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Morningside Childcare Centre Development to Proceed After Rejection in 2018

Boussal Pty Ltd has finally secured approval for a childcare center on Richmond Road, Morningside, two years after an initial rejection. Residents opposed the project in 2018 because of concerns that it would cause traffic and increase street parking on the busy street.

Changes to the development application were submitted in July 2020 and a Planning and Environment Court ruling supported the modifications. The judge stated that the changed development application may be approved “subject to the amended conditions.”

The changes include reducing the number of apartments and the bulk of the building as well as improving the car park area and landscaping within the facility.

Photo Credit: PD Online/Brisbane City Council

Residents submitted objections against the project two years ago, stating that a large childcare centre would cause traffic and increase street parking in a busy street like Richmond Rd. The locals also said that the centre is located beside a railway, where the air quality isn’t ideal for kids.

“I’ve heard from residents further up that line who say the pollution from freight trains is terrible,” a resident said. “I was told the black pollution quite literally discoloured their external wall nearest to the tracks. I’m not a doctor but I don’t think little children should be playing next to this day in and day out.”

Meanwhile, a Councillor Kara Cook said that the community might no longer need another childcare centre. Half a mile away from this Richmond site is a recently-built facility that may cater to 120 children.

“Incredibly disappointed to report that the childcare centre and unit development at 2-8 Richmond Rd is going ahead. This is despite Council originally giving 47 reasons for rejecting the application,” Ms Cook wrote on Facebook.

Morningside Historical House in Danger of Being Destroyed for New Townhouse

A Morningside historical house, believed to have been built before 1911, could be destroyed amidst plans to develop a new townhouse complex in its place.

The property on 50 Richmond Rd is “code assessable,” which means that the development application (DA), filed by Wisan Hawa in June 2020, does not need public notice. The public also has “no formal rights of submission or appeal” to contest the DA. Hawa’s DA proposes that an eight-unit townhouse will be built on the site.

However, Morningside locals, led by Councillor Kara Cook, want the Council to investigate before approving the DA as the house could be a heritage. A number of residents also submitted their reasons for opposing the planned development.

“Character homes should be prevented from demolition to preserve the historic character of Brisbane,” one resident wrote.

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council PD Online

Another resident submitted a detailed compilation that may likely prove that the majestic plantation house was part of the Federation era 1890-1914.

“I believe this property is from the Federation Era 1890-1914 and should be protected and listed as Heritage as it is an important part of Morningside’s history,” the resident said. “I believe 50 Richmond Road is a combination of Federation Filigree with echoes of Queen Anne style due to the bay windows and attached front gazebo shape verandah.”

Gazebo verandah houses during the Federation period had geometric brackets and dowel balustrades, as well as tin roofing and timber cladding, among other features.

City Planning Chair Krista Adams confirmed that the property does not have any heritage protection. However, the Council has issues with the DA for its building height, design, landscaping and communal space.

Following the complaints from the residents, Anthony Colwell of Insight Planning and Development, the development’s planner, said that they are considering options to relocate the house.

Mr Colwell, however, insisted that, as it stands, they have been abiding by all the codes and if approved, the project could provide more than 100 jobs.

Community Calls for Safer Riding Rd and Pashen St Intersection in Morningside

Calls for a full upgrade of the Riding Road and Pashen Street intersection in Morningside are again being made, with Councillor Kara Cook at the forefront, as residents ask for Council attention to prioritise the safety of children using the zebra crossing to the local school.

Children use the Pashen Street crossing daily, to get to Morningside State School, located on the same street. Last year, Natalie Munro’s daughters, Layla and Jasmine, were hit and seriously injured whilst crossing Pashen Street, whilst their mum helplessly looked on.

“I was on [the Hawthorne Park] side, I stopped. I honestly can’t say where that car came from, it happened so fast.”

“I looked back at the girls and just in my left vision, saw a car and screamed out to stop, but there wasn’t time,” Mrs Munro recollected to other media at the time.

The intersection is a busy one, with a combined traffic count of 17,000 vehicles for both street, according to Morningside Councillor Kara Cook.

Cr Cook has asked Council to explain why the Morningside intersection hasn’t been prioritised for a full traffic signal lights upgrade, similar to the one planned for the Sylvan Road and Kate Street intersection in Toowong.

Like the Morningside intersection, the Toowong intersection is also across from a school and children also use it often. However, there is significantly less traffic at the Toowong intersection, with a daily count of almost 8,000 vehicles, less than half that in Morningside.

