Hiding in a suburban backyard in a Bardon neighbourhood, you will find something extraordinary. Civosity Park, an enchanting garden, is a living symbol of the creativity, community-mindedness, and generosity of David Engwicht.
Step into this lush space and find yourself in a subtropical wonderland. Leafy green plants and arching tree ferns fill the grounds. A grand poinciana tree reaches out across the garden, generously providing shady places to rest under, even during the heat of Brisbane’s summer.
A timber boardwalk leads around concealed corners while a shallow sparkling creek bubbles gently between the plants and under small bridges.
Photo Credit: Tony Cristiano/Google Maps
Comfortable outdoor furniture on the main deck is an ideal spot to share a picnic lunch while visiting this unique location.
The area is partially fenced and the size of a standard backyard, so little ones can explore without wandering too far. Wander the paths discovering enchanting decorations along the way.
Photo Credit: John McGrath/Google Maps
Playing barefoot in the creek is a delightful sensory experience. At night the garden is transformed into an illuminated magical forest, lit by well-placed coloured fairy lights.
Photo Credit: TC/Google Maps
“Wow, I drive past that all the time. I always assumed it was someone’s backyard,” said a commenter on Reddit.
“Look at the size of the hardwood that David Engwicht chose to build the tiered deck with. He intends for it to be around for a long time.”
“The water bubbler works, I used it today! I’d love to meet the person responsible, maybe I’ll see him around one of these days.”
Photo Credit: Rhys Lauder/Google Maps
The garden is free to use but this is not a public space and there are no public toilets. Donations or purchasing Mr Engwitch’s book are welcome as it will help fund continual improvements.
The incident occurred in Brisbane’s north and culminated in the arrest of the teens, including a 15-year-old girl, after the vehicle was stopped by road spikes.
The car, reportedly stolen from Bardon over the weekend, was traced to Carseldine, where law enforcement intercepted the teenagers later that night.
Acting Detective Superintendent Craig Williams revealed that the alleged crimes were broadcast in real-time.
“While being pursued by police, the offenders were livestreaming from the vehicle,” he said.
One of the juvenile offenders even made threats to commit additional offences, prompting police to intervene.
Authorities have charged a 17-year-old boy with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and unlicensed driving. Additionally, two boys aged 16 and 18, along with the 15-year-old girl, face charges of unlawful use of a motor vehicle.
Recently introduced legislation in Queensland targets offenders who flaunt their crimes on social media. These laws designate such behaviour as an “aggravating factor” for car thieves who share footage of their unlawful acts.
Acting Assistant Commissioner for Youth Crime, Andrew Massingham, emphasised the role of social media in perpetuating repeat offences. “It’s not to attain property for personal benefit, it is to live stream and to obtain notoriety,” he remarked.
Massingham highlighted ongoing efforts involving specialised analysts to identify individuals engaged in such activities and collaborate to divert potential offenders from a life of crime.
This incident highlights the complex relationship between social media, youth crime, and law enforcement efforts to curb such behavior in the digital age.
Local residents are invited to celebrate the completion of the highly-anticipated Rosalie Village Precinct Project with a series of celebratory events this month, showcasing local businesses and the new streetscape.
On the weekends of January 12-13 and 19-20, visitors can explore the revitalised area whilst enjoying live music performances from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The celebrations will give people a taste of what the new precinct has to offer in terms of boutique shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Photo credit: Brisbane City Council
About the Rosalie Village Precinct Project
The Rosalie Village streetscape improvement project has been finished after months of development. The shopping area has undergone renovations to upgrade the precinct.
Brisbane City Council collaborated with neighbourhood residents on plans to revitalise the space for both locals and visitors. The redesigned village features new amenities aimed at enhancing walkability and creating an inviting community gathering place.
Photo credit: Brisbane City Council
The Rosalie Village renewal is part of the city’s Village Precinct Projects program. The initiative focuses on remodelling public areas across neighbourhoods in Brisbane to stimulate economic growth and bring residents together.
