Ithaca Creek State School is a testament to the enduring power of education in Bardon. Established in 1885, this venerable institution has witnessed the ebb and flow of generations, shaping the lives of countless students and reflecting the evolution of education in Queensland.
The school’s inception coincided with significant growth in Queensland’s education system. The late 19th century saw a shift towards formal schooling, and Ithaca Creek State School played a crucial role in meeting the educational needs of the burgeoning local community.
As the student population swelled, the school underwent a series of expansions. In the 1930s, a new brick building was constructed, a symbol of progress during the challenging times of the Great Depression and World War II. This expansion provided much-needed space and reflected the community’s unwavering commitment to education.
Ithaca Creek State School celebrated its centenary in 1985, marking 100 years of dedication to fostering young minds. The occasion was commemorated with various activities and the publication of a centenary booklet chronicling the school’s rich history and achievements.
Throughout its history, the school has remained deeply connected to the Bardon community. From fundraising efforts to social events, the school has always been a hub of activity, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
Ithaca Creek State School has consistently embraced innovation, adapting its teaching methods and facilities to meet the changing needs of its students. The introduction of open-area classrooms in the 1990s and the recent implementation of the Smart Classroom Strategy are just two examples of the school’s forward-thinking approach.
The school’s history is intertwined with the broader narrative of Australia. During World War II, the school community faced numerous challenges, from staff shortages to budget cuts. Yet, the spirit of resilience prevailed. Social dances, fundraising drives, and the construction of the new school building all served as beacons of hope during a dark period.
The school’s commitment to honouring its past is evident in the two war memorials that grace its grounds. The Honour Board unveiled in 1947, pays tribute to the students who served in WWII, including those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The Rats of Tobruk Memorial, a replica of a monument built in Libya, commemorates the bravery of those who defended Tobruk in 1941.
Today, Ithaca Creek State School thrives, providing its students with a nurturing and stimulating learning environment. The school’s legacy is academic excellence, community spirit, resilience, and a commitment to shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Freer Farm holds a special place in the hearts of many Bardon residents. The land has a long history, having once belonged to a local businessman and pioneer in Brisbane’s food industry, Gerard James Freer.
The historical significance of the site cannot be overlooked. Gerard James Freer, born in 1926, was the youngest of eight children, growing up during the Great Depression. Tragic events and hardships were a part of his early life. Three of his siblings succumbed to the Spanish Influenza, and his father died in a work-related accident when Gerard was just 18 months old. Raised by his mother, Annie, Gerard’s childhood was spent in orphanages and with relatives due to economic hardships.
Rising Above Adversity: Gerard Freer’s Journey
Gerard’s determination saw him rise from these humble beginnings to become a pioneer in Brisbane’s food industry. After leaving school, he worked as a food chemist while studying industrial chemistry at night. Despite early-onset deafness, he persevered, eventually becoming the production manager at Mynor, a potato crisp manufacturing company.
Superfoods: Innovation in the Snack Industry
In 1953, Gerard and his fiancée, Maureen Evans, sold their only asset, an Austen A40, to buy five acres of bushland in Bardon. Ten years later, Gerard founded Superfoods, producing bacon crisps and cordial extracts. His innovative spirit led to the creation of 84 snack lines, including the popular Red Seal Chips, which won a taste-testing competition against major brands like Arnott’s, Smiths, and Cottees.
Despite facing challenges such as the 1987 stock market crash, Gerard’s resilience kept his business afloat. However, a deal with Arnott’s in the late 1980s saw his beloved Red Seal production halted, and Gerard’s factory machinery dismantled. Unwilling to give up, Gerard restarted his business, eventually selling it in 1998 after being diagnosed with prostate cancer. Stuartholme School later acquired his factory and land.
The legacy of Gerard Freer fondly remembered as Queensland’s “Mr Chips,” lives on through his contributions to the local food industry. His story of overcoming adversity and achieving success is integral to Bardon’s rich history. As Stuartholme School moves forward with its redevelopment plans, it carries the legacy of a man who turned his dreams into reality despite the odds.
The current redevelopment of Freers Farm into a sports complex aims to balance community needs with environmental concerns. Operational hours, noise restrictions, and traffic management plans are in place to address residents’ issues. Additionally, the requirement for a new bus set-down facility and flood management measures seeks to mitigate potential impacts on the area.
