Chermside Connect: Updates from the Community

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Written By Alyssa Mackay

Welcome to Chermside Connect, your go-to source for the latest events, news, and community updates in the 4032 area. From creative workshops and urgent community appeals to engaging exhibitions and fun-filled trivia nights, we cover everything happening in our local suburbs.

  • Chermside
  • Aspley
  • Kedron
  • Stafford
  • Geebung
  • Carseldine
  • Wavell Heights

Stay informed and get involved with our vibrant local community through our regular updates and feature stories. Whether you’re looking to participate in local events, lend a helping hand, or simply stay connected with your neighbours, Chermside Connect has local stories for everyone. Explore our latest updates and join us in celebrating the dynamic spirit of our community.

Community Stories From September 2024

Next meeting of the Stafford Garden Club

The next meeting of the Stafford Garden Club Inc will be held on Thursday, 19 September at the OES Hall, Cnr Kitchener Rd and Bohland Street, Kedron. Join them at 9.30am for morning tea and plant and raffle sales. The meeting will commence at 10am. This month’s guest speaker is Sally Moore from JA’s Herbs. Visitors are most welcome to attend. Regular meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month, from February to November.

Brisbane Festival Favourites at Westfield Chermside

Experience the highlights of the Brisbane Festival for free from 12 September to 21 September under the dome at Westfield Chermside. Enjoy live music, participate in free workshops ranging from circus skills to hip hop, and join a dance cypher with top local dancers.

For the complete schedule, visit Brisbane Festival website.

Free Conflict Writing Workshop at Everton Park Library

The Queensland Writers Centre is offering a free writing workshop, Elements of Writing: Conflict and Suspense at Everton Park Library on Saturday, 28 September from 10.30am to 12pm. Join author Lea Scott as she explores how to effectively use conflict to engage readers, sharing essential narrative techniques and tips.

To reserve your place, go to Brisbane QLD Government website and search for ‘elements of writing’.

Funding Boost for Local Sporting and Community Clubs

Brisbane City Council has recently allocated nearly $40,000 in grants to 50 non-profit organisations through the Lord Mayor’s Better Suburbs Grant. The second round of funding under the Community Support category includes grants for the Gibson Park Committee in Stafford for a new mower, the Kedron Scout Group for ceiling repairs, the North East Community Support Group Inc in Zillmere for acoustic ceiling treatment in their community room, the Brisbane Hockey Management Group in Chermside for fascias replacement, and the Warehouse Cricket Association Inc in Aspley for upgrading male amenities.

Join Carseldine Probus at Aspley Hornets for Monthly Meetings

Carseldine Probus holds its monthly meetings at the Aspley Hornets on Graham Road, Aspley, on the first Tuesday of each month. Attendees are invited to arrive at 9:30am for a 10am start. Probus is designed for active retirees looking to engage in diverse interests and enjoy a rewarding, stimulating and fulfilling experience. The club features guest speakers, regular outings to local attractions and various activities and interest groups.

For more details, contact the Carseldine Probus Secretary at mail.cdnprobus@gmail.com

Explore Local History at Chermside and Districts Historical Society Open Afternoon

Join the Chermside and Districts Historical Society for their open afternoon on Saturday, 7 September at 61 Kittyhawk Drive, Chermside. Bring your stories or inquire about local history as dedicated volunteers provide access to the archives and help uncover captivating community tales.

To book a 20-minute session with a volunteer, visit calendly.com. For additional inquiries or to share stories, email chermsidedhs@gmail.com.

Join the Broken to Brilliant Walk West Chermside

The Broken to Brilliant West Chermside connection walkers will embark on their next walk on Saturday, 14 September. Gathering at 7am at Silky Oak Espresso on Ainsale Street, West Chermside, participants will walk to Downfall Creek and Milne Hill before returning for a coffee. This monthly walk, held on the second Saturday of each month, promotes respectful relationships and stands against domestic violence. Everyone is welcome, including victims, survivors, their families, friends and community members. The non-profit organisation also operates a charity op shop at 2-6 Railway Parade, Geebung.