The improvements made to the Rosalie Village Precinct as part of the project are wide-ranging. Sections of footpath have been upgraded to exposed aggregate concrete in order to enhance accessibility, connectivity, and overall amenity.
New garden beds and street trees have also been installed to improve the visual and physical environment of the precinct. Additionally, new public amenities like seats, stools, bins, and bike racks have been added. To bolster safety, supplementary traffic signage and line markings have been implemented at key pedestrian and traffic locations.
Finally, public art pieces were also commissioned for the precinct to boost the amenity and identity of the shopping centre area.
Craving authentic homemade pasta but lacking the skills to churn out tender noodles and rich ragu like an Italian nonna? At Pasteio in Rosalie, fresh pasta aficionados Andrea and Irene happily share the secrets behind great pasta – no trips across the Atlantic required.
Andrea and Irene invite diners into their passion project showcasing Italy’s finest through lovingly handcrafted pasta creations. At this artisan laboratory, it’s all about capturing authentic Italian flavour in recipes handed down from decades working in famed restaurants abroad.
Step inside the minimalist space, warmed by exposed brick accents, and you will find cases filled with diverse pasta incarnations originating from both Northern and Southern Italy.
Irene and Andrea with their baby (Photo credit: pasteio.online)
Using specialty flours like grano duro and grano tenero, Andrea and Irene craft specialties ranging from spinachy fettuccine Alfredo to rich spaghetti Bolognese. Signature sauces include osso bucco and mushroom as well as Send Crab, Eggplant and Tomato, and Spinach Garlic Pesto.
Photo credit: Pasteio/Facebook
In addition to homemade pasta, Pasteio tempts tastebuds with a daily selection of Italian desserts like cannoli siciliani, delicate panna cotta, buttery biscotti, and the quintessential tiramisu. Cured meats, artisan cheeses, and other Italian deli products round out the savoury offerings.
Cannoli siciliani (Photo credit: Pasteio/Facebook)
For those seeking effortless Italian fare at home, Pasteio offers clever Pasta Kits matched with the perfect pasta shape, sauce, and parmesan, ready for boiling and saucing within minutes.
Kits range from classic ragù to vegetarian options, with crowd-pleasing carbonara, complete with guanciale and pecorino, as a front-runner.
Photo credit: Pasteio/Facebook
Did you know Pasteio uses only free-range eggs in their egg pasta? This attention to quality ingredients shines through in every noodle and bite.
This local gem is the perfect place to get your fresh pasta fix whilst supporting an artisan business. Once you’ve tried their pillowy gnocchi or rich tiramisu, you will surely be back for more. Visit their website for more information.
A house in Bardon, which was the backdrop of a treasured photograph capturing Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip during their 1954 visit, is currently up for sale.
The royals were pictured cruising past the house at 4 Leslie Street, Bardon, in an open-top car, waving to fans. The Queen was only 27 years old at the time of this historic visit.
The current vendor, who purchased the property as a deceased estate, inherited this iconic black-and-white photo from the previous owner.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
This Bardon house, a six-bedroom Queenslander is a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary luxury. Known for its typical Queenslander features like hardwood floors, VJ walls, timber carvings, and high ceilings, the house has been meticulously updated.
Photo Credit: RayWhite/YouTube
It boasts modern amenities, including an expansive, glossy kitchen and breakfast bar, while preserving its original character. The property sits on a verdant 540-square-metre block, with approval granted for a granny flat, offering potential income or additional living space for extended family.
Photo Credit: RayWhite/YouTube
Bardon’s Real Estate Scene
Bardon, known for its pre-war houses, has seen other properties listed for sale recently. Among them are a charming three-bedroom house at 91 Leworthy Street, featuring traditional aspects with a spacious rear deck and garden views, and a two-story property at 32 Brown Street, located near Rosalie Village and McGregor Terrace shops, just five kilometres from the CBD.
