Bardon Waste Warriors in the Running for 2023 WasteSMART People’s Choice Award

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: A Young Environmentalist

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.

Published 16-Oct-2023

Enjoy a Sunday to Remember at the Bardon Markets Spring Gala

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.

Follow their Facebook page for updates.

Published 6-Sept-2023

All in a Day’s Work: Massive Python Rescued From Bardon Car by Fearless Snake Catcher

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.



Many praised Jaedon’s bravery and skill, while others expressed awe at the sheer size of the python. For Jaedon, it was all in a day’s work.

Published 24-Aug-2023

Specialised Care Comes to Bardon: Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics Now Available

Did you know that Bardon has an endometriosis and pelvic pain clinic, one of the first such clinics to be rolled out by the Australian government across the country?



One in 9 Australian women suffer from endometriosis and it can have a terrible effect on daily life.

Unfortunately, endometriosis takes an average of seven years to be diagnosed, which results in extensive pain. Additionally, pelvic pain is thought to cost the Australian economy $6 billion yearly. 

The Australian Government has raised its commitment from 16 to 20 clinics in order to solve these issues, ensuring that more women have access to specialised care. Over the course of four years, each clinic will receive money totalling over $700,000, allowing for the appointment of specialist staff and the purchase of supplies and equipment. 

The endometriosis and pelvic pain clinic will increase early access to multidisciplinary care and shorten diagnostic wait times by operating inside the confines of already-established general practice facilities.

In addition to directly assisting patients, the clinics will improve professional knowledge and abilities, increase public awareness of endometriosis and pelvic pain, and provide access to resources and care pathways. Women can get the care they require by making an appointment at one of the 20 clinics. 

In Bardon, women can access the endometriosis and pelvic pain clinic at 1a Stuartholme Rd, Neighbourhood Medical offers specialised care for women who experience pelvic discomfort and endometriosis.



“Too many women suffer for years with what we know can be debilitating conditions. They deserve to have their concerns be taken seriously with better access to specialised care,”  Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Ged Kearney MP said.

“These Clinics are about providing women with an accessible front door to the care that they need. Gathering expertise under one roof, fostering that knowledge to improve diagnosis and services, having referral pathways in place – these are all crucial elements to getting the support that women need right.”

Published 4-August-2023

Tiny Home Listing in Bardon Creates Stir

Amid Australia’s ongoing housing crisis, a makeshift tiny home listed for rent in Bardon has sparked a heated debate among prospective renters. The unique property, seemingly transformed from a shed, has captivated and unsettled many, highlighting the current state of the country’s rental market.



Situated at 1/55 Coopers Camp Road, Bardon, this one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit is currently available for rent at a rate of $350 per week. Marketed as a recently renovated abode, the property offers a spacious open-plan layout, convenient off-street parking, a well-equipped kitchen, and low-maintenance flooring. Notably, the water bill is included in the rental price, while a bond of $1400 is mandatory for the prospective tenant.

Tiny Home Listing in Bardon Creates Stir
Photo Credit:   Place Newmarket / placerealestate.com.au 

Critics of the tiny home argue that its size and layout make it unsuitable for families. The living space, which houses a double bed close to the oven and stove, has limited room for additional furniture. The kitchen features a bar fridge and a couple of cupboards for storage. The bathroom, separated by a divider wall, includes a toilet, shower, and sink built into a cabinet. 

Despite these concerns, the property has garnered support from some Australians, who highlight its private entrance, outdoor relaxation area, and clean appearance.

Tiny Home Listing in Bardon Creates Stir
Photo Credit:   Place Newmarket / placerealestate.com.au 

The controversy surrounding this rental property highlights the challenges faced by many Australians in the current rental market. While some criticize the existence of such accommodations, others view them as a preferable alternative to homelessness. With a severe shortage of affordable housing options, individuals facing dire circumstances find themselves grateful for the opportunity to secure any form of shelter, however modest.