Also, data released by Council shows that the Morningside intersection has over 700 pedestrian movements daily, and a record of two collisions. The Toowong intersection has less than 300 pedestrian movements and fortunately, no collisions on record.

Yet, Cr Cook points out, the Toowong intersection is getting a full traffic signal lights upgrade and the Morningside intersection, despite repeated calls and a rally held in 2019 for Council support, has yet to be prioritised for funds allocation.

Infrastructure Committee chairman David McLachlan has given assurances that the Morningside intersection upgrade in under consideration and that decisions made by Council on what projects to prioritise were not based on which Councillor represents a Ward.

“Council is aware of the safety issues at Riding Road and is considering the future allocation of funds towards an intersection upgrade at this location,” he said, also pointing out that additional safety measures had been added after the accident in 2019.

Flashing LED signages had been installed in the area in 2019 and speed limit reduced in an attempt to prevent future accidents in the crossing.

This Morningside Eatery Has the Best and Hottest Curry

Are you crazy enough to try Australia’s hottest curry dish? Then ring up Curryville in Morningside, order a serving of their Chicken Hai Hai — described as a dish with “live grenades” — and then say your prayers before eating.

That’s what Curryville actually advises its diners if they choose this particular dish from their take away menu. Incidentally, Curryville has been around for 15 years, which only means that the chef knows how to whip authentic Indian dishes that truly satisfy your spicy cravings and need for some chilli heat!

Many locals say that Curryville has the best curries in town and they do have quite a selection — from red meats (lambs and beef), chicken, seafood and vegetables.

Visitors to Morningside also frequent this Indian restaurant to satiate their hankering for classics like tikka masala, samosas, and panir with naan.

This diner also offers vegan options and a few items made especially for children who are still developing their taste for rich and flavourful curry dishes.

You’ll likely get a kick out of picking food from their dine-in menu, as each food description has a dash of humour to it.

“We make a lot of our stuff fresh. Yes, we know you’ve heard this mantra before, but it’s the truth. Nothing beats freshness,” the owners Pervez & Ambreen Burney claim. “Next up is our blend of spices and sauces. Our curries contain an average of 18 – 27 spices.”

“We tend to focus more on lighter spices and use a very light hand in the heavier, stronger spices. This is where the magic comes in…knowing how much to use and when is key – a bit complicated and a huge headache.

“THIS is THE difference. Finally, the ‘ balance.’ That’s the magic.”

Curryville is open for dinner time daily. To check their store hours, visit their Facebook Page.

“After many visits we decided to try the vegan options. Similar offering to the Tiffin, trio of curries with rice. The food was stunning, great flavours, we practically licked the plates clean. An added bonus, the food was lite on our stomachs. Even as a meat eater I think you would be pleasantly surprised.”
Mark Randall Jones, Facebook

“Possibly the best Indian restaurant I’ve ever been to. Amazing and delicious food. Would recommend trying everything. Fantastic and highly recommend for a truly authentic Indian dinner experience.”
Michael Monaco, Google Reviews

“This curry shop has been our must visit restaurant everytime we come to Brisbane for the past 5 years & it will continue to be. The flavours are so good. We are regular curry eaters & this has been our favorite. We had lamb korma & beef madras, yummo.The waiter who I think was newish was very good & friendly. The only fault I had this visit was the plates & cups they were metal & I kind of felt like I was camping not eating at a restaurant but apart from that it was absolutely great!”
UdontnomeBBB, Trip Advisor

Two Thumbs Up for Great Meals at Norman Park’s Jacu Espresso

What makes a great meal? Individual preference matters but in general, a great meal goes beyond taste and flavour. Sometimes, it’s nice to enjoy food when you’re with company or amidst an idyllic and pleasant ambience like Jacu Espresso in Norman Park.

This cafe in a quiet suburban neighbourhood is a convenient breakfast place for early risers and busy workers. It’s usual to see groups of people starting their day here before heading to work or school.

Locals also come to Jacu Espresso with their four-legged family, as the eatery has cosy and spacious outdoor seating. You and your pup won’t feel intimated by its set up and design. The cafe has such an inviting vibe!

Beyond breakfast gatherings, its all-day brunch menu is the perfect meal for diners who like to have both breakfast and lunch options at any time of the day. The restaurant serves a balanced blend of traditional and homemade meals with unique gourmet creations.