For more information, visit www.brokentobrilliant.org/events.

Chermside Hearing Loss Support Group Meeting

The Better Hearing Australia (BHA) Chermside Community Connect Hearing Loss Support Group will have their next meeting on Thursday, 19 September at Kennards Storage Conference Rooms, 721 Webster Rd, Chermside, from 10am to 12pm. Meetings are held on the third Thursday of every second month, offering a friendly environment for peer support and social connection, focused on self-help. The group is free to join (though some meetings may involve a small fee for space and refreshments). Friends, family and significant others are welcome.

To RSVP and get more details, visit https://bhabrisbane.org.au/contact-us/

Free Scooter Skills Workshop for Youth at Stafford Heights Skate Park

Enhance your scooter skills and ride skate parks safely at this Brisbane City Council event for young people aged 4-17. No bookings are required. Head along to Stafford Heights Skate Park on 24 September for sessions at 10am and 11am. Bring your freestyle scooter, helmet and enclosed shoes. Look for the Active and Healthy sign at Webster Road Park, 239 Kitchener Road, Stafford Heights.

For more information, email Rampfest on admin@rampfest.com.au or call Chris at 0421 701 448.

Community Stories From August 2024

These stories appeared in the August 2024 issue of the Chermside Guide.

Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) QLD Takes the Plunge for Special Olympics 

Join the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) QLD team at the annual Polar Plunge to support Special Olympics QLD. On Sunday, 4 August, the LETR will be braving the cold waters of the Chermside Aquatic Centre to raise $20,000. If you’re unable to participate, you can contribute by donating to one of the plungers through the QLD fundraising page at include.specialolympics.com.au/event/pp-bris-24 

Stafford Garden Club Monthly Meeting 

The next meeting of the Stafford Garden Club Inc will be held on Thursday, 15 August at the OES Hall, Cnr Kitchener Road and Bohland Street, Kedron. Join them at 9.30am for morning tea, plant and raffle sales. The meeting will commence at 10am and this month’s guest speaker is ‘King of the Ferns’ Darryl Ruprecht who will be speaking about staghorns. Visitors are most welcome to attend. Regular meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month, from February to November. 

Sunday Hot Club Returns to The Soul Pantry 

The Soul Pantry in Stafford is welcoming back its Sunday Hot Club, a monthly celebration featuring live music, pizza and more. On Sunday, 4 August from 3pm, join in the fun at 31 Wolverhampton Street, Stafford for a performance from Eddie Gazani’s Gypsy Adventures. This family-friendly event offers an afternoon of entertainment with board games to keep children engaged while adults enjoy the music and dancing. Tickets are available for $10 online or $15 at the door. For online bookings, visit The Soul Pantry Pty Ltd on Facebook. 

Workshop: Mastering TikTok for Business Growth 

Discover the power of TikTok as the new go-to platform for business engagement and growth. Join Brisbane City Council and Your Marketing Machines for a free workshop on Wednesday, 7 August, from 9am to 12pm at the Suburban Business Hub, 16 Aspinall Street, Nundah. This session is essential for business owners, entrepreneurs, social media managers and digital marketers eager to harness TikTok’s potential. Register now at www.yourmarketingmachines.com.au/events/ 

Alicia Bickett Brings Spiritual Connections to Geebung RSL 

Alicia Bickett, renowned psychic medium, is set to host a mediumship event at Geebung RSL on Friday, 9 August, from 7:30pm to 10pm. During the event, Alicia will engage with audience members, connecting them with loved ones in the spirit world. With nine years of experience in international mediumship, Alicia has toured across Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom in more than 500 live public shows. Tickets are available for $45 at reception or can be purchased online at aliciabickett.eventbrite.com 

Snap Fitness Chermside Announces Grand Re-Opening Celebration 

Snap Fitness Chermside on Gympie Road is inviting the community to visit its brand-new facilities for a grand reopening celebration from 5 August to 9 August. This five-day event promises daily activities, including a sports and spinal seminar and a celebration for National Women’s Day, as well as the chance to win prizes. For more details, visit Snap Fitness Chermside on Facebook and register your interest on the event page. 