Tiny Home Listing in Bardon Creates Stir
Photo Credit:   Place Newmarket / placerealestate.com.au 

Public opinion on social media platforms has been divided, with individuals expressing contrasting viewpoints. Critics argue that it is disheartening to witness the state of the rental market, while others defend the property, highlighting the dire situations faced by those living in tents or substandard conditions.

“It’s a ($350 per week) quaintly renovated shed. And all the references to schools and playgrounds is interesting – how could you live in this with children? Or are you meant to put one in there on their own?!,” Emily Mayo tweeted.

“If it homeless or this , I choose this. But 350 to sleep in a kitchen and in bed with ya kid/s.,” replied one user.

“This is actually nicer than most of the $350 pw apartments in Melbourne, including my own.,” another commented.

“Unrealistic $350pw in QLD for a shed,” another Twitter user wrote.

“Actually much nicer than most “renovate the garage and flog it off as a posh studio” units I’ve looked at here. In space, cleanliness, lack of heat trap crowding and actual studio stove and lockable door reno.,” another tweet says.



As the rental crisis continues to unfold, discussions surrounding affordable housing and the need for comprehensive solutions gain momentum. The case of the Bardon tiny home sheds light on the broader challenges faced by individuals seeking suitable accommodations and prompts a reflection on the state of Australia’s housing market.

Published 12-July-2023

Exciting Health And Wellness Programs Coming to Bardon In May 2023

Embrace a month dedicated to health and wellness in Bardon this May 2023! From low-impact body conditioning programs for seniors to stability exercises for all ages, here are the activities that will help nurture your body, mind, and soul.


Read: Bardon House, The Villa That Inspired The Name Of A Suburb


Strength, agility and balance for seniors

Photo credit: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Discover meticulously crafted low impact body conditioning programs, designed to specifically target strength and enhance overall endurance and fitness levels. 

The programs, held each Wednesday, are perfectly suited for individuals of all fitness levels, regardless of gender. This event is free, though bookings are essential. For booking inquiries, reach out to Fitness with a Twist via email.

The programs will be held at Bowman Park, 247 Simpsons Road. The meeting point will be near the half basketball court.

Dates:

  • May 3
  • May 10
  • May 17
  • May 24
  • May 31

Balance better and stay moving with Tai Chi & Qigong

Photo credit: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au 

Experience the transformative benefits of Tai Chi & Qigong, specifically tailored to enhance balance, stability, and promote healthy aging. 

Brisbane City Council’s well-established falls-prevention program has been thoughtfully adjusted to accommodate individuals of all skill levels, ensuring that they feel relaxed, rejuvenated, and tranquil.

This remarkable event is classified as GOLD, catering to seniors. However, it warmly welcomes participants of all age groups. Participation comes at a modest fee of just $5. Meeting point is at Bardon Lions Park, Fletcher Pde opposite Alexandra Street.

Dates:

  • May 4
  • May 11
  • May 18
  • May 25

Tabata and core

Photo credit: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au 

Discover the perfect blend of interval training, designed to enhance cardiovascular fitness, and targeted core strength and stability exercises. This exceptional program is well-suited for individuals of all fitness levels, regardless of gender. 

Participation is free, but it is essential to secure your spot by making a booking in advance. To book phone Fitness With A Twist on 0406 425 561. The venue is at Jubilee Park.

Dates:

  • May 5
  • May 12
  • May 19
  • May 26


Read: Here’s Where To Go In Rosalie For The Best Croissants


Visit Council’s website for further details on the upcoming health and wellness programs in Bardon. 

Published 1-May-2023

Discover Patio, The New Al Fresco Destination In Rosalie

Patio, a new al fresco destination and neighbourhood bar in Rosalie, is currently in the works by the Range Brewing team.


Read: Inside Thai Terrace, A Place To Grab Authentic Thai Cuisine In Rosalie


Matt McIver and Gerard Martin of Range Brewing have been entertaining the thought of opening a restaurant with a large outdoor space where people could unwind, drink their beer, and soak up the wonderful Queensland weather for quite some time.

With the intention of offering such an experience, McIver and Martin are thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of Patio on Baroona Road in May 2023.

