Forest Lake Archives - Page 5 of 12

Inala Intersection Revamped Under Black Spot Program

After works have been completed for the Black Spot program at Forest Lake and two other locations in the state, residents of Inala can now get home sooner and safer with the upgrade of the Kittyhawk Avenue and Inala Avenue intersection.

Read: Traffic Lights to Be Installed as Part of Safety Upgrades at Intersection in Doolandella

This upgrade is the fourth and final project in this year’s program, completing a series of essential road safety improvements across Brisbane.

The Inala intersection upgrade is the latest in a series of significant projects aimed at improving road safety and reducing congestion. Earlier works included upgrades at:

Johnson Road in Forest Lake
Bay Terrace and Chestnut Street in Wynnum
Bennetts Road, Macrossan Avenue, and Crown Street in Norman Park

About the Black Spot Program

Since the 2010-11 financial year, the Black Spot Program has successfully completed upgrades at 63 locations across Brisbane, demonstrating a strong commitment to enhancing road safety.

The Black Spot Program is a critical part of the National Road Safety Strategy, which aims to reduce the risk of crashes by implementing targeted upgrades at high-risk locations. The program focuses on:

Cost-effective treatments for locations with a history of casualty crashes.
Reducing rural road trauma in alignment with national safety policy objectives.
Proactive measures to address potential crash sites and other road safety concerns.

By addressing both current and potential hazards, the program works to lower the social and economic costs of road trauma.

Increased Investment in Road Safety

Starting from 1 July 2024, the Federal Government will increase its commitment to the Black Spot Program, raising funding to $150 million per year. This enhanced investment reflects the government’s dedication to reducing road injuries and fatalities across Australia.

Funding for Black Spot projects is prioritised based on the highest safety benefits identified through an annual review process. Nominations for black spot locations come from a variety of sources, including State governments and local councils, community groups and associations, road user groups and industry representatives, and individuals.

This inclusive approach ensures that the most critical areas receive attention and that community needs are met effectively.

With the completion of the Kittyhawk Avenue and Inala Avenue intersection upgrade, local residents can look forward to a safer and more efficient commute. This project, alongside others in the program, underscores the ongoing efforts to reduce the national road toll and improve safety for all road users.

Read: Forest Lake Family Escapes E-Bike Blaze

The Black Spot Program continues to be a vital contributor to these efforts, providing the necessary financial support to improve hazardous locations. As a result, more people can enjoy safer travel, getting home sooner and more securely each day.

Published 25-June-2024

Horror Crash in Forest Lake Leaves 5 Seriously Injured

A woman driving a Toyota LandCruiser was just metres away from her home when her vehicle collided with a Mercedes-Benz in Forest Lake, leaving five people seriously injured, according to neighbours.

Queensland Police said the two-vehicle crash occurred at the intersection of Renoir Crescent and Forest Lake Boulevard at 10:10 p.m. on Saturday, June 8th, 2024.

Speed a Possible Factor

Police are investigating whether speed contributed to the crash. Reports cited that the Mercedes-Benz allegedly travelled more than 100km/h in a 60km/h zone.

“The scene behind me, from my experience, would indicate that speed may have been a contributing factor,” a Queensland Police spokesman said.

Forest Lake local Makenzie Lynch reported that she was among the first to rush to the scene after hearing “a big bang and a big fire.” She said it was “quite horrific to look at,” adding she saw debris scattered across the road and a man hanging out of the Mercedes. Ms Lynch also stated that while she didn’t know the woman behind the wheel of the LandCruiser, she often saw her driving on the street.

One neighbour, who wished to remain anonymous, said she heard “an almighty boom” during the crash. She was lying in bed, almost asleep, when she heard the loud noise and thought she would soon hear sirens, which she did shortly after.

A Queensland Police spokesman said they don’t know the exact cause of the incident, but members of the Forensic Crash Unit will attend to determine whether speed may have been a contributing factor.

Life-Threatening Injuries

Queensland Ambulance Service medical director Steve Rashford described the injuries of those involved as “life-threatening”, saying it was a very high-impact crash involving five patients who suffered a combination of life-threatening injuries, including internal bleeding and multiple fractures.

The 52-year-old female driver of the LandCruiser, who remains in serious condition in hospital, reportedly lived in the area and had just turned onto her street when the accident occurred. The 28-year-old male driver of the Mercedes-Benz, his two 22-year-old male passengers, and a 20-year-old female passenger were also taken to hospital with serious injuries.

In a Facebook post, the Queensland Ambulance Service pleaded with the public to take extra care on the roads, drive to conditions, slow down and not drink and drive after attending road trauma incidents where patients suffered life-changing injuries in the past 48 hours.

