Clayfield GP Clinic Launches New Monthly Membership Model

Tired of long waits for doctor’s appointments, high out-of-pocket costs, and a fragmented healthcare experience? A new monthly membership program offered by Clayfield GP clinic Evercare aims to provide a solution.


Read: Local Heroes: Clayfield Locals Who Made a Difference in the History of Brisbane


Located at Junction Road, Evercare has introduced this innovative new membership-based model for patient care just last month. 

As of July 2023, patients now have the option to pay a daily membership fee of $45 per month or as little as $1.50 daily for priority access to doctors, appointments, after-hours care and more through the Evercare app.

Clayfield GP Clinic
Photo credit: Evercare/Facebook

Evercare’s membership program provides patients with an effective way to manage their primary healthcare expenses. 

Members gain access to a general practitioner who serves as both a medical provider and trusted confidante. Through the Evercare app or in-clinic visits, members can readily connect with their assigned GP to address their healthcare needs.

How It Works

Photo credit: Evercare/Facebook

The $45 monthly membership fee offered by the Clayfield GP clinic is paid one month in advance at the time of joining and on the 1st of each month thereafter. Members can book their first appointment right away. The membership can be cancelled at any time.

For a first appointment, members will need to come into the Evercare clinic and complete a Baseline Health Check, unless they already have telehealth eligibility with their selected GP. If members prefer a telehealth first appointment, that option is available for an out-of-pocket charge.


Read: Community Concerns Grow Over Proposal for Childcare Centre in Hendra


At the time of the first appointment, whether in-clinic or telehealth, the member’s designated payment method will be charged the standard Medicare rate. Within 24 hours, Medicare will refund this amount in full, leaving members with no out-of-pocket costs for standard appointments as part of the membership.

To learn more or become an Evercare member, visit https://evercare.com.au/

Published 25-August-2023

Police Tracks Stolen Vehicle, 3 Juveniles Arrested in Clayfield Incident

Law enforcement agencies successfully tracked and apprehended three juvenile suspects involved in the alleged theft of a black Mercedes. The incident unfolded in the Clayfield and Ascot areas, following a collaborative effort between aerial and ground units.



The chain of events began on Friday, 18 Aug 2023, at 10:50 p.m. when Polair, the Queensland Police Service’s airborne support unit, initiated the tracking of a black Mercedes believed to be stolen. The vehicle was reported missing from Mein Street in Hendra, approximately 48 hours earlier, on Thursday, 17 Aug. 

Polair’s advanced tracking capabilities guided police officers on the ground as the stolen Mercedes navigated through the M1 northbound and the intricate backstreets of Clayfield and Ascot. The pursuit led the authorities to Dublin Street in Clayfield, where the vehicle came to a stop. At this point, three young males were spotted leaving the vehicle and entering nearby residential properties.

Responding swiftly, multiple police units, including the dog squad, converged on the area. Two of the suspects were successfully apprehended at the intersection of Liverpool Street and London Road in Clayfield. However, the third youth reportedly managed to evade capture by driving away in the stolen Mercedes.

The pursuit continued as law enforcement officers engaged the fleeing vehicle. Utilising strategic measures, the police executed a successful tire deflation device deployment along the Inner City Bypass. This led to the immobilisation of the stolen Mercedes and the subsequent arrest of the driver.

The Queensland Police Service said the detained individuals were male juveniles. A 16-year-old from Cherbourg was charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle and attempting to enter the dwelling with intent at night. His case is set to be heard in the Murgon Children’s Court.

Additionally, a 16-year-old from Wynnum West is facing charges of entering a dwelling with intent to commit an indictable offence, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and attempting to enter the dwelling with intent at night. His case is scheduled to appear in the Brisbane Children’s Court.

The third suspect, a 15-year-old from Pallara, was charged with entering a dwelling and committing an indictable offence, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and driving without a driver’s license. His appearance in the Brisbane Children’s Court is expected at a later date.



As investigations continue, law enforcement authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward. Tips and leads can be submitted through the online suspicious activity form on the Queensland Police website or by calling 131 444. Individuals wishing to provide anonymous crime information can also contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 23-Aug-2023

Greek and Latin Roots in English

Did you know that over 60% of all English words have been borrowed from Greek or Latin roots? In the vocabulary of the sciences and technology, it rises to over 90% because during the Middle Ages, Latin was the language of scholars and educated people.

Julie Christophers byline

Many children and even adults struggle as they are learning English if they are unfamiliar with the Greek and Latin roots that have so greatly influenced the evolution of our words.

Number Works 'n Words Mt Gravatt English competition

I am passionate about supporting students to be well versed in their knowledge and use of the Greek and Latin roots, for they serve 3 key purposes.

