The cherished LGBTQ+ and romance bookshop Shelf Lovers has permanently closed its physical store in Wooloowin, marking the end of what many considered an important safe space for the local community.
When its lease finished, the shop at 1 Dickson Street ceased operations at its brick-and-mortar location. The official closure date for the physical premises was 20 April. Trading concluded over the Easter weekend, which saw customers visit for a last chance to browse and take advantage of discounts.
Shelf Lovers hosted a final farewell event to mark the closure, celebrating with the community. Gold Coast drag queen Cady DeVille entertained attendees during a special story time, bringing smiles and laughter. Following the event, the Shelf Lovers team expressed thanks on social media to everyone who shared their final weekend, acknowledging it involved laughs, tears, and many books.
Owner Kat previously announced the closure online, stating that deciding not to commit to a new lease was incredibly difficult. She revealed that considerations regarding her family’s financial situation and her health and wellness influenced the decision.
The bookshop had become recognised as a significant, inclusive, safe space within Brisbane for the LGBTQ+ community and romance readers. If the shop had continued operating from its physical location, plans had been made to develop the space further.
While the Wooloowin store is permanently closed, Shelf Lovers continues operating its online business. Customers can still purchase books through their website. The business can be contacted via email at shelflovers@outlook.com.
Kat mentioned previously that they were investigating options to continue the business in some form in the future, potentially. However, she noted that there were no definite answers yet regarding what that might look like, but updates would be provided.
We’ve explored every corner of Clayfield and Hendra to uncover the top-reviewed restaurants where locals and visitors alike rave about unforgettable dining experiences. From exceptional service to standout dishes, here’s our curated list of favorites!
Grace Loi ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Food here never disappoint me. I love their spaghetti Napoletana (very tomato. Love it!) and my partner love their spaghetti marinara (seafood taste blended in together with spaghetti) and spaghetti bolognese (very beefy). I also like having their spaghetti with a glass of classic Italiano spritz, very refreshing! Staff here also very friendly and atmosphere is comfortable! Highly recommended!!
Rebecca Lloyd ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely gorgeous spaghetti bolognese. Came out fast. Sooooo delicious. Only thing missing is a glass of red wine…but I have to drive :-/ Would definitely eat here again!!!!
Isaac Lateef ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I had the pesto gnocchi and it was fantastic, garlic bread was awesome as well. Leave room for dessert as the cannoli’s are to die for. Highly recommend if you want to taste the best gnocchi Brisbane has to offer.
Caitlin Mitchell ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I have not had better Indian in Brisbane. I live on the southside and will be travelling here to satisfy cravings in the future! Incredible flavours, exceptionally fresh, DF and GF options for my friends. Lovely wine selection and a great atmosphere. Everything was wonderful! Cannot wait to eat here again!
Camille Conaghan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ First time diners.. yummy as food! Eyes too big for our stomachs..but everything tasted fantastic! Good customer service..they were run off their feet they were that popular. Great little place, and definitely will be going back!
Daniel Tian ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We love coming to Punjabi Dawat for dinner. The service is fantastic, the place is clean, and the food is both well presented and delicious. You can tell they work very hard to run a tight ship. Prices are good, serving sizes are also good. Nothing to complain about really. The cheese naan is straight up dank I could eat it every day. Oh also they give you free pappadam so that’s worth mentioning.
Briar Evans ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Delicious food, attentive service and dog friendly. Great selection of beers. Would recommend stopping by for a relaxing lunch – the chorizo dish is my personal favourite!
Dan Manahan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We celebrated a joint birthday and OS departure at EJ Station house for our daughter. The Spanish tapas and drinks and service were great. For our family and friends event, the music level was just right, chill within easy conversation level. Glen was very accommodating and the waiters were fast and fun. It’s dog friendly too. Would definitely recommend this for a chill afternoon function.
John Forwood ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I have dined at EJ Station House a number of times. The food has always been exceptional. The chorizo and the calamari dishes are an every time favourite. Glen is a gracious host and it is always great to catch up.
Amir Bahri ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I tried the Don Carlos Fettuccine, which was very nice and tasty. One of the best I have ever had. I also had garlic prawn and some slices of pepperoni pizza. The pizza was good. It probably needed a paper tray between the pizza and the wooden board to stop the pizza base getting too wet. In general a very good restaurant with great ambiance and professional staff.
Ryan Lee ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Lovely but cosy ambience and the food was just perfect. The garlic bread came out fresh, the cocktails were delicious and the food was delicious. Generous portions of prawns in the marinara that we got, the carbonara looked great and all of it was spot on. Gianni came round a few times to make sure we were doing well. We’ll be back for sure. Thank you!
