Nathan Street Bakery in Brighton has closed after the sudden death of its owner, leaving the bayside community mourning the man whose pies, pastries and kindness shaped daily life.
“Dear loyal customers, The bakery is permanently closed…” Customers first learned of his condition through a handwritten sign on the bakery door Saturday, and after subsequently learning of his passing on Sunday, tributes in the form of notes and flowers began appearing outside the bakery. Beloved community baker Kiet Ta, 52, died Sunday from a brain haemorrhage, as confirmed by his family.
For more than 15 years, Nathan Street Bakery had been part of daily life for Brighton and Sandgate locals, many bypassing other bakeries just to visit. Residents remembered Ta for greeting everyone with a smile and recalling their regular orders.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
The shop earned praise for its pies, pastries and bread, with favourites including potato top pies, cream doughnuts, banh mi, lamingtons and vegemite scrolls. Locals said Ta often worked through the night to prepare food for the community he loved serving.
A Family’s Loss
Ta is survived by his wife, Huy Nguyen, and their sons Theo and Sebastian. Nguyen said her husband often shared stories about customers and felt fortunate to serve them. Despite long hours, he found joy in meeting people each day.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Their son Theo said his father rarely rested, working from midnight until late afternoon, and never gave up on the bakery despite challenges.
From Refugee to Baker
Born in Vietnam in 1972, Ta fled with his family as a child, spending a year in refugee camps in Malaysia before resettling in Australia. He first trained as a mechanic before turning to baking, opening Khai’s Bakery in Sandgate in the early 2000s and later running shops at Woody Point and Redcliffe.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Ta eventually established Nathan Street Bakery in Brighton with his wife, Huy Nguyen, where they built a loyal following. The family said they were thankful for the support of customers and their landlord, with Nguyen contributing pies and lamingtons from home during her own health struggles.
Outpouring of Tributes
News of Ta’s death prompted a wave of condolences on social media, with customers remembering him as kind and deeply missed. Some said Nathan Street Bakery was the best in Brighton, while others recalled his care and customer service.
Flowers, notes and messages were left outside the shop as locals mourned his passing. The family asked for privacy and confirmed funeral arrangements would be private.
Brighton’s popular foreshore is set for a significant refresh, with a final concept plan released outlining upgrades to key recreation areas between 9th and 19th Avenues.
The plan covers Brighton Park, Decker Park, Brighton Health Campus and Sandgate Foreshores Park, with works designed to make the foreshore more accessible and enjoyable for both residents and visitors.
Among the proposed improvements are widened promenade pathways, new picnic areas, additional shade and seating, coastal protection features, and better access to tidal flats. Interpretive information about the environment will also be added to help visitors connect with the area’s natural heritage.
Brighton Foreshore Parklands – final concept plan (Photo credit: BCC)
Community feedback has shaped the plan, with 81 per cent of respondents supporting the overall vision. Retaining existing trees, planting more for shade and habitat, and rebuilding the 12th Avenue boat ramp for non-motorised watercraft access were among the most popular suggestions.
Photo credit: BCC
Initial works will focus on upgrades to the 12th and 19th Avenue recreation areas and new park furniture between 9th and 18th Avenues. These will include enhanced pathways, an accessible beach ramp, upgraded disabled parking, and new facilities to support families and people with mobility needs.
The project is scheduled to begin with detailed planning and design in 2025, with construction expected to follow in 2026, subject to approvals and weather conditions.
Once complete, the improvements will provide more opportunities for recreation, relaxation and socialising, while protecting the foreshore’s environmental and cultural values.
Four teenagers have been arrested following an alleged robbery at a boutique located on Beaconsfield Terrace in Brighton, a northern suburb of Brisbane. Police allege the group entered the clothing store shortly before 2 p.m., where they made threats towards a staff member and stole several items.
Security footage obtained by media showed a staff member trying to prevent the group from leaving with the items. During the confrontation, the worker was pushed to the ground. The following day, the same group of teenagers allegedly returned to the store and demanded money but fled on foot empty-handed.
