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Calamvale Family Faces Financial Strain After Sudden Death of their Father Chris Leigh

A young Calamvale family is grappling with unexpected financial hardship following the sudden death of devoted father Chris Leigh, 38, in a tragic household accident.

Chris, a skilled floor sander, died earlier this month after falling at his home and remaining in a coma for several weeks at Princess Alexandra Hospital. He is survived by his wife, Mirela, 33, and their two children, Miranda, 10, and Calum, 8.

Community Impact and Personal Loss

Chris Leigh — *Photo Credit: Queensland Police/ Facebook*

The sudden loss has deeply affected the tight-knit family and the broader community. Those who knew Chris described him as a grounded, humble man with a quick wit and a gentle spirit.

He was profoundly dedicated to his family, always present for his children and wholeheartedly supportive of Mirela’s career in disability care. Despite the physical demands of his work, friends noted he never complained, his focus always on providing for his family and creating a joyful and stable home environment.

Mirela Leigh expressed that her life changed dramatically in a matter of seconds. She stated that while she was grateful their last day together was wonderfully relaxing, she deeply regretted not having completed the couple’s financial planning goals. Mirela shared that Chris was her best friend and that they were still young with many plans for the future.

She mentioned their last day together was peaceful and full of love, and she did not know it would be his last. Mirela explained that the death was unexpected, and like most young couples, their finances were not fully up to date. She recalled that Chris did not want a funeral or a fuss, but they did want things to be in order, never imagining they would be in this position so soon.

Financial Challenges and Support

Mirela confirmed the couple had updated their income insurances last year but had not completed all the necessary paperwork. She acknowledged that they would often say, “it doesn’t matter,” and despite having dealt with much sadness in their family, they did not create a will, never thinking Chris’s life would be so short.
In a fortunate turn, the couple’s family connected Mirela with a solicitor to help navigate the legal and financial complexities. To help bridge the financial gap while Mirela takes time off work to care for her children and grieve, Chris’s brother-in-law, Gary McLachlan, launched a GoFundMe campaign.

The campaign has successfully raised $16,000 in a few days, with the response from friends, family, and even strangers providing some relief as the family navigates this incredibly difficult period. Chris was also a registered organ donor, and in his passing, he was able to give many people a second chance at life.

Published Date 2-Jun-2025

Forest Lake Among Suburbs Facing Potential Five-Level Building Heights in Housing Push

Photo Credit: LMAdrianSchrinner/ Facebook

Parts of Forest Lake and 17 other Brisbane suburbs currently zoned for two to three levels could soon accommodate buildings as high as five storeys as the city addresses its housing affordability crisis.

This significant change is part of a city-wide review announced on Wednesday by Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, aiming to add approximately 6,000 new homes over the next five years.

The review focuses on low-to-medium residential (LMR) density zones, which make up 14 per cent of Brisbane’s land. These areas currently allow for two to three levels and a minimum lot size of 400 square metres, but under the proposed changes, lot sizes could shrink to 300 square metres, potentially making way for terrace homes or dual occupancy dwellings.

The Need for More Homes

Brisbane has been struggling with housing affordability, recently ranked as the 13th least affordable city globally by Demographia. Mayor Schrinner emphasised that this is largely due to a lack of housing supply, with new dwelling approvals in LMR zones dropping sharply to just 445 in the past two years, compared to a decade-long average of over 1,110.

He stated that increasing supply is the only realistic answer to making housing more affordable, dismissing other ideas like Airbnb limits or taxes on vacant properties as too simplistic. The review aims to cut red tape, adjust minimum parking requirements, and permit higher buildings in areas close to essential infrastructure such as shopping centres, bus and train stations, and main roads.

Forest Lake’s Unique Position

Forest Lake, a master-planned community, already features a mix of housing types, from detached houses on smaller lots to some medium-density homes. Its design includes integrated amenities like local shops, schools, and green spaces, including the prominent lake.

