Hendra, a suburb with fewer than 5,000 residents, has recorded one of the highest car theft totals in Queensland, with police data showing 735 vehicles stolen, placing the suburb at the top of a statewide list and raising concerns among residents about vehicle security.
The figure was highlighted in a Queensland Police Service crime data report, which found vehicle thefts across the state had climbed to their highest monthly levels since early 2024.
Police statistics show the offence category — unlawful use of a motor vehicle — had 1,797 victims statewide in November alone, one of the highest monthly totals recorded since crime data began in 2001.
While overall victim numbers for vehicle theft in 2025 were slightly lower than the same period in 2024, police data indicate the trend began rising again from August. Statewide figures show 16,805 victims of unlawful use of a motor vehicle between January and November 2025.
Vehicle theft figures are recorded based on where the offence occurs, meaning suburbs with large numbers of parked vehicles or commercial areas can record higher totals even if many offenders live elsewhere.
In Hendra, the statistics stand out because of the suburb’s size. Census data shows the area has just under 5,000 residents, yet its stolen-vehicle count placed it ahead of much larger suburbs across Queensland.
Motoring group RACQ has previously stated that technology could play a role in reducing thefts, noting some modern vehicles can detect erratic driving and may eventually be able to recognise when they have been stolen and limit how the vehicle can be driven.
Community support groups have also reported an increase in people seeking help after vehicle thefts, particularly in cases where victims reported being threatened during the offence.
Queensland Police say they continue to target vehicle theft through enforcement, prevention and disruption strategies.
The iconic Glengariff in Hendra is one of Brisbane’s remaining large villa residences constructed during the late nineteenth century.
The massive historic home at 5 Derby Street, Hendra is definitely a head-turner with its beautiful architecture and landscaping.
From being the home of a bank manager to the home of a renowned Fortitude Valley businessman and later becoming an episcopal residence, Glengariff certainly has a lot of stories to tell if only its walls could speak.
History of the Glengariff in Hendra
View of the home and grounds of Brisbane residence, Glengariff, in 1923. Photo credit: State Library of Queensland and John Oxley Library; Negative number: 145445
Architect HGO Thomas designed Hendra’s majestic home which was built in 1888-1889 for bank manager Edward Jones. Jones was the first bank manager of the Commercial Bank of Australia in Queensland.
The first owner called the home Dura. It stands on nearly 5 acres of land acquired by Jones in 1886 from the Queensland Turf Club.
Although the home is ideally located near the state’s premier racecourse and to the Sandgate / City Railway line, Edward Jones did not reside at Dura for long. Records show that Jones no longer live there in 1892 and another manager of the Queensland National Bank, DG Stuart, rented the home until TC Beirne and his family acquired it in 1898.
Family portrait at the wedding of Henry Alexander Cecil Douglas to Catherine Cecilia Beirne, 1914 Photo credit: nla.gov.au/nla.obj-151169578
After the acquisition of the property, the Beirnes decided to call it “Glengariff”. TC Beirne and his wife Ann Kavanagh had ten children, five daughters surviving infancy.
TC Beirne was publicly known for his Fortitude Valley store whilst Glengariff played a big role in his private life. According to the Australian Dictionary of Biography, his pastimes mainly involves spending time with his family in his home, Glengariff with its beautiful grounds, tennis, and croquet courts.
In 1907, TC Beirne worked with architect RS (Robin) Dods to carry out additions to Glengariff. Dods’ work at the house included the addition of double-storey verandah rooms to the western side of the house and the building in of cupboards in the dining room.
The Beirne family lived at Glengariff until TC Beirne died in 1949. Following their father’s passing, the five Beirne daughters gave Glengariff to the Catholic church as a present.
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.
Based on the police data from 24 January to 23 July 2024, a total of 207 offences were recorded in the area, raising concerns among local residents and authorities alike.
The Online Crime Map, a tool used by Queensland Police to track and analyse crime patterns, showed 56 cases of theft reported during this period.