Information About the Crash

The Queensland Police Service aims to reduce the lives lost on the state’s roads. Data indicates that serious crashes can be significantly reduced when drivers recognise and avoid the ‘Fatal Five’ behaviours: speeding, drunk and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction.

The reference number for this incident is QP2400976166. Anyone with information for the police can contact Policelink by submitting details through the online suspicious activity form available 24 hours a day on their website or by calling 131 444. Crime information can also be reported anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or online at their website.

Published 10-June-2024

Forest Lake’s Rhythm and Dance Attitude: Nurturing the Next Generation of Global Dance Stars

Photo Credit: Rhythm and Dance Attitude

Rhythm and Dance Attitude, a local dance studio in Forest Lake, is fostering exceptional young talent who are gracing stages from Disneyland to world championships.

Rhythm and Dance Attitude in Forest Lake — *Photo Credit:* *Rhythm and Dance Attitude*

Among these rising stars are 9-year-old twins, Auriana and Austin Vint. This dynamic duo dominated the sub-juvenile open category at last year’s Australian Championships, captivating audiences with their new vogue routines.

For Auriana, dance is a “happy place,” while Austin finds solace and calm in the movement and connection with his partner.

Adding to the studio’s accolades is Kaliah Webb, 36, a three-time Queensland Pro-Am New Vogue Champion.

Despite being categorized as an amateur at Rhythm and Dance Attitude, Webb consistently triumphs over professional competitors, attributing her success to the discipline and expressive freedom that dance provides.

These remarkable achievements are a testament to the exceptional training and nurturing environment fostered at Rhythm and Dance Attitude. The studio’s dedication to cultivating passion, technique, and artistic expression propels its dancers onto the global stage, solidifying Forest Lake’s reputation as a breeding ground for future dance superstars.

Published Date 07-June-2024

Forest Lake Man Becomes $2.8 Million Richer Overnight

A Forest Lake resident experienced a moment of disbelief after discovering he held a winning ticket worth over $2.8 million.

The man, who wished to remain anonymous, became an instant multi-millionaire after his ticket matched the winning numbers, securing him a life-changing sum of $2,857,142.86.

According to officials, the winner checked his ticket shortly after the draw and was so surprised by his newfound fortune that he resorted to pinching himself multiple times to confirm it wasn’t a dream.

Initially sceptical of his own eyes, the man confided in a select few family members but opted to keep the win largely private.

Expressing his overwhelming gratitude, the winner highlighted his plans to use the windfall to support his loved ones. He plans to use a significant portion of the prise to financially support his family, including purchasing a property for his mother.

The winning ticket, a 50-game QuickPick entry, was conveniently purchased online and was drawn on the 10th of February 2024.

Published Date 26-April-2024

Forest Lake Retains Its Status as One of the Most Dog-Populated Areas in Brisbane

If you’re a dog lover, Forest Lake might just be the perfect suburb for you. According to recent data, it’s the second most dog-populated suburb in the city, with a whopping 2,122 furry residents.

Read: Forest Lake Has the Most Dogs in the City

Whilst Bracken Ridge takes the top spot with 2,320 registered dogs, Forest Lake isn’t far behind, edging out The Gap, which rounds out the top three with 2,085 pups.

But Forest Lake’s love for canine companions goes beyond sheer numbers. It’s also a haven for specific breeds, ranking as the top spot for Fox Terriers, Shih Tzus, Beagles, Pomeranians, Siberian Huskies, King Charles Spaniels, Bullmastiffs, and Dalmatians.

When it comes to the most popular breed in the suburb, the Maltese reigns supreme, with 178 of these adorable lap dogs calling Forest Lake home.

Here are the most dog-populated areas in Brisbane as of 2024, based on Council’s data:

Rank	Suburb	No. of Dogs
1	Bracken Ridge	2320
2	Forest Lake	2122
3	The Gap	2085
4	Carindale	1693
5	Wynnum	1669
6	Ashgrove	1614
7	Coorparoo	1550
8	Manly West	1511
9	Camp Hill	1467
10	Brighton	1449

The data is based on current Brisbane City Council animal registrations. It is a requirement under the Animal Management (Cats & Dogs) Act 2008 that all dogs over three months old are registered with Brisbane City Council if they live within the Brisbane local government area.

Dogs over the age of three months must be registered or have their registration transferred within 14 days after you start to keep the dog.

Photo credit: Goochie Poochie Grooming/Pexels

The suburb’s appeal to dog owners isn’t surprising, given its relatively affordable median property prices – currently sitting at $745,000 according to realestate.com.au – and its reputation as a family-friendly area.

With its current median price range, Forest Lake attracts a higher population of young families, many of whom appreciate having a four-legged companion.