The controversy centres around the approval process and its environmental ramifications. Despite claims of minimal ecological disruption, Stuartholme’s environmental assessment has been criticised for not measuring existing light levels despite protected species. The decision notice, however, imposes strict operational limits, noise management plans, and traffic management requirements to mitigate these concerns.
Mitch, the new owner, is committed to preserving the heart and soul of this cherished community gathering while introducing fresh ideas.
Nestled at the corner of Baroona and Rainworth Roads, Bardon Markets continues to be the go-to destination for Sunday morning shoppers seeking fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a welcoming atmosphere. Operating from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., it offers the perfect start to a leisurely weekend.
Former Councillor of Paddington Ward Clare Jenkinson with Mitch, new owner of the Bardon Markets (Photo credit: Clare Jenkinson/Facebook)
Though smaller in scale compared to some of Brisbane’s other Sunday markets, Bardon Markets prides itself on its intimate, friendly vibe. It’s a place where neighbours become friends, and weekly shopping feels less like a chore and more like a social event.
Photo credit: The Bardon Markets/Google Map
Visitors can look forward to perusing stalls offering farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, aromatic coffee, and freshly baked bread. The market’s compact size doesn’t compromise on quality, with patrons praising the excellent produce and inviting ambiance.
Families find the market particularly appealing, thanks to its proximity to a playground where children can enjoy themselves while parents shop. This family-friendly setup contributes to the market’s reputation as a community hub.
Under new management, exciting plans are in the works. Shoppers can anticipate the introduction of new vendors and events, promising to enhance the market experience while maintaining its cherished local flavour.
So, pencil in next Sunday on your calendar. Whether you’re after your weekly fruit and veg, a steaming cup of coffee, or simply a pleasant morning out, Bardon Markets awaits. Come and discover why this modest market continues to capture the hearts of Brisbane locals week after week.
In the gentle slopes of Bardon, where jacaranda blossoms add a flare of purple that fades with the day, the houses hold stories of past and present. One of these stories is about two women, Kathryn Gow and Connie Wilmer, whose lives are intertwined in a way that feels almost fated.
On the 10th of June 1960, a Bardon family tragically lost a loved one. Mary Katherine Wilmer was an air hostess on the fateful TAA Flight 538 to Mackay that went down in the ocean, taking with it 29 souls. Family friend Kathryn Gow has written a piece (as told to Brisbane Suburbs Online News) to remember her and her mother Connie Wilmer, and the devastation wrought on a Bardon family in 1960.
Echoes of a Shared Name
Connie, a long-time resident of Bardon, is known in her community for her quiet strength and unwavering kindness. She provided services as a childminder to her neighbours’ children, showing virtuous motherly love and care. However, she harboured a lot of sorrow that she managed to keep under wraps.
Decades ago, she experienced great sadness when one of her daughters, air hostess Mary Katherine, died in the Fokker Friendship crash of 1960 in Mackay (Trans Australia Airlines Flight 538). This incident left Connie with a silent pain that she kept hidden behind closed doors as a secret thought.
Kathryn, also a Bardon resident, moved through life with a similar spirit of care and curiosity. With two school-aged daughters and a full-time job, her life was a bustling diary of commitments. She decided to entrust the care of her children to Connie, which led to a discovery that was as touching as it was unexpected.
“Mrs Wilmer mentioned her daughters only a little as the elder daughter had moved to live in the USA and her younger daughter had died many years before in a plane crash,” Kathryn told Brisbane Suburbs Online News.
As Kathryn delved into Connie’s past, driven by genuine care, she not only uncovered the story of Mary Katherine’s premature death but also found a reflection of her own life. The Christian names of Kathryn Mary and Mary Katherine reflected reverse symmetry, a serendipitous link that hints at deeper connections between their lives.
“I only discovered her daughter’s name on the 4th of April 2024 and was stunned by the fact that her Christian name matched mine, except in reverse. It was clear that Mrs Wilmer was a wonderful childminder and cook,” Kathryn said. “However, on review…did life send me to help her while she was assisting us all, while I worked full-time with two school-aged girls?”
Anniversary and Reflection
The absence of closure has tormented Connie and other families impacted by the crash on the 10th of June 1960. No bodies were ever recovered from the site, leaving many questions unanswered and the grief unresolved.