The suburb’s Neighbourhood Plan already encourages higher density development near the lake and central facilities to improve access to services. If five-level heights are introduced in Forest Lake, they would most likely be located around the Forest Lake Shopping Centre and commercial zones.

These areas are well-suited for increased density due to their existing services and transport links. Connectivity to Richlands train station via bus routes could also make areas along these routes candidates for slightly increased density.

Industry and Community Perspectives

The announcement has been generally welcomed by the property industry. The Property Council’s executive director, Jess Caire, described the move as a positive step during the ongoing housing crisis. Rob Flux of the Property Developer Network noted that the changes would benefit small developers, who build most new residential projects.

Urban design and planning company Therefor Group also supported the review, stressing the importance of thoughtful design for positive outcomes. Director Amy Marsden mentioned that traditional character areas like Paddington and Auchenflower are unlikely to be affected by these changes.

However, some concerns and challenges remain. Caroline Stalker, the Australian Institute of Architects state president, supported higher density near infrastructure but stressed that good design is crucial for creating liveable communities. She warned that without proper design focusing on privacy, safe streets, and appealing neighbourhoods, public pushback is likely.

Master Builders Queensland’s Paul Bidwell welcomed the review as a good first step for increasing approvals, but highlighted a major issue: the construction sector currently lacks enough qualified workers to build the necessary homes. He noted that construction capacity is far behind approvals, meaning boosting supply is only one part of the solution.

Meanwhile, Real Estate Institute of Queensland stated there appears to be a newfound public willingness to accept higher density.

Labor Opposition Leader in Council, Jared Cassidy, argued that the housing shortage is partly due to the current administration’s past decisions, such as banning new townhouse developments in low-density zones in 2020.

Despite these points, the State Government’s SEQ Regional Plan requires Brisbane to deliver about 60 per cent of its new housing through infill development. Recent state approvals include 1,631 lots in the Greater Flagstone Priority Development Area and 782 new homes in Indooroopilly and Milton.

Published Date 28-May-2025

Brisbane Super Kings Girls Cricket: A Safe Haven for Young Players in Heathwood

Brisbane Super Kings (BSK) Girls Cricket is doing more than just teaching young players how to bat, bowl and field. It is building a community where girls of all backgrounds feel safe, supported, and encouraged to thrive—on and off the pitch.

Read: Forest Lake Boy Gains Sporting Boost Through Lions Club Support

A Local Hub for Growth and Community

Girls Cricket — Photo credit: Brisbane Super Kings Cricket Club/Google Maps

The club, based in the growing suburb of Heathwood, offers a unique environment that welcomes players from across Brisbane’s southern suburbs. Whether a girl is just picking up a cricket bat for the first time or is already developing into a skilled competitor, BSK provides a place where she can grow at her own pace. Coaches focus not only on cricketing techniques but also on instilling values such as teamwork, resilience, and self-belief.

BSK’s commitment to inclusion is evident in its multicultural makeup. Heathwood and its neighbouring areas are home to families from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds, and BSK actively embraces this diversity. By doing so, the club ensures that every girl, no matter her heritage or skill level, has an equal opportunity to participate and feel a sense of belonging.

More Than a Game

Photo credit: Brisbane Super Kings Cricket Club Inc/Facebook

Parents are often drawn to BSK not just for its strong coaching and structured programmes, but for the supportive atmosphere that surrounds every match and training session. Many describe it as a “second family”—a space where their daughters can build friendships, learn new skills, and develop a lifelong love for sport.

The club’s growth is a testament to its inclusive ethos and community-driven approach. As it continues to expand, BSK remains dedicated to making cricket accessible and enjoyable for every girl who wants to play.

Read: Forest Lake Rugby League Stars Stand Out in Langer Trophy

For families in Heathwood and beyond, BSK Girls Cricket offers more than just a game. It offers a chance to be part of something positive, empowering, and truly special.