Read: Forest Lake Property Market Delivers 20% Price Growth

The Council continues to encourage the community to register their dogs, as it is a requirement under state law. So, whether you’re a proud pup parent or simply a dog lover, Forest Lake is undoubtedly a suburb that caters to the canine crowd, offering a welcoming environment for our furry friends and their human companions alike.

Published 25-March-2024

Outcry Over Forest Lake School’s $9k Holiday Fee for Students

St John’s Anglican College in Forest Lake has been scrutinised for its policy of charging fees that can go as high as $9,000 if parents choose to take their children on holiday during the school term.

This policy has sparked widespread debate about the balance between the value of traditional education and the experiential learning gained through travel.

Controversial Charges

Reports cited that parents could be paying the full term’s tuition fees as a penalty for taking their children out of school for holidays. This “beyond the control of” test exempts families only in cases of illness, natural disasters, death or illness in the immediate family, or participation in elite sports competitions.

St John’s Anglican College has attracted criticism for not considering family holidays or financial difficulties as valid reasons for exemption, leading to accusations of unreasonableness.

Public Outcry

The community’s response has been one of shock and dismay. Outraged parents have voiced their concerns by emailing the school and expressing that the additional fee is unjust, especially considering the already significant costs associated with attending the private institution.

Public figures and parenting experts have joined the chorus, including “Today Extra” host David Campbell and parenting expert Dr Justin Coulson. They stressed the importance of educational travel and urged the school to reconsider its position.

The School’s Stance

St John's Anglican College in Forest Lake — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Despite the uproar, St John’s Anglican College has remained tight-lipped, offering no comment on the matter when approached for a response. The school’s policy letter highlighted the need to secure funding grants essential to the school’s budget, indicating that these measures are taken to avoid financial shortfall caused by reduced student attendance.

The financial burden placed on families by this policy is significant. Depending on the term and duration of the holiday, the fees can range from $1,830 to $9,200, in addition to the annual tuition fees, which already stretch from $8,250 to $14,172.

Education & Learning

This has led to a broader discussion about the accessibility and affordability of private education and whether schools should have the authority to levy such penalties on families seeking to enrich their children’s education through travel.

Supporters say consistent attendance is important for academic success, while critics value real-world experiences.

Published 20-March-2023

Long-Shuttered Inala Skate Rink Listed for Sale, Marking End of Era

Formerly a vibrant hub for skaters in South-West Brisbane, the Inala skating rink has languished as a neglected eyesore for two decades and is finally going up for sale, as prospective buyers and community stakeholders envision a new era of growth and opportunity for the area.

Citing the tremendous support for the approved DA A005187397 from the community and local government, Ray White Commercial’s Michael Feltoe is optimistic about the reconstruction.

Inala Skate Rink — *Photo Credit: Screengrabs from Google Maps*

The approval of a proposal for a pool and gym complex by Brisbane City Council in 2019 gave rise to optimism for a revitalisation project. By mid-2021, however, other specifics had to be determined, creating doubts about the planned three-story sports and commercial complex.

The rebuilding plans, by developer and Inala lawyer Hien Thi Nguyen, her brother Manh Nguyen, Justin Bellas, and Nathan Vecchio, received a lot of support with 2,171 submissions. This public backing emphasises how important it is to repurpose the location, which has sentimental meaning for many residents who learned to skate there.

Cr Charles Strunk (Forest Lake Ward) noted the community’s ongoing interest in the skate rink location, a frequently discussed topic in the ward. The property’s path, from its $1-million acquisition in March 2007 to the present auction, illustrates how the local real estate market is changing.

The property represents the shifting dynamics of the local real estate market as it goes from its dilapidated state to the auction block. Stakeholders are looking forward to the next chapter in the history of the Inala skating rink, which is expected to bring opportunities and positive development for everyone involved, and are excitedly awaiting the auction on 22 March 2024.

Published 19-March-2024

Empowering Forest Lake Seniors: Movement Activities to Transform Aging into Active Living

Photo Credit: Judy Baxter/Flickr

Here are a number of fun and healthy activities for Forest Lake seniors that promote wellness through the rejuvenating power of movement. Check them out now!

Line Dancing for Seniors

At Forest Lake Community Hall, Irene Taituha extends a warm invitation to seniors seeking joy and camaraderie through line dancing. Beginners are welcomed with open arms, and Irene can be reached at 0416310930. Amidst the laughter and gentle steps, participants forge connections over cups of tea, finding solace in the rhythm of the dance and the company of like-minded individuals.