John Alecs Tuliao ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had the pleasure of dining tonight, and it truly exceeded our expectations. The service was exceptional and the staff were friendly and attentive. The Lasagna and Steak Pepe Verde was the absolute highlight of our night, each bite was bursting with flavor. Dessert was just as amazing, it was the perfect end to a perfect meal. This place is a must-visit! Highly recommend!
Charlie Pualau ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ OMG I’m so happy I found another amazing Thai restaurant near were I work. The food here is AAMAZINGG!! I always get the Pork Pad Si Ew (medium) You can taste the spices and herbs all the authentic Thai flavours in the dish. The pork is delicious and the flat noodles are perfect 👌🙌. Y’all remember my order soon. Try it. You won’t be disappointed 🫡
Lola Chin ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Dinner was pretty good. I’d say the Thai food here is quite authentic. We had the som tam salad, which is really yummy. The pork belly stir fry vegetable is very good. Tamarind fish is very good too. The only let down was their Tom yum soup, which is pretty average. We had the grass jelly and jackfruit for dessert and it was also average. Definitely come back again to try other dishes.
Winny Strong ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amazing little gem. the food were delicious. We ordered spring rolland the baramundi fried fish with thai salad. it was crispy and tasty. definitely we will be back.
Clayfield locals will come together in solemn reflection and spirited community celebration this Anzac Day, as the suburb hosts a dawn service at Cameron Rocks Memorial and an evening fundraiser at Eat Street Northshore in honour of the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing.
The Clayfield-Toombul RSL will hold a dawn service at Cameron Rocks Memorial in Hamilton on Friday, 25 April at 5:00 a.m., honouring Australians and New Zealanders who served in all conflicts.
This year marks 110 years since Gallipoli, adding significance to the Clayfield-Toombul RSL’s dawn service. Veterans, families, and locals are invited to reflect during a ceremony featuring the Last Post, a minute’s silence, and wreath-laying at the riverside memorial.
Veterans are encouraged to take part in ways that matter to them—by marching, attending, or simply being present with others who share the day’s meaning.
A Night of Community Spirit and Support
From 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., the Clayfield-Toombul RSL will host a Two-Up fundraiser at Eat Street Northshore, with proceeds supporting local veterans and families.
Beyond Two-Up, the night will feature live music from Whistle Dixie, Geed Up, and The Pacific Belles, plus performances by Heidi Mackay’s Australian dogs, the Army Veterinary Corps with horses, and a fire show. Gates open at 4:00 p.m., with festivities running late.
The RSL is also using its social media platforms to keep the community informed about service details, entertainment times, and ways to engage with local veterans.
Passing the Anzac Spirit to the Next Generation
This Anzac Day, the Clayfield-Toombul RSL is encouraging the community to honour those who served by attending a service, laying a wreath, or teaching children about the meaning behind the day.
With the 110th anniversary of Gallipoli, the Sub Branch hopes this milestone inspires reflection and helps pass the spirit of service and remembrance to future generations.
A Day That Belongs to Everyone
Anzac Day in Clayfield is for the whole community. The Clayfield-Toombul RSL invites people of all ages to take part in their own way—whether attending the dawn service or joining the evening fundraiser.
By showing up, listening, and remembering, locals help ensure the stories of service continue to be shared. The message is clear: honouring the Anzac legacy is a shared responsibility that brings the community together.
A small deli café in Clayfield is changing how locals think about Italian food, serving up more than just lunch with its home-style meals and warm, family-first approach.
Opened in 2023 by Fabio and Nadia, The Grazing Italians in Clayfield shares family recipes from their Nonna and Mamma, focusing on homestyle comfort like slow-cooked sandwiches, fresh cannoli and generous grazing platters.
They say their business is grounded in love for food and family, not just profit. That message appears on everything from their deli counter to their social media, where videos of slow-melted cheese and handwritten sandwich boards have gained attention on TikTok and Facebook.
More Than Just a Deli
The Grazing Italians also caters for events across Brisbane’s northside, offering custom grazing platters made with local and Italian produce. In-store, customers can browse a curated selection of gourmet pantry items like olive oils, balsamic vinegars and artisanal pasta.
The café trades Tuesday to Friday from 6:30am to 2:30pm, catering mainly to the school and work crowd. They keep a smaller footprint to maintain what they call a “neighbourhood-first” feel.
