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CCTV Aids Capture of Intruder in Break-In

Photo Credit: Pixabay / cctvsmartsystems

Residents of Clayfield were given a stark reminder of the importance of home security systems as CCTV aids in the capture of an intruder at a residence on Queens Road.

Despite the absence of the homeowner, a timely alert from their CCTV security setup allowed them to promptly notify the police.

The suspect, gaining entry by tampering with a window, was soon located within the premises by a collaborative effort of Hendra Station, Boondall Tactical Crime Squad, and Boondall Highway Patrol officers.

In a tense turn of events, the alleged intruder barricaded himself inside a bedroom, forcing law enforcement to intervene forcefully.

Once in custody, authorities discovered stolen items, including valuable jewellery and cash, alongside tools commonly associated with break-and-enter crimes. Drug paraphernalia and a vehicle key were also seized from the individual.

Outside the property, a surprising find awaited as police stumbled upon a blue 2019 Subaru, its licence plates cleverly falsified. Investigations revealed the car had been reported stolen from an Ashgrove residence on July 17.

The ensuing legal proceedings have led to a 42-year-old man being charged with several offences.

These include entering a dwelling with intent to commit an indictable offence, obstructing police, and the possession of stolen goods.

Additional charges for the Aug 7 incident pertain to the possession of burglary tools, improper disposal of drug paraphernalia, and the possession of items believed to be associated with drug-related activities.

Furthermore, the accused faces charges related to the break-in as well as the unlawful use of the stolen Subaru. The individual remains in custody and is set to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on August 8.

This incident underscores the importance of community collaboration and the critical role that home security measures play in safeguarding Clayfield’s tranquil environment.

Residents are urged to share any relevant information with authorities via Policelink, or Crime Stoppers using the reference numbers QP2301299969, QP2301172304.

The prompt response and effective teamwork demonstrated by law enforcement agencies serve as a reassuring testament to their commitment to maintaining safety and security within the Clayfield community.

Published 9-August-2023

$18 Million Lawsuit Filed Over Asbestos Contamination at Greville Wooloowin Development

Photo Credit: Greville Wooloowin/Facebook

The Greville Wooloowin development, an ambitious “urban village” project situated in Brisbane’s north, has been thrust into an $18-million legal battle due to a shocking asbestos discovery that has brought construction to a grinding halt.

The project, led by Dunland Property Pty Ltd, was intended to bring a touch of elegance to the city’s landscape, but now finds itself at the epicentre of a lawsuit against environmental consultants accused of negligence.

Dunland Property Pty Ltd, the owner of the development site at 60 Bridge St Wooloowin, has launched a lawsuit against MACH1 Environmental Pty Ltd and Butler Partners Pty Ltd in the Supreme Court.

The lawsuit alleges that these environmental consultants negligently cleared the contaminated site for construction, leading to costly delays and financial losses.

The legal claim, filed on 14 July 2023, highlights that Dunland relied on assurances from MACH1 Environmental and Butler Partners that the Cedar Woods’ townhouse project, known as Greville Wooloowin, was safe from contamination and suitable for construction.

However, once construction commenced in early 2021, asbestos was discovered in the soil, prompting a complete halt to work.

Photo Credit: Greville Wooloowin/Facebook

Subsequent investigations conducted in April and May revealed even more asbestos contamination on the site. To rectify the situation, Dunland had to remove a staggering 11,000 cubic meters of soil tainted with asbestos between June and November 2021, incurring significant costs.

By the time construction could resume, the project’s budget had ballooned from $15.3 million to $24.6 million for the townhouses, which were originally planned to be finished by October 2022. The consequences rippled through the project, forcing Dunland to cancel sales contracts for the terrace homes and incurring substantial financial setbacks.

The company is now seeking damages totaling $18.2 million, which encompasses increased construction costs, commissions paid to real estate agents for Francis Apartments, sunk marketing costs, and more.

Dunland asserts that the negligence caused the project’s crippling delays, costs, and cancellations.

