant community where golfers can connect, thrive, and forge lasting connections. With a blend of technology and warm hospitality, they aspire to inspire a lifelong love for the game of golf.

Immersive Experiences Await

Cutting-edge simulators provide guests a realistic golfing environment, offering precision and breathtaking realism with every swing. The commitment to excellence extends to the immersive visuals, accurate ball flight data, and a welcoming atmosphere that greets golfers.

The Sim Range allows golfers to tee off on world-renowned courses, experiencing the rush of competition or enjoying a leisurely round with friends. The stunning graphics and immersive soundscapes transport players to revered fairways around the globe. These simulators faithfully replicate the essence of golf, creating an unparalleled golfing experience that leaves players awe-struck.

Beyond technology, The Sim Range focuses on creating a sense of belonging and fostering a vibrant golfing community. Golf enthusiasts can connect with fellow players, participate in tournaments, attend clinics, and share the camaraderie that makes golf special.

BOOK A TEE TIME

Golf for Everyone

The Sim Range welcomes seasoned pros, aspiring golfers, and those looking to try something new. It’s an invitation to embark on an unforgettable golfing journey, to elevate your game, ignite your passion, and discover the extraordinary world of simulator golf.

So, what exactly is simulator golf? It’s golf without the walking, in a quarter of the time, and without being at the mercy of the elements. Their high-definition projectors and sophisticated launch monitors recreate the look and feel of real golf, showcasing realistic ball physics. Players can hit balls on the range or play full rounds on a choice of famous courses from around the world.

To join The Sim Range as a member, individuals must be 18 years old or 16 with parental consent. However, social rounds are open to the whole family, as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

BECOME A MEMBER

Follow them on Instagram for more details.

Published 1-Nov-2023

Balmoral State High’s Ecomarines Named Sustainability Award Finalists

Balmoral State High School’s Ecomarines have been named as one of the finalists for the 2023 WasteSMART People’s Choice Award.

Read: Farmers Pick Grocery Subscription Service Expands to QLD via Morningside

The prestigious award recognises individuals, community groups, and businesses that go above and beyond in their sustainability efforts to make Brisbane a clean, green and waste-smart city.

Balmoral State High School’s Ecomarines

The EcoMarines serve as the biology and environmental society at Balmoral State High School. They maintain a sustainable garden on campus containing native seedlings, citrus trees, and vegetable beds utilising water wicking technology.

Last August, the EcoMarines celebrated National Tree Day by planting donated Emperor mandarin trees in their sustainability garden. They also participate in community events focused on sustainability and waste reduction, including the local government’s Eco-Forum held earlier this year.

EcoMarines ambassadors undergo training on topics like food waste, fast fashion, plastic pollution and wastewater management to learn sustainable best practices they can implement at the school.

2023 WasteSMART Awards

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner encouraged Brisbane residents to vote online and help decide this year’s winner of the $350 prize.

Cr Schrinner said the WasteSMART Awards were a fantastic way to encourage all residents to think about simple changes they could make to improve sustainability.

“Just like the 2023 finalists, we’re committed to keeping Brisbane clean, green and sustainable, while keeping costs down for residents,” he said.

“We’re carefully trialling food waste recycling in 6000 homes and more than 13,000 residents have taken advantage of our $70 compost and worm farm rebates.

“You can supersize your yellow top recycling bin for free, since we waived the establishment fee.

Since July 2023, Council has also made it easier and cheaper for residents to dispose of their green waste by halving the price of the green top bins to less than $1 a week.

“I encourage everyone to adopt waste smart strategies and cast your vote for the wonderful groups and individuals who are leading the charge on waste reduction and sustainability.”

Read: SecondBite, Two More Food Rescue Organisations In Morningside Get Funding Boost

Public voting is open until Monday, October 16. To view the finalists, visit www.wastesmartawards.com.au.

Published 16-October-2023

Morningside Mum to Receive Innovative Care from Mater’s New Program for Diabetic Women

Maria Oliveri, a Morningside mum and researcher, will help pioneer an Australian-first midwifery care model when she gives birth to her third child this October.