“It seemed that little was done in the early days to notify the Australian public of what had occurred (which on reflection was technically understandable), and a lot of conjecture followed over the years.”
“The unanswered questions have particularly weighed on my mind in the past 18 months, and I started to search for what I could find (which was not easy); unless you wanted to fork out a lot of dollars,” Kathryn said.
A long-term friend from her school days, who had an extensive career spanning 22 years in the RAAF, followed by two years in Air Ambulance services in Rockhampton and 17 years in Sunstate Airlines, recommended a book. “Air Crash: The Story of How Australia’s Airways Were Made Safe” by Macarthur Job (Volume 2), provided key insights into aviation safety. This source proved instrumental in answering several lingering questions about the crash, offering valuable knowledge that could benefit the general public.
Photo Credit: Amazon
Investigation Insights and Safety Reforms
The investigation into the crash of Trans Australia Airlines Flight 538 could not conclusively determine the exact cause, but several theories were explored:
Altimeter Malfunction: It was speculated that the aircraft’s altimeter may have malfunctioned, leading to an inaccurate altitude reading.
Misinterpretation of Altimeter Readings: The type of altimeters used was known for being difficult to interpret, potentially causing the pilots to misread the actual altitude.
Low Flight Path: Another theory was that the crew attempted a low flight path and inadvertently hit the sea while turning to approach the runway.
In response to the tragedy, the Board of Accident Inquiry recommended the installation of flight data recorders in passenger-carrying aircraft of the size of the F-27 and larger. This tragedy significantly influenced global aviation safety standards.
Australia became the first country to mandate cockpit voice recorders on civil transport aircraft, setting a precedent that would later be adopted worldwide.
As Mary Katherine’s death anniversary approaches, the Bardon community and the wider Australian public are reminded of the devastating impact of the crash.
“Hopefully when the families and friends of the passengers and staff (who passed over to another realm after that unique traumatic crash) met up with loved ones, they could finally feel at peace again,” Kathryn concludes.
As the jacarandas continue to bloom, their purple blossoms falling like tears on the quiet streets of Bardon, they bear silent witness to the beauty and pain of life’s intertwining journeys. In this community, the stories of Kathryn and Connie, of Mary Katherine, remain not as mere footnotes of the past, but as enduring narratives that celebrate the hidden destiny behind human connections.
A colourful new mural celebrating neurodiversity has brightened up a street corner in Indooroopilly, thanks to the creative efforts of the youth organisation Girl Guides in Bardon.
The box is titled ‘Neurodiversity is Beautiful’ and was created by guide Amy after input from all of the Guides in the Auslan Guides unit. She completed painting an electrical box at the junction of Moggill Road and Coonan Street.
The guided group of Deaf, hard of hearing and hearing girls and leaders, who are all bilingual in Auslan and English, recently helped by sharing their ideas.
“This design is inspired by the diversity of brains, and how they might be under the same category but they might be slightly different. Each tree needs certain adjustments and conditions to not just grow but thrive. This is like people in real life,” said Amy.
“This group of trees / brains include: Autism, PDA, ADHD, Dyslexia, and more, each having their own unique size, colour and shape but all as beautiful as each other.”
Two quirky native animal characters – a wallaby and a bilby representing the group’s leaders – also made a cheeky appearance amid the vibrant trees.
The inspiring mural is the latest in a series of community artworks coordinated by Girl Guides Queensland’s Bardon District to increase neurodiversity awareness and visibility.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to check out the eye-catching new addition bringing a splash of colour and important messaging to Indooroopilly’s streetscape.
The Girl Guides group comprises a diverse blend of Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and hearing children and leaders, all fluent in both Auslan (Australian Sign Language) and English. They also include Guides with neurodiverse and physical disabilities. Their aim is to decorate a box to promote awareness of the essence of equality through inclusion and acceptance. The fundamental message emphasises the importance of respecting others, irrespective of their differences.
Architectural Masterpiece O’Hare House has hit the market and is now for sale in leafy Bardon, just 6 km from Brisbane’s CBD. Designed by prominent architect Shane Thompson, the stunning home seamlessly blends contemporary luxury living with its natural bushland surroundings.