The claim alleges that Butler Partners provided misleading information in their “contaminated land investigation” report, deeming the site suitable for unrestricted use and suggesting its removal from the state government’s environmental management register. Similarly, MACH1 Environmental’s report stated that “no contamination remains on-site.”

These reports were pivotal in the site’s removal from the environmental management register in October 2019. However, subsequent asbestos discoveries prompted the site’s relisting in June 2021.

Greville Wooloowin’s development includes 49 medium-density lots, 12 medium-density lots and two high-density apartment blocks, divided into four stages. Whilst the legal battle unfolds, the Greville Wooloowin development remains mired in uncertainty as no defence has been filed and no hearing date set, as of press time.

Published 7-Aug-2023

Diving Champ Cassiel Rousseau to Sacrifice Job, Studies to Pursue Olympic Glory

Cassiel Rousseau, who took the diving world by storm with his gold medal at the 2023 World Aquatics Championships, says he will likely have to sacrifice his studies, social life, and job in Clayfield to repeat the feat at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

In Fukuoka, the 22-year-old diving sensation became the first Australian ever to win gold in the men’s 10m platform . In doing so, he also denied China a sweep of all 13 gold medals in diving.

But with his rivals sure to come back stronger in their quest for Olympic gold, Rousseau believes he will need to wholly devote himself to training over the next year.

Cassiel Rousseau: Train, Work, Study

Diving Champ Cassiel Rousseau to Sacrifice Job, Studies to Pursue Olympic Glory — Photo Credit: Facebook/World Aquatics

To stay at the top, Rousseau will have to give up working, which could change his financial prospects. He added that he might also have to take a break from his studies.

Cassiel is a receptionist at City Cave Clayfield and a psychology student at Griffith University. He is grateful for the flexibility both commitments have afforded his training so far. However, he says it is becoming difficult to balance everything.

His risky but high-scoring forward four-and-a-half somersault secured him a surprise world title.

Rousseau is careful not to get too complacent with his victory. He knows that maintaining his position at the top will require better training – especially with better-funded rivals and a target on his back.

With his grandfather Michel having won Olympic cycling gold for France at the 1956 Melbourne Games, the 2024 Paris Olympics hold special significance for Rousseau.

It is this family history that will drive him through the sacrifices ahead in his quest for more precious metal.

Published 05 August 2023

Owners of Clayfield’s ‘Wonga Villa’ Upset by New Units Being Built Too Close

The owners of Wonga Villa, a colonial Queenslander on Bonney Avenue in Clayfield, are expressing concerns over a new development being built adjacent to their property, so close that they can almost touch them.

Read: First Residents Move into Former Retirement Village in Clayfield

The home, located at 194 Bonney Ave, was built in the early 1900s and purchased by the Bird family back in 2001. The family had hoped to sell the property in 2018 to downsize but still remain the owners up to this day.

An original development approval (DA) was granted in 2019 for the construction of a new two-storey complex next door. This DA outlined a 750mm boundary gap, matching the current space between the Wonga Villa and the fence line.

Wonga Villa, a colonial Queenslander in Clayfield (Photo credit: realestate.com.au)

However, when construction started in April 2023, Wonga Villa’s owner Peter Bird claimed the concrete slabs were being placed much closer than approved.

Project perspective for 196, 196A & 198 Bonney Ave (Photo credit: Jazz Designs)

The new development application, designed by architects from Jazz Designs, has since received approval for proposed minor changes, including extending walls nearer to the southern boundary and squaring off unit shapes.

Developers of the multiple dwellings at 196, 196A & 198 Bonney Avenue, also received a go-ahead to add block walls to each side, increase all finished floor levels by 300mm to allow stormwater discharge to be technically feasible, and configure window and door changes to all units.

The owners of Wonga Villa said they reached out to authorities but were reportedly told the issue was “beyond their authority.”

In response to the issue, Brisbane City Council noted that they investigated all concerns raised by Mr Bird but found the development complies with City Plan requirements and is being built per the approval. The application did not require public notification or referral to any agencies.