Read: Farmers Pick Grocery Subscription Service Expands to QLD via Morningside

Oliveri, 33, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes after her first pregnancy, will receive care through Mater Mothers’ Hospital’s new Obstetric Midwifery Group Practice (OMGP).

The innovative OMGP offers a hybrid of traditional midwifery care with added obstetric support for pregnant women with diabetes like Oliveri. It is the first program of its kind in Australia.

Developed by Mater’s leading clinicians and researchers, the OMGP model will provide Oliveri and other diabetic mothers specialised care throughout pregnancy and birth. By merging midwifery-led care with obstetric oversight, mothers can experience a pregnancy guided by midwives with the safety net of obstetric interventions as needed.

“My first pregnancy was low risk and I felt so empowered as the care focused on my pregnancy and my baby,” she said.

“My second pregnancy was very different. I felt my Type 1 diabetes was the focus of my pregnancy. I had to explain my situation to a different doctor each and every time.

She admitted that her second pregnancy was frustrating at times, and she did not experience the same joy she had felt during her first pregnancy. Having previously worked as a midwife in a midwifery group practice herself, the Morningside mum believes Mater’s new model will provide mothers with the consistent care they need and deserve.

According to Mater Associate Professor Shelley Wilkinson, traditional Midwifery Group Practices provide excellent outcomes and continuity of care for low-risk women and babies during pregnancy.

“Midwifery Group Practices are a brilliant, evidence-based model of care in which low-risk women are allocated a primary midwife who provides their care throughout their pregnancy, labour, birth and postnatal period,” Associate Professor Wilkinson said.

Mater researchers first gathered 9 months of baseline data from women in the current standard care model. Now they will analyse these findings to shape the Obstetric Midwifery Group Practice pilot program, launching later this year.

Dr Jo Laurie (Photo credit: www.matermothers.org.au)

Dr Jo Laurie, Mater Mothers’ Hospital Director of Obstetric Medicine, said eligible women will be offered enrollment in the Obstetric Midwifery Group Practice program when they initially book their prenatal care appointments.

Dr Laurie explained that in the new model, a dedicated midwife will provide comprehensive care by joining the mother at appointments with her full treating team, including obstetricians and physicians. This wraparound approach ensures seamless coordination.

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

“We believe that this will create a better journey for women. And by having the same skilled midwives caring for these more complex women during labour, it will hopefully keep these babies out of the special care nursery and with their mums for that precious early bonding time,” Dr Laurie said.

Published 6-October-2023

Farmers Pick Grocery Subscription Service Expands to QLD via Morningside

Photo Credit: Farmers Pick/Facebook

Farmers Pick, a Melbourne-based sustainable grocery subscription service specialising in rescuing “imperfect” fruits and vegetables, is making its Queensland debut, with the opening of its new warehouse in Morningside.

Co-founded by Josh Ball and Josh Brooks-Duncan in 2020, the company has rapidly grown and is now expanding its operations to serve over 1.5 million households in the region.

With its Morningside base, opened in August 2023, Farmers Pick will be able to deliver its fresh but aesthetically non-conforming produce to areas spanning from the Gold Coast to Bundaberg.

“Our expansion into Queensland is a huge milestone for the business and a goal we have always wanted to achieve,” Mr Ball said.

“With food waste costing Australians $36.6 billion per annum, we believe that everyone across the country is deserving of convenient and simple solutions to make a difference. We are thrilled to now be able to make a difference to Queenslanders, bringing us one step closer to our mission of building a sustainable food system for all.”

Rescuing Imperfect Produce to Combat Food Waste

Since its inception, Farmers Pick has rescued over 1.5 million kilograms of produce that would have otherwise gone to waste due to not meeting the stringent aesthetic standards set by major supermarket chains and buyers. These are fruits and vegetables deemed “not big enough or too big, blemished, too bendy and not quite perfect looking,” according to Mr Ball.

The idea for Farmers Pick sprouted during the COVID-19 pandemic when the two friends stumbled upon discarded yet delicious fruits and vegetables at a farmer’s market.