French toast for a mid-morning meal? Jacu Espresso will let you indulge with a serving of “whipped cream cheese, grilled banana, berry compote, fresh fruit and lots of maple syrup!”

A bagel for breakfast? Jacu Espresso’s current special is a tasty but healthy delight made with avo and smoked salmon.

The cafe got its name from a South American herbivore bird, Jacu, which is known for its excellent coffee cherry diet. The partially digested beans are then picked off, dried, cleaned and then sold as one of the world’s most coveted coffee beans.

Hence, this restaurant also has great coffee choices, along with an ample selection of chai tea and other specialty drinks.

This Norman Park foodie spot trades daily. Check their Facebook Page for the store hours.

“Love the menu and food at this cafe and the cosy vibes. The staff are super kind and friendly. The coffee is top quality and I can’t fault anything about this place. Highly recommend for brunch dates.”
Amity Evans, Google Reviews

“Just my favourite place to catch up with friends and family…plus my pup is always welcome. Must not forget the Staff are so friendly.”
Maggie Kelsey, Facebook

“Lovely, good clean crisp setting inside and out, good vibes with some African music going off and making everyone happy. Latte was smooth and the barista gave me tasting of a filter and a cold drip which were lovely. Definitely worth a visit.”
AdamN, Beanhunter

Support Small Business Owners at the Exclusive African House Market

The African House at Jean Howie Drive kicked off its very first Market Day to showcase small business owners and local African-run enterprises in January 2020. It’s back for a second time on Saturday, the 29th of February 2020, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

Sponsored by the Queensland African Communities Council (QACC), this market is where you could discover some impressive African-inspired items produced by artists and crafters with an African background. Did you know that there are over 63,000 African-Australian individuals residing in many communities across Queensland?

The African House Market is also an opportunity for small business owners to showcase their work or products. If you’re interested in becoming a stallholder, you may apply by filling out the online form. Stalls are for $25 per table and chair.

For enquiries about the market, phone William at 0435 805 665 or email enterprise.qacc@gmail.com.

Established since 2003, the QACC provides opportunities for skilled immigrants and refugees to flourish and thrive in Australia. The organisation won the 2013 Queensland Multicultural Award in the Not-for-Profit Community Organisation-Greater Brisbane.

Morningside is Among Best Performing Suburbs for House Price Growth

Morningside has made the list of top ten Brisbane suburbs in terms of year-on-year house price growth, the latest Domain report said.

The Domain House Price Report, December 2019 quarter report showed mixed results for the Greater Brisbane market. Houses showed steady price growth over the last seven years whilst the units market continued to slump, dropping annually over the past two-and-a-half years.

Whilst house prices grew a respectable 1.3 percent over the last quarter and 0.4 percent overall growth in 2019, a few suburbs managed to perform better, recording double-digit growth. Leading the pack is Fig Tree Pocket which soared 30 percent year-on-year to $1,150,000.

Morningside also managed to register an 8.2 percent year-on-year price growth to $763,000, the Doman report said. Whilst REA Group’s realestate.com.au also reported a median house price growth in Morningside, rising to $800,000 in 2019 from $735,000 in 2018.

Other suburbs that registered double-digit median house price growth are Windsor, Yamanto, and Newmarket. Rounding out the top ten are Balmoral Woodridge Coorparoo Morningside Bridgeman Downs.

Top 10 Brisbane suburbs for median house price growth:

Fig Tree Pocket	$1,150,000	30.2%
Windsor	$980,000	22.1%
Wilston	$1,060,000	17.5%
Yamanto	$415,000	15.6%
Newmarket	$870,000	10.1%
Balmoral	$1,050,000	9.8%
Woodridge	$327,000	9%
Coorparoo	$900,000	8.4%
Morningside	$763,000	8.2%
Bridgeman Downs	$775,000	7.3%

Note: According to the Domain House Price Report, December 2019 quarter and based on year-on-year growth.

The units market continues to soften, dropping to 3.4 percent quarter-on-quarter in December 2019. Analysts are still optimistic that excess in supply will ultimately be absorbed as the number of new constructions continue to fall.

House prices in Brisbane appear to be taking its cue from other markets, particularly Sydney and Melbourne, which are showing stronger price growth and will likely to continue to perform well in 2020.

Spice It Up with Authentic Thai Food at This Morningside Restaurant

Photo Credit: Morningsidethai/Facebook

There’s so much to love about Thai food. Besides the aroma and the rich combination of flavours, dishes are usually nutritious, thanks to the fresh fruits, herbs and veggies in them. If you’re craving for places offering authentic and wholesome Thai food across Brisbane, one of your best choices is Morningside Thai.

