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Cannon Hill Community Plans 2025 End of Summer Fundraiser

Cannon Hill residents are preparing for a community-wide End of Summer Party at Regent Park on Friday, 4 April 2025. The party aims to raise funds for local educational and community organisations.

The event, timed to coincide with the conclusion of the first school term, will support the Cannon Hill State School Parents and Citizens Association, Cannon Hill Kindergarten, YMCA Cannon Hill Community Centre, and St Oliver Plunkett Primary School.

Anticipated Daytime Festivities and Entertainment

End of Summer — *Photo Credit:* *CrLisaAtwood/ Facebook*

From 3:00 pm to 6:30 pm, Regent Park is expected to come alive with various activities. Organisers are planning live musical performances to provide a festive atmosphere. Children and families can look forward to face painting and interactive games such as pluck-a-fish. Market stalls offer diverse goods, while food trucks cater to various culinary preferences.

A bar will serve refreshments, and various performances will entertain attendees throughout the afternoon. The intent is to create a welcoming and engaging environment for all ages.

Planned Evening Socialising

The event will transition into a more relaxed phase as the day progresses. From 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., attendees can socialise and enjoy the remaining festivities. Live music will continue, providing a background for the evening. This period will allow community members to connect and celebrate the end of the first school term.

Community Support and Fundraising Goals

The funds generated from the 2025 End of Summer Party will be distributed among the four beneficiary organisations. These organisations provide essential educational and recreational services within the Cannon Hill community. Organisers are working to encourage strong local participation and foster a sense of community.

They have expressed their anticipation of a successful event and are preparing to thank all attendees and volunteers for their contributions.

Published Date 03-March-2025

Murarrie Recreation Hub Expands Brisbane’s River Access Network

Photo Credit: BCC/YouTube

The River Access Network has expanded with the Murarrie Recreation Hub, improving residents’ and visitors’ public access to the Brisbane River. Located near Metroplex Avenue Park and behind the Brewdog complex, the hub supports recreational boating, kayaking, and potential future water taxi services.

Background: Strengthening Brisbane’s Economy Through Infrastructure

BCC has continuously worked to enhance the city’s infrastructure in line with Brisbane’s Economic Development Plan 2031. This long-term strategy supports economic growth, tourism, and lifestyle improvements. Local officials have prioritised expanding the River Access Network to ensure Brisbane’s waterways remain integral to the city’s recreational and tourism offerings.

The Murarrie Recreation Hub aligns with these objectives by providing a new access point to the Brisbane River. The facility encourages outdoor recreation, promotes an active lifestyle, and enhances the river’s usability for various watercraft.

River Access Network — *Photo Credit: BCC/YouTube*

Features and Purpose of the Murarrie Recreation Hub

The Murarrie Recreation Hub is designed to accommodate a wide range of vessels and activities. Key features include:

Short-term mooring for motorised and non-motorised vessels.
Launch access for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards.
A future water taxi stop as part of the city’s transport network.
A pick-up and drop-off point for commercial boats.
A rest stop within Brisbane’s network of public pontoons.

Users can access the hub via a shared pathway through Metroplex Avenue Park. To ensure safety and fair use, vessels can stay only two hours at the facility unless otherwise indicated by BCC signage.

Safety and Regulations

BCC has implemented regulations to maintain a safe and accessible environment at the Murarrie Recreation Hub:

Fishing is permitted, but boating activities take priority.
Cast nets and crab potting are not allowed to ensure user safety.
All users must adhere to posted signage and guidelines.

The Brisbane River Code of Conduct provides additional safety guidance through Maritime Safety Queensland.

These measures align with the broader River Access Network regulations. With this, all users can safely enjoy the hub while maintaining a smooth flow of activity along the Brisbane River.

Community and Economic Impact

The Murarrie Recreation Hub contributes to Brisbane’s broader economic and lifestyle goals. Increased recreational use of the river is expected to boost local businesses, particularly those in tourism, hospitality, and water-based activities.