Read: Renovated Clayfield Home Enchants Buyers at the Auction

The Bird family remains upset by how close the new buildings are to their home, to the point they can almost touch the new units from their property. They had hoped authorities would have protected the original boundary gap outlined in the first DA, as attempts to halt construction have so far been unsuccessful.

Published 31-July-2023

Renovated Clayfield Home Enchants Buyers at the Auction

A beautifully renovated five-bedroom, three-bathroom residence on Craven St in Clayfield went under the hammer, capturing the attention of enthusiastic buyers from all over South East Queensland.

The property, which underwent a meticulous 12-month renovation under the watchful eye of an interior designer, became a standout gem in the region’s real estate market.

The previous owners, Bronwyn Pitt and her husband Tony, were overwhelmed with the response from potential buyers as the auction came to a close at the end of July 2023. Whilst the specific details of the auction outcome have not been released yet, it was evident that the transformed property attracted considerable interest from individuals eager to secure their dream home.

Designed by the esteemed Bevan Lynch, the three-level family retreat exudes uncompromised contemporary excellence, offering an abundance of light-filled living spaces and high-quality luxury inclusions throughout.

The northeast facing family living areas, framed by floor-to-ceiling picture windows, provide an impressive view of a large private entertainer’s terrace complete with a swimming pool, water feature, and a spectacular outlook to Moreton Bay.

Craven St Clayfield — Photo Credit: YouTube

Inside, brush box floors create a warm and inviting atmosphere, harmonizing with the modern and spacious layout. The open-plan contemporary kitchen, boasting top-of-the-line appliances, stone benchtops, and a walk-in pantry, stands as the heart of the home.

The property also features a private study with floor-to-ceiling bookcases, a media room leading to a serene back courtyard, and five bedrooms with built-in wardrobes.

The master suite serves as a tranquil sanctuary with his-and-hers walk-in robes, a full ensuite, spa bath, and a private terrace offering breathtaking views. The lower level provides added versatility with a rumpus/home office featuring a separate entry and internal access through the double auto lock-up garage.

The soaring demand for premium residences in South East Queensland and the unparalleled craftsmanship displayed in this renovated Clayfield home set the stage for an exciting and competitive bidding process.

Published 31-July-2023

Helping Your Child Get Better At Problem Solving

Over the years, I have met with countless students who at first believed they were ‘no good at maths’. Imagine their delight when we helped them discover their inner ‘problem solver’.

Many would describe maths as ‘logical, black and white, right or wrong’; for there can only ever be one correct answer. While this may be true, there can often be several ways to solve the same problem, suggesting that mathematics is perhaps a far more creative endeavour than we have previously given it credit for.

The ability to solve problems, mathematical or otherwise, often requires us to think outside the box, to be original and to identify a way forward that others may not have considered.

It engages a creativity that is often not normally associated with the logic inherent in finding a solution, particularly as it applies to numbers.

However, some would argue that Mathematical problem solving is in the same realm as writing music or playing an instrument, in that while it is bound by laws and limitations, it is also a natural expression of our mind’s unique and infinite capacity to form patterns and ideas.

Everyone of us is a problem solver, in a multitude of ways and in a vast array of daily contexts.

When children see themselves as problems solvers and see maths as a way to ‘create’ solutions, it can help to break down the barriers that prevent them from trying in the first place.

Problem solving involves three key things:

What is the problem asking for? i.e. be sure to identify the unit of measurement and record this near the bottom of the working out page before you have even done the calculations.
What operation/ operations will be required? i.e. look for language in the text that indicates whether you will be adding, or dividing and think of a reasonable estimate.
What strategy is going to be most efficient?

When it comes to Problem Solving of more complex worded problems, it is important that children are adept at using a range of strategies, as it will enable them to discern what will be the best approach to use for any given problem.

For example, if a problem involves finding the area of a compound shape, ‘drawing a picture’ and writing measurements as described, will allow the child to visually understand the task and keep track of each step.

