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Sandgate Tradies Targeted in Spree of Forced Toolboxes Thefts

Local tradespeople in the Sandgate area are facing a disruption to their livelihood after thieves targeted work vehicles and forced open secured toolboxes to steal valuable equipment.

The string of incidents occurred between November 9 and November 10. During this overnight period, offenders struck multiple locations across the suburbs of Sandgate, Shorncliffe, and Virginia.

A Crime of Opportunity

toolboxes — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police/ Facebook*

Police have indicated that parking work vehicles on the street significantly increases the risk of becoming a victim. While many thefts are opportunistic, these recent offenders have shown they are willing to use force to get what they want. Authorities noted that thieves are cutting through padlocks and chains or tampering with windows to gain access to the expensive power tools inside.

The primary advice from law enforcement is to avoid on-street parking whenever possible. Leaving a work vehicle exposed on the road overnight makes it an easy target for criminals looking for a quick payout. Residents are being asked to double-check their locks and remain aware of who is moving around their street after dark.

Marking Your Assets

To combat this trend, police are urging the community to take proactive steps in identifying their property. Officers stated that marking tools with an engraving or recording serial numbers is essential. This process not only deters theft but also provides the necessary proof of ownership if the items are recovered.

The recommended method is to place a mark or code on the top right-hand corner of the item or close to the manufacturer’s serial number. For items that cannot be easily engraved, authorities suggest taking a clear video or photograph. These records assist police significantly in identifying stolen goods and returning them to the correct owner.

Watching the Neighbourhood

Community cooperation is vital in stopping these offences. Police have requested that residents report any suspicious behaviour they observe around trailers or work vehicles. By staying vigilant and securing property, the community can reduce the risk of these opportunistic crimes and help protect the livelihoods of local workers.

Published Date 20-November-2025

Photo Credit: Queensland Police

Sandgate Riders Face Fines For Non-Compliant E-Vehicles

Brisbane police have ramped up enforcement against riders using non-compliant e-bikes, e-scooters and e-motorbikes, with Sandgate’s foreshore among the key locations being targeted under Operation Xray Surety.

The operation, which began in early November, has already resulted in 150 traffic infringement notices being issued across the Brisbane region as of 9 November, according to Queensland Police Service media.

Police are conducting patrols across the city, from the riverside of the inner CBD to the foreshores at Wynnum and Sandgate, as well as suburbs including Inala and Indooroopilly. Officers are focusing on devices that don’t meet safety standards or are being ridden illegally.

South Brisbane District Inspector Mat Kelly said police are seeing too many instances of non-compliant devices creating safety risks for riders, road users and pedestrians.

“We urge riders or parents who have already bought their child a device to check whether it is compliant. Don’t just assume,” Inspector Kelly said in the police statement.

The crackdown builds on existing police efforts, including community engagement with riders and parents, safety education sessions at local schools, and enforcement action when devices are found to be non-compliant or ridden dangerously.

Among recent cases, a 59-year-old Capalaba man was allegedly caught running two red lights while riding an unregistered electric motorcycle without a licence on 5 November. He received five traffic infringement notices totalling more than $2,400 in fines (QP2501999250).

The following morning, a 19-year-old Indooroopilly man was intercepted riding a non-compliant e-bike along the bikeway near the Eastern Busway in Dutton Park. He received five fines totalling $1,756 for offences including riding unregistered, driving without appropriate authorisation, and failing to wear a helmet (QP2502005840).

Around the same time, a 57-year-old man was stopped near Main Street in Kangaroo Point for allegedly riding an unregistered electric motorbike without proper licensing, receiving three fines worth $1,156 (QP2502005847).

Inspector Kelly warned that many devices may only be permitted on private property, not in public spaces such as council parks, footpaths or roads.

“It is the responsibility of riders and parents to know the rules surrounding these devices. Ignorance is not an excuse when public safety is put at risk,” he said.

Police have warned that continued non-compliant use will result in fines, charges and in some cases seizure of the devices.

Riders and parents can check compliance requirements on the Queensland Government’s StreetSmarts website at police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads.

Published 12-November-2025

Sandgate-Redcliffe Cricketers Selected for Queensland Under-19 Training Squad

Three players from the Sandgate-Redcliffe District Cricket Club have been included in Queensland’s Under-19 training squad. The squad is currently midway into an eight-week training program before final selections are made for the line-up to compete in the Under-19 National Championships to be held in Perth in December.

Sandgate-Redcliffe Talent in State Squad

Among those named are Steven Hogan, Angus McLean, and Lakshdeep Singh from Sandgate-Redcliffe District Cricket Club. Their inclusion strengthens the club’s reputation for developing players capable of performing at the highest levels of junior cricket.

Hogan, already recognised as one of Queensland’s Australian Under-19 representatives, recently impressed during matches against India’s youth team, scoring a steady 92 runs in a four-day game at Ian Healy Oval in Brisbane. The innings showcased his composure under pressure and highlighted his readiness for national competition.

Queensland Under-19 squad — *Photo Credit: Sandgate-Redcliffe District Cricket Club*

Queensland Cricket announced its 20-man Under-19 training squad on 4 October 2025, signalling the start of an eight-week program before final selections are confirmed for the Under-19 National Championships to be held in Perth from December 1 to 8, 2025.