Published 27-May-2025

Community Petitions Push for Infrastructure Upgrades in Pallara

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Residents in Pallara are backing several petitions calling on city officials to address longstanding issues involving traffic signals, footpaths, and road surface conditions across key local streets.

Background and Context

Pallara has experienced significant population growth, prompting calls for improved local infrastructure. The construction of the Pallara Shopping Village on Gooderham Road in March 2025 has increased local traffic volumes, especially at the intersection with Pallara Avenue. Meanwhile, roads such as Ritchie Road have been subject to prolonged wear, with concerns raised over pedestrian safety and stormwater drainage.

Local official Emily Kim is actively promoting petitions to secure formal responses from BCC leadership, stating that such mechanisms are among the few ways residents can ensure attention from decision-makers.

Traffic Signals Sought for Key Intersection

One petition focuses on the installation of traffic lights at the intersection of Gooderham Road and Pallara Avenue. According to the petition’s details, traffic flow has increased sharply following the opening of Pallara Shopping Village, and delays in entering and exiting the area have become a regular issue.

Transport for Brisbane has reportedly responded in the past that current traffic levels do not meet the threshold for signal installation. However, petition organisers argue that the situation on the ground does not reflect the findings of prior studies.

Pallara community petitions — *Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View*

HAVE YOUR SAY

Call for Ritchie Road Surface Upgrades

Another petition calls for full resurfacing of Ritchie Road, alongside kerbing and stormwater channelling. Advocates state the road has suffered visible degradation over several years, with inadequate drainage affecting driving conditions and surrounding property values.

The petition aims to secure Council funding for these works by collecting sufficient support to prompt an official response through the City of Brisbane Act 2010.

Ritchie road upgrades — *Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View*

have your say

Footpath and Pedestrian Safety Improvements

Separate petitions also highlight the need for pedestrian infrastructure. A Council-hosted petition is currently live seeking new footpaths along sections of Ritchie Road.

In addition, a community-driven petition led by a Pallara resident is calling for the construction of 1.73 kilometres of new footpaths across both Ritchie Road and Gooderham Road. This includes specific sections between Cornwall Street and Brookbent Road, as well as two requested pedestrian crossings on Ritchie Road to improve access to bus stops and local facilities.

Supporters argue that current conditions force pedestrians to walk on road shoulders or uneven surfaces, which poses safety risks for children and families.

Gooderham road pedestrian — *Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View*

have your say

Community Involvement Critical to Progress

Organisers maintain that without petitions, there is little guarantee that projects in outer suburbs like Pallara will be prioritised under current Council processes. Residents are encouraged to provide full name, email, and residential address when signing, as required under Council petition rules.

Currently, some petitions are being circulated via community-led forms to gather initial support. Once a sufficient number of signatures is collected, these will be submitted for conversion into official BCC e-petitions. It is a necessary step before they can be formally tabled and reviewed by Council committees.

Next Steps and Petition Status

As of May 2025, the Pallara footpath petition hosted on the BCC’s e-petition portal has collected over 150 signatures and remains open until 1 November 2025. Other petitions, such as those concerning traffic lights and road resurfacing, are still gathering signatures through Google Forms. These are intended to be transitioned into formal BCC e-petitions once initial support is demonstrated and administrative requirements are met.

Only once accepted as formal e-petitions will these proposals be eligible for presentation to Council committees, where they will trigger an official response under the City of Brisbane Act 2010.

Published 22-May-2025

Speed Humps Proposed to Improve Safety Near Busy Parkinson Aquatic Centre

Local residents are being invited to share their views on a proposal to install speed humps along the driveway leading to the Parkinson Aquatic Centre, following growing safety concerns.

Read: New CCTV Installed in Forest Lake & Inala to Strengthen Suburban Safety

People living in the nearby estate—bordered by Whitsunday, Orpheus, Hayman and Daydream Streets—have raised concerns about vehicles travelling at high speeds in the area, which sees frequent use by families and children attending the Centre.