Comprehension

Being able to recognise derivational roots within a text allows for a greater depth of understanding. Comprehension is supported when an unknown word can be broken down to its parts.  eg.  In simple terms, if you know that the Greek root ‘psych’ means mind and the Latin root ‘ology’ means study of, then the meaning of the word ‘psychology’ is easy to determine.

Spelling

Being familiar with Greek and Latin roots provides the building blocks for accurate spelling. While many roots have been adapted over the years, there are common patterns and recognisable features that support the spelling of many multisyllabic words.

Number Works 'n Words Mt Gravatt English competition

Writing

Good writers need to have a mastery of their language in order to articulate and express ideas and emotions, elaborate and describe settings and characters and persuade and encourage their readers to move or question or feel etc.

When a writer has an appreciation for the diverse vocabulary available to them, they can make the most effective word choices. The English language has an unusually large number of synonyms, due to the that fact it has been influenced by several different language groups. English writers should take advantage of this.



Published 21-August-2023

Clayfield English Competition for Children

THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED.

Numberworks'nWords Root Word Competition

Every entrant will receive a $65 voucher for a free evaluation and a free lesson. All entrants will go into a draw and the winner will receive a whole term’s tuition worth $650.

THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED.

Complete the online form.

First Prize and Runner-Up prizes are only redeemable at Number Works n Words Clayfield. If the First Prize is unclaimed within 48 hours of the draw, there will be a redraw. Only one $65 voucher may be used per child.

Julie Christophers Number Works n Words Clayfield

Wooloowin State School: A Model School’s Journey of Resilience and Growth

Did you know that Wooloowin State School is the first primary school in Queensland to offer woodworking and domestic science classes to its students?



From its establishment in 1914, Wooloowin State School has gone through significant expansion, interesting developments, and numerous challenges (even a tragic fire incident) and come through it all with remarkable resilience.

Here are some things to know about Wooloowin State School:

A Model School Borne Out of ‘Educational Experimentation’

In the early 20th century, Wooloowin emerged as a rapidly expanding suburb due to its proximity to the railway station, which opened in 1889.

Recognising the need for quality education, the Wooloowin Progress Association and school building committee spearheaded the establishment of Wooloowin State School.

Wooloowin State School was one of the most expensive schools to be built by Queensland Public Works. Its establishment came at a time when Queensland was undergoing an “educational experimentation” and a reworking of the curriculum.

With its construction occurring in four stages between 1914 and 1934, the school resolved to be a model institution in terms of curriculum, staff, facilities, and progressive education.

First Primary School to Teach Woodwork and Domestic Science

Wooloowin State School
Photo Credit: National Library of Australia

The first section of Wooloowin State School was completed in 1914, comprising two single-story brick wings with four large classrooms, spacious verandas, and modern furnishings. In subsequent years, additional classrooms were constructed, bringing the total count to six by 1918. 

Employing the finest teachers in the state, the school eventually introduced woodworking and domestic science classes. It was the first primary school in Queensland to teach these subjects to the students.

Rapid Growth in the Early 20th Century

Wooloowin, originally part of Lutwyche, flourished as a suburban community in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The extension of the tramline in 1913-1914 played a crucial role in the area’s development. Wooloowin State School had to undergo more expansions, including a swimming pool, to fill the demand for education. These expansions in 1925 and 1934 reflected the school’s commitment to holistic education and catering to the growing population of the working-class suburb. 

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

In 2003, tragedy struck Wooloowin State School when an arson attack damaged several key buildings, including the office, pre-school, tuckshop, School’s Out program, and library.

Despite the setback, the school’s heritage listing prevented the demolition of the damaged structures. Instead, the community rallied together, and the school was carefully repaired and rebuilt at a cost of A$4 million. Temporary classrooms were erected, and in September 2004, Wooloowin State School proudly reopened its doors.

Manners Maketh Man

The restoration process brought about several improvements, including the refurbishment of the main block, library, and pre-school. Additionally, a new tuckshop and uniform shop were constructed near the pool, further enhancing the school’s facilities. School’s Out program, initially located under the library, found a temporary home in one of the demountable classrooms.

Wooloowin State School stands as a testament to the power of community and resilience. From its early days as a model school at the forefront of education to the challenges faced during the 2003 fire, the school has evolved and adapted while preserving its rich heritage. 

With the motto “Manners Maketh Man” guiding its students, Wooloowin State School continues to provide quality education and shape the lives of generations to come.



Published 17-August-2023

Local Heroes: Clayfield Locals Who Made a Difference in the History of Brisbane

The fairy godfather of blind children. The flying doctor. Campaigner of women’s rights. Did you know that Clayfield was home to these local heroes who have left their mark on the history of Brisbane?