Residents and visitors now have a more accessible way to engage in water sports and leisure activities. With the potential for future water taxi services, the hub could also enhance transport options in the area.

The Future of Brisbane’s River Access Network

The Murarrie Recreation Hub is part of BCC’s ongoing commitment to expanding and maintaining the River Access Network. Similar infrastructure projects, such as the City Botanic Gardens Riverwalk and River Hub, have demonstrated the city’s investment in making the Brisbane River a central feature of urban life.

Published 28-Feb-2025

Morningside Initiative Provides Dignified Support for Early Pregnancy Loss

Photo Credit: Pexels

Morningside local Catherine Isaac, founder of Two Souls Co., is changing the conversation around early pregnancy loss by providing compassionate support and dignified options for women experiencing miscarriage at home.

A Personal Loss Inspires Change

On 5 January 2021, Ms Isaac’s life was forever changed. At 10.5 weeks pregnant, she began bleeding and was diagnosed with a missed miscarriage. The experience of losing her baby at home over seven traumatic weeks exposed a major gap in early pregnancy loss care.

Women experiencing miscarriage at home are often left without clear guidance on what to expect or how to handle their baby’s remains. Ms Isaac, struggling with the idea of flushing her baby, searched for a respectful alternative. Eventually, she and her husband held a graveside ceremony, giving their baby a dignified farewell.

After experiencing three pregnancy losses and witnessing the lack of resources available, Ms Isaac founded Two Souls Co. to support other women navigating the same heartbreak.

Introducing the Soul Collection Kit

Recognising the need for a compassionate solution, Two Souls Co. developed the Soul Collection Kit—a resource designed for women experiencing early pregnancy loss through natural or medication-assisted management.

Morningside pregnancy loss support — *Photo Credit: Two Souls Co*

The kit includes:

A discreet carry bag for privacy
A collection device to safely capture the baby
A non-touch scoop for gentle transfer
An opaque jar for secure storage or pathology testing
A comprehensive instruction card for guidance
Facial tissues for emotional support
A brochure from The Pink Elephants Support Network

Priced at $29.95 per kit or $149.75 for a five-kit bundle, the kits provide an alternative to the distressing reality many women face. Healthcare professionals can also subscribe for regular supply to support their patients.

Bridging the Gap in Pregnancy Loss Care

Despite one in four pregnancies ending in miscarriage, resources for dignified early pregnancy loss management remain limited. Many women, like Ms Isaac, are advised to go home and wait for the “tissue” to pass without further guidance.

Two Souls Co founder, Catherine Isaac — *Photo Credit: CrLucyCollier/Facebook*

City official Lucy Collier has praised Ms Isaac’s work, acknowledging the gaps in pregnancy loss care and the silence surrounding difficult conversations. She described Two Souls Co. as a crucial step towards improving support and information for affected women.

Ms Isaac recently addressed a BCC meeting, advocating for better resources and awareness. Her speech highlighted the emotional and physical impact of early pregnancy loss, urging for more accessible support systems.

A Community-Driven Solution

Two Souls Co. is not just about providing kits—it is about giving women a choice. The initiative empowers them to honour their loss in a meaningful way, whether through burial, cremation, or pathology testing.

By partnering with healthcare professionals, Two Souls Co. aims to integrate the Soul Collection Kit into standard early pregnancy loss care, ensuring no woman has to face this experience without compassionate support.

Moving Forward

Ms Isaac’s journey has come full circle with the birth of her daughter in August 2023. While her personal grief remains, her advocacy has transformed the pregnancy loss experience for countless women.

For those seeking support or wanting to purchase a Soul Collection Kit, Two Souls Co. provides resources online at twosoulsco.com.au.

