Calamvale Archives - Forest Lake News

Environmental Crime Team Cracks Down on Wildlife Smuggling in Calamvale Arrest

Authorities recently cracked down on an illegal wildlife smuggling operation, sentencing a woman to 18 months in prison for attempting to export 22 native reptiles without a permit, violating Australia’s national environment law. Under the law, offenders face severe penalties, including up to 10 years in jail, fines of up to $330,000, or both.

Read: Inala Disturbance Sees Man Charged and Animals Seized

The Queensland Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s Environmental Crime Team arrested Yinan Zhao following a search in Calamvale earlier this month.

Photo credit: Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water

Authorities launched an investigation into Zhao’s activities after discovering that she had sent 13 parcels containing native wildlife overseas from Queensland and New South Wales in 2023. A search of Zhao’s Calamvale property revealed nine native reptiles, including the rare granite belt thick-tailed gecko. Officers also uncovered unused parcel boxes and materials commonly associated with the illegal trade of animals.

The Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation has taken custody of the seized reptiles to ensure their welfare and protection.

Zhao’s arrest was part of a broader operation known as Operation Calypso, initiated in October 2023. This ongoing investigation is focused on the smuggling of Australia’s native wildlife to Hong Kong, a growing concern for environmental authorities.

Queensland officials have been working closely with Australia Post, the Australian Border Force, and the Queensland Police Force to combat the illegal wildlife trade.

Read: Forest Lake Dog Owners Warned About Dewormer Resistance in Hookworms

Authorities warned that criminal networks often recruit individuals, particularly students, by advertising jobs that require no experience and promise high pay with flexible work hours. These unsuspecting recruits are then instructed to mail parcels containing native reptiles, unknowingly becoming part of a larger smuggling network.

The Queensland government remains committed to protecting native wildlife and cracking down on environmental crimes. They encourage the public to report any suspicious activities related to wildlife smuggling.

The sentencing of Zhao serves as a warning to those involved in the illegal wildlife trade that authorities are actively monitoring and prosecuting offenders to preserve Australia’s unique biodiversity.

Published 23-March-2025

Calamvale Residents Petition for Road Upgrades and Park Lighting

Calamvale residents are pushing for significant road resurfacing and improved lighting in their neighbourhood, demanding a portion of the $4 billion budget be allocated to address local infrastructure concerns.

A petition initiated by Calamvale resident Kristy Simmons and supported by the local council member calls for the full resurfacing of Benhiam and Ormskirk Streets and lighting around Calamvale District Park.

The council member has stated that petitions are a critical tool for residents to ensure their concerns receive a formal response from the Lord Mayor and council leadership, as other methods of communication have proven ineffective.

Community Concerns Over Road Conditions

Calamvale Residents Petition for Road Upgrades and Park Lighting — *Photo Credit: Google Map*

Residents have voiced strong concerns about the current state of Benhiam and Ormskirk Streets. Feedback indicates that Benhiam Road, in particular, requires widening in addition to resurfacing. Residents report that the road is often too narrow to accommodate buses, forcing other vehicles off the road.

The issue of traffic congestion and safety around Wisdom College, located on Formby Street, has also been raised. While the initial petition referred to Ormskirk and Algester roads about the college, residents have corrected this, highlighting that the problem stems from parents blocking Formby Street during school drop-off and pick-up times. There are also calls to include Endiandra Street in any planned road improvements.

Lighting and Environmental Considerations

The petition also seeks to improve lighting in Calamvale District Park. Residents have suggested that new lighting installations should consider the impact on local wildlife. One resident proposed using downward-directed lighting to minimise light pollution and protect the natural environment.

The council member has indicated that the petition will be presented to the relevant committee, and the Civic Cabinet Chair will provide a formal response. Further, the council member’s office collates other residents’ concerns for a future, broader petition, encouraging residents to submit their local issues.

Published Date 24-Feb-2025

Calamvale Community Rallies Behind Teacher Raising Thousands for Children’s Charity

Photo Credit: Charlotte Fung/Instagram

Charlotte Fung, a Calamvale school teacher and long-time community volunteer has been recognised for her outstanding efforts in supporting children who are sick, disadvantaged, or living with disabilities. She has dedicated years to Variety – the Children’s Charity, and has clinched a State Finalist spot in the Miss World Australia competition.

A Passion for Helping Children

Her commitment to fundraising and advocacy has already brought in over $10,000, with more planned in the coming months.

Fung, a dedicated educator, has been actively involved in community fundraising efforts, using her platform to make a difference in young lives. She has hosted events such as raffles, high teas, charity yoga sessions, and sausage sizzles, all aimed at raising money to support children in need. Her work with Variety’s camps and programs has helped children build friendships, gain skills, and find mentors.

“As a teacher, I see firsthand how much of a difference support and resources can make in a child’s life,” she said. “I want to keep working to ensure children have the help they need.”

Her efforts were recognised during the Miss World Australia preliminary finals, where she stood out for her fundraising achievements and community service.

