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Morningside Marina Plan Submitted, Aims to Solve Brisbane’s Commercial Berth Shortage

Raptis Investments has proposed plans for a significant new commercial marina at Morningside, known as Colmslie Wharves. The project aims to revitalise Brisbane’s marine tourism and inject over $100 million into the local economy each year.

Project Details and Location

The proposed Colmslie Wharves marina will be developed alongside the existing Raptis Seafoods facility on Colmslie Road in Brisbane’s inner east. Raptis Investments, the seafood company’s property division, has lodged a development application with Brisbane City Council. Plans include 51 berths designed for commercial vessels up to 35 metres long.

The facility will also feature on-water fuelling points, wastewater management systems, car parking, and amenities for staff. Its location, 9km from the CBD, is convenient for supplying vessels, particularly during weekends and outside standard business hours.

Economic and Tourism Impact

The project is forecast to be a major driver for the local economy, contributing more than $100 million annually. It is also expected to attract nearly 110,000 additional visitors to Brisbane each year and support the creation of 337 ongoing jobs in the tourism sector.

Supporters believe the marina will stimulate new tourism experiences focused on the Brisbane River, Moreton Bay, and the Bay Islands, especially as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic Games. The Queensland Government has shown its support with a $4 million grant from its Growing Tourism Fund, recognising the project’s alignment with tourism, economic, and employment goals.

Addressing an Industry Need

Raptis Investments CEO Tim Beirne stated that Colmslie Wharves aims to fill a gap in Brisbane’s marine tourism infrastructure by offering a secure, long-term base for commercial tour operators. He noted that Brisbane lags behind other Australian capitals in river tourism participation. The development is a solution to the severe shortage of suitable marina berths that commercial operators have faced since 2023.

This shortage arose following the removal of commercial vessels from Dockside Marina at Kangaroo Point and the closure of facilities at Eagle Street Pier, forcing many operators into temporary, less suitable arrangements. Mr Beirne added that the marina design prioritises environmental responsibility to minimise impact on the river and aims to reduce issues associated with unauthorised mooring.

Industry Support and Timeline

Local tourism operators have expressed enthusiasm for the project. Barrie Coonan, owner of Brisvegas Cruises, highlighted the lack of long-term berthing solutions over his 30 years in the industry.

He believes the Raptis proposal offers much-needed certainty in a suitable location away from residential areas, which is crucial for supporting the growth of Brisbane as a true ‘River City’. If the project receives approval from Council, construction is expected to commence promptly. The developers anticipate the first vessels could begin using the new Colmslie Wharves facility in 2026.

Published Date 17-April-2025

Major Upgrade Announced for Jeremiah O’Toole Park in Morningside

Photo Credit: CrLucyCollier

Following community feedback, Jeremiah O’Toole Park in Morningside is set for a significant upgrade, featuring a completely redesigned playground, new pathways, and refurbished facilities.

The planned improvements aim to enhance the park’s usability and appeal for local residents of all ages and abilities. Final designs for the playground component are still being developed, and exact start dates for the work are yet to be confirmed.

Playground Transformation

Jeremiah O’Toole Park — *Photo Credit: Google Map*

A central part of the project involves a major overhaul of the playground area. Plans include installing new swings, climbing equipment, and slides. The redesigned space will adopt a more natural look and feel. Officials indicated that images of the final playground design will be shared with the community once available.

Enhanced Accessibility and Amenities

Accessibility throughout the park is flagged for improvement by adding new pathways. These paths are intended to benefit children on scooters and bikes and people pushing prams or using mobility devices. Alongside the pathways, the project includes refurbishing the basketball shooters’ box.

To improve park visitors’ comfort, more seating will be installed around the playground and basketball court. An additional shaded shelter will also be constructed next to the playground area.

Project Timing

Initial construction work will commence within the current financial year, focusing on the new pathways, extra seating, and the shaded shelter. Further updates on precise timing for all upgrade stages, including the playground construction, are expected soon. The announcement emphasised that the upgrades are a direct result of community input.