ENQUIRE NOW

Published 28-Feb-2025

Saucy Wench Gourmet Foods in Morningside Takes Award-Winning Flavours National

Photo Credit: Saucy Wench Gourmet Foods/ Facebook

Saucy Wench Gourmet Foods, born from a community cook-up that crafts authentic Asian flavours using local ingredients, has gained a significant following and national distribution for its award-winning sauces and handmade dumplings.

Local Success Story

*Photo Credit:* *Saucy Wench Gourmet Foods/ Facebook*

Saucy Wench Gourmet Foods, based in Morningside, represents a successful career change for founder Lisa Liu, whose vibrant brand personality matches her popular products. The company produces a range of Asian sauces, condiments, and ready-to-cook frozen dumplings, earning a dedicated customer base. The products focus on quality and authenticity, using fresh, seasonal Australian ingredients while avoiding preservatives and artificial additives like MSG.

Many offerings cater to gluten-free and vegan dietary needs. Production occurs in their Morningside facility, where a team of passionate retired migrants hand-makes the items in small batches. This commitment to quality was recognised when Saucy Wench was named “Brisbane’s Best Handmade Business” and received several product awards, including Best Vinegar or Dressing at the Melbourne Royal Australian Food Awards, during 2024.

Community Roots and Growth

The brand’s unique name and identity emerged unexpectedly from a neighbourhood gathering during a flood threat in East Brisbane in 2016. Lisa Liu explained that after neighbours suggested she sell the chilli oil made during a community cook-up powered by a generator, the name “Saucy Wench” was jokingly proposed and stuck. The distinctive logo, featuring Liu wearing ‘Dame Edna’ style onion goggles, originated from a photo taken that same day.

Initially selling at local markets like New Farm Markets for three years, Saucy Wench products gained popularity through word-of-mouth. They are now featured on restaurant menus from Kedron to Tweed Heads and stocked in boutique grocers.

The business is expanding its reach, partnering with The Essential Ingredient to stock sauces in New South Wales, Victoria, and ACT stores, and gaining range in selected Woolworths supermarkets across Sydney and Melbourne. Liu expressed that while the brand started almost as a joke, its growth reflects her lifelong passion for sharing good food.

Brisbane Fosters Food Business Growth

The success of local businesses like Saucy Wench occurs within a city that actively supports its food sector’s growth. Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) runs initiatives such as the Future Food Global Accelerator program to help local food and beverage companies expand into international markets. Now in its eighth year, this month-long program connects businesses with industry experts and provides tailored mentoring.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner stated that Brisbane’s dynamic food and beverage scene contributes significantly to the city’s appeal as a place to live and work. He affirmed the city’s commitment to supporting local businesses aiming for global audiences, highlighting Brisbane’s strong manufacturing capabilities, research institutions, and advantageous proximity to the Asia-Pacific market, which represents a $90 trillion GDP and nearly half of global trade. BEDA’s State of The City report noted Brisbane’s advanced manufacturing sector is growing five times faster than the national average.

City Attracts Major Players

Brisbane’s supportive environment and strategic location also attract established businesses aiming for growth. Grove Juice, Australia’s largest Valencia orange grower, recently joined the 2025 Future Food Global Accelerator cohort and has established its headquarters in Brisbane. Grove Juice CEO Greg Quinn cited the city’s skilled workforce and proximity to major ports as key factors in their decision. He explained that their Brisbane base aided their efficient process of moving citrus from farm to juice to transport within days.

Quinn added that joining the Future Food Initiative provides valuable connections and resources to accelerate Grove Juice’s global expansion plans, positioning It ideally for opportunities like the Brisbane Olympics. Since 2018, BEDA’s Future Food Initiative has assisted over 400 businesses, including well-known names like Merlo Coffee and Hilton Foods. The 2025 accelerator program will run throughout February.

Published Date 15-February-2025

Incitec Pivot Lists Gibson Island Facility in Murarrie for Sale

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Incitec Pivot Limited (IPL) has officially listed its 58-hectare Gibson Island facility in Murarrie for sale, marking a significant transition for the site, which ceased urea production in early 2023. The industrial property, featuring deepwater wharf access and extensive river frontage, is expected to attract strong interest from developers and logistics operators.