Youth Justice Process
Queensland Police located the group shortly after the second incident. A 13-year-old boy and a 15-year-old boy were among those apprehended and have since been dealt with under the Youth Justice Act 1992. This legislation provides a framework for police and courts to respond to youth offending and includes diversionary measures, court proceedings, and sentencing options.
The Act recognises a range of offending behaviour—from minor one-time offences to more serious, repeated actions. It allows for responses that hold young people accountable while also supporting rehabilitation and reintegration into the community.
Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook
Impact on Staff and Community
The store owner told media that staff members were left shaken by the events. The incidents have raised concerns over workplace safety and the emotional toll on retail employees. The business is reportedly considering adjustments to its security procedures following the back-to-back encounters.
Queensland Police have confirmed that investigations into both incidents are ongoing. No further details have been released regarding the other two individuals involved in the alleged offences.
We’ve combed Bracken Ridge, Brighton, Brighton Eventide, Brighton Nathan Street, Deagon, Sandgate, Sandgate DC, and Shorncliffe for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!
kat Von Jayne ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ First visit – fantastic atmosphere, decor, staff and food. Steak cooked perfect medium rare, parmigiana was one of the best schnitzels I’ve had in a long time. The dough for the garlic cheese bread was amazing, will definitely be back to try the pizzas! Great cocktail menu.
Donna Sharp ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I have eaten here 3 times now and loved it every time. Great gluten-free options. Food is delicious and the service is fast and friendly. I can’t wait to go back.
Katherine Miller ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great local place to meet for lunch. Tasty food, good variety & great prices. Outstanding job by Callum who didn’t stop working the entire time we sat and ate our lunch. I noticed his ease and friendly demeanour with customer interactions, menu suggestions, through to the restaurant reset after a busy lunch period. Great to see his awesome work ethic.
Rita ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Busy cafe with great reviews. Staff are amazing. Coffee is bellisimo which I love but my almond latte was bubbly and not smooth. If you’re a coffee drinker I don’t think this cafe cuts it but everything else looks great! Thank you
Nancy Chen ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Lovely local cafe with alfresco dining area, delicious food and friendly service. We come here regularly for brunch on Sundays and all the dishes we’ve tried are delicious. Sometimes they run daily specials which are pleasant surprises for customers. Their coffees are decent too. Get here early on weekends as their kitchen may close a bit earlier than their closing time.
Ngato-Zharnaye Livingstone ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ After having a rough night I decided to treat myself to breakfast at Greenfield. I ordered the Katsu Chicken Avo, Macadamia Crepes and Sunrise Juice – each one left me feeling satisfied and I felt my mood lift after every bite. I’ve been to Greenfield a few times over the years and I’m constantly being introduced to new flavours each time. If you plan to visit, I would highly recommend to try something different from what you’d normally order. You won’t be disappointed!
Tara McAteer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great food, great coffee, and great cakes. Ran by a lovely women named Robyn (the owner) who provided her preferences on what to order. Fabulous selection to choose from with the menu and all the sweets. Lovely and friendly staff who made the dinning in experience delightful. Will be coming back again, must visit!! Good job team!!
Jodie A ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ What a lovely little cafe, with beautiful food, good prices, stunning views and delightful staff and owners. We had the avocado on toast with bacon, rocket, tomatoes, smoked feta whip and balsamic glaze. I have to say this was one of the most delightful things I’ve ever tasted. We also had the house made waffles, with house made meringue nest, banana, strawberries and a lovely house made caramel ice cream. It was sensational. I would highly recommend Baaia to anyone wanting a yummy feed, nice atmosphere and fantastic service. Just went back for the second time and I can highly recommend the sweet potato, harrisa hash with labna. We also asked for extras and they were so accommodating.
Subtropical Exotics Oh my goodness, the menu had an incredible selection! And Heather, our waitress, was absolutely fantastic. So professional and friendly, it made our meal even more enjoyable. Plus, the colourful artwork on the walls added a lovely touch to the atmosphere.