Published Date 10-April-2025

Morningside Boy in Critical Condition After Backyard Fire

Photo Credit: Pixabay

An 11-year-old boy is in critical condition after sustaining severe burns in a backyard fire incident in Morningside late Wednesday night.

Emergency services responded to calls reporting a fire at a property on Britannia Avenue around 10:30-10:45 PM. The young victim suffered significant burns to his face, head, chest, and arms in the incident.

The boy was rushed to Queensland Children’s Hospital where he remains in a life-threatening condition.

Queensland Police have confirmed they are investigating the incident, though specific details about how the fire started remain unclear.

This incident has raised concerns in the Morningside community.

Authorities have not released any further information as investigations continue.

Published 10-April-2025

Parents Urged to Stay Alert Over Japanese Encephalitis Risk in Hemmant

Photo Credit: Pexels

Health authorities have identified Hemmant as one of several Queensland locations at increased risk of the Japanese encephalitis virus due to recent flooding.

Increased Virus Threat Ahead of School Holidays

Queensland Health has issued a public warning as the school holidays begin. They urge

Japanese encephalitis Hemmant — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

parents to remain vigilant over mosquito-borne illnesses, particularly Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). Hemmant has been identified as a key location where the virus has been detected in mosquito samples.

Mosquito surveillance and testing have intensified across the state. The virus has also been confirmed in humans, including a Brisbane man who died in hospital last month, making it Queensland’s second JEV-related death this year.

Floodwaters Create Breeding Grounds

Heavy rainfall and flooding across Queensland have led to extensive stagnant water. Stagnant water is ideal for mosquito breeding. Experts warn that increased mosquito activity increases the likelihood of virus transmission.

How the Virus Spreads and Who’s at Risk

JEV is spread by mosquitoes that have fed on infected pigs or waterbirds. It does not transmit between people or through eating pork but can cause serious illness. Symptoms may include fever, vomiting and headaches. In some cases, brain inflammation may occur.

Parents planning outdoor activities or camping with their children over the holidays should take precautions. DEET or Picaridin repellents, protective clothing, and mosquito-proof sleeping arrangements are highly recommended. Queensland Health has tested over 1,500 mosquito traps since July as part of its surveillance program.

Free Vaccine Access for Hemmant Residents

Free vaccinations are now available for eligible individuals living in, working in, or planning to visit the suburb. Vaccines are accessible at more than 100 providers across Queensland, including certain GPs, pharmacies, and community clinics. Although the vaccine is free, some clinics may charge a consultation fee.

Ongoing Precautions and Monitoring

Japanese encephalitis is less common than other mosquito-borne viruses, but its impact can be severe. With more families spending time outdoors during the break, health officials are urging heightened awareness and preventive action.

Published 10-Apr-2025

Murarrie Sees New Townhouse Development Amidst Growth

Photo Credit: DA A006728863

Ten new high-end townhouses will soon be built on Oliphant Street in Murarrie, reflecting the area’s increasing popularity with developers.

New Housing Development

A property developer, linked to Sydney-based VIMG Australia, has submitted plans for a three-storey townhouse development at 19-21 Oliphant Street, Murarrie. The plan includes eight three-bedroom and two four-bedroom townhouses on a 1214sq m site.

The site, comprised of two lots, was bought in 2017 for $1.24 million and had earlier approval for a larger 23-unit development. Brisbane-based CPO Architects designed the new development, Monogram Murarrie.

Design and Features

The design aims to maximise local area views and fit well into the street. The architects focused on making the building look elegant and fit with the surroundings. Each townhouse will have its garden at the front. The plans show that that each townhouse will have a double garage, providing parking for 20 cars in total and three extra spaces for visitors.

The planning report notes that while there is no shared open space within the development, the site is about one kilometre away from Murarrie Recreation Reserve, Cannon Hill Shopping Centre, and public transport like the Cannon Hill interchange and Murarrie train station.

Area Growth

Murarrie, located about 10km southeast of Brisbane’s city centre, is seeing more interest from housing developers due to its location, relatively lower housing costs, and improvements to local infrastructure.