Nestled amongst towering eucalyptus trees, the house features an elevated position with north-east aspect capturing breathtaking views and an abundance of natural light. Thompson himself describes the design as delivering “life at its subtropical best”, with the bushland environment a driving inspiration.
“Designing this house on this spectacular site was a particularly joyous experience,” Thompson remarked.
“It has a beautiful connection with the vast bushland of Mt Cootha, a secluded and quiet sanctuary, broken only by the occasional native birdsong, but with easy access to the city.”
The gently curved butterfly roof evokes a sense of living under a timber parasol, while generous living areas are strung along a north-facing platform to maximise indoor-outdoor flow. Sliding doors connect to an expansive cantilevered deck amongst the treetops – perfect for summer entertaining or winter relaxation.
Inside, a warm material palette of soft white concrete blocks, rich jarrah timber and light hoop pine creates a serene yet sophisticated ambience. The galley-style kitchen is a true showpiece, equipped with a suite of premium Miele appliances and flowing seamlessly to the deck and raised lap pool.
The sumptuous master suite features a walk-in robe, marble bathroom and private deck with leafy outlooks. Buyers have the choice to shower indoors or embrace true subtropical living in the outdoor shower.
Additional accommodation comprises four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a huge recreation room on the lower level. A yoga/meditation retreat and cosy fireplace sitting room provide pockets of tranquillity.
“This is bush living in the city – a stunning architectural home in Bardon, presenting peaceful living amongst the treetops,” said Spinks. “It’s a large family home offering easy entertaining with many different spaces to be in.”
Mark your calendars, Bardon locals! The much-beloved Bardon Mayfair is returning in June, bringing a day of joy, community, and endless entertainment to the neighbourhood.
After a successful event last year, the Bardon State School is excited to once again host this vibrant community celebration from 10:00 a.m to 3:00 p.m. on 2 June 2024. Locals can look forward to an array of delights, from the bustling market stalls to the delectable food and drink offerings.
Explore the Treasure Trove of Goodies
Photo credit: Bardon Mayfair/Facebook
Bardon Mayfair will be a shopper’s paradise, with an abundance of market stalls showcasing an eclectic mix of treasures. Browse the racks of trendy clothing and accessories, discover one-of-a-kind handmade crafts, and uncover vintage gems and preloved items that are sure to delight. It’s the perfect opportunity to find that special something that brings a smile to your face.
Savour the Flavors, Share Moments with Loved Ones
Photo credit: Bardon Mayfair/Facebook
No community celebration is complete without delicious food and drink. Attendees can indulge in a wide array of culinary delights, from freshly brewed coffee and sweet treats to savoury bites that will tantalise the taste buds. It’s the ideal setting to sit back, relax, and enjoy quality time with friends and family.
Vibrant Entertainment for All
Photo credit: Bardon Mayfair/Facebook
The Bardon Mayfair is more than just a market – it’s a true celebration of the community’s talent and spirit. Last year’s event was a resounding success, with the Bardon’s Got Talent winners wowing the crowd and the dancers taking the stage by storm. This year promises even more non-stop entertainment!
Don’t miss out on the magic of Bardon Mayfair in 2024. Stay tuned to the school’s event page for the latest updates, and get ready to immerse yourself in a day of vibrant community spirit, extraordinary finds, and unforgettable moments.
With the launch of its very own Neighbourhood Watch program, Bardon is poised to take proactive strides towards enhancing security, all fueled by the grassroots energy of its concerned residents and bolstered by the support of local authorities.
Bardon Neighbourhood Watch was established to keep citizens’ growing concerns about minor crimes and security-related issues in the region. The programme, which is being led by a group of proactive people, aims to create a network of watchful locals who are dedicated to keeping their neighbourhoods safe and secure.
MP Jonty Bush has long pushed for programmes that make neighbourhoods better. She has become a strong supporter of giving people the power to take charge of their own safety and security by organising events like “Coffee with a Cop” and leading grassroots efforts. She firmly believes that this event will be a great chance to learn, meet, and work together
Photo Credit: Facebook/JontyBush
Community leaders, law enforcement officers, and concerned individuals are anticipated to attend its launch on April 13th, 2024, at Bardon Bowls Club, making it a historic occasion. Prominent members of the community will give an introductory speech to begin the event, emphasising the value of teamwork in preventing crime and fostering community.