Balance and Harmony through Tai Chi and Qigong

Under Julian’s guidance, seekers of balance and harmony gather at The Lake Parklands. Julian, reachable at 0439 073 860, leads participants through the graceful movements of Tai Chi and Qigong, fostering relaxation and calm amidst the natural beauty of Forest Lake. Against swaying trees and shimmering waters, individuals discover inner peace and vitality, embracing each moment with grace and serenity.

Discovering Strength and Flexibility with Yoga

With her compassionate spirit, Nichola invites seniors to explore the healing powers of yoga at Forest Lake Community Hall. Reachable at 0406 574 454, Nichola guides participants through modified practices tailored to individual needs. Amidst the gentle stretch of limbs and the soft hum of breath, individuals discover newfound strength, flexibility, and self-awareness, embarking on a journey of inner transformation and empowerment.

Forest Lake senior activities — *Photo Credit: Unsplash*

Embracing Movement with Walking Groups

Forest Lake offers two vibrant walking groups for those who prefer the invigorating rhythm of footsteps amidst nature.

The Forest Lake Mob Walking Group, facilitated by the Heart Foundation, invites participants to stride towards better health and camaraderie. While dog companions may need to stay home, individuals seeking a medium-paced walk can join this weekly gathering. For more information and registration, follow this link.

Additionally, the Inala Forest Lake Walking Group welcomes both walkers and their furry friends. With a medium pace suitable for all, this weekly excursion through the picturesque surroundings of Forest Lake offers physical activity and the opportunity to connect with nature and fellow enthusiasts. Interested individuals can visit the provided link to join this group for more details.

JOIN INALA FOREST LAKE WALKING GROUP

Enjoy line dancing, Tai Chi, Qigong, yoga, and walks at Forest Lake. Find solace, joy, and companionship while discovering the enduring spirit of human resilience and boundless potential of communal unity.

Published 14-March-2024

Forest Lake Among Areas to Benefit from Proposed Brisbane School Safety Initiative

Forest Lake has been highlighted as a key area for improvement, as part of a new initiative proposing to expand 40km/h zones in Brisbane to enhance road safety for schoolchildren.

Targeting seven areas across the city, the initiative will benefit approximately 21 schools in its initial rollout. Among them are St John’s Anglican College, Forest Lake State High School, and Arethusa College in the south.

This plan, set to encourage more parents to walk, bike, or scoot with their children to school, involves an increase in funding to around $10 million for the next Council budget, according to Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.

Forest Lake Brisbane School Safety Initiative — Photo Credit: Google Maps

Key components of the proposal include the installation of new pedestrian crossings, widening of footpaths, expansion of 40km/h zones, additional kerbside drop-off and pick-up zones, and creation of school zone gateways that mark safe walking routes for students.

The first phase will focus on four areas, impacting 12 schools and around 10,000 students. Success in these areas will lead to expansion into three more areas, including nine additional schools.

The initiative underscores the importance of detailed planning and community consultation, ensuring that any modifications align with the guidelines set by the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

This safety proposal aims to make school commutes safer and more appealing for walking, biking, and scooting and reduce road congestion in suburban areas, thereby enhancing overall community well-being.

As Brisbane approaches its Council elections, this initiative represents a significant point of discussion among candidates, reflecting broader commitments to improving city infrastructure and safety.

Published 26-February-2024

Oodles of Fun at Monthly Forest Lake Play Date

Oodles, a delightful mix of poodle and other breeds like Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, or Labradors, are the stars of a monthly play date organised at an off-leash dog park in Forest Lake.

Natalie Pham, a Forest Lake resident and proud owner of two adorable Oodles named Dino and Bambi, is the woman behind this regular event. Natalie’s took inspiration from her frequent encounters with fellow Oodle owners during her afternoon strolls with her beloved pets.

Having to sometimes travel nearly an hour for previous Oodle play dates with people she knew, Natalie decided it was time to create a local hub for Forest Lake Oodle owners.

She kickstarted her initiative by posting about the event on the Forest Lake Community Facebook page and created an official event for like-minded pet parents to join.

The response to Natalie’s event was immediate and enthusiastic. While approximately 20 people had initially indicated their attendance on the Facebook event page, the actual turnout exceeded all expectations.

Surprisingly, over 40 Oodles attended the event, accompanied by their fur families, making the event a delightful and bustling gathering.

As the event unfolded, Natalie discovered that the playdate served a greater community purpose. It provided a safe haven for Oodle owners who had previously encountered negative experiences at other dog parks, leading to anxiety in both their dogs and themselves. This newfound sense of camaraderie and safety has inspired Natalie to envision the playdate as an ongoing monthly event.

The next Oodles Play Date has been set for Sunday, 11 Feb 2024 from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Check the event

Published 21-Jan-2024