Located at 282 Paringa Road, Murarrie, the Gibson Island facility has played a crucial role in Australia’s fertiliser industry since 1969. The site was the nation’s only urea producer using domestic natural gas, with operations focused on ammonia, urea, and ammonium sulphate manufacturing.

However, the boom in Queensland’s gas exports made it increasingly difficult for the plant to remain profitable. In January 2023, IPL ceased fertiliser production at the site and later announced plans to divest its fertiliser business while retaining its Dyno Nobel explosives division.

Prime Industrial Land Hits the Market

The Gibson Island site spans 58 hectares and includes 1.165 kilometres of Brisbane River frontage with deepwater wharf access, making it one of the most sought-after industrial landholdings on the eastern seaboard.

Colliers Queensland, led by Simon Beirne, Rob Joyes, Peter Evans, and James Wilkie, is managing the sale, with expressions of interest closing on 13 March 2025. Mr Beirne emphasised the site’s strategic location within the Australia TradeCoast precinct, which is home to Brisbane Airport and the Port of Brisbane.

Why Developers Are Taking Notice

With Brisbane’s industrial land in high demand, the Gibson Island site is being positioned as the last large-scale development opportunity in the TradeCoast precinct. The region has seen a 136% increase in raw industrial land values over the past decade, with a 57% rise in just the last five years.

According to Colliers, capital values within Australia TradeCoast are 20-25% higher than other Brisbane industrial precincts due to superior infrastructure and proximity to key transport hubs. Rental rates also exceed those in other industrial zones by 5-15%, further underscoring the site’s value.

Market sources speculate that the property could fetch over $250 million, though no official price has been disclosed.

Gibson Island facility — *Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View*

What’s Next for Gibson Island?

Later this year, IPL will relocate its fertiliser distribution centre from Gibson Island to a third-party facility at the Port of Brisbane, solidifying the company’s shift away from on-site manufacturing.

With expressions of interest closing in March, the future of Gibson Island now rests in the hands of potential buyers—whoever acquires the site will be positioned to reshape Murarrie’s industrial landscape for decades to come.

Published 13-Feb-2025

The Fish Factory in Morningside: Brisbane’s Premier Fresh Seafood Destination

Photo Credit: The Fish Factory

The Fish Factory in Morningside has been a staple for Brisbane locals since 1976, offering fresh, locally sourced seafood through its market, bistro, and sushi bar. Originally a fish market, it has grown into one of the city’s largest seafood suppliers, serving both the public and top restaurants. A recent renovation has further enhanced its offerings.

Fresh Seafood & Market Selection

Open seven days a week, The Fish Factory provides a wide range of fresh seafood, including barramundi, red emperor, Atlantic salmon, Moreton Bay bugs, WA lobsters, Alaskan king crabs, and live Queensland mud crabs. Customers can also enjoy freshly shucked oysters on-site.

The Fish Factory Morningside — *Photo Credit: The Fish Factory*

Bistro & Takeaway: From Ocean to Plate

The adjacent bistro offers both indoor and outdoor dining with a diverse menu, including:

Cold Seafood Platter – Prawns, bug halves, oysters, sauce, lemon.
Hot Seafood Platter – Grilled and battered seafood, oysters Kilpatrick, scallops, chips, sauce, lemon.
Exotic Grilled Platter for Two – Rock lobster, prawn skewers, oysters mornay and Kilpatrick, scallops, chips.
Spaghetti Marinara – King prawns, reef fish, scallops, Moreton Bay bugs, Tasmanian salmon.
Burgers & Sliders – Options include the Barra Burger (panko-crumbed barramundi), Angus beef, and chicken burgers.

For a casual option, takeaway meals feature fish and chips, seafood snack packs, and house-made salmon arancini.