The suburb is surrounded by more expensive areas like Morningside, Bulimba, and Hawthorne, which may drive some interest in Murarrie.

Published Date 24-March-2025

Morningside Man Assaulted During A Violent Home Invasion

A 50-year-old Morningside man was assaulted during a violent armed home invasion in what police believe may be part of a string of connected break-ins across Brisbane’s southern suburbs.

The incident occurred in the early hours of March 20, when a group of armed intruders broke into the man’s Morningside residence. When confronted by the homeowner, the perpetrators threatened him and demanded car keys, leading to a physical altercation that left the resident injured.

Police report the suspects fled the scene in a black sedan that had been stolen from a Cannon Hill home the previous day.

Significant to the Morningside community, security footage has emerged showing the suspected group attempting to break into another Morningside home approximately one hour before the assault. The footage captures the individuals using louvre removal tools in their attempt to gain entry.

This marks two targeted properties in Morningside within the same night, suggesting an increasing risk to local residents. The proximity and timing of these incidents have raised concerns about home security throughout the suburb.

Local authorities believe these Morningside break-ins may be connected to other property offences that occurred overnight in neighbouring suburbs. The crime spree appears to have begun in Bulimba at around 11 PM, before moving through Cannon Hill, Wakerley, and culminating in the violent Morningside assault.

Police are continuing their investigation and have called on Morningside residents with security cameras or any information related to suspicious activity in the area to come forward to assist with their inquiries.

Published 20-March-2025

Japanese Encephalitis Virus Detected in Hemmant, Brisbane Triggers Health Alert

Photo Credit: Pexels

Health authorities issued warnings and increased surveillance after the potentially deadly Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) was detected in mosquitoes in Hemmant.

Health Authorities Confirm First JEV Detection in Brisbane

Queensland Health has confirmed that routine mosquito surveillance programs detected the presence of JEV in Hemmant. The discovery has raised concerns about the spread of the virus, particularly following the recent wet conditions brought by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

JEV virus spreads through mosquito bites. The virus is transmitted to mosquitoes after they feed on infected pigs or wading birds. Once infected, mosquitoes can pass the virus to humans through a bite.

Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll has urged residents to take precautions against mosquito bites. She discussed that most JEV-infected individuals experience mild or no symptoms. However, severe cases can result in fever, headaches, vomiting, and, in rare instances, life-threatening neurological complications.

Increased Risk Following Recent Flooding

The detection of JEV in Hemmant follows concerns that Queensland’s recent flooding has created the mosquitoes’ ideal breeding conditions. Dr Carroll emphasised that pooled water from the floods has contributed to rising mosquito populations. Residents are urged to eliminate standing water around their homes.

JEV has previously been detected in the Goondiwindi and North Burnett regions. The recent positive mosquito samples were also recorded in the Darling Downs and Wide Bay areas.

Preventative Measures and Vaccination Efforts

Queensland Health is ramping up efforts to connect impacted residents with JEV vaccinations. City official David Crisafulli assured there is no immediate cause for alarm. He also confirmed that they are working with health authorities to determine vaccine eligibility for at-risk groups.

The JEV vaccine is available at over 100 vaccination providers across Queensland, including selected general practitioners, pharmacies, and community immunisation centres. It is free for eligible Queenslanders; however, some providers may charge a consultation fee.

Japanese Encephalitis Virus — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

At-risk individuals are encouraged to vaccinate. These include piggery workers, veterinarians, and transport workers handling pigs. Prevention remains the best defence. Residents are advised to use mosquito repellents with DEET or picaridin. Wearing protective clothing and using insecticide vaporisers or coils outdoors is highly recommended.

What Happens Next?

JEV vaccination announcement for Brisbane residents should come soon from Dr Carroll. In the meantime, health officials continue to monitor mosquito populations. They will also conduct further surveillance to assess the extent of the virus’s spread. For more information on JEV and vaccine eligibility, visit the Queensland Health website.

