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Shorter Waits and Scans Closer to Home for Brighton Residents in Major Health Tech Upgrade

Brighton residents will soon have access to advanced diagnostic services closer to home, with the Brighton Health Campus set to receive both a new MRI and a CT machine under the statewide medical imaging upgrade.

A $276-million investment in new MRI and CT machines will boost Queensland’s public diagnostic capacity by up to 20%, shortening wait times and reducing long-distance travel for families in Brighton and across the state.

For Brighton locals, having these machines on-site means faster access to essential scans, earlier diagnoses, and less need to travel to major city hospitals.

Reducing the Burden on Patients

Accessing specialised medical scans has traditionally meant travelling to larger city hospitals, adding time, cost, and anxiety to an already difficult health situation. The new initiative aims to ease this burden by bringing vital diagnostic technology closer to the communities that need it.

The plan involves installing nine new CT scanners and six new MRI machines across 11 health facilities. These locations were identified as priority areas following a comprehensive assessment of the state’s health needs.

What the New Scanners Mean for Brighton

The Brighton Health Campus is a key site in the programme, slated to receive both a new MRI and a CT machine. This on-site technology will empower local doctors and clinicians to diagnose serious medical conditions much earlier and more efficiently.

Having these machines readily available will bolster health services and help free up more hospital beds across the state. For local families, it means faster answers and the ability to begin treatment sooner, all without leaving their community.

A Major Boost for State Health Services

This investment is more than just a convenience; it represents a significant increase in the diagnostic power of Queensland’s entire public health system. The six new MRI machines are projected to increase the state’s MRI capacity by almost 20 percent, while the nine CT scanners will boost capacity by more than 10 percent.

The initiative is part of the a fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan, a record investment designed to strengthen health infrastructure and services where they are most needed. Other communities set to benefit include Redland, Hervey Bay, Ayr, Charleville, and Cairns South.

Published Date 16-October-2025

Shorncliffe Station to Undergo Major Heritage Upgrade

Brisbane’s historic Shorncliffe Station is set for a once-in-a-generation transformation that will restore its century-old features while improving accessibility and safety for passengers.

Preserving Local History

Shorncliffe Station, a Brisbane landmark since 1897, will close later this year for major heritage and modernisation works. Originally a seaside resort stop, it is one of the few surviving designs by Queensland Railways architect Henrik Hansen.

The upgrade will restore the station to its 1914 layout and preserve the World War II air raid shelter beside it. In 2019, more than 400 artefacts were found under the ticket office floor, including century-old tickets, newspapers, and a 1940s sailor’s cap. These discoveries led to a heritage review that delayed construction but shaped the station’s restoration plan.

Improving Access and Safety

The upgrade will include a 90-metre platform section raised for easier boarding, new ramps, accessible toilets, tactile surfaces, and hearing augmentation loops. Passenger areas will gain new lighting, CCTV, and information screens, along with an accessible ticket window, restored awnings, and seating improvements.

Queensland Rail said the work aims to balance preservation with better accessibility for everyone. The project will also support responsible use of taxpayer funds through revised planning and cost reviews after the archaeological phase.

Temporary Closures and Community Support

Site preparation will start on 16 October 2025, ahead of a full closure on 29 November that will continue into 2026. During this time, passengers will travel via shuttle buses connecting to nearby Sandgate Station. A dedicated service will also transport St Patrick’s College students between the school and Sandgate.

Construction will take place from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Saturday. Queensland Rail said the works will be done safely and efficiently, with care to protect heritage features and limit disruption to the community.

A Station for the Next Generation

Queensland Rail said this project will deliver long-term benefits to the community while protecting one of Brisbane’s most recognisable coastal stations.

Once completed, Shorncliffe Station will combine historic charm with modern functionality, ensuring it continues to serve as both a travel hub and a symbol of the suburb’s heritage.

Published 13-October-2025

Featured Photo Credit: Queensland Rail

Brighton Among Brisbane’s Top Suburbs For Magpie Attacks

Brighton has joined Brisbane’s list of top swooping hotspots, as nesting magpies hit their peak defensive season across the city.