Scorched Kingfish at The Fish Factory — *Photo Credit: The Fish Factory*

VIEW FULL MENU

The Sushi Factory: Japanese Flavours Meet Local Freshness

Available Thursday to Sunday, The Sushi Factory offers fresh sushi, sashimi, hosomaki, nigiri, and donburi, all prepared with high-grade seafood from the market.

Japanese Sushi — *Photo Credit: The Fish Factory*

Customer Reviews: What Diners Are Saying

The Fish Factory has received high praise from locals and visitors alike for its consistently fresh seafood and well-prepared dishes. Diners have highlighted the quality of the flathead, barramundi, scallops, and prawns, commending their freshness and expert preparation. The fish and chips have been noted for their crispiness and light, clean taste, with many appreciating that fresh oil is used. The Greek salad and additional sides also receive positive mentions for their flavour and quality.

Fresh seafood at The Fish Factory — *Photo Credit: The Fish Factory*

Many customers value the reasonable pricing for high-quality seafood, especially when ordering family-sized meals such as the Family Feed Pack, which includes cod, potato scallops, prawn cutlets, and chips. While the seafood is premium-priced, it aligns with the quality expected from a supplier that also caters to top Brisbane restaurants. The friendly service and welcoming atmosphere further enhance the dining experience, making The Fish Factory a well-recommended spot for fresh seafood lovers.

Opening Hours & Specials

The Fish Factory operates daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The fully licensed bistro features craft beer on tap and a curated wine selection. Weekly specials include:

Barra Pack for One at $19 on Mondays
$2 oysters on Tuesdays (minimum 6)
50% off kids’ meals on Wednesdays
Cod Burger Meal at $15 on Thursdays
Hot & Cold Seafood Platter deals at $129 on Fridays
Bucket of Prawns & 2x Coronas or 2x Glass Jim Barry Riesling at $55 on Saturdays and Sundays (dine-in only)

CONTACT THE FISH FACTORY

For fresh seafood and quality dining in Brisbane, The Fish Factory in Morningside remains a top choice for both dine-in and takeaway.

Published 11-Feb-2025

New Kumon Morningside Centre Brings Personalised Learning to Local Families

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Families in Morningside now have greater access to flexible, individualised education with the relocation of the Kumon Cannon Hill Education Centre to its new permanent home in Morningside Village.

The move is set to offer a more adaptable learning experience for students juggling busy schedules, ensuring they can progress at their own pace.

The newly established Kumon Morningside Education Centre, located at 629 Wynnum Road, Morningside, provides a dedicated space designed to enhance student learning. Previously operating in a shared community hall, the centre faced scheduling constraints that limited availability for students and families. The new venue eliminates these barriers, allowing for greater flexibility and better access to educational support.

Why the Move Matters for the Community

Dee Nathani, the instructor of Kumon Morningside, said that transitioning to a permanent space removes restrictions and allows for a more personalised approach to education. In the past, adjustments to students’ learning plans often had to be delayed due to the centre’s logistical challenges. Now, with all resources readily available, instructors can modify study plans in real-time, ensuring that students receive tailored guidance as they progress.

Dee Nathani from Kumon Morningside — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Kumon’s learning method is built on self-paced study, where students develop problem-solving skills through structured worksheets. With small-step learning, children advance only when they have mastered a concept, ensuring a strong academic foundation. The move to a dedicated space means students can now engage with their learning materials without external interruptions, fostering a more focused and independent study environment.

The Kumon Method and Its Impact on Students

The Kumon Method of Learning was founded in 1954 by Japanese educator Toru Kumon, who believed in the power of self-learning. His approach was designed to help students build confidence, concentration, and problem-solving abilities through carefully structured incremental learning materials.

Today, Kumon operates in over 60 countries, with millions of students worldwide following this method.

In Morningside, this move signifies more than just a location change—it represents a stronger commitment to providing children with the tools to excel beyond their school curriculum. Unlike traditional tutoring, Kumon doesn’t prepare students for specific tests. Instead, it equips them with the ability to learn independently, making them more resilient and adaptable learners.