Published 17-Mar-2025

Untreated Wastewater Released into the Brisbane River Near Morningside

Photo Credit: BCC Emergency Dashboard

Raw, untreated sewage has been discharged into the Brisbane River at Morningside, contaminating flood waters in the area, as part of a temporary relief overflow structure in the area. Urban Utilities is also undertaking critical pipe replacements on a 70-year-old, 600-metre underground siphon connecting Bulimba to Hamilton.

Major Wastewater Pipe Repairs Lead to Emergency Overflow

Urban Utilities has confirmed that untreated sewage has been discharged into the Brisbane River at Morningside. This is due to ongoing work on the ageing Bulimba-Hamilton Siphon. The siphon is a 600-metre underground wastewater tunnel connecting Bulimba to Hamilton. It has transported sewage for nearly 70 years and is currently undergoing critical pipe replacements.=

Bulimba-Hamilton Siphon — *Photo Credit:* *Urban Utilities/YouTub*e

With one of the two pipes offline for maintenance, excess wastewater from recent heavy rainfall has been managed through an emergency relief point. As a result, residents have been advised to avoid contact with floodwaters, particularly near Vic Lucas Park at Bulimba and Colmslie Beach Reserve at Murarrie.

Urban Utilities statement — *Source: Facebook/Urban Utilities*

Urban Utilities explained Morningside sewage contamination — *Source: Facebook/Urban Utilities*

Public Health Concerns as Residents Ignore Warnings

Despite public health warnings, some residents have been spotted swimming and fishing in contaminated floodwaters. Social media users expressed alarm, with one person noting sewage and toilet paper debris in local parks.

Urban Utilities has reassured residents that Brisbane’s drinking water remains safe and continues to meet Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. However, authorities have advised people to boil or filter their drinking water as a precaution.

Brisbane River sewage contamination — *Photo Credit: Urban Utilities*

Urban Utilities advises on Morningside sewage contamination — *Source: Facebook/Urban Utilities*

Flooding and Power Outages Continue Across Brisbane

The crisis in Morningside is part of a larger emergency unfolding across South East Queensland. Heavy rainfall from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has caused severe flooding, with multiple creeks overflowing and major roads inundated.

Energex crews have restored power to 31,000 homes, but more than 211,000 properties remain without electricity. Emergency teams are working in hazardous conditions, with helicopters on standby to assess damage once the weather improves.

Morningside sewage contamination — *Photo Credit: BCC Emergency Dashboard*

Next Steps and Long-Term Implications

As floodwaters begin to recede, authorities will assess the full extent of the damage, particularly the health risks posed by contaminated water. Urban Utilities will continue repairs on the Bulimba-Hamilton Siphon, with efforts underway to complete the project as soon as possible.

Brisbane residents are urged to stay updated on the latest developments, report any sewage overflows, and follow health guidelines when cleaning up flood-affected properties.

EMERGENCY DASHBOARD

Latest Updates on Brisbane Services & Recovery Efforts

Brisbane Council Service Updates Following Cyclone Alfred (Updated: 10 March 2025, 11:20 a.m.)

BCC has announced several service closures and changes due to ongoing flood recovery efforts:

Closures Until Further Notice:
- City Hall, community halls, libraries, pools,
- Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
- North & South Regional Business Centres, Carindale, Indooroopilly, Brisbane Square Customer Service Centres
- Golf courses, off-street parking (King George Square & Wickham Terrace)
- Mountain bike tracks (Gap Creek & Mt Coot-tha Reserve)
- Council-run playground water play areas
- CityCat, KittyCat
- Most bus services
- Story Bridge footpaths
Open Facilities & Services:
- Chandler and Ferny Grove Resource Recovery Centres (offering free green waste drop-off)

Sandbag stations

All sandbag stations have closed.

Transport Disruptions & Road Closures

Ferry services are suspended and unable to operate due to debris found in the water.
Bus and train services are operating on limited schedules.
Roma Street Station remains closed due to flooding.
Personalised Public Transport services and Council Cabs are still suspended.

For public transport updates, visit TransLink or contact 13 12 30.