Parkinson Aquatic Centre — Photo credit: Google Street View

In response, preliminary discussions have begun with Council about the potential installation of two speed humps to encourage safer driving. Early cost estimates suggest the design phase alone would require approximately $5,600 in funding before any construction could begin.

To gauge community support, a short survey has been launched by Cr Emily Kim and will remain open until 1 July 2025. Residents are encouraged to have their say by visiting: https://forms.gle/XLS21hLaEvLof9LV9.

While some agreed to this proposal, some residents have suggested that a dedicated pedestrian path on the right side of the driveway might offer a safer alternative, noting the current incline and narrow width of the access road.

“Please do not install speed humps. Use traffic calming road installations instead. Speed humps are terrible for suspension and can be challenging for cars with lower ride heights to navigate,” one resident commented.

They expressed concern that pedestrians should not have to share the steep driveway with vehicles and questioned whether speed humps would be effective, with some believing they could potentially worsen the situation.

Read: Calamvale Residents Petition for Road Upgrades and Park Lighting

The proposal is still in its early stages, and further steps will depend on public feedback and funding availability. Locals who experience difficulties accessing the survey are encouraged to contact the councillor’s office for assistance. Updates will be shared with the community as the project develops.

Published 10-May-2025

Forest Lake Route Suffers Most Bus Cancellations in Brisbane

Photo Credit: Translink/ Facebook

The bus route servicing Forest Lake has recorded the highest number of cancellations across Brisbane, adding to previous safety concerns for its regular passengers.

bus — *Photo Credit:* *Translink/ Facebook*

Data revealed that in the 12 months leading up to February 2025, nearly 8,000 public transport services, predominantly buses, were cancelled within the Brisbane City Council area. The 100 bus route, connecting Queen Street station to the Forest Lake shops in the city’s southwest, experienced the highest number of these disruptions, with 487 services not running.

This route was also identified as Brisbane’s most dangerous two years prior. Following the 100 route, the 60 CityGlider service from West End to Newstead saw 345 cancellations, and route 340 from Carseldine station to the CBD had 295. The month with the most service interruptions was November 2024, with 875 cancellations, July 2024 with 826, and October 2024 with 710.

Staffing and Traffic Named Key Factors

The most frequently cited reason for these cancellations across all affected areas was “staff availability.” TransLink indicated this term encompasses various situations, not solely bus driver absenteeism, such as delays from previous services or the need to reassign drivers to cover school routes.

However, traffic congestion was also a major contributor in Brisbane, accounting for 1,996 cancellations, while mechanical issues led to 750 bus service cancellations and affected 650 train services. Mechanical problems were also noted as a significant concern on the Sunshine Coast.

Southeast Queensland Feels the Impact

bus — *Photo Credit:* *Translink/ Facebook*

The issue of bus cancellations extended beyond Brisbane. After Brisbane, the Gold Coast recorded the highest number of cancellations in the southeast region, with 4,085 services affected. The Sunshine Coast followed with 2,786 cancellations. Other areas also experienced disruptions, including Logan with 1,019, Ipswich with 625, and Redlands with 244 cancellations. In all these locations, “staff availability” was the primary reason given.

Ongoing Debate Over Driver Shortages

The Rail Tram and Bus Union state secretary, Tom Brown, asserted that driver shortages remain severe and suggested the official figures might not capture the full extent of the problem, as “part cancellations,” where only a section of a route is completed, are reportedly not recorded.

He stated that the situation has deteriorated over the past year due to pressures on drivers from high staff turnover and demanding schedules. Mr Brown also mentioned that experienced new drivers from interstate sometimes prefer independent bus operators over Council positions, and that lengthy recruitment and training processes, lasting several months, can lead to potential recruits finding other employment.