In another instance, it may be more efficient to ‘work backwards’ and in another, perhaps a ‘guess and check’ approach.

Below is a list of effective Problem Solving strategies that you and your child can explore when presented with a mathematical problem.

1. Read the problem aloud – By reading the problem aloud, they can help to clarify any confusion and better understand what’s being asked.

2. Summarise the information – Using dot points or a short sentence, list out all the information given in the problem.

3. Create a picture or diagram – By drawing a picture, can better understand what’s being asked and identify any information that’s missing.

4. Act it out – It can enable students to see the problem in a different way and develop a more intuitive understanding of it.

5. Use keyword analysis – Keyword analysis involves asking questions about the words in a problem in order to work out what needs to be done.

6. Look for a pattern – This could be a number, a shape pattern or even just a general trend that you can see in the information given.

7. Guess and check – Simply make a guess at the answer and then check to see if it works. If it doesn’t, you make another systematic guess and keep going until you find a solution that works.

8. Working backwards – Regressive reasoning, or working backwards, involves starting with a potential answer and working your way back to figure out how you would get there.

9. Use a formula – There will be some problems where a specific formula needs to be used in order to solve it.

10. Use direct reasoning – By breaking the problem down into smaller chunks, you can start to see how the different pieces fit together and eventually work out a solution.

12. Solve a simpler problem – Or if you’re struggling with the addition of algebraic fractions, go back to solving regular fraction addition first.

Published 26-July-2023

Problem Solving Competition for Children

THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED.

Number Works 'n Words Clayfield Competition Quiz

This competition is proudly sponsored by Number Works ‘n Words in Clayfield. Every entrant will receive a free evaluation and a free lesson. All entrants will go into a draw, the winner will receive a whole term’s tuition, worth $650.

TO ENTER: Simply pass the problem below onto your child and ask them to solve it. Then complete the entry form below it. Competition closes on July 31, 2023.

THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED.

Fill out my online form.

Published 26-July-2023

First Residents Move into Former Retirement Village in Clayfield

In a bid to address the issue of a housing shortage in Brisbane, the first residents of a repurposed former retirement village in Clayfield have moved into the property.

Partnering with Bric Housing and Communify Queensland Ltd., the project for 37 homes aims to provide long-term accommodation for older Queenslanders who are downsizing or facing homelessness. With the first residents safely in their new homes, the Clayfield property marks a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to tackle the housing crisis.

Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon expressed her confidence in the new tenants’ well-being.

“I know the new tenants will be well supported in their new homes by Bric Housing and Communify Queensland, who will manage the property and deliver on-site supports.”

The 37 self-contained units offer safe and secure housing options, particularly for older individuals who may be experiencing or at risk of homelessness or seeking smaller homes. The Palaszczuk Government has been proactive in acquiring or leasing vacant former retirement villages to cater to the pressing housing needs of Queenslanders. Alongside the Clayfield property, the government has purchased a vacant former retirement village in Toowoomba and leased another in Redland Bay.

To ensure the successful integration and support of residents, the Palaszczuk Government allocated $14 million in funding over two years in the latest budget. This funding will go towards providing on-site supports at the Clayfield property, as well as the former retirement villages in Toowoomba and Redlands.

Photo Credit: PremierAnnastaciaPalaszcuk

Minister Scanlon emphasized the government’s commitment to providing immediate housing solutions.

“The Palaszczuk Government is leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to find new ways we can provide immediate housing for Queenslanders.”

The acquisition and repurposing of vacant former retirement villages serve as part of these ongoing efforts, with over 120 households set to benefit from the combined housing solutions offered by the three locations.

For individuals in need of housing assistance, the Palaszczuk Government encourages contacting their local Housing Service Centre during business hours or reaching out to the 24/7 Homeless Hotline at 1800 474 753.

Published 5-July-2023

Shared Reading with Your Child – A Hack for All Parents

The most common question I am asked by parents of primary school-aged children is, “What can I do at home to help my child with their learning?”

When it comes to a child’s literacy development, the single most powerful tool for parents to understand, is the role they themselves play, in the shared reading experience.