Calamvale local Charlotte Fung Ms World Australia — *Photo Credit: Charlotte Fung/Instagram*

Upcoming Event in Calamvale

Fung is now focused on her next big initiative—a Variety Show for Variety at Calamvale Community College on March 1 at 6:30 p.m. The event is expected to bring together local residents and supporters to raise much-needed funds for children’s programs.

With a goal of raising over $20,000, she is calling on the community to get involved. The suggested donation is between $40 and $50, collected at the event. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP via calamvale.ward@bcc.qld.gov.au.

Community Support and Future Plans

Fung’s efforts extend beyond fundraising—she is also raising awareness about the challenges faced by many children and the work organisations like Variety do to support them. Her advocacy has encouraged more people to get involved, creating a ripple effect of generosity and community action.

She plans to continue hosting fundraising events and community initiatives, ensuring that more children receive the assistance they need. Residents interested in supporting her cause can find more details on her fundraising page at Miss World Australia.

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Published 14-February-2025

Calamvale Joins Australia’s Hot 100 Suburbs for 2025

Calamvale has been recognised as one of Australia’s Hot 100 suburbs to watch in 2025, a prestigious list highlighting 100 suburbs across the country that are expected to see strong short- to medium-term price growth, based on key lifestyle, demographic, and economic factors.

Read: Calamvale Joins Million-Dollar Club as Working-Class Suburbs Gentrify in Brisbane

Now in its third year, the list of Hot 100 Suburbs is compiled by REA Group (Real Estate Australia), which evaluates suburbs tipped for growth across the nation.

Why Calamvale Stands Out

Calamvale Central (Photo credit: Sonny/Google Maps)

Rich Harvey, CEO and Founder of Propertybuyer, nominated Calamvale for the list, describing it as a standout suburb with broad appeal.

“Known for its multicultural community and diverse housing options, the suburb has become a hotspot for both owner-occupiers and investors,” Mr Harvey said.

Located just 17.2 km from Brisbane’s CBD, Calamvale offers strong connectivity and convenience for locals. Frequent bus services, along with easy access to major arterial roads like the Gateway and Logan motorways, make commuting a breeze for residents.

On top of its excellent transport links, Calamvale boasts popular shopping destinations like Calamvale Central and Sunnybank Hills Shoppingtown, adding to the suburb’s appeal for families and professionals seeking convenience and lifestyle amenities.

A Community That Delivers

Calamvale District Park (Photo credit: Lee/Google Maps)

Calamvale’s population of nearly 18,000 reflects a vibrant, multicultural demographic, with the largest age group being 35 to 39-year-olds. The suburb is known for its mix of modern townhouses, established homes, and newer developments. Larger properties are particularly attractive for multi-generational living, a growing trend in suburban areas.

“With its strategic location, strong community amenities, and proximity to cultural hubs, Calamvale suits families, professionals, and investors looking for a thriving, well-connected suburb,” Mr Harvey added.

Real Estate Snapshot

The numbers tell an impressive story for Calamvale:

Median House Price: $1,242,500
Median Unit Price: $654,605
10-Year Price Growth: 123% for houses, 71% for units
Rental Yields:
- Houses: 3.4% (vacancy rate: 1.2%)
- Units: 4.9% (vacancy rate: 0.7%)

These figures, sourced from PropTrack, highlight the suburb’s strong performance and potential for both homebuyers and investors.

Looking Ahead

As Calamvale continues to grow, its mix of connectivity, lifestyle amenities, and housing diversity ensures it remains an attractive option for a range of buyers. Whether you’re a family looking for a well-connected community, a professional seeking convenience, or an investor capitalising on strong returns, Calamvale offers it all.

Read: Calamvale District Park Named One of Brisbane’s Most Popular Parks

For locals, this recognition cements what they already know—Calamvale is a thriving, vibrant suburb with a bright future ahead.

Published 17-December-2024

Calamvale Joins Million-Dollar Club as Working-Class Suburbs Gentrify in Brisbane

Photo Credit: Domain

Brisbane’s once affordable housing landscape continues to shrink, with Calamvale becoming the latest suburb to join the million-dollar median club. Seven previously working-class suburbs have crossed this threshold in just three months, bringing the total number of seven-figure suburbs in the city to 73.

This surge is attributed to “unstoppable” demand and the gentrification of mid- to outer-ring suburbs. Experts predict the city’s overall median house price could hit $1 million within a year.

Domain’s chief of research and economics, Dr Nicola Powell, explained that Brisbane’s property market is showing no signs of slowing down and more suburbs are expected to reach the million-dollar median due to the ongoing effects of gentrification. She noted that even high-end buyers are being priced out of premium suburbs like New Farm, which is approaching a $3 million median and are subsequently moving into traditionally more affordable areas.

Scarborough and Salisbury are poised to be the next suburbs to reach the million-dollar mark, followed closely by Cornubia and Manly West.

In Stafford, rising prices for renovated workers’ cottages exemplify this trend. Coronis North agent Jackson Oram noted that before the COVID-19 pandemic, a typical three-bedroom home sold for $650,000, but now fetches $900,000 with intense buyer competition.

Oram observed that many older residents in the area, who were traditionally in the lower-middle-class demographic, have been able to sell their homes for significantly more than they were worth in the past, often around $850,000. This has led to extensive renovations throughout the suburb and a shift in demographics.