The Under-19 squad also includes several players from leading Queensland Premier Cricket clubs, reflecting the depth of youth talent progressing through the state’s development pathways.

The National Under-19 Male Championships will be a 10-team tournament, with players divided into two pools, to be played across 12 different venues. The Finals will be played at the historic WACA Ground.

Longstanding Player Development in Sandgate

Known as the Gators, the Sandgate-Redcliffe District Cricket Club has operated on Brisbane’s northside for decades and is located about 30 minutes from the CBD. The club has built a strong foundation for players of all ages, from junior teams to men’s over-40s, and introduced its first women’s side in the 1995–1996 season.

The Gators also run school holiday cricket clinics for juniors aged 8 to 13, led by accredited Level 1 to Level 3 coaches, including a High Performance Coach overseeing player development. The club maintains detailed player statistics, batting records, and representative histories as part of its emphasis on performance tracking and community recognition.

Strengthening Queensland’s Future Line-Up

The selection of Hogan, McLean, and Singh reinforces Sandgate-Redcliffe’s continued contribution to Queensland’s cricket development system. As the Under-19 training squad begins preparations for the National Championships, the northside club’s success underscores the effectiveness of its coaching programs and commitment to nurturing emerging cricketers.

For Sandgate-Redcliffe, the upcoming tournament offers another chance to see its homegrown players showcase their progress on the national stage, further strengthening the club’s standing as a reliable pathway for young Queensland talent.

Published 10-Oct-2025

Photo Credit: Sandgate-Redcliffe District Cricket Club

Sandgate Residents Urged to Secure Homes Following Property Crimes

Sandgate residents are being reminded to secure their homes following a series of alleged property crimes that occurred across the bayside suburb on 30 October.

A 40-year-old Brisbane City man has been charged with 11 offences after police responded to multiple incidents throughout the day, beginning with a single-vehicle crash on Brighton Road around 4am.

According to Queensland Police, the driver fled the scene after crashing a grey Mini Cooper, which had been reported stolen from Hamilton the previous day.

Later that morning, police allege a mountain bike was taken from a Griffith Street property, while a neighbouring unit was broken into with cash and other items stolen.

Around 1pm, a Flinders Parade residence was allegedly broken into, with keys to a white Toyota Hilux taken and the vehicle stolen from the back yard. The mountain bike allegedly taken earlier was left at the scene.

The Toyota Hilux was later spotted at an alleged break-and-enter in Paddington around 4.40pm, before being involved in a collision on Annerley Road at Annerley shortly before 7pm.

A 40-year-old man was located nearby with a leg injury and transported to hospital by Queensland Ambulance Service.

The man has been charged with two counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, three counts of driving without a licence, two counts of enter dwelling and commit, enter dwelling with intent at night, attempted enter dwelling with intent at night, and stealing.

He was remanded in custody and appeared in Brisbane Magistrates Court today, 4 November.

Following the incidents, officers from the Gateway District Crime Prevention Unit have been engaging with Sandgate residents, speaking to locals about home security measures.

Queensland Police are reminding residents to ensure doors and windows are secure and valuable items are locked away and kept out of sight.

Anyone with information about these incidents can contact Policelink on 131 444 or submit information online at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 30-October-2025

Brisbane Golfer Breaks World Record for Charity

Brisbane golfer Mick McLoughlin has broken a Guinness World Record after hitting more than 10,392 golf balls in 24 hours at Golf Central near Brisbane Airport to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Smashing the Record in Brisbane

Mick McLoughlin, a 62-year-old golf enthusiast, business director, and long-time supporter of Ronald McDonald House Charities, set the record during a 24-hour chipping marathon held from October 17 to 18 at Golf Central.

He exceeded the long-standing record, which had stood since 2002, by surpassing 10,392 balls in just 19 hours, with five hours still left in his attempt. The challenge formed part of his Chipping for Charity campaign, raising money to support families with seriously ill or injured children.

Brisbane golfer record — *Photo Credit: Chipping for Charity/Instagram*

Training and Determination

McLoughlin trained for 11 months leading up to the event, hitting up to 1,500 balls daily. Despite suffering from tendinitis, tennis elbow, and wrist and knee issues, he persisted in preparation for the demanding 24-hour effort.

A Second World Record for a Cause

This was McLoughlin’s second Guinness World Record. In 2021, he completed 2,001 golf holes in seven days, raising more than $340,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities South East Queensland. His latest goal aimed to raise around $250,000 for the organisation, which provides accommodation and support for families near hospitals.

Community Support

The record attempt drew support from notable Brisbane sports figures, including Broncos coach Michael Maguire and players Ezra Mam, Josh Maguire, Wally Lewis, and Matt Gillett, who attended a Sportsman’s Lunch linked to the campaign.

Celebrities such as Sam Thaiday, Corey Oates, Robbie Dolan, and Romy Teitzel also joined the fundraising effort by donating golf balls in the lead-up to the event.

*Photo Credit: Chipping for Charity/Instagram*

Continuing the Mission

Every ball McLoughlin chipped represented another step toward supporting Ronald McDonald Houses across Australia. The campaign encouraged public donations through the Chipping for Charity website, with all proceeds directed to benefit families staying near hospitals.

Published 25-Oct-2025

Photo Credit: Chipping for Charity/Instagram

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.