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Wooloowin Queer Bookshop Shelf Lovers Closes Doors

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.

Final Trading Days

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.

Difficult Decision and Community Space

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.

Online Presence Continues

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.

Published Date 22-April-2025

Clayfield Unites for Dawn and Dusk Events on Anzac Day 2025

Photo Credit: Clayfield-Toombul RSL/Facebook

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.

Dawn at Cameron Rocks: A Moment of Reflection

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.

*Photo Credit: Clayfield-Toombul RSL/Facebook*

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.

Published 15-April-2025

Construction Starts on New Vera Apartments in Wooloowin Community

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

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

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

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.

Construction and Sales Update

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.

Published Date 07-April-2025

Jessica Townsend Brings Magic to Clayfield with Silverborn Launch

Photo Credit: Jessica Townsend/Instagram

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.

*Photo Credit: Jessica Townsend/Instagram*

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.

Book Tickets

New Book, New Mysteries

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.

Community Spirit and Local Pride

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.

Published 27-March-2025

Kalinga Father Injured Stopping Car Theft, Teen Receives Probation

Photo Credit: Queensland Police/ Facebook

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.

Kalinga Father Injured Stopping Car Theft, Teen Receives Probation — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police/ Facebook*

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.

Published Date 19-March-2025

Disaster Recovery Grants Now Open for Eligible Suburbs, Including Clayfield

Clayfield residents affected by the recent severe weather can now apply for personal hardship financial assistance. This comes after Queensland launched several disaster recovery grants to support those affected by Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025.

Read: Family-Friendly Cycling and Playtime at Kalinga Park on the Kedron Brook Bikeway

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.

Read: North Brisbane Bikeway Debate Continues as 2018 Plan Given a Second Look

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.

Published 13-March-2025

Clayfield-Born Musician Dave Barrie Gears Up for New Release and Regional Tour

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.

‘Back On The Ground’ single cover — *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.

Clayfield musician Dave Barrie performing live — *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.

Izzy performing live — *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.

Dave Barrie and daughter Izzy at a gig — *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.

As Barrie and Izzy gain recognition, their growing audience can expect more live performances, original music, and father-daughter collaborations.

Published 26-Feb-2025

North Brisbane Bikeway Debate Continues as 2018 Plan Given a Second Look

After multiple rounds of consultation for the Stage 5 of North Brisbane Bikeway, the decision has been made to revert to a plan that was previously rejected in 2018.

Read: Community Calls for Review of North Brisbane Bikeway Stage 5

Brisbane recently announced plans to establish a potential connection between the North Brisbane Bikeway on Dickson Street and Kedron Brook Bikeway at Brook Road, via Kent Road.

The Kent Road concept design was released in 2018 and proposed travelling east-west to Kent Road via Price Street then across Rose Street into Park Road, finally connecting to the Kedron Brook Bikeway at Brook Road.

The decision follows Council’s recent scrapping of a plan to install bike lanes along a 500-metre stretch of Dickson Street. That plan, which had received strong community support in 2021, was abandoned in January this year due to concerns from local businesses and residents over the loss of on-street parking and potential traffic congestion. Two petitions opposing the project argued that reduced parking would negatively impact businesses in the area.

Despite Council’s decision, cycling advocacy group Space4CyclingBNE and other supporters continue to push for safety improvements along Dickson Street. An online petition launched by local residents highlights the dangers cyclists face when riding between parked cars and fast-moving traffic.

The petition calls for Council to implement road safety measures along Dickson Street, including reducing the speed limit from 60 km/h to 40 km/h and removing on-street parking to create a safer riding environment.

“While we’re looking forward to work finally starting again on the North Brisbane Bikeway, people will still want a safe and direct route to continue to Eagle Junction, Toombul, and towards the Brisbane Airport and Gateway North Bikeways, and the north-eastern suburbs,” the group stated.

“People who continue riding on Dickson St, north of Price St, find they are riding between parked cars and faster moving motor traffic. That exposes them to the dangers of being hit by the opening door of a parked car and/or being hit by passing cars or trucks.”

Read: Locals Have Mixed Reactions To Stage 5 Of North Brisbane Bikeway

Council’s move to revert to the 2018 plan comes as a draft document from the state government acknowledges the need for better-connected bikeways but warns that financial constraints may delay or limit their development. The council is now seeking state government funding to implement the Kent Road alignment. Whether the requested funding will be granted and whether safety concerns on Dickson Street will be addressed remain uncertain.