Strong Community Ties
Clayfield locals have embraced the café, with regulars dropping in for coffee or pastries. Fabio and Nadia keep it friendly and low-key, often chatting with customers.
Even online, their branding avoids the usual polish of larger chains. Instead, it highlights behind-the-scenes food prep and candid moments in the kitchen things that seem to resonate with locals and followers alike.
The Grazing Italians is a hands-on local café, with Fabio and Nadia behind the counter daily. Their personal touch, like remembering orders or helping with party catering has built strong ties with regulars.
Developer Cedar Woods has started building 58 new luxury apartments called Vera, the first apartment complex within its large Greville community project in Wooloowin.
This marks a significant step for the development, moving into apartment construction after successfully selling out two earlier townhome releases. Vera is planned as the first of three apartment buildings for the master-planned Greville site in Brisbane’s inner north.
Vera Apartment Features
Photo Credit: Supplied
The Vera building will be six storeys tall and offer a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. Designed by architecture firm Rothelowman, the floorplans will measure between 78 and 122 square metres.
Some apartments overlook a large parkland area within the community, while others offer views of the Brisbane skyline. Residents will have access to exclusive rooftop facilities, including a swimming pool, barbecue and dining spaces, and an outdoor lounge area equipped with a firepit, all offering city vistas.
Cedar Woods Development Director Blair Britton stated that Vera represents a high-quality addition to the area, featuring resort-style amenities designed to improve residents’ lifestyles.
Greville Community Growth
Photo Credit: Supplied
The Greville master-planned community is just five kilometres north of Brisbane’s central business district in the historic suburb of Wooloowin. The 3.5-hectare site is expected to develop further over the next five years. Plans include 84 townhomes, more than 200 apartments across the three buildings, and a unique collection of homes inside the historic Holy Cross laundry building, which dates back to the 1800s.
People already living in Greville have access to shared facilities such as a recreation area with a pool and barbecues and the 4,000-square-metre Greville Park, which opened to the public in 2023. Mr Britton also noted that Greville is quickly becoming a desirable urban neighbourhood, thanks to new and existing facilities and good connections to shops and transport.
Addressing Housing Needs
Photo Credit: Supplied
Local government representatives have welcomed the project. Marchant Ward Councillor Danita Parry, explained that adding Vera at Greville will help supply much-needed housing in Brisbane’s inner north. She pointed out that Brisbane is among Australia’s fastest-growing cities and developments like Greville help address the strong demand for homes.
Cr Parry added that the project provides more housing choices for people of different ages and abilities and contributes to more things for people to see and do, such as the new public park. She mentioned her support, along with that of Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, for projects that deliver more homes and enhance the city’s lifestyle.
Cedar Woods has selected Brisbane-based builder Emacen Projects to construct the Vera apartments. Mr Britton expressed pleasure in partnering with Emacen, noting their experienced local team will help bring more quality homes to the market. The first townhome stage at Greville was finished late last year, and work on the second townhome stage is currently close to completion.
Emacen Projects Executive Director Mark Spry commented on the high calibre of the project team and Cedar Woods’ knowledge of the building process. Mr Spry confirmed that early works have started on the Vera site. His team expects to finish construction in early 2027 based on the current schedule. He added that Emacen draws on extensive experience from major Australian projects, applying strong systems to deliver Vera to a high standard.
Interest in Vera has been strong, with 50 per cent of the apartments already under contract following an initial release campaign. The remaining apartments are available with prices starting from $874,000. Interested buyers can find more information online or at the Greville Sales Centre in Wooloowin.
Holy Cross School, one of Wooloowin’s oldest educational institutions, will receive significant facility upgrades in 2025. This initiative is to support its growing student population and enhance learning environments.
Holy Cross School was established by the Sisters of Mercy in 1890. This 135-year-old Catholic school will undergo renovations to modernise its facilities while maintaining its rich heritage.
The renovation will include a new facade, updated Prep spaces, and play areas. The new Prep classrooms will feature state-of-the-art design and technology. It will offer flexible and engaging environments tailored to foster creativity and collaboration among the youngest learners.
Holy Cross School Principal Simon Mahaffy highlighted that the upgrades would improve aesthetics. It will also provide students, staff, and families with a more welcoming and stimulating environment. He emphasised that these modern facilities will support the growing number of families choosing the school amid increasing local housing developments.
Preserving Community Heritage
The planned renovations will also respect the school’s historical elements. Community members expressed concerns over maintaining significant features such as the brick pavers engraved with past students’ names and the Lone Pine tree from the War Memorial.