Prepare for Life Changes with Decluttering Workshop 

Gain strategies for moving, downsizing or organising your space at a workshop with Melody and Shae from Changing Seasons Consultancy. Whether you’re retiring, relocating or simply seeking a more streamlined lifestyle, this session promises practical guidance for the next chapter of your life. The event will take place on Wednesday, 7 August, from 10am to 11:30am at Burnie Brae Hall, 60 Kuran Street, Chermside. Admission is $5 for associate members and free for MemberPlus members. Secure your spot by calling 3624 2110 or visiting reception. 

All Saints’ Anglican Church Parish Pantry Initiative 

Have you heard about the parish pantry at the All Saints’ Anglican Church in Chermside? Father Daniel and the parish community are seeking support through donations of tins, in particular, mixed vegetables, chunky soup and spaghetti for two. The pantry operates every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10am to 1pm at the church on 501 Hamilton Road, Chermside. 

Award-Winning Author Visits Nundah Library 

Join author Pamela Rushby at Nundah Library on Tuesday, 13 August from 10.30am to 11.30am for an author talk as part of the Lord Mayor’s Writers in Residence series. Pamela will delve into her latest novel, Those Girls, and offer insights into her research and the craft of historical writing. Books will be on sale and attendees are welcome to bring their own copies for signing. To register for this free talk, visit Eventbrite and search for ‘Meet Pamela Rushby – Nundah Library’. 

EKKA Bowls Day at Northern Suburbs Bowls Club 

Northern Suburbs Bowls Club, located on Edinburgh Castle Road, Wavell Heights, invites you to join their EKKA Bowls Day on Wednesday, 14 August. The event will feature two bowl triples, with each team priced at $75. Enjoy a sausage sizzle starting at 11:30am, followed by three games, beginning at 12pm. For details, find Northern Suburbs Bowls Club on Facebook.  

Magical Harry Potter Movies Trivia Night 

Calling all witches, wizards and Muggles! Grape Vine Events invites you to an evening of food, drinks, games and Harry Potter movie trivia. Hosted by themed trivia experts, the event features 40 questions across five rounds, activities and prizes. Doors open at 6:30pm on Tuesday, 20 August, at The Sporting Globe Bar and Grill on Gympie Road, Chermside. Participants are asked to head straight to the trivia space for dinner and drinks before the event kicks off at 7pm. To secure your place, register online at wearegrapevine.events/public-events/ 

Annual ‘Run with Rob’ Event Supports Domestic Violence Charity 

Join Eatons Hill local Robert Hopkinson for the annual Run with Rob charity event, dedicated to supporting those affected by domestic violence. All proceeds will benefit Small Steps 4 Hannah. The event on Saturday, 31 August at 6pm at Kedron-Wavell includes a two-course meal, live music, a raffle, and an auction, and guest speakers Sue and Lloyd Clarke, and founder of Run the World, Travis Ireland. Tickets are $120. Corporate table options available. Secure your place by booking online at events.humanitix.com/host/run-with-rob 

Would you like to contribute to Chermside Connect? 

Special community event coming up? Or is there something you’re talking about on social media, at the school gate or at the local café? Email Alyssa to be included in the next edition of Chermside Connect: alyssam@theguides.com.au

Community Stories From July 2024

These stories appeared in the July 2024 issue of the Chermside Guide.

PCYC Zillmere Hosts Family-Friendly Open Day

PCYC Zillmere will be opening its doors on Saturday, 6 July for an open day event. Attendees will have the opportunity to join a class and try out an activity for free, participate in fitness challenges, enjoy a sausage sizzle, try interactive sports and games and meet the team to learn more about the programs available. Kid-friendly activities such as face painting and a bouncy castle will be available, along with the chance to explore a police car. Attendees will also have the opportunity to win 12 months of gym and fitness membership. The event will take place from 10am to 2pm at 340 Zillmere Road, Zillmere.