They soon discovered that a staggering 1.7 million tonnes of fruit and vegetables, roughly 30 percent of the crop, were left unharvested on Australian farms each year, contributing to the nation’s annual food waste of 7.6 million tonnes.

Making a Mark with a Range of Offerings

In the financial year 2021-22, Farmers Pick generated $2.7 million in revenue, a figure that surged to $7.8 million in 2023. The company’s products are priced at a remarkable 30 per cent lower than supermarket equivalents.

The Farmers Pick subscription service offers fruit and vegetable boxes starting at $36 for a solo box, containing 6 kilograms of fresh, perfectly imperfect produce across 16 to 20 varieties.

Additionally, customers in Queensland will have access to The Farmers Pick Pantry, which offers preserves, alternative kinds of milk, and spreads such as peanut butter.

While Farmers Pick currently employs around 45 staff members, their expansion into Queensland will initially bring on board five new employees. To fund their expansion plans in both Queensland and New South Wales, the co-founders are aiming to raise $1.2 million in capital through crowdsourced funding via the Equitise platform.

A Win for Consumers Amidst Rising Prices

Mr Brooks-Duncan emphasized that as grocery prices continue to rise across Queensland, Farmers Pick’s expansion represents a significant victory for consumers. By rescuing fruits and vegetables that would otherwise go to waste, the company helps households save up to 30 per cent on their weekly grocery bills, offering much-needed relief in an era of soaring food prices.

With its mission to combat food waste and provide affordable, sustainable food options, Farmers Pick’s expansion into Queensland marks a crucial step towards building a more sustainable food system for all Australians.

Published 27-Sept-2023

Cannon Hill’s Skyline Set for Transformation with Proposed Nine-Storey Office Tower

Did you know that a striking 10-level, CBD-grade office tower will be part of the ongoing redevelopment of the former CSIRO site in Cannon Hill?

This development is a significant addition to the East Village mixed-use precinct, strategically located about 6.5 kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD.

The proposal, submitted in September 2023 via DA A006361131, aims to reshape the Cannon Hill locality, offering high-quality office space, recreational facilities, and fostering urban regeneration.

The planned office tower, designed by Blight Rayner, is set to cover an expansive gross floor area of 10,264 square meters, including seven levels dedicated to office space, a welcoming ground-floor lobby, a vibrant plaza entrance, and a food and beverage tenancy.

East Village Cannon Hill — Photo Credit: DA A006361131

Moreover, it aims to cater to the modern needs of the working population by providing 171 parking spaces across three basement levels and end-of-trip facilities with storage for 71 bicycles.

The building, referred to as stage 1A, forms an integral part of the broader urban village development spanning a 5.5-hectare holding. East Village was initially touted as a $600-million endeavour when construction began onsite in 2012. Located strategically opposite the Cannon Hill Shopping Centre and in proximity to the Cannon Hill train station, this precinct is set to become a pivotal urban centre.

“The development’s architectural design capitalizes on the visual prominence of the site along Wynnum Road, showcasing a range of high-quality design elements,” per the town planner’s report in the DA.

“The site is identified as a planned growth node within the strategic framework of the City Plan, and this development would appropriately respond to the prominent location of the site, supporting Brisbane’s suburban growth.”

“The high-quality design of the proposed development significantly contributes to the distinction of the Cannon Hill centre and will support the needs of the surrounding residential areas of Brisbane.”

The Anthony John Group is a Brisbane-based developer renowned for its commitment to urban renewal. Their portfolio includes several other urban precincts such as The Emporium at Fortitude Valley, Southpoint at South Brisbane, and Rosalie Village in the city’s inner-west. The company initially acquired the 5.5-hectare site in 2008 for $34 million, marking a significant transformation from its earlier use as the CSIRO’s meat research laboratory.

While the proposal promises a remarkable addition to the Cannon Hill skyline, it must first navigate a significant planning hurdle. Zoning rules currently limit the site to seven storeys, and thus, the council will categorize the development application as “impact assessable,” allowing for public submissions.

If approved and constructed, the project promises to redefine Cannon Hill and significantly contribute to the area’s economic growth.