Class Schedules and Enrolment Details

The new Kumon Morningside Education Centre operates on the following schedule:

Monday & Thursday: 3:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday & Friday: 4:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Wednesday: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Parents interested in enrolling their children can visit the Kumon Morningside website for more details or contact the centre directly.

Kumon Morningside is setting students up for long-term success. With a customisable study approach and an emphasis on self-learning, local families can now access consistent, structured support to help their children reach their full potential.

For more information about Kumon Morningside, visit: Kumon Morningside Website.

Published 31-January-2025

New Cycling Hub in Murarrie: Brisbane International Cycle Park Now Open

Photo Credit: BCC/Facebook

Brisbane International Cycle Park is officially open. Located at Murarrie Recreation Reserve, it’s a cutting-edge facility intended to improve Brisbane’s bike infrastructure.

The park features an international-level criterium track, a 500-metre inline skating track, and a re-purposed shadow track for multiple recreational users. It provides a training ground for competitive cyclists while remaining open to skaters and riders of all ages and skill levels.

Expanding Cycling Infrastructure

The park is part of Brisbane’s long-term cycling strategy. Its location at 1238 Wynnum Road seamlessly connects to the city’s bikeway network, offering a convenient and accessible hub for training, racing, and casual riding.

Cycling park — *Photo Credit: Aussie Drones QLD/Instagram*

State-of-the-Art Facilities

A highlight of the park is its multi-purpose clubhouse, which offers:

Public amenities and change rooms
Storage spaces for cycling clubs and community groups
A viewing terrace overlooking the criterium and skating tracks
Community meeting areas

The park also includes viewing mounds, which allow visitors to watch live cycling action in comfort.

Funding & Development

The project was developed as a joint initiative between the Queensland Government, Australian Government, and BCC. The clubhouse was funded by the Queensland Government, while the car park upgrade was fully supported by the Australian Government.

Construction commenced in early 2023 and was completed in late 2024. The park is now open daily from sunrise to sunset, providing an inclusive space for cycling and skating enthusiasts.

Cycling community — *Photo Credit: BCC/Facebook*

What’s Next?

With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, the Brisbane International Cycle Park is expected to play a crucial role in preparing local and international athletes. The facility also strengthens the position of Murarrie as a key cycling destination, offering ongoing benefits for Brisbane’s sports and recreation scene.

To book exclusive events and make facility enquiries, visit the BCC’s official website.

Published 30-Jan-2025

Dog ‘Paw-ties’ Take Over Murarrie as BrewDog Welcomes Four-Legged Guests

Photo Credit: BrewDog

BrewDog Murarrie is embracing Brisbane’s growing pet-friendly culture by offering Dog ‘Paw-ties,’ a unique way for owners to celebrate their furry companions.

These themed dog parties provide a fun, social experience for pups and their humans. The parties come with treats, decorations, and a welcoming atmosphere at the riverside craft brewery.

BrewDog Murarrie Dog Pawties — *Photo Credit: Tara Croser/Instagram*

BrewDog’s dog-friendly taproom and beer garden now double as a venue for festive canine gatherings. It is located at 77 Metroplex Avenue, along the Brisbane River.

For just $10 per dog, the event includes:

A party hat for the birthday pup
A custom celebration card
A choice of dog cake or dog-friendly ice cream

Owners are encouraged to book tables in advance and pre-order the number of dogs attending to ensure a smooth experience.

A Perfect Spot for Dog ‘Paw-ties’

Since opening its $30 million brewery in Murarrie, BrewDog has built a reputation for crafting quality beer. It is also known for its relaxed, family—and pet-friendly environment.

BrewDog offers an expansive outdoor beer garden, ample seating, and a selection of 28 beers on tap. This venue naturally attracts pet owners looking for social, dog-inclusive outings.