In contrast, Council reported recruiting over 500 new bus operators in 2024 and another 146 by February 2025, stating that bus driver shortages were no longer experienced. Figures from Questions on Notice (QONs) showed 479 bus drivers were hired from 12 months to December 2024, out of a total of 2,600 drivers. These QONs also revealed that in the six months leading up to February 2025, approximately 1,200 services were cancelled due to lack of staff.

Authorities Maintain High Reliability Claims

bus — *Photo Credit:* *Translink/ Facebook*

Despite the cancellation figures, TransLink maintained that its network performs well. A spokesman stated that about 99.88 per cent of the approximately 6.5 million timetabled bus services ran without cancellation during the reporting period. He explained that a single absent driver can result in multiple cancelled runs and that school routes are prioritised. While TransLink funds bus maintenance and replacement, the spokesman clarified that driver recruitment and fleet management are the responsibilities of operators like councils.

Council transport chair, Councillor Ryan Murphy, echoed this sentiment, stating that Brisbane’s bus network operates “well above industry standards,” with over 99 per cent of all services delivered as planned. He attributed a boom in patronage to 50-cent fares and the commencement of the first Metro route, which reportedly increased patronage between Eight Mile Plains and UQ by over 20 per cent in three months alone. Councillor Murphy also indicated that the next phase of Brisbane Metro would significantly boost bus services.

Opposition Calls for Congestion Solutions

Labour Opposition Leader, Councillor Jared Cassidy, suggested it was unsurprising that some of Brisbane’s busiest suburban bus routes experienced numerous cancellations due to traffic, given Brisbane has been named Australia’s most congested city.

He questioned Council’s ability to call Brisbane a “bus city” while services remain stuck in gridlock and stressed that dedicated busways are essential for improving Brisbane’s public transport. Councillor Cassidy pointed out that routes operating on the South East Busway were notably absent from the list of most-cancelled services.

Published Date 08-May-2025

New CCTV Installed in Forest Lake & Inala to Strengthen Suburban Safety

Photo Credit: Pexels

New fixed CCTV cameras have been installed in Forest Lake and Inala as part of BCC’s safety expansion across suburban areas.
Read: Forest Lake Boy Gains Sporting Boost Through Lions Club Support
New CCTV Rollout in Forest Lake & Inala
Fixed CCTV cameras have been added by BCC at major transport points in Forest Lake and Inala. The upgrades form part of the Lord Mayor’s Safer Suburbs initiative, which aims to enhance security and deter crime in public spaces. The Forest Lake camera is located at a bus stop servicing routes 100 and 110, while Inala’s is positioned at the Inala Plaza bus station.
Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels
Citywide Expansion Includes Mobile Units
The broader program involves the rollout of 26 solar-powered mobile safety cameras, with one allocated to each BCC ward. These cameras will be rotated through identified hotspots based on Queensland Police Service and community input. Footage is monitored by BCC’s 24/7 security centre, which uses automatic alerts for unusual activity such as loitering during early morning hours.
Safer Suburbs Grants Support Local Projects
In addition to fixed and mobile CCTV, the Safer Suburbs initiative includes grant funding for not-for-profit organisations that lease BCC facilities. Eligible groups can apply for up to $10,000 to install CCTV, lighting, fencing, locks, or security screens. A total of 69 grants have been awarded to date across Brisbane, although specific local recipients have not been detailed.
Forest Lake & Inala Part of Targeted Safety Measures
BCC has installed fixed CCTV cameras at key public transport locations in Forest Lake and Inala, joining other permanent surveillance sites including Musgrave Park, Caxton Street, and Milton Common Park.
Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels
Council Encourages Community Feedback
Residents can nominate potential locations for the new mobile cameras by contacting their local Councillor. This feedback will assist in determining where the mobile units are deployed as they rotate through suburbs based on safety concerns and reported activity.
Looking Ahead
Read: Community Support Sought for Parkinson Teen’s World Cadet Taekwondo Championships
The combination of fixed and mobile CCTV installations, along with grant-supported safety upgrades, reflects an ongoing approach to crime prevention in Brisbane suburbs. Forest Lake and Inala are among the latest areas to receive permanent surveillance, as BCC continues to assess and respond to emerging safety priorities.
Published 2-May-2025

