Calamvale Archives - Forest Lake News

Two Puppies Stolen from Calamvale Property in Brazen Early Morning Theft

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

A Calamvale family faced every pet owner’s nightmare this week when two women broke into their Perkins Street home and attempted to steal four Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross puppies.

The incident occurred around 6am on Monday morning when the pair entered the residence and tried to take all four puppies, which were just four weeks old. In a desperate struggle to protect the vulnerable animals, a resident of the home managed to wrestle two of the puppies back from the thieves.

However, the women successfully fled the scene with the remaining two puppies, driving away in a vehicle before police could arrive.

The theft has prompted an urgent appeal from Queensland Police, who are now investigating the case and calling for the safe return of the stolen animals. Police have confirmed they are seeking information about the whereabouts of the two four-week-old Staffy cross puppies.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the puppies’ location to come forward, emphasising that the young animals can be safely returned to any police station or handed in to a veterinary clinic without questions asked.

The incident highlights ongoing concerns about pet theft in Brisbane’s southern suburbs. Four-week-old puppies are particularly vulnerable as they are still dependent on their mother and require specialised care for proper development.

Community members with any information about this theft are encouraged to contact Policelink online or by calling 131 444. Police stress that even small details could prove crucial in reuniting these puppies with their family.

The Calamvale community has rallied around the affected family, with local residents expressing shock that such a brazen theft could occur in broad daylight in their neighbourhood.

Published 12-August-2025

Elderly Cyclist Killed in Calamvale Crash, Police Seek Witnesses

A man in his 70s has died following a crash involving a bicycle and a ute in Calamvale on Monday morning, 28 July.

Read: Calamvale Residents Petition for Road Upgrades and Park Lighting

Based on reports, the incident occurred around 9:40 am on Hamish Street, reportedly near Calamvale Community College, where emergency services were called to the scene after reports of a collision between a black Ford Ranger and a bicycle. Despite efforts from responders, the cyclist was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Ford Ranger, a woman in her 30s, was not physically injured and is cooperating with police as investigations continue.

The Forensic Crash Unit (FCU) has already launched an investigation into the cause and circumstances surrounding the crash. Officers are now working to establish what led to the collision and whether any factors such as speed, visibility, or road conditions may have played a role.

Police have urged anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the crash to come forward, particularly if they have dashcam or CCTV footage that could assist with the investigation. Even small details, authorities say, could prove critical in understanding how the incident unfolded.

Local residents expressed shock at the fatal crash, describing Hamish Street as generally quiet. Police are reminding all road users to remain vigilant and aware of cyclists and pedestrians, especially in residential areas.

Read: Building Safer Streets One Paw at a Time at ‘Dogs on Patrol’ in Calamvale

Anyone with information or relevant footage is urged to contact police. Details can be provided to Policelink by completing the online suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting, which is available 24 hours a day, or by calling 131 444.

Residents can share crime-related information anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or submit a report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 30-July-2025

Calamvale Woman With Rare Memory Means She Can’t Forget a Single Day

Photo Credit: Rebecca Sharrock/Facebook

A Calamvale woman remembers every single day she’s lived in vivid detail — but for Rebecca Sharrock, her rare memory can make everyday life feel like living in the past as much as the present.

Rebecca graduated from Calamvale Community College in 2007. She is one of fewer than 80 people worldwide known to have Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory (HSAM), a condition that means she can recall almost every moment since she was a baby.

Researchers first confirmed her condition in 2013 after her mother connected her story to a documentary about people with unusually strong memories.

Living With Endless Memories

While many locals might forget what they had for breakfast yesterday, Rebecca can describe what she wore, what she ate and what the weather was like on any day decades ago. She remembers being wrapped in a pink blanket as an infant, sitting in the driver’s seat of her mum’s car at just 12 days old, and feeling the sting of a grazed knee at age three so strongly that even now, she says the pain sometimes echoes.

