Eyes on the Move: Brisbane’s New Mobile Safety Cameras Hit the Streets

Brisbane has launched a new fleet of mobile safety cameras in a continued bid to crack down on youth crime, vandalism, and antisocial behaviour across the city.


Read: Security Enhanced: New CCTV Cameras Deployed at Minnippi Parkland


The rollout follows previous surveillance upgrades, including the installation of fixed CCTV cameras in locations such as Minnippi Parklands, Murarrie. This latest move adds 26 high-resolution, solar-powered mobile units to the city’s growing CitySafe network, which already boasts more than 3,800 fixed safety cameras.

Photo credit: Rhonda B/Google Maps

Unlike traditional CCTV systems, the new mobile cameras are designed for flexibility. Each unit can operate for up to a week without recharging and streams live footage directly to the Council’s 24/7 security monitoring centre. The facility already oversees over 3,000 live camera feeds and will now integrate these mobile units into its real-time surveillance network.

Each of Brisbane’s 26 wards will receive one mobile camera, with units rotated between crime hotspots based on feedback from local police and community members. The cameras are also equipped with behavioural detection technology, alerting authorities to unusual activity — such as gatherings in parks during the early hours of the morning.

Photo credit: CrAdrianSchrinner/Facebook

The Queensland Police Service has backed the programme, noting that the added surveillance will assist in deploying resources more effectively and responding to incidents faster.

The final fixed CCTV camera under the current expansion plan is set to be installed this financial year on Boundary Street in West End — completing a key stage of Brisbane’s long-term urban safety strategy.


Read: Major Upgrade Announced for Jeremiah O’Toole Park in Morningside


Local officials say the new mobile cameras are not only about enforcement but also about creating safer, more liveable neighbourhoods. As Brisbane’s surveillance network becomes more dynamic and responsive, authorities hope it sends a clear message: public safety remains a top priority.

Published 1-May-2025

Murarrie Sees New Townhouse Development Amidst Growth

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

Murarrie
Photo Credit: DA A006728863

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

Murarrie
Photo Credit: DA A006728863

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
Photo Credit: DA A006728863

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

Incitec Pivot Lists Gibson Island Facility in Murarrie for Sale

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

Murarrie Homeowners Stunned by Hundreds of Baby Huntsman Spiders

A Murarrie home became the site of a shocking discovery when a couple found hundreds of baby Huntsman spiders invading their ceiling.


Read: Murarrie Driver Shocked by Venomous Snake Under Car Bonnet


Michael Davis, a carbon market specialist at the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Australia, had an unexpected encounter with an infestation of spiders while in his Murarrie home’s garden. His partner, Fatima, rushed outside screaming for him to come inside, causing him to initially assume their 18-month-old son was in danger. 

Photo credit: WWF Australia/Facebook

However, when they entered the house, Fatima was pointing at a massive spider infestation, with the mother spider being one of the largest Davis had ever seen—about the size of a palm. 

Photo credit: WWF Australia/Facebook

His experience quickly went viral after the video clip was shared on WWF’s Instagram and Facebook pages, amassing nearly 100,000 views. Despite humorous suggestions from followers to sell the house or burn it down, Davis safely relocated the spiders to the backyard.

While Huntsman spiders are commonly found in Australia, this particular incident has brought attention to the fact that Brisbane seems to be a hotbed for these creatures. The sudden influx of baby Huntsman spiders follows a previous report from Wynnum last year, where a couple found a giant Huntsman spider lurking in their bathroom sink.

What You Need to Know About Huntsman Spiders

Photo credit: ABCDee David/Pexels


Huntsman spiders, a part of the Sparassidae family, are widely distributed in Australia and other warm climates. Often mistaken for tarantulas due to their large, hairy appearance, these spiders can be unsettling when they scurry across walls or ceilings. The baby Huntsman spiders discovered in Murarrie are just the latest example of the species’ frequent indoor encounters.