Jodie A ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The food was very nice, I had the banana bread French toast. Nice size serving. Other person had the big breakfast and it was a very generous serving. Everything tasted good. Price was on par with most other coffee shop/ cafes in this area.
Daniel Campbell ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Incredible food. We ordered a big breakfast and the eggs Benedict. Both were amazing. The eggs here are the super large ones! (I love that.) The big brekkie was too big (that’s always amazing 🤩). Fantastic chorizo, lots of bacon. The eggs Benedict can’t out on a pan-fried croissant 🥐, sooo good!
Donna Welch ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Seriously the best service and food is amazing! The girls are so lovely, everything is home made and desserts are to die for! Mum had been telling me how great it is and did not disappoint. I am the fussiest foodie on the planet and hard to impress and the coffee shop next door will bring your coffee over to the cafe for you and it’s divine! Try the Sweet Potato Feta and Caramelised Onion Frittata! It’s next level! 🥰 wish I took some pics! Don’t believe anyone that gives a low review they are obviously lying and not nice humans
Craig Glover ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Attended the Full Moon Hotel for my birthday dinner with my sons and daughter in law and wasn’t disappointed. The service was great, with friendly bar staff where nothing was a problem. We even got to play music bingo which was fun and made for a cruisy and fun vibe. The meals were amazing, I highly recommend the 6hr steak-it melts in your mouth!
Carol Woods ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Had lunch today with friends for my 49 year Wedding Anniversary. Best experience I have had in years. All meals were exceptional and on an extremely busy day came out in a timely manner. Bar and wait staff were friendly and efficient. Wish I had asked the manager his name as he was amazing. If I could give more than 5 stars I would.❤️
Mozzykat ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The food was great and large meals. I loved the outside doggy area, they even had water for the dogs. The staff were so friendly and helpful and the view was amazing. Best place I have been
Sandgate Aquatic Centre draws swimmers from across Brisbane with its mix of heated indoor pools, outdoor lanes and a splash-filled play area designed just for kids.
Sandgate Aquatic Centre offers more than just summer swimming, with a heated 25-metre indoor pool open year-round for lap swimmers and learners. It also features an eight-lane, 50-metre outdoor pool used during the warmer months for training and recreation.
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council
Surrounded by parks and walking tracks with views of the bay, the centre’s location adds to its appeal. While the outdoor and leisure pools close in winter, the indoor pool and gym stay open. Attendance remains strong in cooler months, helped by family-focused programs and seasonal promotions.
Splash Zone and Leisure Play Area
The leisure pool is a major attraction at Sandgate Aquatic Centre, designed especially for families and young children. It features a beach-style entry, colourful slides, water cannons and a tipping bucket that kids love. Though currently closed for winter, it’s set to reopen in September and is a favourite during the warmer months.
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council
The pool includes shaded areas and safe, open spaces that support active water play. When in use, it’s often the busiest spot, especially on weekends and school holidays.
Added Amenities for Families and Fitness
Beyond swimming, Sandgate Aquatic Centre blends convenience with activity for all ages. Families can grab a snack from the kiosk, relax by shaded BBQs, or stretch out in nearby parklands. Entry fees range from $4.90 for children to $6.60 for adults, with multi-visit passes and concessions available, including free entry for Companion Card holders and children under two.
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council
Parents should note supervision rules: kids aged 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and those under five must be within arm’s reach in the water. Inside, the gym overlooks the pools and offers everything from solo workouts to group classes like Pilates and water aerobics.
Easy Access and Community Feel
Sandgate Aquatic Centre is easy to reach, with plenty of parking and a short walk from the train station. Locals appreciate the friendly staff, relaxed vibe and strong focus on safety, especially for young children.
Trained lifeguards are always on duty, and clear supervision rules are in place. It’s a space where early lap swimmers, busy parents and casual fitness-goers all feel at home. With the full facility, including the kids’ play area, set to reopen in September, spring is shaping up to be even more inviting.