Published 24-February-2025

Proposed Residential Development on Reeve Street, Clayfield Opens for Public Feedback

Photo Credit: DA/A006604286

A development application has been lodged for a new multi-unit residential building at 70 Reeve Street, Clayfield. The proposal, currently under public notification, includes five three-bedroom dwellings within a four-storey complex.

Residential project at 70 Reeve Street, Clayfield — *Photo Credit: DA/A006604286*

This project is part of a broader trend of residential densification in Clayfield. The suburb is transitioning from single-dwellings to multi-storey developments in response to zoning changes and the increasing demand for housing.

Development Proposal and Key Details

The development application (A006604286), submitted by Amren Investments Pty Ltd, is under impact assessment and is being reviewed by BCC. The proposed development includes:

Multi-unit development planned for Reeve Street, Clayfield — *Photo Credit: DA/A006604286*

Five three-bedroom units
Four-storey building (under 12.5 metres in height)
Private courtyards with primary open spaces exceeding 12sqm
New driveway with 6.0m wide access
12 car spaces, including visitor parking
9 bicycle spaces
85sqm (11.2%) of landscaped green space with deep planting

The application is now in its public notification period, which commenced on 14 February 2025 and will conclude on 7 March 2025. During this period, community members can review the proposal and submit feedback before making a final decision.

New Clayfield residential development — *Photo Credit: DA/A006604286*

MAKE A SUBMISSION

Planning and Approval Process

The development application, submitted on 4 September 2024, falls under an impact-assessable category. Assessment Officer Cameron Rush is overseeing the review, ensuring compliance with BCC’s planning regulations.

If approved, the project will bring new residential opportunities to Clayfield with modern amenities and landscaped open spaces. However, impact-assessable applications require thorough scrutiny, allowing for public feedback before making decisions.

Community Considerations and Next Steps

Local residents can express their concerns or support as the proposal remains under public notification. Factors such as traffic impact, building height, and neighbourhood character will likely be key considerations.

Reeve Street, Clayfield development under public notification — *Photo Credit: DA/A006604286*

No appeal result has been determined, as the application remains under assessment. Further updates will be provided once BCC decides on the proposal.

Published 18-Feb-2025

Two Wooloowin Artworks Up for Artforce Brisbane’s People’s Choice Award

Two stunning traffic signal box artworks from Wooloowin have been nominated for this year’s Artforce Brisbane People’s Choice Award, showcasing the incredible talent of local artists and adding vibrant creativity to the suburb’s streetscape.

Read: Brisbane’s Artforce Initiative Shines in Wooloowin with ‘The View from My Window’

The View from My Window – Zoe Corkill

Located at the intersection of Kedron Park Road and Chalk Street, Wooloowin, The View from My Window by young artist Zoe Corkill captures the essence of transition and new beginnings.

“The train takes you to new places – it can take you into a new chapter. I am graduating primary school and moving into my high school years, so I have a big new chapter starting. The view from the train window represents the beautiful things that shouldn’t be missed along the way. The waves at the top and bottom of the artwork represent the river and the link between old and new,” Zoe shared.

Supported by her parents, Trudy and Jeff Corkill, Zoe completed her artwork in October 2024, turning an everyday traffic signal box into an inspiring piece that encourages viewers to embrace change.

A Sweet Treat – Olivia Wright and Hannah Wright

Bringing a delightful burst of nostalgia to the intersection of Bridge Street and Chalk Street, Wooloowin, Olivia and Hannah Wright’s artwork, A Sweet Treat, pays tribute to an Australian classic – the Iced Vovo biscuit.

“We have designed an Iced Vovo as it is an iconic Australian biscuit. The red and pink will provide a pop of colour to the area, and we hope it inspires people to make time for an afternoon cuppa and biscuit,” the artists explained.

Supported by Thomas Caitens, the artwork was completed in June 2024 and has since been brightening up the streetscape with its charming and inviting design.

Read: Young Clayfield Artist Honours Nano Nagle’s Legacy in National Contest

Vote for Wooloowin’s Artists

Both artworks stand out for their creativity and local significance, making Wooloowin a proud contender in the Artforce Brisbane People’s Choice Award.

To browse the gallery or vote for these talented artists, visit Artforce Brisbane’s website. Voting closes on 28 February 2025.

Published 13-February-2025