Attendees look forward to engaging workshops and educational sessions covering a wide range of topics, such as disaster preparedness, efficient communication strategies, and home security advice. Additionally, representatives from the neighbourhood’s law enforcement organisations will be available to offer insightful advice on how citizens can actively contribute to crime prevention.
Two of the main goals of Bardon Neighbourhood Watch are to encourage people to report suspicious behaviour and to build a culture of open communication and community spirit. The people in charge of the event think that they can make the area safer and more stable for everyone if they can help neighbours get along and feel responsible for their community.
In addition to stopping crime, Bardon Neighbourhood Watch wants to bring people together and get them involved in their neighbourhood. Activities like social parties, neighbourhood patrols, and regular meetings are all meant to get people to talk to each other and work together.
The establishment of Bardon Neighbourhood Watch serves as a testament to the effectiveness of neighbourhood-based efforts in bringing about constructive change. Through the programme, residents are empowered to actively participate in maintaining the safety of their neighbourhood, which not only increases security but also strengthens the sense of community and belonging among residents.
Organisers are urging all locals to work together as Bardon gets ready to start this exciting new chapter in its history of promoting community safety. They think that by working together, they can create a community that will be safer, livelier, and more robust for future generations.
The Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain GP Clinic is part of the Australian Government’s $58.3 million package aimed at improving health outcomes for women suffering from these conditions.
The Bardon clinic, which officially opened last February, is the fourth such facility to open in Queensland, joining clinics already operating in Morayfield, Benowa, and Cairns.
Photo credit: Shannon Fentiman MP/Facebook
It will be run by Neighbourhood Medical, which has received $700,000 in federal funding over four years to staff the clinic with specialised nurse practitioners and allied health professionals, enhance facilities, and provide training.
Photo credit: Shannon Fentiman MP/Facebook
“Too many women suffer because their pain is not taken seriously,” said Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Ged Kearney. “The support we are providing for this specialised clinic in Bardon will give women across Brisbane’s northwest access to the care and expertise they need, all under one roof.”
Queensland Health Minister Shannon Fentiman said the one-stop clinic model would be “a game-changer” for women impacted by endometriosis, which affects at least 1 in 9 Australian women and can severely disrupt daily life.
According to the Department of Health and Aged Care, research shows half of Australian women experience pelvic pain, yet many do not seek treatment despite significant impacts on work and study.
Photo credit: Pixabay/Pexels
Women do not require a pre-existing endometriosis diagnosis to attend the clinics but must have symptoms like pelvic pain that could indicate the condition. The clinics aim to reduce diagnostic delays, raise awareness, improve access to information and care pathways, and upskill medical professionals in managing endometriosis.
With 22 such GP-led clinics now operating nationwide, the federal government initiative ensures every state and territory has at least one specialised endometriosis and pelvic pain facility.
The Bardon Neighbourhood Centre has found itself with a scant $6 left for emergency relief after just a week, as it grapples with an overwhelming surge in demand for financial aid from the community.
This critical juncture highlights a wider crisis in the region, with many individuals and families struggling to cope with economic hardships. As a result, the centre and its sister venue in New Farm are unable to provide sufficient support.
Despite receiving $20,000 in Social Services funding, the funds at the Centre were depleted within a week. This underscores the acute challenges faced by those who cannot afford basic living necessities.
This shortfall comes when the demand for financial assistance has skyrocketed, putting immense pressure on the centre’s resources. According to Coordinator Gillian Marshall, the number of people seeking help has tripled within the past year, especially among those who rely on Centrelink payments.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
The Bardon Neighbourhood Centre has been struggling to cope with the increase in cases involving financial difficulties, housing problems, and eviction incidents due to rising rental costs.
In response to the growing crisis, the site established an emergency relief hotline to manage the influx of calls from those in urgent need. These calls often come from individuals facing domestic violence, mental health issues, or significant life changes, with some reporting they haven’t eaten in days
Despite efforts to secure additional funding, the centre faces the grim reality of suspending its emergency relief program until new funds are allocated in July 2024.
The funding crisis at the Bardon Neighbourhood Centre highlights a more significant problem faced by community services throughout Queensland. The situation calls for greater support from the government and emphasizes the need for a strong social service sector that can assist individuals during difficult times.