These arachnids are not dangerous despite their intimidating looks. While their bites can be painful and cause localised swelling, nausea, or headaches, they are not considered lethal. In fact, Huntsman spiders play a beneficial role in homes by helping with pest control, as they feast on smaller insects.


Read: Murarrie-based Axiom Holographics Wins Gold at Prestigious Edison Awards


They are commonly found in outdoor environments, such as under loose bark on trees, crevices in rock walls, and logs. Huntsman spiders sometimes enter houses, often hidden behind curtains, or may even take up residence in cars, where they can be spotted scuttling behind sun visors or across the dashboard. 

Their sudden appearances are a reminder that Huntsman spiders are a part of life in Brisbane, helping to maintain a natural balance, even if they occasionally send homeowners into a panic.

Published 27-January-2025

Murarrie Driver Shocked by Venomous Snake Under Car Bonnet

A driver in Murarrie had quite the fright after an eastern brown snake was spotted poking out from under his car bonnet while out on a recent shopping trip.



The unexpected encounter happened recently when something unusual was noticed under the bonnet. Recognising it as one of Australia’s most venomous snakes, professionals were quickly called in to handle the situation.

Eastern Brown Snakes: Common but Dangerous

Murarrie snake incident
Photo Credit: Snake Catchers Brisbane & Gold Coast/Facebook

Eastern brown snakes (Pseudonaja textilis) are well-known around Australia for their venom and quick reflexes. They are often spotted in dry, open spaces but aren’t strangers to suburban areas either, especially during warmer months.

While their venom is highly dangerous, these snakes usually avoid humans unless they feel cornered. Experts recommend staying calm, backing away slowly, and calling a professional snake catcher if one is spotted.

Why Do Snakes End Up in Cars?

It’s not unheard of for snakes to sneak into car engines, especially when seeking warmth or shelter. The engine bay offers a cosy hideaway, and snakes can climb up from the underside of vehicles without being noticed.

In most cases, they will move on by themselves, but attempting to remove them without help can be risky.

Snake Catcher Luke to the Rescue

Snake Catchers Brisbane & Gold Coast was called to handle the situation. It was snake catcher Luke who arrived on the scene to manage the removal. The eastern brown snake was carefully extracted, with the snake catcher confirming it had likely climbed up from underneath the car’s engine.

The snake was safely relocated to a more suitable environment, ensuring no harm came to either the driver or the snake.

Eastern brown snake under car bonnet in Murarrie
Photo Credit: Snake Catchers Brisbane & Gold Coast/Facebook

How to Avoid Snake Surprises in Car

Regular inspections are advised by snake experts particularly in cases where vehicles have been parked close to grassy areas or bushland. A quick visual check under the bonnet and around tyres will help to prevent unanticipated interactions.

Should a snake be ever seen in or close to a vehicle, the best course of action is to remain calm, maintain a safe distance, and immediately call a qualified snake catcher.



This event in Murarrie reminds people that wildlife interactions can occur unexpectedly. 

Published 7-Jan-2025

Brisbane’s Elevated Workout: Your Guide to the Gateway Bridge Walk

In an era where fitness trackers buzz with daily step goals, Brisbane offers a breathtaking way to clock those numbers – the Gateway Bridge walk. 


Read: Bridge to Brisbane 2024: The Ultimate Challenge from Murarrie


This impressive feat of engineering doubles as an urban fitness trail, delivering around 6,600 steps of your daily target while treating you to panoramic views of the working Port of Brisbane and Moreton Bay. 

For residents seeking to combine their daily exercise with stunning riverscapes, this architectural icon, officially known as the Sir Leo Hielscher Bridge, transforms a regular fitness walk into an elevated adventure.

The Route

Photo credit: Anita Hayward/Google Maps

Starting from Queensport Rocks Park, this well-maintained path takes you on an impressive journey up and over one of Brisbane’s most iconic structures. The bridge’s generous walking path accommodates both pedestrians and cyclists, making it a popular spot for fitness enthusiasts.