Swooping Season Reaches Its Peak

Brisbane City Council says swooping season peaks in September and October when magpies guard their nests. Brighton ranked among the city’s top suburbs for swooping last season, just behind New Farm and Forest Lake.

*Photo Credit: Space4cyclingbne/Facebook*

Reports show magpie activity runs from July to January, with spring seeing the most attacks. MagpieAlert.com has logged many Brisbane incidents this year, including repeat cases in Brighton. Experts note only a few magpies are aggressive, but startled cyclists risk injury if they lose control.

Council Urges Residents To Stay Calm And Report Incidents

Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner reminded residents to report swooping activity so council officers can place warning signs in affected areas. The council also relocates aggressive birds when necessary to protect both residents and wildlife. Over the 2024–25 financial year, more than 40 birds across Brisbane were moved after repeated reports of attacks.

Council environment chair Councillor Tracy Davis said the signs help alert locals to avoid affected routes, adding that magpies were acting out of instinct to protect their chicks. The council discourages harming or feeding the birds, warning that it is illegal and could attract fines.

Cyclists Share Safety Advice

Cycling groups like Space4CyclingBNE remind riders to wear helmets and wraparound sunglasses to protect their eyes. Some add cable ties or reflective tape, though experts say these don’t always stop swooping.

Riders are urged to stay calm, keep control, and log incidents on MagpieAlert.com. Bicycle Queensland promotes safety through awareness campaigns and recommends PieProof helmets and brim attachments. The group notes that magpies rarely cause serious injuries, but crashes from frightened cyclists remain a real risk.

Brighton Community Response

Brighton residents have shared warnings online about returning “problem” magpies near local parks and cycling paths. Locals say the same birds defend the same nesting spots each year.

Community groups urge people to take alternate routes during peak swooping season. The advice remains simple: stay alert, stay calm, and give the magpies space.

Published 3-October-2025

Featured Photo Credit: Space4cyclingbne/Facebook

Brisbane Broncos Deliver Yet Another Massive Second Half To Become 2025 Premiers

22-12 down to the Melbourne Storm at half time after an electric first half where the Storm ground out the upperhand over the Brisbane Broncos.

A massive moment when a Tui Kamikamica try from a brilliant kick by Munster is overturned for an arm tackle by Reece Walsh, then a brutal Shibasaki barge and it’s 22-16.

8 minutes in though, Adam Reynolds is off with what appears to be a calf injury. Cory Paix came on and Ben Hunt went to half back.

Payne Haaas comes back on with 26 to go, just after Ezra Mam pulls off a big hit to retrieve possession.

Then you beauuuuty Deine Mariner goes over in the corner from a great Reece Walsh pass when Ben Hunt pulled off a miracle to get it to him off the ground, having attracted defensive attention. Walshey missed the kick but his impact was becoming key to the Broncos comeback once again!

Storm 22 Broncos 20

Then another bullet pass from Walshey to Shibasaki and Gehmat does the rest.
Reece places the ball on the kicking tee with his black-painted finger nails from the left touchline and swings it around magnificently.

Storm 22 Broncos 26

80,223 announced as the crowd, has to be 60,000 Broncos fans!

A mistake by Payne Haas in the “play the ball”, slight momentum for the Storm. Papenhuyzen almost gets through but a Walsh tackle turns the ball back over to the Broncos. Massive tackle from Willison.

Paddy gets called for offside at the “Play the Ball”(t be fair Mr Carrigan was upto mischief) and the Storm roll out of their half.

Ben Hunt is knocked out and bravely tries to run it off but the ref wasn’t buying that. Smoothy comes on to replace Hunt.

Then chaos from a Munster high kick and the Broncos get the ball back.

The Broncos butcher a great chance then the Storm get a linebreak, Mam with a massive tackle then Walsh with another massive tackle but Ezra’s tackle is called high and now the Storm have a penalty 35 out.

4 minutes to go. Another penalty with Piakura late on Pap.

Then Coates is bundled over the touchline by Deine Mariner and Kotoni Staggs.

High tackle on Staggs and Loiero sent to the bin!

C’mon boys only 2 minutes left.

What a tackle by Walsh and it’s all over !!!