School representatives have reassured the community that these elements will remain part of the upgraded landscape. The brick pavers will be relocated to the new prayer space, and the Lone Pine will be preserved with a new sandstone plinth and commemorative plaque.
Community Reaction and Future Plans
Residents have largely welcomed the upgrades. They expressed gratitude for preserving the school’s heritage while enhancing modern facilities. Many alumni are noting how the school has evolved over the years.
Principal Mahaffy also acknowledged Brisbane Catholic Education’s support in funding the project. The project is set to commence during the Easter school holidays. Completion is expected by the end of 2025. The upgraded facilities will cement Holy Cross School’s reputation as a thriving and welcoming community hub in Wooloowin.
Bestselling children’s author Jessica Townsend is coming to Clayfield for an exclusive event to celebrate the release of her latest book, Silverborn: The Mystery of Morrigan Crow.
Clayfield Set To Welcome Celebrated Author Jessica Townsend For One-night Event
In a major win for book lovers in Clayfield, bestselling author Jessica Townsend will visit the suburb to mark the release of her latest novel, Silverborn: The Mystery of Morrigan Crow.
The event invites readers to connect with the author of the award-winning Nevermoor series in an evening filled with stories, discussion and community spirit.
A Night of Stories and Local Connection
The event takes place on Thursday, 1 May at the Trinity Centre, St Rita’s College, beginning at 5 p.m. Guests will hear Townsend in conversation with teacher librarian Megan Daley, followed by a signing session. Drinks and a grazing table will be available throughout the evening.
Townsend, who is based on the Sunshine Coast, rose to fame with her debut novel Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow, which became the highest-selling Australian children’s debut on record and won multiple awards.
Silverborn continues Morrigan’s adventures in the Wundrous Society, with new characters, locations and deeper insights into her magical abilities. Fans attending the event will get early reflections from Townsend on the themes and development of the story.
Clayfield’s hosting of the event highlights local efforts to create meaningful cultural experiences. St Rita’s College and supporting bookshops have helped make the evening possible, with ticket packages that include the book and special keepsakes. Readers of all ages are expected to attend, making it a standout literary moment for the suburb.
A Kalinga father suffered severe injuries, including brain trauma and grated feet, after being dragged by his car as teenage thieves sped away, resulting in one of the teens receiving an 18-month probation sentence.
The incident occurred on 11 May last year at the Charlton family home in Kalinga, a suburb in Brisbane’s inner north.
Benjamin Charlton, a local veterinarian, attempted to stop the theft of his Toyota Prado but was dragged along the road, sustaining significant injuries. The impact resulted in a brain injury, requiring extensive medical attention, and severe damage to his feet. Mr Charlton described the horrifying moment he looked down and struggled to recognise his own bloodied and damaged feet.
He also recounted the fear and uncertainty his family faced as doctors assessed his brain injury, which included bleeding. Doctors warned of potential surgery if the bleeding did not subside. Mr. Charlton now faces a lifelong increased risk of seizures and potential permanent vision impairment. His wife, Megan Charlton, found him unconscious and bleeding on the road, fearing the teens would return. She attempted to move him to safety.
One of the teenagers involved pleaded guilty to robbery in company, unauthorised use of a motor vehicle, and assault occasioning bodily harm. The Childrens Court in Brisbane sentenced the teen to 18 months of probation. Judge Ian Dearden ordered the teen to participate in restorative justice, which involves meeting with Mr. Charlton.
The teen had already spent 10 months in juvenile detention on remand. The court also heard that the teenager had committed a separate assault in April, a month before the Kalinga incident, attacking another victim on a city bridge. The stolen vehicle was later stopped by police using road spikes after reaching speeds of over 150km/h through Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The teen is expected to appear in Ipswich Children’s Court on 1 April to plead guilty to unrelated charges.
Mr Charlton expressed his ongoing anger and sadness, stating that while the teenagers involved can move on with their lives, he faces lifelong consequences. He conveyed the emotional trauma of the incident, recalling the fear he and his family experienced. He hoped that the teen would receive help to avoid reoffending.
Mr Charlton explained that the decision to pursue restorative justice rather than a harsher sentence, was made with the hope of rehabilitation. He stated that the emotional and physical scars he sustained may never fully heal.
The incident has caused concern within the Kalinga community, highlighting the issue of youth crime in the area. Residents sympathised with the Charlton family and requested increased measures to prevent similar incidents. The community has rallied around the family, offering support and assistance during their recovery.
Clayfield residents affected by the recent severe weather can now apply for personal hardship financial assistance. This comes after Queensland launched several disaster recoverygrants to support those affected by Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025.