Published 20-Sept-2023

Early Works Begin on Morningside Station Accessibility Upgrade

Early works have begun on accessibility upgrades at the Morningside station, one of the most utilised stations on the Cleveland line.

Read: Queensland Rail Shows Footage Of Near Misses In New Safety Campaign

The upgrades, which are also being rolled out at the Lindum, Buranda, and Banyo stations, are part of the Station Accessibility Upgrade Program, will include raising the station platforms to reduce the gap between trains and platforms, making boarding easier and safer.

Lifts will also be installed to allow wheelchair users, people with prams and those with luggage to access station overpasses and platforms more easily.

Other improvements will include upgraded accessible facilities like toilets, ticket windows and seating areas. New tactile flooring, signage, information screens and enhanced lighting and CCTV security will also be added.

Member for Bulimba, Di Farmer said the Morningside station is one of the most utilised on the Cleveland line, and the accessibility upgrade will make a big difference in encouraging more people to use public transport.

“Public transport is just so important and I know there has been a lot of excitement because of the upgrade plans.

“This is a terrific investment which I think when completed, will encourage more people in and around Morningside to consider public transport.”

Closure of Stations

To enable the upgrades to be completed as quickly as possible, the stations will be required to close starting from January next year.

Alternative transport options will be made available while the stations are closed. The stations are expected to reopen throughout the second half of 2024, except for Buranda which is scheduled for completion in 2025.

Locals’ Feedback

Queensland Rail is seeking feedback from customers to help design alternative transport options during the closures.

Queensland Rail Head of SEQ Scott Riedel said they want to hear directly from those customers who will be affected by these closures so they can work out how best they can support them whilst the upgrade is progressing from January next year.

“This feedback will be used to ensure there is appropriate alternative transport in place and help us prepare for any extra patronage at surrounding stations,” said Mr Riedel.

We understand this will change the way customers travel for a period of time, but we’re committed to making our rail network accessible for everyone in the long-term.

“Once reopened, the upgraded stations will ensure everyone can catch the train with ease, whether they are using a wheelchair, are injured, or simply travelling with a pram or luggage.

Read: Morningside Will Soon Have ‘Separated Bike Lanes’

Customers can provide feedback on the closures and accessibility upgrades via a Queensland Rail survey.

Published 13-September-2023

Morningside Will Soon Have ‘Separated Bike Lanes’

Plans to trial a groundbreaking approach to designing and constructing separated bike lanes in Brisbane will soon commence in Morningside.

The pioneering project is set to transform Junction Road in the Morningside neighbourhood into a cyclist’s haven.

The allocated budget of $587,000 will be utilised to construct separated bike lanes with physical barriers, marking a bold departure from conventional road design.

Morningside Bike Lane — Photo Credit: CrRyanMurphy/Facebook

This initiative, spearheaded by Council’s Chair of Transport Cr Ryan Murphy, is part of a broader effort to expand the city’s active transport network and encourage more residents to adopt cycling as a viable means of commuting.

Junction Road, a pivotal route connecting Morningside and Cannon Hill, will undergo road resurfacing works to accommodate the new infrastructure. However, Mr Murphy has not yet announced a specific date for the start of construction.

“Junction Road in Morningside will be the first in Brisbane, with $587,000 allocated for construction pending road resurfacing works. It’s all part of Team Schrinner’s record investment in public and active transport,” Mr Murphy said.

The move has been warmly welcomed by local cycling advocacy groups, like Space4cyclingbne and East BUG Inc., which have long championed the idea of protected bike lanes for the area. Junction Road, while not considered as critical as some other routes, presented an opportunity for transformation due to its width, allowing the integration of protected cycling lanes alongside on-street parking.

“When East BUG Inc. noticed Junction Road was on the list for re-surfacing in 2020, we petitioned Council to include protected bike lanes rather than just re-painting the current configuration,” Space4cyclingbne shared.

“We pointed out that the width of Junction Road allows the possibility of bike lanes which are protected from heavy traffic while still leaving room for ample on-street parking.

“We highlighted that protect bike lanes here will give people options to ride a bike or scooter to the major shopping centres at Morningside Junction, and the growing commercial, recreational and sporting precincts at Colmslie.