BrewDog Murarrie — *Photo Credit: BrewDog*

A Growing Demand for Pet Celebrations

The rise of pet-friendly events reflects changing attitudes toward pet ownership. More people view their dogs as family members. Businesses across Brisbane, including specialty dog daycare centres and pet bakeries, have embraced this trend.

BrewDog Murarrie stands out by integrating dog celebrations into its craft beer culture. Its unique approach allows owners to enjoy a beer while their pets participate in the fun.

Community Response and Future Events

Dog owners have welcomed the initiative, and many have shared photos of their pups enjoying their special day on social media.

For those interested in hosting a Dog ‘Paw-ty,’ BrewDog Murrarie require at least three days’ notice, and table reservations must be made for the number of humans attending.

BOOK NOW

With Brisbane’s pet ownership rising, events like these will likely become a staple in the city’s social scene.

Published 30-Jan-2025

Retail Revolution: The Story Behind Morningside’s Cash and Carry

The Cash and Carry in Morningside holds a special place in Brisbane’s retail history. The opening of the Morningside store on Wynnum Road in 1957 not only marked a significant milestone in the community but also transformed the way Australians shopped.

Read: Feast on Fruit: 25 Years of Fresh Produce at Morningside Central

The Morningside Brisbane Cash and Carry opened its doors on 26 September 1957, drawing an eager crowd of shoppers. Footage shared by the State Library of Queensland shows long queues stretching down Agnes Street, as residents waited for their first glimpse of the new store.

The video, a nostalgic snapshot of the era, captures shoppers with trolleys, staff unpacking goods, and registers ringing up sales. It highlights not just a new store but a new way of life for the community.

History of Cash and Carry

Photo credit: ourstory.moretonbay.qld.gov.au

Claude Archibald Fraser, the visionary behind Brisbane Cash and Carry, was born in Gympie in 1899. A man of resilience and determination, he enlisted in the First World War at just 18, serving in the 9th Infantry Battalion before joining the Graves Registration Detachment. After returning to Australia, he began a new chapter in his life, channeling his efforts into business.

In 1921, Fraser opened the ‘Signal Cash Store’ in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley. With only himself and a young assistant, he laid the foundation for what would become a retail revolution. By 1923, Fraser introduced Australia’s first cash-and-carry store in Petrie Bight on Queen Street. The innovative self-service model quickly gained popularity, making shopping more efficient and affordable.

The idea of self-service grocery shopping may seem ordinary today, but in the 1920s, it was revolutionary. Fraser’s approach resonated with the public, and his business flourished. In 1926, he partnered with Mr. Park, the manager of Brabant and Co, to expand the enterprise. By 1939, Brisbane Cash and Carry had grown to 12 stores, a testament to Fraser’s entrepreneurial spirit.

Although the Second World War temporarily slowed expansion, Fraser’s commitment to service never wavered. He enlisted in the 61st Battalion (Queensland Cameron Highlanders) and served in Townsville before returning to Brisbane to resume his business endeavours. By 1950, Brisbane Cash and Carry had become a public company, boasting 15 stores. Eight years later, the business had expanded to 32 locations, including the Morningside store.

Read: Bravery Amid Chaos: How a Policeman Saved Lives in Cannon Hill

Fraser’s story is one of innovation, resilience, and a commitment to service. From his humble beginnings in Gympie to creating a retail empire, his contributions left an indelible mark on Brisbane. The Morningside store, like the others in the Brisbane Cash and Carry network, became more than just a place to shop. It was a community hub, where locals came together, embracing the convenience and affordability of the self-service model.

Claude Archibald Fraser passed away in 1988, but his legacy lives on. The Brisbane Cash and Carry chain, which was eventually sold to Woolworths in 1958, laid the groundwork for the modern retail landscape in Australia. For the residents of Morningside, the memory of that bustling store on Wynnum Road remains a cherished part of their local history.

Published 27-January-2025