Waste Collection & Bin Repairs

Regular collection of general waste, recycling, and waste bins (green) has resumed.
Bin repair and maintenance services are still suspended until further notice.

For more information, visit BCC website or contact 07 3403 8888.

Evacuation Centres Remain Open for Flood-Affected Residents

Residents in low-lying areas have been advised to remain alert and take necessary precautions as flooding conditions persist. Those needing emergency shelter can still access the following evacuation centres:

Sleeman Sports Complex (Chandler Arena) at 757 Tilley Road, Chandler
Kedron Wavell Services Club at 21 Kittyhawk Drive, Chermside
Riverlife Community Centre (Community-Led Evacuation Hub) at 47 Jennifer Street, Seventeen Mile Rocks

Residents are urged to leave early, avoid driving through floodwaters, and prepare emergency kits with essential items.

For road conditions, visit QLD Traffic. Residents can also contact 13 19 40.

Published 10-Mar-2025

Hemmant Cemetery: 150 Years of History and Remembrance

Did you know that Hemmant Cemetery is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year? Established in March 1874, this historic site has served as a final resting place for generations of Brisbane residents. Here’s a look back at the cemetery’s rich history.

Read: Brisbane Cemeteries, Including Morningside, Overloaded With Hundreds of Applications

A Victorian Legacy

Photo credit: Ruth Mavroleon/Google Maps

The first burial at Hemmant Cemetery took place in 1875, in a section that reflected the aesthetic of the Victorian era. During this time, cemeteries were carefully designed with elaborate monuments that carried deep symbolism—broken columns signifying a life cut short, upside-down torches representing extinguished life, and wreaths symbolising eternal remembrance. Grieving women carved into stone watched over the deceased, adding to the mournful beauty of the site.

Spanning approximately 14.5 hectares, Hemmant Cemetery was thoughtfully laid out with 10 individual sections, each carefully kerbed and grassed. Roadways were flanked by lush green trees and selected shrubs, providing a serene atmosphere for visitors. The preservation of indigenous tree avenues between burial sections further enhanced the sense of solitude and reflection. A shrine of remembrance was later constructed, along with modern facilities to accommodate the needs of mourners.

A Place of History and Reflection

Photo credit: Brendan McBain/Google Maps

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the heritage-listed Hemmant Cemetery holds historical significance as one of the few surviving remnants of the area’s development in the late 19th century. It remains a highly visible landmark at Tingalpa Road, demonstrating the transition of cemetery designs from traditional burial grounds to the Victorian ‘mortuary park’ style. This particular cemetery design, developed throughout the Western world in the early 19th century, sought to create tranquil environments for remembrance and reflection.

For the first 55 years of its operation, respected members of the Brisbane community served as trustees, overseeing daily operations and future planning. The cemetery’s development took a new turn in 1930 when Council took ownership of all cemeteries within the city, including Hemmant.

By 1949, major changes were introduced, including two new sections designed to accommodate 3,000 graves. The ‘Garden of Rest’ was introduced in 1952-3, offering a peaceful, sylvan setting for burials.

Read: Murarrie Driver Shocked by Venomous Snake Under Car Bonnet

The Hemmant Cemetery office, constructed in 1951, remains in use today, having undergone internal refurbishment in 2021. Despite modernisations, the cemetery continues to honour its historical roots while providing a dignified resting place for the people of Brisbane.

As Hemmant Cemetery marks its 150th year, it stands as a remarkable heritage site—bridging the past with the present, offering a place of solace, and preserving the legacy of those who came before us.

Published 7-March-2025

Cyclone Alfred Puts Morningside in Danger Zone as Sandbag Distribution Soars

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is a developing story. | Photo Credit: LeeanneEnochMP

Cyclone Alfred moves closer to the southeast Queensland coast, emergency flood modelling has placed Morningside at high risk for flooding and storm surges, prompting urgent sandbag distribution efforts.

Morningside was severely impacted in past flooding events, with streets submerged and many homes sustaining extensive water damage. Residents who lived through that disaster are now preparing for another major weather event, with fears that flooding could reach similar or worse levels.