“It will enable and hopefully inspire more families at Cannon Hill Anglican College (CHAC) to avoid adding to local congestion by riding to school instead.”

Published 11-September-2023

Tender Proposals Sought for Murarrie Recreation Reserve

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / brisbane.qld.gov.au

Brisbane City Council is seeking tender proposals for the lease of a community facility located at 1238 Wynnum Road, Murarrie Recreation Reserve, Murarrie.

The facility available is the Brisbane International Cycle Park. The goal is to establish the reserve as a premier destination for international cycling and enhance its capacity to meet sporting and recreation needs in Brisbane.

Brisbane International Cycle Park is located at1238 Wynnum Road, Murarrie Recreation Reserve, Murarrie. This new state-of-the-art, two-storey building. The facility features various amenities, including a canteen, storage areas, bike trailer parking, change rooms, public toilets, first aid room, community/meeting room, and an expansive viewing platform overlooking the cycling track.
The available spaces for lease include a canteen (33 sqm), store room (15 sqm), and community room (58 sqm). The lease term being offered by BCC is for up to four years.

To apply for this opportunity, visit the Brisbane City Council website (www.brisbane.qld.gov.au) and search for ‘Community Facility Tender’, then follow the instructions to submit your tender application.

Your application should include a written response that demonstrates your ability to meet the eligibility criteria and key selection criteria. Likewise, be sure to address all the necessary requirements outlined in the tender documentation.

Applicants must demonstrate the financial capacity to deliver the planned outcome in a timely manner and ensure sustainable ongoing operations. Consider whether your proposed activity is consistent with the Zone Code and if it will require a development application.

Please note that the organisation will be responsible for covering any associated development application costs.

Also for those who wish to conduct a site inspection, you can contact Council at (07) 3403 8888 and ask to speak to the Lease Management Team for more information. Keep in mind that the facility is currently under construction.

An appropriate lease fee will be negotiated with the successful tenant(s). Applicants should also be prepared to cover the costs associated with lease preparation, stamp duty, survey costs, and titles office registration. Additionally, the tenant will be responsible for facility maintenance, building insurance, and utility payments during the lease term.

For any additional information or inquiries, you can visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or call Council on (07) 3403 8888. Make sure to thoroughly review the tender documentation and guidelines provided by the Brisbane City Council to ensure that your application is complete and meets all requirements.

Interested parties should ensure that your organisation meets the eligibility criteria as specified in the tender documentation. The deadline for submitting your tender application is midnight on 8 September 2023.

Published 10-September-2023

Fitness Station at Bill Cash Memorial Park Offers Enhanced Workout Experience

Did you know that the new Bill Cash Memorial Park Fitness Station in Cannon Hill is now complete?

This newly established area, situated within the scenic Cannon Hill Recreation Reserve, promises a more comfortable and engaging workout experience for all visitors.

The station’s strategic design includes shaded areas to ensure a pleasant workout environment even during sunny days.

Among the equipment available are roman rings, a sit-up bench, parallel bars, push-up and pull-up bars, catering to a variety of fitness preferences. Additionally, seating has been thoughtfully incorporated, allowing visitors to rest and recharge between exercises. A connecting concrete footpath has been laid to facilitate easy access to the station.

Each piece of exercise equipment is accompanied by clear “how to use” instructions, ensuring that individuals of all fitness levels can make the most of the equipment.

A convenient QR code system has been implemented, providing users with access to additional exercise ideas and routines to diversify their workouts.

The local community played a pivotal role in shaping this upgrade, as residents and fitness enthusiasts alike contributed their ideas and suggestions to the project. With the Fitness Station now open, the community is encouraged to explore the new facilities and take advantage of the enhanced workout options available.

Bill Cash Memorial Park is home to community organizations and facilities such the Southside Eagles Football Club of Bulimba, the Cannon Hill Stars Netball Club, and the Cannon Hill District Netball Association.

The park continues to evolve as a hub for sports and recreational activities, further enhancing the local community’s well-being.

Published 30-Aug-2023