Each winter, thousands of humpback whales pass through Moreton Bay, and now, the Sandgate Guide is helping locals get front-row seats to the action, with a chance to win a double pass aboard Brisbane Whale Watching’s popular tours. The cruises, led by one of Australia’s most experienced whale captains, offer a close-up look at these giant visitors just off the coast of Redcliffe.
The whale-watching season runs from early June to late October, with daily tours from Redcliffe aboard the Eye Spy catamaran. Operated by Brisbane Whale Watching, the cruises are led by Captain Kerry Lopez, the only female whale-watching captain and owner in the South Pacific Rim.
With nearly 30 years at the helm, Lopez offers locals a front-row seat to the humpback migration through Moreton Bay. Guests often spot not just whales breaching and tail-slapping, but also dolphins, turtles and dugongs. Sandgate Guide is giving readers a chance to join a tour for free through a June competition.
An Up-Close Encounter for Locals
Lopez said no two trips are the same, with whales often approaching the boat and showing off their playful, social nature. Crew members can identify many whales by their unique tail markings and sometimes name new calves.
Each tour includes a picnic-style lunch, a licensed bar, and wheelchair access for comfort and inclusivity. Brisbane Whale Watching is also eco-accredited, supporting sustainable marine tourism.
Community Ties Run Deep
What started as a passion for the ocean has grown into a family-run business. Lopez’s daughter is currently studying at Maritime College and plans to join her mother on deck in the future. Several current crew members also began their connection to Brisbane Whale Watching as passengers before joining the team permanently.
The tours are a hit with all ages, from school groups to retirees. Many guests return every season, drawn back by the thrill of watching whales up close and the warm, welcoming environment created by Lopez and her crew.
June Competition Open Now
From 1 June to 30 June, the Sandgate Guide is giving readers a chance to win a double pass for the experience. The prize includes a full-day whale-watching cruise, lunch, and the chance to spot some of Australia’s most iconic marine life.
The competition is free to enter and aims to connect the community with the unique wildlife right on their doorstep. To take part or learn more, readers can head to the Sandgate Guide website and visit the competitions section.
Sandgate locals filled the foreshore with footsteps and quiet determination this week, walking together in a united stand against domestic and family violence as part of a community-led event that drew support from police and residents alike.
One Walk, One Message of Unity
The Peaceful Walk and Candle-lighting Ceremony on Tuesday, 20 May was organised by SANDBAG as part of Queensland’s Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month. Starting at Cliff Street and ending at Twelfth Avenue, the walk followed the Sandgate foreshore and included locals, community groups, and Queensland Police officers.
No RSVP was needed, people simply arrived, candles in hand or walking quietly with family and friends. The event offered a space to honour lives lost and stand with survivors. It also served as a powerful reminder of the need for respectful, safe relationships in every home.
Community and Police Walk Side by Side
Queensland Police officers from the North Brisbane district joined the walk to show their commitment to preventing domestic and family violence. Their presence allowed them to engage with locals, share information, and highlight support services.
By walking alongside the community, they aimed to build trust with those who may feel unsafe or isolated. Police also stressed the value of early intervention and public awareness in stopping violence before it escalates.
Lighting Candles, Sharing Purpose
Candles were lit at the end of the walk to quietly remember those lost to domestic and family violence. The ceremony offered a solemn moment for grief and a renewed call for change.
SANDBAG organisers said the event was about breaking the silence and sending a clear message that violence has no place in Sandgate or beyond. They also stressed the need for ongoing community action, not just during awareness month.
A Collective Stand That Will Continue
The Sandgate walk lasted just an hour, but its message will stay with the community. It brought people together to show that preventing domestic violence is a shared responsibility.
SANDBAG and QPS said they remain committed to supporting vulnerable people, raising awareness, and working toward a safer community. The walk may be over, but the effort to create change goes on.