Brisbane flooding 2022 and 2011 — *Brisbane’s Flood Map for Morningside, includes 2022 & 2011 tracks*

With Cyclone Alfred, Brisbane’s flood risk modelling places Morningside among the most vulnerable suburbs, alongside Brighton, Windsor, Ashgrove, Rocklea, and Nudgee Beach. The slow-moving cyclone, combined with expected storm surges of up to 0.8 metres above the highest tide, could make conditions even more dangerous.

Brisbane's Emergency Dashboard for Cyclone Alfred — *Weather Warning for Cyclone Alfred*

Locals are taking extra precautions, securing valuables, stocking up on emergency supplies, and sandbagging their homes well ahead of the storm. Some residents who were forced to evacuate in 2022 say they won’t take any chances this time.

Others, particularly those in low-lying streets, are closely monitoring emergency updates to decide if they need to relocate before the cyclone hits.

Unprecedented Sandbag Demand in Morningside

The demand for sandbags in Morningside and other Brisbane suburbs has surged to historic levels, with 74,000 bags distributed in just 24 hours—more than double the highest single-day total recorded during the 2022 floods. Residents have been waiting in queues for up to five hours, with many arriving at collection stations before dawn. At the Newmarket sandbag station, the line stretched for blocks, while in Darra and Morningside, locals reported supplies running out within hours.

In Morningside, a local barista set up a coffee cart for those waiting in line, offering free drinks to neighbours preparing for the storm. Community spirit has been evident as residents help each other fill and transport sandbags, sharing resources to ensure everyone gets protection.

Despite the high demand, Brisbane City Council and the State Emergency Service (SES) have been working around the clock to keep up with supply, replenishing sandbag stations throughout the day. However, officials warn that resources are limited and encourage residents to only take what they need.

USE BRISBANE EMERGENCY DASHBOARD

Sandbag Sites as of 5 March 2025

Using the Sandbags

As a safety precaution of residents and workers, sandbag operations at all facilities will stop at 8:00 p.m. 5 March.

Council Services and Facilities Affected by Cyclone Alfred

Due to the severe weather conditions expected from Cyclone Alfred, Brisbane City Council has announced several changes to public transport, waste collection, and community services until further notice.

Transport

All CityCat and ferry services are suspended indefinitely.
The Story Bridge footpaths will close from 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, 5 March.
Bus services will be suspended from the last service on Wednesday, 5 March.

Waste Collection

Only red-top bins will be collected on Wednesday, 5 March. Residents should not put out any other bins.
All waste collection services will be suspended from Thursday, 6 March, due to safety concerns.
Residents are urged to bring in and secure their bins as soon as possible.

Libraries

All Brisbane City Council libraries will close from Thursday, 6 March.
Pop-up library park visits and the Mobile Library service are cancelled for the week due to the cyclone.
The Home Library Service will be suspended for the remainder of the week.

Community Halls and Recreational Facilities

All community halls and council pools will be closed from Thursday, 6 March.
Water play areas in playgrounds will be shut off starting 5 March.
Council golf courses will be closed from Thursday, 6 March.

Cyclone Alfred’s Impact

Cyclone Alfred is currently tracking towards the southeast Queensland coast at 11km/h, with landfall expected on Friday morning near Brisbane’s south. Meteorologists warn that damaging winds of 130km/h or higher could cause widespread power outages, while rainfall totals of up to 700mm over three days could lead to life-threatening flash flooding.

With the Port of Brisbane closed, Brisbane Airport on high alert for flight cancellations, and Queensland Rail preparing to suspend services, the region is bracing for significant disruption. Supermarkets have been granted 24-hour restocking permissions due to ongoing panic buying, and evacuation centres are being prepared in case of emergency.

Residents are urged to stay informed through the Brisbane City Council’s emergency dashboard, Bureau of Meteorology updates, and local SES alerts. Authorities emphasise that preparedness now will make all the difference once Cyclone Alfred arrives.

Published 5-March-2025