Bardon is home to several historical buildings, including Bardon House, an example of Victorian Gothic architecture. This stone structure is now part of the St Joseph’s School complex. The building has evolved over the years, with additions and renovations while preserving its architectural integrity.
Bardon has a rich educational history, with the establishment of St Joseph’s Catholic School and Bardon Infants School, which later became Bardon State School.
Bardon: A Snapshot
The suburb has evolved significantly over the years. The suburb’s population has steadily grown, with the 2021 census recording 10,153 residents.
The area is predominantly Australian-born, with a diverse mix of other nationalities, and English is the most commonly spoken language at home. The suburb’s demographic data reflects a vibrant and diverse community.
The sale of the historic house at 4 Leslie Street, Bardon, offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Australian royal history. Coupled with Bardon’s rich historical background and its growing, diverse community, this suburb continues to be an attractive destination for both real estate investors and those seeking a unique place to call home.
The educational landscape in Bardon is witnessing the start of a new era as construction begins on a dedicated Junior School precinct at Stuartholme School.
This development is set to provide a strong educational foundation for the institution’s Year 5 and Year 6 students. The construction is part of an ambitious plan by the school, which has recently gained approval from Planning Minister Steven Miles for a new sports centre project on Sir Samuel Griffith Drive, near the iconic Freers potato chip factory site.
A New Chapter in Stuartholme’s History
Stuartholme School, a prestigious girls’ school bordering Toowong and Bardon, celebrated the significant milestone on 26 Oct 2023, as the board, school leaders, and students turned the first sod to mark the beginning of construction on its new junior school precinct. This historical moment takes place within the school’s 21-hectare campus on the picturesque foothills of Mount Coot-tha.
“As a leader in girls’ education, Stuartholme understands that the early years of education provide the foundation for successful and lifelong learners who will make a global impact beyond the gates of the school,” Principal Daniel Crump said.
Photo Credit: Stuartholme School
Educational Excellence and Collaborative Learning
This modern Junior School precinct is designed to optimise educational achievements, fostering active learning and essential skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. The classroom layouts are intentionally crafted to encourage collaborative learning, promoting self-reliance and independence as students transition into secondary school.
Junior school students will have the privilege of accessing the school’s extensive facilities, including a swimming pool, netball and tennis courts, library, technologies precinct, art studios, and design technology rooms. The school maintains a commitment to small class sizes, allowing 100 students across the two-year level cohorts to receive individualized attention while providing ample opportunities for growth and learning.
“With the introduction of Years 5 in 2024 and Year 6 in 2025, our students will have a seamless progression into the Secondary School in a safe, caring, and warm environment, to understand who they are, how they belong, and learn to achieve educational excellence,” Mr Crump added.
Photo Credit: Queensland Government (Planning) / planning.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au
Embracing Sustainability and Heritage
The contemporary building is designed with sustainability in mind, aligning with the school’s commitment to environmental responsibility. This includes expanding the existing solar program, enhancing landscaping, and installing water tanks.
“This innovation will enrich our sense of history as our youngest students are embraced into our culture of belonging – sentiments that are underpinned by our school’s Sacred Heart charism of which we are very proud,” Chaplain Sr Rita Carroll, who has been associated with the school since 1957, remarked.
In addition to the Junior School precinct, Planning Minister Steven Miles recently approved plans for a major sports facility, which will be situated on the site of the iconic Freers potato chip factory and adjacent Freers Farm on Sir Samuel Griffith Drive. This sports facility will include sporting fields, multipurpose courts, and associated floodlighting, catering to various sports and activities.
Photo Credit: Queensland Government (Planning) / planning.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au
While some locals expressed concerns about possible downstream flood impacts and effects on wildlife at the site, the project’s documentation claims that floodwater will be contained on-site. The hours of operation for the sporting fields, multipurpose courts, and the Freers Shed will be regulated to minimize noise and inconvenience for the surrounding community.