Sunnybank, driven by Chinese buyers seeking a thriving community and good schools, has surpassed the million-dollar mark, reaching a median of $1,199,500.

Wynnum has also seen significant growth, with its median reaching $1.05 million. Raine and Horne’s Margaret Vote attributes this to southern buyers and inner-city locals seeking larger properties and lifestyle benefits. However, she warns that prices are escalating rapidly.

Strong demand and shifting demographics are driving Brisbane’s property market upward. While this may benefit existing homeowners, it poses challenges for first-time buyers and those seeking affordable housing options.

Published Date 08-July-2024

Calamvale District Park Named One of Brisbane’s Most Popular Parks

Did you know that Calamvale District Park is the fifth most popular park in Brisbane? With over 200 bookings in the previous year, the beautiful green space has hosted heaps of activities for communities and families.

The well-planned park opened in 2012 and has been home to annual celebrations like Halloweens and Christmas in the Park, as well as the regular Calamvale Pakruns.

“This has been a project I embarked on with local students from Calamvale Community College, Algester State School and St Stephens School who helped me through our local workshops to design a park in a bushland setting to cater for all ages in our community,” Cr Angela Owens said.

“Soon, [we will] welcome a new addition of a Memorial to honour those who have served and continue to serve our Nation,” Ms Owen added.

Among the park’s unique features is the adventure playground, which has the most impressive play equipment for adventurous children called the Sky Walk, a steel-and-rope structure spanning 7.5 metre high and a flying fox of about 50 meters long.

Smaller kids, however, also have a fantastic interactive play area where they can play music or get some thrills at the swing.

Modern barbecue facilities and pavilions for picnics make this site a favourite spot for celebrating children’s birthdays or regular weekend get-togethers. Not far from the playground is the Calamvale District Park offleash dog park with plenty of benches and shade.

“Families from right across Brisbane go to Calamvale District Park because of the incredible playground,” Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said.

“The bush setting, shady trees and great range of other facilities also make it a great spot for an event, like a birthday party.”

Published 25 March 2023

Flavour Over Form! BurgerMe Aims for the Classics at New Calamvale Shop

Picture-perfect Instagrammable food from trendy restaurants sometimes don’t live up to the hype, so this newly-opened food joint on Kameruka Street in Calamvale has decided to prioritise flavour over form. BurgerMe has gone back to the delivious basics and promises to offer only classic burgers with the usual side of fries, wings and shakes.

Managed by the family that runs Sam’s Gourmet Pizza and led by Bilal Ghumra, BurgerMe brings just the basics to the table because it’s what they do best.

The Ghumras, who have been in Calamvale for 15 years, have had their eye on establishing a burger joint around the suburbs for years. However, it took them until mid-June 2021 to finally open a shop after finding the perfect location just a few minutes from their home.

Every food at BurgerMe is prepared fresh in-house, including their custom-blended beef patties. To slightly widen the burger joint’s appeal, BurgerMe has special Halal burger bacon, which their patrons have said tastes so close to the real thing.

Meanwhile, the Ghumras continue to run the rest of their Sam’s Gourmet Pizza restaurants together as a family enterprise since gaining its ownership in 2014. The boys learned how to run a restaurant from their patriarch Imtiyaz, who had a steak restaurant in Leicester in England. Imtiyaz, now retired, still helps out at the family’s Brisbane stores.

Check out BurgerMe’s menu, store hours and other updates on their Facebook page.

“Was going to take photos for a review but ate it before I had the chance because it smelt so good (also tasted incredible the smell didn’t lie). Great size portion for the price and the price is also good for the quality of food. We both ordered the MaconBurger and loved the caramelised onions, the fact the bacon was in small pieces not a large piece, and the patty was so juicy and not at all dry. I had mine with a gluten free bun that was one of the best buns I have eaten. My partner had a normal burger and loved how the bun was soft not crunchy. We tried both the curly fries and the normal fries and loved both, personally just wished they had more salt on the curly fries. My partner had the meal deal and ordered a shake instead of soda, it was a nice shake but we felt it was slightly expensive at $7 to upgrade from a soda. The other thing to note was staff were super friendly and helpful. Overall was amazing food and will definitely be going back.”
Sarah Brook, Facebook

“Macon MY DAYYYYY !!!
Indeed made my day.
Milkshakes & Burgers with curly fires, kids happily sorted.
Now other burgers joints have to either lift their game or leave the game, burgers war is ON !!!”
Yaseen Hairder

“Went in tonight for a little birthday feed and what can I say, I was amazed at the menu choices and hospitality of the owner. We had the Pops steak burger with the Nashville chutney, colonel Sanders burger, and mozzarella sticks. Unfortunately they had run out of the wings but hey there’s always next time! The steak was soft, the Nashville chutney was just the right amount spicy and the chicken in the colonel Sanders was juicy and cooked to perfection. Also a huge plus for us was that the burgers were not dripping sauce and falling apart. We will definitely be coming back and trying out the rest of the menu. Keep up the great work!”
Mohammed Shahim