Bulls Begin Sheffield Shield Campaign at the Allan Border Field

The Queensland Bulls kick off their Sheffield Shield campaign this Saturday, 4 Oct, against the Tasmania Tigers at the Allan Border Field in Albion.

The 13-man squad combines plenty of international talent with youth.

Players
Marnus Labuschagne (captain)
Hugo Burdon
Jack Clayton
Benji Floros
Hayden Kerr
Usman Khawaja
Michael Neser
Jimmy Peirson
Matthew Renshaw
Gurinder Sandhu
Mitchell Swepson
Hugh Weibgen
Jack Wildermuth

Hugo Bardon is a 23-year-old batsman, bowling occasional leg spin. He made his Sheffield Shield debut last season.

Jack Clayton is a 26-year-old left-hand batsman who can bowl slow left-arm. He has worked his way through Premier Cricket and he’s now on a full contract.

Benji Floros is a 27-year-old right-arm quick bowler. Held back by injuries since his Shield debut in 2021 but he’s fit and ready to go in 2025.

Hugh Weibgen is a 20-year-old all rounder, bowling off breaks. He captained Australia under 19s last year and already has a ton under his belt this season in the One Day Cup.

Queensland have had two good wins in the One Day Cup so far and will be hoping to get off the Shield mark in this one. But Tasmania’s top order batter, Jake Weatherald, was last season’s top run scorer in the Shield and after getting used to wearing his baggy green, Tasmanian all-rounder, Beau Webster, will be looking to earn his place in the Ashes squad.

So packed full of talent, this is one to trundle down Greg Chappell Street for.

The game starts on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. If you can’t get to the Allan Border field, it will be broadcast on Kayo.

Can The Broncos End the 18-Season Drought and Win the NRL Telstra Premiership?

It was 1992 when the Brisbane Broncos won their first Premiership, led by Alfie Langer who had taken over as skipper when Gene Miles retired. Going back-to-back in 1993 and winning the Super League in 1997. Following up again with a Premiership in 1998 and another at the turn of the millenium in 2000 and again in 2006.

That’s 18 seasons ago. Time flies. Let’s not forget Kevvie put together the majority of the current Broncos side including bringing Reece Walsh from the Warriors, and Walters led them to a Grand Final in 2023.

Then he passed the baton to Madge.

Madge, aka “enemy numero uno” having led the Blues in a massive comeback win against the Maroons, in the 2024 Origin Series. Plenty of locals could not forget that and surely Madge kept his head down for that very reason.

The decision to appoint Maguire was brilliant! A masterclass move by the Broncos Board.

So now after quite a rollercoaster season, where at times the Broncos looked dire yet have far more often looked unbeatable. It’s only in recent weeks though that we have fully understood the resilience and sheer determination of this group.

The Broncos beat the Storm in the final game of the regular season to make the 4, 30-14, at Suncorp and after the game, skipper Paddy Carrigan spoke about the deluge of goal-line defence they had practiced in training.

That’s where their backbone has been developed, the layers of determination, and now the belief that no matter how high the mountain, it can always be climbed.

The “Mission Impossible” of coming back from 14-0 against the 4 time Premiers, now seems a walk in the park compared to the hole the Broncos were in against the Minor Premiers, but in reality both comebacks were miracles of belief and determination.

How much was Paddy Carrigan missed last week (and Billy Walters), and how much fresher will he be as a result? At the same time Payne Haas desperately needs a week off, but give us one more big one, Payne!

King & Loiero vs Carrigan & Haas – Broncos win.

In that final regular season game at Suncorp, Jahrome Hughes was coming off an injury break, and it would be fair to assume he’s now back to full capacity.

Munster & Hughes vs Hunt & Reynolds – Tough call.

Papenhuyzen + Howarth + Meaney vs Walsh + Staggs + Shibabsaki – Broncos win

Warbrick + Coates vs Karapani + Mariner – Broncos win

Grant Atkins did a great job of the Broncos-Panthers last week and is given the honours in the middle for the Grand Final.

18 seasons is a long time. It’s time to put that to bed, boys!