Located on the corner of Lawson Street and Wynnum Road, this restaurant is best for families and large groups because of the spacious setup and outdoor seating. Locals cite the relaxed atmosphere, reasonably priced tasty food, and friendly staff as their reasons for coming back.

The food here is kept as original as in Thailand. Fried rice, for instance, has that smoky, “burnt” flavour achieved by cooking the rice in a blazing hot wok and whilst their pad thai does not have dry shrimp and pickled radish, the sauce is homemade and boasts original thai flavour.

The most popular dish here is gourmet chicken, which is stir-fried chicken served with onion, capsicum, cashew nuts, and dried chilli. Other favourites on the menu are the green curry, vegetable curry puff, grilled prawns, and Spicy Basil Eggplant.

Some items, like duck broccoli and deep-fried tofu, can also be cooked gluten-free if preferred. For dessert, one of the must-tries is lychee sorbet and coconut ice cream.

Morningside Thai is open seven days a week, though they only serve dinner on Sundays. They are at 3/6 Thynne Rd, opposite Morningside Train Station.

For more information about them, check out their Facebook page. Aside from the dine-in option, they offer both takeaway and delivery. They accept orders through their website and even offers a discount for every first order.

This Murrarie Brewery is Giving ‘Pawternity’ Leave to Employees

Pet parenting is no longer a fad. It’s a lifestyle embraced by those who consider pets as family and recently opened BrewDog in Murrarie is recognising the importance of pets as it extends Pawternity Leave benefits to its employees.

The Scottish brewery and pub chain, which opened its first site in Australia in Murrarie in late November 2019, has been implementing its Puppy Parental Leave since 2017. BrewDog Murrarie workers may also avail of the same benefit and get an extra week of paid leave if they adopt or have a new puppy at home.

New furry family members need some time to settle in its new home and BrewDog sees the value of having pet parents around for a puppy’s first few days in a new place.

“We know that welcoming a four-legged arrival to the family is a big commitment,” BrewDog’s pawternity leave policy stated. “Gaining trust, housetraining and working out routines take time so we have decided to make things easy by offering Puppy Leave.”

When the pups are well-adjusted, employees may also bring their furry kids to the brewery.

Per reports, RSPCA Queensland praised BrewDog for this initiative. However, the brewery is not the first company in Australia to offer the perk to its staff. Australia’s largest online pet store, Pet Circle, also has a similar pawternity leave in place.

Pet parental leave is increasingly becoming part of the Australian work culture. Although, some companies might not provide paid provisions. Instead, working hours and leave accommodations may be negotiated with staff superiors but this still ensures the worker a job when they come back from raising and training their furry family members.

Murarrie-Based Ship Builder Wins Contract to Supply Double-Decker CityCats

Council has awarded a long-term contract to construct double-decker CityCats to Aus Ships, a Murarrie-based ship builder.

The new supplier will be replacing another Murarrie-based supplier, Norman R. Wright and Sons, Brisbane City Council’s supplier since 2003. Norman R. Wright and Sons delivered six Second Generation and 7 Third Generation CityCat vessels.

Aus Ships has been named the preferred supplier of Council’s future vessels after winning the two-year tender to build the next-generation double-decker CityCats. The two-year contract can be extended to a maximum of ten years, with a total budget of $60 million spread over the ten-year term.

Murarrie-Based Ship Builder Wins Contract to Supply Double-Decker CityCats — *Generation II CityCats launched 2004-2010*
*Photo credit:Norman R. Wright & Sons / wrightsons.com.au*

Headquartered within the Rivergate Marina & Shipyard precinct, Aus Ships has delivered the first of the seven double-decker CityCat vessels, CityCat 22 or “Yoogera,” which was launched in 26 November 2019. The $3.7-million CityCat 22 can carry a total of 170 passengers with an upper deck seating of 20 passengers and rear deck seating for 16 passengers and space for 10 bikes.

The Council currently operates a fleet of 21 CityCats (8 First Generation vessels, 6 Second Generation vessels, and 7 Third Generation vessels), along with nine monohull ferries, within a network of 25 terminals from Northshore Hamilton to St Lucia. Transdev Brisbane Ferries currently operates the Council’s ferry network, which contract is also due to expire in November 2020.

Aus Ships is expected to begin building the second double decker next year with a price tag of almost $4 million.