For more information, visit bit.ly/pcyc_qld_whats_on

Walking Group for Survivors of Domestic Violence

A local walking group organised by Broken to Brilliant is providing support to domestic violence survivors. The group meets on the second Saturday of every month at Silky Oak Espresso in West Chermside for a walk along the Downfall Creek trails. The walk, which takes place from 7am to 8am and afterwards, participants can enjoy a coffee and chat. The next walk is scheduled for Saturday, 13 July and all are welcome to join.

For more information, visit www.brokentobrilliant.org/events

New Date for Nundah By Night Twilight Markets

The Nundah By Night Twilight Markets have been rescheduled to take place on Saturday, 20 July. The event, which will be held on Station Street in Nundah, promises a night filled with gourmet food such as smoky woodfire pizza, artisan stalls, roaming performers, two stages of live music, family-friendly activities and a pop-up bar serving Gluhwein. Admission is $3 with free parking available. Join in on the fun from 4pm to 10pm!

Local Backyard Succulent Sale

Enchanting Succus is hosting a succulent and cacti sale on Sunday, 21 July from 9.30am at 9 Keppel Street, Boondall. Shop locally grown, well-established plants and arrangements. Don’t forget to bring your own boxes or trays.

For more information, follow the Facebook group and page ‘Enchanting Succus’.

State Budget Funding for Local Schools

Last month’s State Budget announcement has brought good news for local schools. Zillmere State School will be receiving funds to establish a breakfast program and begin significant refurbishments to their tuckshop. Aspley Special School will also benefit, with plans for a full renovation of its tuckshop. Craigslea State High School has been granted $1 million for school enhancements and is in the works for a new building to provide additional learning spaces.

Network with Industry Professionals at QAA’s Meet and Mingle

The Queensland Arboricultural Association Inc is set to host its second Industry Meet and Mingle on Friday, 26 July at The Sporting Globe in Chermside. The event will bring together professionals, students, educators and industry suppliers to network, share knowledge and discuss industry trends. The event will run from 4pm to 6pm.

For more information, contact 3821 1488 or visit www.qaa.net.au.

Dance the Night Away at Big Band Anniversary Event

Join the Brisbane Symphonic Band (BSB) Swing in celebrating their 30th anniversary with a special event, String of Pearls, on Saturday, 27 July at the Geebung Bowls Club. The evening will kick off at 6:30pm and will showcase BSB Swing as they perform jazz, blues, funk, Latin and everything ‘big band’! Ticket prices are $10 for children, $20 for concession, and $25 for adults.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Brisbane Symphonic Band’s Facebook page.

Sustainable Shopping Easy at Fab Finds Markets

The Fab Find Markets are back at the Geebung Bowls Club this month, offering sustainable and affordable goodies. With 45 stalls featuring secondhand fashion, plants, arts, crafts and bric-a-brac, there is something for everyone. Taking place on Sunday, 28 July from 8am to 12pm, the markets also promise live music, coffee and a sausage sizzle for eager shoppers.

For more information, visit www.fabfindsmarkets.com.au

Support Adults with Cystic Fibrosis at Charity Event

A Cheers for Charity event is taking place on Sunday, 28 July from 10.30am to 3pm at the Cystic Fibrosis Queensland Bookshop in Nundah. Enjoy food, drinks and live music while supporting a great cause. All proceeds will go towards providing lifesaving nebulizers for adults living with cystic fibrosis. The bookshop is located at 160 Ryans Road, Nundah.

RSVP via the Cystic Fibrosis Queensland Facebook page.

Community Stories From June 2024

These stories appeared in the June 2024 issue of the Chermside Guide.

Calling Former Carmel College students

Mt Carmel College Wynnum Central is having a 50-year reunion and is searching for past students who may have moved away. The event is celebrating students from the years 1968, 1969 and 1972. The event is on Saturday, 15 June at the Wynnum Manly Leagues Club. If anyone went to Mt Carmel College, Wynnum Central or knows someone who did please contact Chris on 0413 602 982.