Alternative Starting Points

For Cyclists

Photo credit: Karen Natasha Mazarello/Google Maps

Cyclists can extend their ride by beginning at Colmslie Beach Reserve. From here, follow the dedicated cycling path that runs along Lytton Road until you reach Metroplex Avenue. Take a left turn into Metroplex Avenue, and this will lead you to connect with the main bridge path.

For Walkers Seeking Extra Distance

Gateway Bridge
Photo credit: Evening LX/Google Maps

Those looking to add more steps to their journey can also start from Colmslie Beach Reserve. When you reach Metroplex Avenue, take the path to the right of the small bridge. This scenic detour rewards you with wetland views and excellent birdwatching opportunities before connecting to the main bridge walk. The wetlands area is particularly active in the early morning, making it an ideal time to spot local wildlife.

Tips for Walkers

  • Timing: Choose early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak sun exposure
  • Water: Bring a water bottle, despite available fountains
  • Sun Protection: Hat and sunscreen essential – limited shade on the bridge
  • Photography: Multiple vantage points offer excellent photo opportunities
  • Fitness Level: Consider turning back at the peak if the full journey seems challenging

What to Expect

Gateway Bridge
Photo credit: Tomek Jampolski/Google Maps

The Gateway Bridge walk begins gently but quickly transitions into a steady incline. The gradient provides an excellent workout without being overwhelming. Strategic rest points allow walkers to break the journey into manageable segments while enjoying stunning views of Brisbane’s maritime activity and distant bay views.


Read: Balmoral Cycling Club’s Rising Stars Set for UCI Track Cycling World Championships


This walk offers a perfect blend of urban adventure and fitness challenge, making it a must-try for both Brisbane locals and visitors looking to experience the city from a different perspective.

Published 31-October-2024

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

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



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

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

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

Community at the Core

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

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

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

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

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

Manu Feildel
Photo Credit: Ingham’s Chicken/YouTube

Culinary Highlights and Recipe

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

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



 

Below is the cherished recipe they prepared together:

Meena’s Sri Lankan Chicken Curry Recipe

Ingredients:

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

  – 2 teaspoons turmeric powder

  – 2 tablespoons fresh ginger paste

  – 2 tablespoons olive oil

  – 3 sprig sticks curry leaves

  – 1 stick cinnamon

  – 1 brown onion, finely diced

  – 2 tomatoes, roughly chopped

  – 3 long green chilies, slit, seeds removed

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

  – 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  – ½ cup (125ml) coconut milk

  – Steamed basmati rice and roti bread, to serve

Method:

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

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

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

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

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

Published 14-Aug-2024

Murarrie-based Axiom Holographics Wins Gold at Prestigious Edison Awards

Axiom Holographics, the innovative company behind the world’s first hologram zoo, has been awarded a gold medal at the renowned Edison Awards in the United States.



Axiom Holographics
Photo Credit: Axiom Holographics

Bruce Dell, an inventor and businessman, founded the company, which won the Innovative Entertainment Design & Technologies Award at the event in Fort Myers, Florida.

Named after the legendary inventor Thomas Edison, the awards recognise excellence in new product and service development, marketing, and human-centred design. Past recipients include prominent figures like Elon Musk and Steve Jobs. 

Edison Awards

Dell expressed surprise at the win, initially doubting the company’s chances against such distinguished competition. However, Axiom’s innovative and cost-effective approach to hologram creation, achieving a fraction of the usual cost with superior quality, impressed the judges.

Axiom’s first hologram zoo opened in Cannon Hill 18 months ago, and the company is headquartered in Murarrie, with a manufacturing facility in Yatala. 

The company is now expanding its hologram zoo technology globally, with installations in Melbourne, Darwin, Austin (Texas), Connecticut, and China. Due to interest from American investors, Dell anticipates further expansion.