Read: Abandoned Clayfield Retirement Home to Transform Into Housing Complex


Richard Frank Tunley (1879-1968)

Developer of educational resources for blind children

Richard Frank Tunley was a small business owner from Clayfield who manufactured window blinds for a living. He devoted his life to combating the isolation faced by visually impaired children, by creating educational tools for them to explore and experience the world through touch. It earned him the title, the “fairy godfather of blind children.”

history of Brisbane
Frank Tunley creating braille maps and toys for the children of the School for the Blind at Annerley, Brisbane, ca. 1950 (Photo credit: State Library of Queensland)

Mr Tunley made the first braille map for the children at the Brisbane School for the Blind (later known as Narbethong State Special School) in 1925, which was recognised as the first of its kind in Australia.

history of Brisbane
Braille map of the Brisbane CBD “Between the Three Bridges” (Photo credit: State Library of Queensland)

In 1962, Mr Tunley crafted “Brisbane Between the Three Bridges,” a remarkable braille map of the CBD. This unique creation goes beyond regular maps by incorporating relief outlines, allowing individuals to perceive the shapes of iconic structures like the Story Bridge, Victoria Bridge, and the William Jolly Bridge. 

It showcases a representation of the three bridges located together at Indooroopilly: the Walter Taylor Bridge, along with the old and new railway bridges.

He also crafted the braille topographic map of Australia in the workshop of his Clayfield home in 1963. 

history of Brisbane
Frank Tunley’s braille map of Australia (Photo credit: State Library of Queensland)

It incorporates aluminium name tags, bearing embossed braille, to identify the names of locations, mountains, and other geographical features. Twisted wires are used to represent both major and minor rivers, while wooden pins indicate the elevation above sea level.

Timothy Joseph O’Leary (1925–1987)

Flying doctor

After studying medicine in Ireland and training as a surgical registrar in England, Dr Tim O’Leary, became a second surgeon in New Australia, a liner bringing British migrants to Australia in 1952. 

Dr O’Leary making his patient comfortable before their flight to Mt Isa (Photo credit: Queensland Health/Facebook)

He stayed in New South Wales, where he worked as a clinical assistant chest physician at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, and as a medical officer in the tuberculosis eradication section of the Department of Health.

In 1953, Dr O’Leary became a member of the (Royal) Flying Doctor Service of Australia, specifically in the Queensland section, and was assigned to Charters Towers.

He was transferred temporarily to Brisbane in February 1958 when he was appointed RFDS acting medical superintendent. A year later, he married a nurse, named Yvonne Margaret Dowdell, at the St Agatha’s Catholic Church in Clayfield.

Mr McKenzie from Plevna Downs, with Graham Affleck and the Royal Flying Doctor Dr Tim O’Leary at Plevan Downs, Queensland, ca. 1960 (State Library of Queensland)

Dr O’Leary received a diploma in aviation medicine in 1972. The following year, he was elected as a founding fellow of the Royal Australian College of Medical Administrators. After experiencing a heart attack, he retired from the RFDS in 1980 and began practising privately on the Gold Coast.

Also known as ‘Dr. Tim,’ he contributed in the history of Brisbane as an exceptionally capable physician, who was particularly renowned for his expertise in obstetrics. He demonstrated empathy towards his patients, who cherished both his sense of humour and his unwavering dedication to their well-being.

Mary Hyacinthe Petronel White (1900–1984)

Women’s rights campaigner and local government councillor

Ms White gained the endorsement of the Citizens’ Municipal Organization in 1949. The organisation is a non-political group founded by Sir John Beals Chandler. 

Petronel White in 1954 (Photo credit: Trove, National Library of Australia)

This led to her historic achievement of becoming the first woman elected to represent a capital city council in Australia. For a period of 18 years, she served as an alderman, representing the Hamilton (Clayfield) ward within the Greater Brisbane City Council. 

Ms White was a dedicated advocate for women’s rights and utilised her council position to advocate for improved public facilities and enhanced legal safeguards for women.

She actively participated in various community groups, including the Country Women’s Association, the Business and Professional Women’s Club, and served as a patroness for the Kalinga Boy Scouts, the Civilian Widows’ Association, and the Clayfield Child Care Association.


Read: Clayfield Gems: Get to Know These 4 Heritage Homes on Norman Parade


Indeed, these remarkable individuals have left an indelible mark on Clayfield and have made the city proud through their invaluable contributions to the history of Brisbane.

Published 9-August-2023

CCTV Aids Capture of Intruder in Break-In

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

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.

Greville Wooloowin
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.”

Photo credit: eBIMAP2

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