Stafford Garden Club Monthly Meeting

The next meeting of the Stafford Garden Club Inc. will be held on Thursday, 20 June at the OES Hall on the corner of Kitchener Road and Bohland Streets, Kedron. Join them at 9.30am for morning tea and plant and raffle sales. The meeting will commence at 10am. This month’s guest speaker is artist Robin Bauer (Against All Odds – The Natural World in the City). Visitors are welcome to attend. Regular meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month from February to November. For more information email staffordgardenclub@gmail.com

Chermside Health Hub Now Open

The Chermside Health Hub officially opened last month. Located at 621 Gympie Road, the purpose-built integrated medical hub has a general practice, radiology, medical specialist suites and allied health services all under one roof. The multi-million dollar hub aims to meet increasing demand for and provide better access to local health services for those living on the Northside. For more information visit healthhubs.com.au

Children’s Storytime in the Bush

The author and illustrator of The Perfect Hollow and Snuggled Away, Cate Story and Sarah Matsuda, are inviting kids to come along for a special storytime and craft event these school holidays. On Friday, 28 June at the Boondall Wetlands Environment Centre, kids can paint their own plaster animal, make a collage out of nature materials and create their own Australian bird. They will also participate in other sensory bush-themed activities. The event is free but bookings are required. Book online at Eventbrite by searching for ‘Children’s Storytime in the Bush’.

Bush Kindy – Yatsu Higata Day

Come along to a special Bush Kindy to celebrate Yatsu Higata Day, the celebration day of the Yatsu Higata wetlands in Tokyo Bay, Japan. The event will take place from 10am to 10.45am on Tuesday, 11 June at Downfall Creek Bushland Centre, 815 Rode Road, Chermside West and on Thursday, 13 June at Boondall Wetlands Environment Centre. Bush kindy is for children aged 3-5, alongside their parents and carers. The event is free but bookings are required. Book online at Eventbrite by searching for ‘Bush Kindy – Yatsu Higata Day’.

Authentic Belly Dance Introductory Course

Get your glam on at a special introductory course for authentic belly dance. The Soul Dance School of Romany and Middle Eastern Dance is holding eight master classes commencing on Thursday, 6 June at 6.15pm at the Promenade Dance Studio in Kedron. The cost for the course is $125. For more information email souldanceseven@gmail.com

Photographers Invited to Snap Up Awards

Brisbane City Council is inviting anyone who lives, works or studies in Brisbane to submit their best snaps with the 2024 Lord Mayor’s Photography Awards now open. This year’s theme is ‘Brisbane in its best light’ and encourages photographers to share the places, people and experiences that make our city shine brightly. Entrants can win cash prices from $1000 to $5000 across eight categories. Applications close at 4pm on Friday, 7 June. For more information visit www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/things-to-see-and-do/experiences-and-culture/lord-mayors-photographic-awards-2024

New Art Studio in Town

Blank Space Art Studio is the new place to create art and craft in Stafford. The art studio, located at 5/24 Windorah Street, opened in April and offers walk-in DIY sessions, workshops, events, painting lessons, ‘sip and paint’ sessions and school holiday activities. Choose between mediums like canvas, ceramic or an MDF cutout, and decorate with paint, glitter and other adornments. For more information visit www.blankspaceart.com.au or follow Blank Space Art Studio on Facebook.

Dementia Expo at Kedron-Wavell

On Tuesday 4 June, Kedon-Wavell will be holding a mini dementia expo KWed Talk, which will include four professional speakers discussing dementia-related topics including physiotherapy and occupational therapy. Speaking from Your Brain In Mind, Dr Kalais Roberts is the author of Mind Your Brain: The Essential Australian Guide to Dementia. Dr Roberts is also the creator of BrainScan, an app which allows users more understanding around brain health and dementia. There will also be a speaker from the Prince Charles Hospital presenting on the day along with a small selection of businesses displaying resources and who will also be available to answer questions. The day will have a preventative focus. The event runs from 10am to 1pm. For more information contact Nicole Whitbread, Chaplain at Kedron-Wavell on nwhitbread@kwcare.com.au

Would you like to contribute to Chermside Connect?

Special community event coming up? Or is there something you’re talking about on social media, at the school gate or at the local café? Email Alyssa to be included in the next edition of Chermside Connect: alyssam@theguides.com.au