While the flooding was not as extensive as in 2022, some areas in Clayfield, particularly those near Kedron Brook faced rising concerns as water levels increased. Several streets, including Noble Street, Widdop Street, Franz Road, and Gellibrand Street, were impacted by flooding, leading to road closures and travel disruptions.
Grants for Affected Residents
Queensland has rolled out multiple financial assistance programs, including:
Emergency Hardship Assistance Grant – Provides immediate relief for essential needs such as food, medication, clothing, and temporary accommodation.
Essential Services Hardship Assistance Grant – Assists residents who have been without power, gas, water, or sewage for more than five days.
Essential Household Contents Grant – Helps replace essential household items lost in the disaster, including bed linen and white goods.
Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Scheme (ESSRS) – Covers safety inspections and necessary repairs to reconnect essential services such as gas, water, electricity, and sewage.
Structural Assistance Grant – Aids in structural repairs or contributes toward rebuilding damaged homes.
Photo credit: Community Recovery QLD/Facebook
Residents affected by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred are urged to locate their nearest Community Recovery Hub for assistance. In addition to assisting residents with grant applications, Community Recovery Hubs provide emotional and wellbeing support to those affected. Recovery workers are also available to connect individuals with community organisations and other support services for further assistance.
The Community Recovery Hotline (1800 173 349) is open 24/7 to assist residents with financial assistance applications and provide access to support and emotional services.
Due to widespread demand for assistance across Queensland, Community Recovery teams are managing a high volume of applications for the disaster recovery grants. Authorities are working as quickly as possible to provide relief and ask residents for patience during processing. More details are provided on the official Queensland Government website.
Brisbane-born singer-songwriter Dave Barrie, originally from Clayfield and now based in Tewantin, is set to release his latest single, “Back On The Ground,” on 17 March 2025.
The track, produced by renowned hit-maker Stuart Stuart (Sheppard, Dean Lewis, The Veronicas), also features Barrie’s 11-year-old daughter, Izzy, on vocals. They will embark on a 25-date regional Queensland tour over 32 days to support the release. The duo will perform at free-entry venues nationwide, including multiple stops in Brisbane.
Photo Credit: Supplied
A Music Legacy Rooted in Clayfield
Growing up in Clayfield, Dave Barrie was surrounded by music from an early age. As the youngest son of a piano teacher and a professional drummer, his musical influences span generations, from Fleetwood Mac and Cat Stevens to modern Australian artists such as Xavier Rudd, Vance Joy, and Bernard Fanning. With over 20 years of experience, four independent EP releases, and multiple songwriting awards, Barrie continues to make his mark on the Australian music scene.
His latest single, “Back On The Ground,” embodies his signature folk-pop/rock sound with country influences, centering on themes of support and resilience.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Barrie has earned national recognition, with his 2023 song ‘Hold Me Now’ reaching #1 on AMRAP’s regional radio airplay chart. His track ‘Trampoline’ was also runner-up in the 2023 USA Songwriting Competition, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled songwriter.
A Special Collaboration: Featuring Izzy Barrie
The new single is not just another release. It marks a special milestone for Barrie, as it is his first official collaboration with his daughter, Izzy. A talented young performer in her own right, Izzy has already claimed gold at the 2024 Gympie Singing Eisteddfod. She also serves as Performing Arts Captain at her school. The father-daughter duo has become a familiar sight at Sunshine Coast markets, often drawing crowds with their acoustic performances.
Photo Credit: Supplied
With Izzy contributing vocals, ukulele, and percussion, their performances promise a fresh and unique take on contemporary hits and timeless classics.
Queensland Tour: 25 Shows in 32 Days
Dave and Izzy Barrie will embark on an extensive Queensland tour to celebrate the single’s release. The tour will last over a month and cover Brisbane, Ipswich, Toowoomba, Tin Can Bay, Hervey Bay, Bundaberg, Gladstone, Yeppoon, and Great Keppel Island.
Brisbane Tour Dates:
March 22 – Carseldine Market
March 23 – Redcliffe Market
March 26 – Reddacliff Place Market, Brisbane City
March 27 – Cathedral Square Market, Brisbane City
Each performance will feature a mix of original songs and acoustic covers from the 1960s to today, incorporating a looping setup to create a one-man band experience.
Photo Credit: Supplied
What’s Next for Dave Barrie?
Beyond the tour, Barrie has plans to release his fifth independent EP, which will feature
“Back On The Ground” alongside a collection of previous singles. Fans can also purchase a 12-track album containing both new and earlier releases at live shows.