The future of a vital pedestrian crossing in Rosalie Village hangs in the balance, causing a stir within the local community. The contentious decision to potentially remove the crossing has sparked debate, with passionate supporters and concerned local businesses expressing their viewpoints.
Sometime in mid-October 2023, residents and business owners in the Rosalie suburb received an email from Cr Clare Jenkinson of the Paddington Ward, announcing the decision to cancel the pedestrian crossing project. The crossing was slated to connect the Deli/Pharmacy and the 5 Boroughs, promoting safer pedestrian access within the vibrant Rosalie Village. It was part of the precinct project.
The email left many stakeholders disheartened, as it lacked any mention of alternative solutions, including the possibility of a traffic island to address safety concerns.
Local resident Silas Manning Rowe voiced his disappointment, citing concerns about the decision-making process. Rowe questioned the use of a survey to override a decision supported by an official Brisbane City Council (BCC) community consultation that indicated majority support (63%) for the pedestrian crossing. He emphasized the potential long-term economic benefits of enhancing pedestrian-friendliness in the area.
Sandra Haines, in response to Rowe’s concerns, clarified that Cr Jenkinson’s decision to consider cancelling the crossing was driven by feedback from local businesses. These businesses were apprehensive about losing parking spaces, a factor that could affect their economic viability.
Ms Haines encouraged the community to provide suggestions and engage in a constructive dialogue with their councillor.
The fate of the Rosalie Village pedestrian crossing remains uncertain, with local businesses, residents, and councillors engaging in a passionate debate about the project’s future.
As the consultation deadline looms, the community’s collective input is expected to play a significant role in determining the outcome.
Brisbane residents are being called upon to cast their votes and help crown the winner of the 2023 WasteSMART People’s Choice Award. The prestigious award recognises individuals, community groups, and businesses who have gone above and beyond to make Brisbane a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable city. Among the 31 finalists, several inspiring individuals from the suburb of Bardon have made their mark in sustainability.
Voting for the People’s Choice Award opened on Tuesday, 3rd October 2023, and will remain open until Monday 16 October 2023. This gives residents the opportunity to choose their sustainability champion.
Bardon – 2023 WasteSMART People’s Choice Award – Finalists
The Worm Monger: Hannah Churton
Hannah Churton, known as “The Worm Monger,” has made a significant impact in the heart of Bardon. Hannah initiated a community verge vegetable garden and a compost hub in her neighbourhood. Through these efforts, she diverted over 6 tonnes of organic waste from landfills in the last financial year. Her dedication extends to educating others on composting and verge gardening through her social channel, @the_worm_monger on Instagram, which has reached more than 20,000 followers.
Eve Tramacchi O’Keefe, currently completing Year 12, has displayed exceptional dedication to sustainability at Goodfolk Cafe in Bardon. She leads gardening and waste management efforts at the café, even coming in at 5:30 a.m. to work around her school schedule. Under her guidance, the café has implemented numerous sustainability initiatives, including composting, worm farming, and closed-loop practices. Eve’s role in sustainability has transformed the cafe into a hub for environmentally conscious practices.
Goodfolk Cafe: A Closed Loop Oasis
Located in Bardon, the Goodfolk Cafe stands out as a community-focused, specialty coffee and garden space. The cafe boasts six compost bins, converted bathtubs functioning as worm farms, and a 250m2 produce garden. This garden yields a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs used in their seasonal menu. Goodfolk Cafe’s sustainability efforts go beyond the kitchen, as they offer recycled op shop mugs for patrons who forget their own reusable cups.
About the WasteSMART Awards
The WasteSMART Awards, managed by the Brisbane Sustainability Agency on behalf of Brisbane City Council and sponsored by Containers for Change Queensland, Cleanaway, and The University of Queensland, aim to recognise and celebrate these local waste warriors. A ceremony will be held at Brisbane City Hall in November 2023 to announce the winners of the 12 WasteSMART Award categories, which have a combined prize pool of more than $4000.