Forest Lake Boy Gains Sporting Boost Through Lions Club Support

Photo Credit: The Lions Club of Forest Lake Inc/Facebook

A young boy from Forest Lake living with vision loss received assistance from the local Lions Club to take part in a national sports competition held in Western Australia.
Read: Community Support Sought for Parkinson Teen’s World Cadet Taekwondo Championships
Local Donation Enables Sporting Success
The Lions Club of Forest Lake Inc. recently approved a community donation to assist 11-year-old Rowan Gillam, a Forest Lake resident, in travelling to Perth to represent Queensland in the School Sports Australia National Championships, held 30 March to 5 April.
Rowan, who competes with the support of a guide runner, secured gold in the Aquathlon. The race was held in extreme heat, but the pair’s determination saw them finish on top.
Photo Credit: The Lions Club of Forest Lake Inc/Facebook
Severe Injury Altered His Life
Rowan’s path to the podium began in adversity. At just seven years old, he was involved in a life-threatening motocross crash at Fort Lytton Motocross Club. Thrown 15 metres from his motorbike, Rowan sustained multiple head injuries and was placed in a coma.
He underwent a procedure to have a section of his skull removed to ease brain pressure and subsequently experienced a stroke. As a result, Rowan became blind.
Ongoing Recovery and Sporting Determination
Since the accident, Rowan has undergone extensive rehabilitation and has shown resilience through sport. He began participating in athletics with the Toowong Harriers and was recognised in 2023 as a Sport Access Foundation grant recipient under the ‘No Barriers’ category. This grant supports young athletes aged 7 to 12 with disability across Australia.
Caption: Rowan at 10 years old, part of the Acceleration Team.
Photo Credit: Acceleration Australia/Instagram
Forest Lake Community Proud of Local Athlete
Lions Club members have expressed pride in Rowan’s performance and continue to follow his journey. The community support reflects a broader commitment to inclusive sport and empowering youth with disability to pursue their ambitions.
Read: Honouring Len Waters: Australia’s First Indigenous Fighter Pilot
The Lions Club has indicated that updates on Rowan’s future competitions will be shared with the local community.
Published 25-Apr-2025

Community Support Sought for Parkinson Teen’s World Cadet Taekwondo Championships

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

Thirteen-year-old Ethan Keen from Parkinson has earned selection to represent Australia at the prestigious World Cadet Taekwondo Championships in Dubai, sparking a local effort to support his international journey.
Read: Forest Lake Rugby League Stars Stand Out in Langer Trophy
National Selection Secured
Photo Credit: CrEmilyKim/ Facebook
Ethan, a dedicated member of the Global Martial Arts Brisbane taekwondo club, secured his place on the national team following a highly competitive selection event held in Canberra on 9 March 2025.
The young athlete from Parkinson, Queensland, will compete against top competitors from around the globe in the 57kg weight class at the World Cadet Taekwondo Championships, which are scheduled to take place this May.
Significant Opportunity for Young Athlete
Representing Australia internationally is described as a significant milestone for Ethan. Supporters believe this experience offers more than just competition; they see it as pursuing a dream that builds essential confidence, life experience, and strong character.
Participation at this level is also considered a stepping stone towards future international competitions, with hopes that it could one day lead to Olympic representation. His journey reflects years of dedication, involving early mornings, late nights, and countless hours of training.
Community Rallies Support
Photo Credit: Global Martial Arts/ Instagram
Attending the championships in Dubai involves considerable expense, and a fundraising effort is underway to help Ethan and his family cover the costs. Funds raised will directly support flights, accommodation, specialised team training camps, uniforms, competition gear, insurance, international registration fees, meals, and local travel within Dubai. The Parkinson community is encouraged to get behind their local athlete as he prepares for the world stage.
Read: Carole Park Factory Draws Crowds for Traditional European Delights
How to Help Ethan
Those wishing to support Ethan’s journey have several options. Contributions can be made to help cover the significant costs involved. Sharing the fundraising appeal with friends, family, and local businesses is encouraged, as are messages of support for the young athlete.
Interested parties can also message the family directly to inquire about sponsoring specific training sessions or equipment. Donations can be made to Christopher Keen’s Commonwealth Bank account (BSB: 064-162, Account: 1133 3795) for those who prefer direct bank transfers. Organisers express gratitude for any support, large or small, to help Ethan represent Australia.
Published Date 23-April-2025