Photo credit: QPS Online Crime Map
Following closely behind are good order offences, accounting for 28 cases. While many of these are minor infractions such as consuming liquor in public places or going armed to cause fear, authorities warn that some instances can be more serious.
In a recent incident highlighting the ongoing crime issues in the area, Queensland Police charged two individuals in connection with an alleged break and enter at a Hendra residence. The event unfolded on Tuesday, July 16, when a vigilant neighbour spotted a suspicious man on CCTV walking alongside an elderly resident’s home on Mein Street.
Police quickly responded to the call and apprehended a 35-year-old woman from Zillmere, who was allegedly acting as a lookout. A 40-year-old man from Brighton was caught fleeing the scene with stolen property and drug paraphernalia. Both suspects are scheduled to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on August 19, facing multiple charges including trespass, burglary, and drug-related offences.
This recent break-in serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in the area. Local authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help combat the rising crime rates in Hendra.
As the community grapples with these concerning statistics, questions arise about the factors contributing to the increase in criminal activity and what measures can be taken to ensure the safety and security of Hendra’s residents in the coming months.
The application, submitted for the property at 330 Nudgee Road, details designs for a modern fast-food restaurant by PA Architects.
The 293-square-metre restaurant would occupy a 2,120-square-metre corner site, replacing the existing vehicle rental business and accessing both Nudgee and Gerler Roads. The development would include landscaping and an acoustic fence to minimise the impact on surrounding residential areas.
Urbis, the planning consultant for the project, argues that the proposal aligns with the area’s existing and historical land use. They emphasise that the development would not compromise the residential character of the neighbourhood or reduce the availability of residential land.
The proposal outlines a pedestrian pathway to the Nudgee Road footpath, ensuring accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists. The drive-through, designed with two lanes, is expected to accommodate 12 cars, aiming to streamline traffic flow and minimise congestion.
The development application is currently under review by the Brisbane City Council. Should it be approved, the new McDonald’s would join the existing Nudgee Service Centre location on Nudgee Road, further expanding the fast-food chain’s presence in the area.
Health authorities are sounding the alarm over a looming surge in Ross River virus infections, a concerning mosquito-borne illness. The rising number of infections has prompted mosquito spraying initiatives in high-risk suburbs, such as Wooloowin, Clayfield, Gordon Park, and Hendra in the northern suburbs of Brisbane, among other areas.
Chief Health Officer John Gerrard revealed a very high number of Ross River virus detections in mosquitoes across nine different council areas stretching from Mackay to South East Queensland.
And the number of infected mosquitoes — at 31 positive traps of the 700 tested across the state — is higher than what was detected during the horror 2019-2020 summer, ultimately leading to a whopping 3381 Ross River infections for that year.
There were 699 cases of the Ross River virus in 2023. As of the end of January this year, 64 people have been infected.
Efforts to increased mosquito spraying are underway in Wooloowin and other North Brisbane areas.
About the Ross River Virus
There is no cure nor vaccine for Ross River virus, and whilst most people recover in a few weeks some people experience joint pain and fatigue months after infection.
Origin and Spread
Ross River Virus (RRV) is a mosquito-borne alphavirus that is endemic to Australia, Papua New Guinea, and the Pacific Islands. The virus primarily spreads through the bite of infected mosquitoes, notably those in the Aedes and Culex genera, which are common in these regions.
Symptoms and Treatment
RRV infection can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild to debilitating. Common symptoms include polyarthritis, rash, fever, fatigue, and muscle pain. These symptoms can significantly affect an individual’s ability to perform daily activities and, in some cases, can persist for months or even years. While there is no specific treatment for RRV, management of symptoms is possible through medication and physical therapy.
Epidemiology
The virus has shown a notable propensity for causing large outbreaks, particularly in coastal regions. The incidence of RRV infection varies seasonally and geographically, with the highest rates typically observed in areas with warmer climates and in proximity to bodies of water where mosquito populations thrive.