The Grand Final of the NRL Telstra Premiership kicks off at 6.30pm Brisbane Time, this Sunday, October 5. BE VERY CAREFUL AS DAYLIGHT SAVING STARTS ON SUNDAY!
The game will be broadcast live on Nine, Foxtel and Kayo.

Published 2-October-2025

Historic Sandgate Marine Rescue Service Returns to Its Roots with New Identity

The Sandgate Marine Rescue volunteers who’ve been watching over Moreton Bay’s waters for more than half a century have embraced a new identity that actually takes them back to their beginnings.

Volunteer Marine Rescue Brisbane has officially transitioned to Marine Rescue Queensland Sandgate, bringing one of the state’s longest-running marine rescue operations under the MRQ umbrella.

For Unit Commander Neil Sheppard, the change represents something of a homecoming for the service, which first began operating from the historic bayside suburb in 1969 as the Sandgate Yacht Club Search and Rescue Squad.

The connection runs even deeper when you consider that the Sandgate Yacht Club itself was established back in 1912 – making this latest chapter part of a maritime safety story that spans more than a century.

“We’ve been keeping an eye on boaties in these waters for generations, whether they’re under sail or using motor power,” Sheppard explained. The location has always been strategic, with easy access to Moreton Bay and the network of waterways that draw thousands of recreational boaters each year.

While the rebrand brings new uniforms, signage and official designation, the day-to-day reality for local boaters won’t change much. The same experienced volunteers will continue providing round-the-clock emergency response services, with crews maintaining their weekend and public holiday monitoring schedules from the Sandgate base.

The transition brings more than 90 dedicated volunteers into the MRQ network, adding to a statewide service that now encompasses 20 units and over 900 volunteers across Queensland.

MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff emphasised the value these volunteers bring to water safety across the state, from the far north Torres Strait down to the New South Wales border. Beyond their on-water rescue duties, crew members spend considerable time each year training and practising to ensure they’re prepared for any weather conditions or emergency situations.

The integration reflects the Queensland Government’s approach to creating a unified, state-funded volunteer marine rescue service under the Queensland Police Service coordination structure, while maintaining the distinct identity and operational independence that makes these local units effective.

For Sandgate residents and the broader boating community who rely on these services, the change represents continuity rather than disruption. The familiar sight of rescue vessels heading out to assist troubled boaters will remain a reassuring constant, backed by the same local knowledge and experience that has made this unit a trusted presence on Moreton Bay for decades.

The transformation also highlights how community-based emergency services evolve while preserving their essential character – in this case, maintaining an unbroken commitment to water safety that stretches back to the early days of recreational boating in the area.

Published 17-September-2025

Brisbane Cricketer Settles in Deagon Amid Property Growth

Brisbane Heat and Queensland Fire cricketer Nicola Hancock has purchased a home in Deagon, as the suburb records strong property growth and increasing demand from buyers.

Background And Context

Nicola Hancock, an allrounder for Queensland Fire and Brisbane Heat, has bought a house in Deagon after selling her Boondall townhouse. She originally purchased the Boondall property for $502,000 and saw its value rise by around $250,000 over three years. This gain enabled her to buy the Deagon home for just under $1 million.

Hancock, who was named Players’ Player in the 2024–25 Women’s National Cricket League, said she was attracted to Deagon’s balance of lifestyle and city access. She noted the suburb’s image had changed in recent years, with more people recognising its appeal.

Deagon Property Market

Deagon was ranked eighth in a SuburbTrends and MCG Quantity Surveyors lifestyle and growth study for Southeast Queensland, the only Brisbane suburb to appear in the top 10.

Property data varies depending on timeframe. Source figures show a median listing price of $650,000 in 2025, while market records for September 2024 to August 2025 indicate a median of $900,050, representing 13.9 per cent annual growth. Over the same period, 68 houses were sold, with a median time on market of 37 days and an average rental yield of 3.5 per cent.

*Photo Credit: Nicola Hancock/Instagram*

Changing Demographics

Local agents report that younger families are increasingly buying into Deagon since the Covid-19 pandemic. Previously, the area was more commonly held by older couples and long-term residents. Instead of demolishing existing homes, many new buyers are choosing to renovate, retaining the character of the suburb.