Brisbane’s Lord Mayor, Adrian Schrinner, encourages residents to get involved in the People’s Choice Award and adopt waste-smart strategies to contribute to the city’s sustainable future. Brisbane’s commitment to being Australia’s cleanest and greenest capital city continues to grow, thanks to the dedicated efforts of individuals and businesses like those in Bardon.
Get ready to welcome the spring season in style at the Bardon Markets Spring Gala, which promises a day of excitement, entertainment, and community spirit that you won’t want to miss.
The return of another unforgettable event will take place on Sunday, 10 Sept 2023, from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m., at the picturesque corner of Baroona Rd and Rainworth Rd in Bardon.
The Bardon Markets Spring Gala is known for its vibrant atmosphere and this year is no exception. Attendees can expect to enjoy live music in the warm sunshine while exploring a wide array of fantastic offerings, including:
🍎 Farm Fresh Produce: Discover the finest locally-sourced fruits and vegetables.
🥦 Artisanal Products: Explore a diverse selection of handmade crafts and unique items.
🪡 Handcrafted Goods: Find one-of-a-kind creations from talented local artisans.
☕️ Premium Coffee: Savor the aroma and flavor of freshly brewed coffee.
🌭 Hot Breakfast: Enjoy a delicious breakfast to kickstart your day.
🥖 Organic Bakery: Treat your taste buds to delectable baked goods made with organic ingredients.
🎶 Live Music: Groove to the rhythm of live performances throughout the day.
In addition to these market staples, the Spring Gala has some exciting extras this year:
🌿 Special Workshops: Engage in interactive workshops for all ages.
🎁 Bardon Markets Raffle: Try your luck for a chance to win fabulous prizes.
👨👩👧👧 Kids Corner: Keep the little ones entertained with kid-friendly activities.
👔 Best Dressed Competition: Stand out by donning your loudest floral shirt for a chance to win a $50 gift voucher to Rumour Mill Espresso.
With plenty of parking available and a dog-friendly policy, the Bardon Markets Spring Gala welcomes families, friends, and solo adventurers to join in the fun. Norman Buchan Park offers ample space for visitors to spread out and soak in the lively atmosphere while browsing the market’s offerings.
So, mark your calendars and make plans to attend this event. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this event promises a day of community, culture, and celebration of all things spring.
Bardon Markets take place regularly on Sunday mornings. This community market places a high value on fostering connections, providing a welcoming space for everyone. It’s a place where you can catch up with friends, meet your neighbours, take your furry friend for a stroll, and bask in the sun, making the most of your weekend.
A snake catcher from Snake Catchers Brisbane & Gold Coast successfully extricated a meters-long Coastal Carpet Python from the confines of a car engine in Bardon.
The captivating rescue operation was caught on camera and has since gone viral across social media platforms. The owner of the vehicle had reached out to the snake catching company for assistance upon discovering the python.
The video captured snake catcher Jaedon’s expert handling of the situation. Wearing protective gloves, he confidently maneuvered the squirming python, grasping its body with one hand and its head with the other.
The astonishing footage showed the nerve-wracking moments when he meticulously removed the reptile from beneath the car’s bonnet. As Jaedon gradually coaxed the python out of the car engine, the snake’s incredible length became evident.
With a blend of skill and composure, Jaedon calmly went about the extraction process and skillfully pulled the python’s head behind his shoulder, carefully guiding the rest of its massive body out of the engine.
Once fully freed from the entrapment and held aloft, the python measured longer than Jaedon’s own height.
Coastal Carpet Pythons, while non-venomous and generally not harmful to humans, can reach significant sizes and are known for their adaptability to various habitats.
This particular python, which had sought refuge within the car engine most likely for warmth and shelter, showed the intriguing and sometimes unexpected interactions between urban environments and wildlife.