Prevention
Preventing RRV infection centres on controlling mosquito populations and minimising individual exposure to mosquito bites. Public health measures include community education on the use of insect repellent, the importance of wearing protective clothing, and the need to eliminate standing water around homes and communities to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
Global Health Perspective
RRV is considered a significant public health issue within its endemic regions. With climate change and increasing global travel, there is a potential for RRV to expand its geographical reach, making it a subject of interest for global health monitoring and research
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Elevated Risk and Intensified Efforts
Dr Gerrard expressed concern over the significant increase in Ross River virus detections in mosquito populations early in the usual season, particularly across a wide geographical area. This surge indicates heightened virus activity.
Typically, Ross River virus infections begin to surge with the arrival of rain and warm temperatures in December, reaching their peak in February and March. Moreover, it’s common to observe a notable increase in Ross River virus cases every three to four years, indicating a potential spike in infections.
With the current high mosquito numbers and recent surveillance findings, there is an increased risk of human exposure to mosquitoes carrying the virus throughout Queensland.
Metro North Public Health Unit entomologist Jon Darbro said in the past month it had been either wet or hot which added to the extra mosquitoes around.
Mr Darbro explained that the increased rainfall this season provides mosquitoes with additional breeding sites for laying eggs and larval development, resulting in larger mosquito populations. Warmer temperatures also contribute to heightened mosquito activity, accelerating their growth and the drying process of eggs. These conditions create an ideal environment for multiple mosquito species to thrive, as observed by many.
Metro North covers areas like Wooloowin, Clayfield and Hendra, which has intensified its spraying efforts in late January 2024.
More Mosquito Spraying for Brisbane and Gold Coast
Swarms of mosquitoes have inundated nearly every suburb across South East Queensland, with wet weather and warm temperatures creating the perfect breeding grounds for the flying pests. The unwanted buzz and bites have forced Brisbane City Council to spray an extraordinary 2,400 sites a week – a 140 per cent increase on the normal mozzie spraying schedules including seven aerial attacks in the past nine weeks.
Across Brisbane, 136 of 190 suburbs have been targeted and 24 on the Gold Coast. Redland City Council have increased their aerial treatments of mosquito larvae by 60 per cent making it the biggest year on record since 2016-2017. While Logan City Council, Sunshine Coast Council and Gold Coast Coast have also increased their spraying schedules.
According to the Queensland Health notifiable notifications data, dozens of mosquito-borne disease cases have been confirmed, including 29 cases of Ross River virus and three of dengue in the first three weeks of January.
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.
Plans (Photo credit: Mijollo International)
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
Photo credit: Google Street View
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.
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.
Urban Xtreme, a top indoor sports centre in Hendra, has lined up some exciting events and adventures for all ages, including the extension of the school holiday programs to keep the children active and pre-occupied.
For a fabulous school holiday summer adventure, Urban Xtreme unleashed its special offer for kids, which consists of two hours of fun at the Adventure Park at $28 and an extra third hour for free.
Because of the extension of the school holidays, Urban Xtreme will also continue with the supervised school holiday programs until Saturday, 6 Feb 2022. These programs consist of six hours of access to the Ninja, Parkour, Rock Climbing, Trampolines, Launch Jump, Dodgeball & Laser Tag for kids between the ages of six to 14 years old.
Meanwhile, all other events and workshops from four years old to 14 years old, such as the Xtreme Ninja, aerial cross-training, rock climbing, snowsport, laser tag, and parkour will run as scheduled. The venue is committed to “spread fun safety” with increased daily sanitation, social distancing, and other measures to protect both guests and staff.
Pinnacle Sports 2021 Queensland Lead Youth & Junior State Titles
On 29 and 30 Jan 2022, Urban Xtreme will host the Pinnacle Sports 2021 Queensland Lead Youth & Junior State Titles. Saturday will be reserved for Qualifiers Day with registration starting at 2:00 p.m. This event will run until 8:15 p.m. On the other hand, Sunday will be Finals Day and will start at 7:00 a.m.
The Single Rock Climbing at Urban Xtreme happens first Wednesday of the month. Also known as the Climb Singles Night, this is a social night for climbing and runs from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
On the other hand, the first Thursday of the month is dedicated to the Womxn Climb Night. Learn to rope, lead routes, auto-belays, or race a friend on the speed-walls, whilst making new friends with like-minded women.