When a child reads out loud to a parent who is listening, interacting and present in the moment, you would be surprised at just how many processes are working at the same time. Reading together is far more valuable than you may have realised and the best part for busy parents is, it takes next to no time to prepare and the only resource you need is a good book.

For younger children, learning to read begins with engaging conversations around pictures, turning pages and making up stories in their own words, identifying characters and recognising settings, taking turns and recalling events, making simple inferences and chatting about their own, perhaps similar, prior experiences.

As a child begins to learn the concepts of letters and sounds and words
and phrases, the text itself begins to offer clues and opportunities for discussion. There develops a conservation of text, whereby the sounds and words are read consistently every time and strategies for decoding and reading accuracy, along with greater word recognition and phrase fluency, become ever more important in the search for meaning.

As a child begins to master the skills of ‘learning to read’, the focus begins to shift to one of ‘reading to learn’. This is where all levels of comprehension develop, from the simplest, literal translation to the deepest analytical interpretation. It is important at every stage, but most critically at this point, that the child is exposed to a wide and rich range of text types.

Reading in itself, is of huge benefit to every child, but it is in the opportunities for lively, fun and contemplative shared reading, that children will develop life-long skills that impact all aspects of their learning. The greatest hack for any parent wanting to help their child at home, is simply to enjoy 10-15 minutes every day, reading together.

The list of benefits is far reaching, but below are just some of the reasons why the shared reading experience is so effective.

 It’s fun!
 Offers regular ‘bonding’ time between parent and child
 Develops letter, sound and word recognition
 Extends vocabulary
 Improves general knowledge
 Lays the foundation for easy communication between child and parent
 Instills a love of reading and learning
 Supports improved sleep patterns
 Stimulates creativity and imagination
 Encourages debate and the development of personal views
 Improves the child’s writing in almost every way! This one is huge!
 Reduces stress
 Develops memory and focus

enter the competition here

Community Concerns Grow Over Proposal for Childcare Centre in Hendra

Local residents have expressed growing concerns over a proposed childcare centre in Hendra that will feature outdoor sport and recreation facilities.

Read: Sisters of Mercy Convent Site Transformation into New Childcare Centre Commences

Plans

Childcare Centre in Hendra — Photo credit: Mijollo International

Designed by Mijollo International, the project entails a two-storey childcare centre, accommodating up to 239 children, along with a public basketball and handball court that can be rented for recreational purposes.

The proposal encompasses an array of features, including two large outdoor play areas, two communal play areas, 11 activity rooms, covered outdoor spaces, a nature zone with landscaping, acoustic screening treatments, and a basement housing 52 car parking spaces.

If approved, the proposed childcare centre in Hendra is slated to open its doors from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays, providing essential services for working parents in the community.

Meanwhile, the multi-purpose courts will be available for bookings only, offering recreational opportunities between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. from Monday to Sunday.

Objections From Locals

Following a public notification period from 13 May 13 2022 to 3 June 3 2022, a total of 118 objections were lodged against the project. The wave of opposition primarily originates from individuals residing in close proximity to the proposed development site at 25 Lethem Street, Hendra.

Local residents argue that the intended project would significantly increase the extent of traffic in Lethem St and that it’s grossly incompatible with the existing context of the area, potentially resulting in a significant compromise of the surrounding residential amenity.

Artist’s impression of proposed childcare centre in Hendra (Photo credit: Mijollo International)

According to one resident, there is already an excessive abundance of childcare and early learning centres in the vicinity. The resident further pointed out that there are at least 15 existing or authorised centres within a 2-kilometre radius of the subject site.

Read: Local Community Is Split Over Proposed Wooloowin Street Development

In response to residents’ concerns, Brisbane City Council advised the applicant to revise its application, such as removing the outdoor sport and recreation component and replacing this area with deep planting/landscaping, given that development is primarily for a childcare centre.

Further information about the development application can be viewed via Council’s PD Online, with the reference A005894902.

Published 17-May-2023