Published Date 22-May-2024

A Look Back at the History of the Queensport Aquarium in Hemmant

Did you know that during its heyday in the late 19th century, the Queensport Aquarium in Hemmant was well known for having electric lighting, the finest collection of marine creatures, reptiles, birds and other animals, and a near-disastrous but ultimately successful hot-air balloon exhibition ride?



The Queensport Aquarium holds a significant place in Brisbane’s history. Dating back to the late 19th century, the first amusement park located in Hemmant was originally established to transport visitors to a world of maritime adventure and discovery. 

The park, which opened in August 1889, featured various attractions, including a seafront promenade, marine exhibits, and live performances, all of which brought the ambience of the Victorian era. The Queensport Aquarium, which closed in 1901, boasted the finest collection of marine creatures, reptiles, birds and other animals. 

Queensport Aquarium
Photo Credit: National Library of Australia

But the Queensland Aquarium offered more than just animal exhibits. The grand concert hall hosted shows during the weekends, featuring an organ that delighted guests. The Aquarium Band serenaded by the best singers in Brisbane, added to the entertainment. The park’s popularity led to the subdivision and sale of land nearby, known as “The Queensport Aquarium Estate.”

Queensport Aquarium Estate Hemmant
Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland

Visitors to the Aquarium arrived by steamer from the city centre, enjoying a package deal that included the return fare on ships like the Natone, the Woolwich, or the Alice. Moonlit excursions to dances in the concert hall became popular activities.

The Queensland Aquarium boasted modern conveniences, including electric light, which was connected in September 1889. During the day, the park offered various activities. Sports days celebrated the New Year, whilst picnics took place on Foundation Day, which was on January 26. 

In May 1891, an extraordinary sight delighted the crowd—a hot air balloon. Professor Fernandez, an experienced aeronaut, made his first balloon ascent in the colony. Though the balloon initially deflated and seemed in danger of sinking into the river, it rose again and landed safely, thrilling the onlookers.

Despite a significant flood in 1890 that affected the wharf in the city, the Queensport Aquarium remained relatively unaffected. However, a more devastating flood occurred on February 5 and 6, 1893, which caused severe damage. 

Queensport Aquarium Flood
Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland

The flood tore down fences, leading to the escape of many animals, and ruined the meticulously landscaped gardens. Following this incident, J.D. Campbell and the Aquarium Company advertised the sale of the steamers. Although the picnics and parties were still well-attended, the once vibrant theme park gradually faded from the tourism spotlight at the close of the century. 



Today, the land where the aquarium used to be now partly encompasses the Queensland Rocks Park in Murarrie, near the Gateway Bridge.

Published 23-May-2023

Join the BMX Skills Open Day at the Murarrie Skate Park

Bring the whole family to the fun and exciting BMX Skills Open Day at the Murarrie Skate Park to witness and interact with Australian Olympian Natalya Diehm and other BMX champions.



The BMX Skills Open Day will take place on Saturday, 17 December 2022, with slots for kids between six to 17 years old to learn and train from the best! 

If you have BMX enthusiasts at home, the open day is a chance for them to develop some new skills as Natalya and the BMX experts will be conducting workshops and demonstrations at different sessions throughout the day. The workshops will also include a “girls only” session, as well as free bike safety checks from Traction.

Eager participants to the workshops are asked to bring a safe and suitable BMX bike, helmet, closed-in footwear, water bottle and if possible knee pads, elbow pads and gloves. However, there will also be limited BMX bikes for loan, thanks to the Council’s Cycling Brisbane Program. 

Aside from the BMX workshops, attendees may also try out the ninja course or enjoy various foods whilst watching the activities. Someone may also get the chance to win a brand-new BMX bike during the raffle draw. 

Booking is essential or email RampFest at Chris@rampfest.com.au to learn more about this event.