“The staff are absolutely wonderful. So kind and happy. From Reception staff to the Kiosk to the activities staff they could not have been more lovely.”
Rosemary Sheen
“My kids have joined in a few different days for the school holiday program and have been having a blast. They have done some days with their siblings and some days with friends and they are really enjoying the different activities. Plus it tires them out for the rest of the day which is awesome! Thanks guys for having this fun activity during school holidays.”
Anika Hope
“Urban Xtreme provided my niece a great place to develop skills in a dynamic, safe, well-staffed and maintained space. I wish this type of centre was around when I was a kid! I really enjoyed the encouraging atmosphere of ‘give it a go’ that was scaffolded well by all the attentive and friendly staff. Well done!”
A new owner has come in to save Tom’s Confectionery Warehouse from closing permanently. The popular lolly store in Hendra was on the verge of liquidation but a restaurateur has big plans to continue the legacy of its former owner and the store’s namesake, Tom Jeanes.
Mr Jeanes died on June 2021, upsetting generations of adults who have been customers of the iconic shop in the last four decades. He was 78 years old.
Now, Adiel Ben-karmona, who owns Redcliffe’s Pilpel Restaurant, specialising in Middle Eastern cuisine, plans to revitalise Tom’s Confectionery Warehouse and continue Mr Jeanes’ legacy.
In a video posted on the candy store’s Facebook, Mr Ben-karmona said:
“We have to keep Tom’s legacy going as the best confectionery warehouse. We will continue with the same (concept), just bigger, better and newer. We’re keeping the same name in the same location.”
“The ideas I have here are crazy…to put a kid in a lolly shop! I can’t wait to start this project. This will be a great add-on to the Pilpel Group. This will become a ‘destination’ with a wall dedicated for Tom’s memory.”
Mr Ben-karmona was only one year old when the shop opened in 1982. He also shared plans to put up a Willy Wonka’s World with an interactive section for families and their kids, as well as an area for the adults to hang out and have coffee or snacks.
Whilst the store is currently closed, Mr Ben-karmona said the remaining stocks will be sold at discounted prices at his restaurant. More details of the transformation of Tom’s Confectionery Warehouse, including additional jobs, will be revealed in the coming months.
Why are chicken wings buffet growing in popularity in Brisbane? The latest chicken wings eatery to open on the north side is in Hendra. You can find Chook Wings & Beer at what used to be The Hamptons on Gerler Road.
Chook is the newest endeavour of the restauranteurs behind establishments like Asian Republic, Chai Thai, Chapter IV, Phat Boy, Phat Elephant. Offering an all-you-can-eat chicken wings buffet for just $21.90, this foodie spot could be your next go to place for quick, affordable and easily satisfying meals.
Chicken wings buffet offers so much versatility. A basket full of chicken wings can be an appetiser, a full meal or a snack. Unlike other dishes, this food comes in a variety of flavours and sauces, giving every order a unique taste. At Chook, you can actually pick from six flavours but the owners plan to change the choices regularly.
Photo Credit: Chook/Facebook
The buffet comes with choices of unlimited sides as well, like fries (waffle or shoestring), coleslaw, or fried rice. However, if you fancy other dishes than wings, Chook also offers sliders that perfectly pair with their extensive selection of beers and siders from James Squire, Corona and VB, to name a few.
Photo Credit: Chook/Facebook
As a newly-opened chicken wings buffet, Chook is still finding its footing. However, as it’s operated by reputable restauranteurs, you can expect good food that lives up to the hype.
Chook opens for dinner seven days a week. Phone for table bookings and orders +61 7 3268 4331.
“Delicious wings, burgers & fries. Even though they were busy we didn’t have to wait long for our takeaway. If you love wings this is the place for you!”
“Best wings we’ve had for a while. Buffalo & sweet n sour for the win. We’re going again tonight, expecting the line to be down the street because it’s a Friday but it’s worth it.”