Honouring Len Waters: Australia’s First Indigenous Fighter Pilot

Photo Credit: War Memorials Register

Inala honours the legacy of Warrant Officer Len Waters, Australia’s first Indigenous fighter pilot. His journey from a shearer to a celebrated aviator inspires the community.
Read: Carole Park Firm Hypersonix Advancing Sustainable Hypersonic Flight
Len Waters: Inala’s Trailblazing Aviator
Inala has a special connection to Warrant Officer Leonard Victor “Len” Waters, the country’s first and only Indigenous fighter pilot during World War II. Warrant Officer Waters was a proud Kamilaroi man who broke barriers in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).
Caption: The late Warrant Officer Len Waters (1940).
Photo Credit: Indigenous Australia
From Shearer to Fighter Pilot
Warrant Officer Waters was born in 1924 on the Euraba Aboriginal Reserve near Boomi in New South Wales. He spent his early years growing up in Nindigully, Queensland. Leaving school at 14 to help support his family, he worked as a shearer. His education was limited, but his passion for aviation remained strong. Influenced by pioneering aviators like Charles Kingsford Smith and Bert Hinkler, he set his sights on the skies.
Caption: Leading Aircraftman, Len Waters, graduates from flight training. (1944)
Photo Credit: Anzac Portal
In 1942, Warrant Officer Waters enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). Initially, he trained as an aircraft mechanic; in 1944, he earned his wings and officially became a pilot. He was assigned to No. 78 Squadron, flying the P-40 Kittyhawk fighter “Black Magic.” For his nine-month service, he completed 95 missions, showcasing his dedication and skill as a pilot.
Caption: P40 N-15 Kittyhawk aircraft, ‘Black Magic.’
Photo Credit: Australian War Memorial
Post-War Life in Inala
After the war, Warrant Officer Waters faced challenges transitioning to civilian life. Due to financial difficulties, his dream of starting a regional airline never materialised. He returned to shearing but moved his family to Inala in 1956 due to the shearer’s strike. He secured housing commission accommodation, eventually buying a house and living in Inala for over three decades.
Caption: Warrant Officer Leonard ‘Len’ Waters, in full winter flying kit. (Narrandera, July 1944)
Photo Credit: Anzac Portal
The community commemorates Warrant Officer Waters through Len Waters Place, a park dedicated to his memory. His story continues to inspire, especially among Indigenous communities.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite his achievements, Warrant Officer Waters faced discrimination after the war. Though the RAAF valued his skills, civilian opportunities in aviation were limited. He remained proud of his service and stayed connected to the RAAF community.
Warrant Officer Waters passed away in 1993 after a fall in Cunnamulla. Comrades and community members attended his funeral in St George. His legacy lives on through memorials, including streets named in his honour at Ngunnawal, Canberra and Wacol, Brisbane.
Keeping the Memory Alive in Inala
Read: Tragedy in Forest Lake: Missing Girl Found Dead in Neighbour’s Pool
As ANZAC Day comes on 25 April, the Inala community remembers the sacrifices of Indigenous service members like Warrant Officer Len Waters. Their contributions to Australia’s military history continue to inspire future generations.
Published 8-Apr-2025