Inspections of Deagon homes often attract 30 to 50 groups during a three-week campaign, reflecting growing competition.

Lifestyle Appeal

Deagon sits about 20 kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD and is valued for its access to the waterfront, shopping hubs, and schools. Hancock said she wanted to secure a property before prices rose further and described the area as peaceful and family-friendly.

Outlook

Deagon continues to attract younger buyers seeking lifestyle and affordability compared with inner Brisbane. For Hancock, the suburb represents both a personal lifestyle choice and a timely property investment.

Published 14-Sep-2025

Photo Credit: Pexels

Sandgate and Districts Ambulance Station Opens to Support Growing Community

The new Sandgate and Districts Ambulance Station has officially opened, delivering a $12 million state-of-the-art facility to boost emergency response across Brisbane’s northern suburbs.

Read: Sandgate Aquatic Centre Keeps Families Splashing Year-Round

The station will be home to 25 paramedics, three patient transport officers and an Officer-in-Charge, providing support to communities in Sandgate, Bracken Ridge and nearby areas. Purpose-built to meet increasing demand, the station gives frontline staff access to modern infrastructure designed for both care delivery and professional development.

Photo credit: Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)/Facebook

Its features include dedicated office and write-up spaces, charge and breakout areas, locker rooms, a multi-function rest, study and training room, a general meeting room, and a 10-bay plant room to house ambulance vehicles.

Health and Ambulance Services Minister Tim Nicholls MP joined QAS Assistant Commissioner Tony Armstrong at the official opening on Saturday, September 6, alongside local paramedics who will now call the new Sandgate and Districts Ambulance Station their base.

QAS Assistant Commissioner Tony Armstrong said the completion of the new station represented a significant step forward for staff and the community.

“Metro North is one of the busiest regions for ambulance demand in our state, and to provide our paramedics and patient transport officers with a purpose-built replacement ambulance station here at Sandgate and districts means so much for our hard-working team,” Mr Armstrong said.

“Our highly skilled team of paramedics and patient transport officers can operate from a well-functioning structure with future opportunities for growth.”

Read: Brighton Foreshore Pathways, Picnic Spots, and Access to be Improved

With its modern design and expanded facilities, the Sandgate and Districts Ambulance Station ensures local residents can rely on faster response times while paramedics benefit from a workplace built to support their vital roles well into the future.

Featured image credit: Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)/Facebook

Published 9-September-2025

Firearms Hidden at Brighton Football Ground Spark Police Investigation

A concerning discovery at a beloved Brighton football ground has prompted a Queensland Police investigation after multiple firearms were found concealed in bushland at the popular community sporting venue.

The weapons were discovered at Brighton District Football Club on Wickham Street last Sunday evening, with police called to the scene around 6pm following the alarming find.

The firearms were located hidden inside an esky amongst grassland at the club’s Wakefield Park grounds, a venue that regularly hosts junior football matches and training sessions for local children and families.

Queensland Police have confirmed the weapons were reported as stolen from a property in Buderim, approximately an hour’s drive south of the Brisbane suburb where they were recovered.

A Queensland Police spokesperson said investigations remain ongoing but provided limited details about the discovery.

“Investigations in relation to the firearms are ongoing, however it appears the weapons were reported stolen from a Buderim property,” the spokesperson confirmed.

“There is no further information able to be provided at this stage.”

The incident has raised concerns for the local Brighton community, given the club’s role as a popular family destination where children regularly train and play football.

Brighton District Football Club, also known as the Brighton Bulldogs, serves as a cornerstone of the local sporting community. The club operates from Wakefield Park on Wickham Street and describes itself as “a strong club with a proud history of being a friendly footballing community”.

Both Football Queensland and Brighton Football Club have been approached for comment regarding the incident.

The discovery highlights ongoing concerns about illegal firearms in the community, particularly when found near venues frequented by families and children.

Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding how the weapons came to be at the football ground and are working to determine any connections between the original theft in Buderim and the Brighton location.

The incident remains under active investigation, with police asking anyone with relevant information to come forward.

Published 1-September-2025