Her vivid recall extends far beyond family moments. She can recite every word of all seven Harry Potter books, a skill she developed as a child when her parents encouraged her to recite the stories to calm her thoughts. Rebecca’s ability means she also remembers nearly every dream she’s ever had, and she says she can even adjust her dreams while asleep to stop nightmares.

Rebecca Sharrock Calamvale — *Photo Credit: Rebecca Sharrock/Instagram*

The Challenges of Never Forgetting

While some might wish for a perfect memory, Rebecca says her condition often feels more like a burden than a gift. Every memory comes with the same emotions she felt at the time.

Remembering hurtful moments or bullying at school still brings back the pain exactly as it felt when she was young. Even visiting her old school for her sister’s graduation once brought on such strong memories that she left in tears.

Rebecca explains that her mind replays memories constantly, day and night. She needs background noise and soft light to fall asleep, because silence makes her thoughts too loud. She crosses off a calendar every day to help separate the past from the present. Forgetting a date or mixing up days frightens her more than most people can understand.

Doctors say people with HSAM forget things at a much slower rate than others but their memories mostly stick to events in their own lives, not facts learned by rote. Studies have also found that people with HSAM often share traits with obsessive-compulsive behaviour, which Rebecca experiences alongside autism and anxiety.

Helping Science and Staying Positive

Rebecca has worked with scientists from the University of California, Irvine and the University of Queensland, hoping her memory can help researchers understand more about how the brain stores life events and what that might mean for conditions like Alzheimer’s.

Rebecca Sharrock in the USA — Rebecca at the University of California, Irvine
Photo Credit: *Rebecca Sharrock/Instagram*

Though she sometimes wishes her mind could switch off, she says she has learned to handle her memories by focusing on the good ones. At the start of every month, she picks out favourite moments from the same month in past years to help push back the painful ones.

Despite the mental clutter, Rebecca says she wants to keep her mind the way it is. She does not want to change how she thinks or feels because her memory is simply part of who she is — a local from Calamvale with a story that the rest of the community might find hard to forget.

Published 9-July-2025

Building Safer Streets One Paw at a Time at ‘Dogs on Patrol’ in Calamvale

Get ready for a tail-wagging good time as Dogs on Patrol returns to Calamvale on Saturday, July 5, offering a unique opportunity for locals to mingle with their neighbourhood police officers – with their pups in tow.

Read: Crime Prevention in Focus at Forest Lake Shopping Centre

Hosted by South Brisbane Crime Prevention and local police, the event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Calamvale District Park, near the new off-leash dog area. The casual morning gathering aims to build stronger connections between the community and police, while promoting personal safety tips for when you’re out and about – especially when walking your dog.

There’ll be no speeches, no formalities, just a relaxed environment to talk with officers, raise any local concerns, and learn more about keeping yourself – and your pets – safe.

Dogs on Patrol — Photo credit: Samson Katt/Pexels

The fun doesn’t stop there. Attendees can expect a host of dog-themed displays, opportunities to meet Queensland Police Service (QPS) dogs and their handlers, and even walk away with a free Dogs on Patrol dog tag. But be quick – only 500 tags are available on the day, and they tend to go fast!

The event also brings together a range of community partners, further reinforcing the strong bond between residents, services, and safety initiatives. Whether you’re a dog owner, dog lover, or simply someone who enjoys a friendly community outing, Dogs on Patrol promises something for everyone.

Read: Forest Lake Case Highlights Ongoing Battle Against Child Abuse

For more information or to report non-urgent matters, visit www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. To share crime tips anonymously, head to www.crimestoppersqld.com.au or call 1800 333 000.

Don’t miss your chance to join in on this paw-some community initiative that blends fun, fur, and friendly policing. Grab the leash, round up the family, and head down to Calamvale District Park – your local police and their canine colleagues can’t wait to meet you.

Published 30-June-2025

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

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

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

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