Patio
Matt McIver and Gerard Martin (Photo credit: Range Brewing/Facebook)

Patio will serve the complete menu from Jacopo’s Pizza, with a few notable additions such as a mouth-watering chicken parmigiana. Additionally,McIver and Martin are considering introducing a sandwich menu for guests visiting during lunchtime.

Photo credit: Range Brewing/Facebook

The bar will offer an eclectic array of beverages, with ten taps of Range Brewing’s exceptional beers and two taps reserved for house wines produced by Latta Vino, ensuring that there’s something to suit every taste.

Unlike the immersive beer experience found at their taprooms in Melbourne or Newstead, the vibe at Patio will be more casual, resembling a welcoming neighborhood craft beer and wine venue that feels like a comfortable home away from home.

Patio
Photo credit: Range Brewing/Facebook

With its ample size and sun-kissed ambiance, the al fresco courtyard at Patio offers an unobstructed view of Rosalie Village, creating a breathtaking backdrop for guests to enjoy a beverage or two.


Read: I Had Never Heard of This Donburi Place in Rosalie But the Food is Incredible!


The patio area can accommodate roughly 70 guests, whilst an additional 30 people can be served indoors. The outdoor space will feature a fusion of Australian and Italian design elements, with the outdoor deck chairs serving as the perfect example. 

Patio is set to open at 146 Baroona Road, Rosalie, in the space formerly occupied by Moga Izakaya & Sushi.

Published 13-April-2023

Telepresence Robot: Saving Students With Serious Illness or Injury From Isolation

Meet Telepresence Robot, the innovative solution that made a difference in the life of a Bardon kid who was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease and was forced to miss school because of his illness.



Due to serious illnesses or injuries, thousands of Australian children are forced to miss school. Whilst some may need to miss a few days or weeks of school until they get fully recovered, some treatments could drag on for months or even years, resulting in them feeling left behind and isolated from their school community.

Eight-year-old Odinn Meehan has been in that situation. After a recent bout with COVID-19, he was diagnosed with Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM), a type of autoimmune disease in children that causes skin rash and muscle inflammation. Due to his rare illness, Odinn was forced to be absent from class often just so that he could continue with his treatment and avoid getting reinfected with Covid.

His parents describe him as a very social kid which is why being away from his schoolmates has understandably affected his emotional well-being. And whilst Rainworth State School was very supportive and provided him with study sheets during those days when he needed to be absent, it was not the same as being physically present in class.

Thankfully, they learned about MissingSchool’s game-changing project Telepresence Robot Service which allows students to remotely attend class and be able to interact with their teachers and classmates, much like teleconferencing.

The innovative solution, however, takes it to another level as it gave Odinn the ability to navigate through the physical space of his school and participate in the activities as if being there physically.

The telepresence robots live in regular classrooms, and they are remotely operated in real-time by the student from their remote location through their device.

“Maintaining connection keeps students with illness up-to-date socially and academically, helps to normalise a critical period in their life, and gives them a chance to be ‘just kids’ rather than patients.” – MissingSchool

Today, Odinn is no longer isolated and lonely. Through MissingSchool’s telepresence robot service, he was able to have access to education again and reestablish his social connection. There are more than 60,000 kids like him who are also suffering from a serious illness or injury and miss school from months to years.



An Australian-first, the telepresence robot service began as a pilot program that was launched in Canberra, ACT through a $600,000 grant from St George Foundation. They have been trialled in various locations and education settings in Europe and North America.

In Australia, MissingSchool has been rolling out telepresence robots in schools, hospital schools, and education systems since 2017. The program now operates in every Australian state and territory.

More information about MissingSchool and Telepresence Robot Service can be found here.

Published 3-April-2023

Locals Divided About Roaming Peafowl in Bardon, Bird-lovers Unhappy About Relocation

A small population of beautiful but wild peafowl have been quietly plucked out of Bardon and relocated elsewhere after a complaint was lodged about their presence. However, some local bird lovers are unhappy about the move, saying the peafowl were not bothersome at all.



Jon Fihelly, a resident, believes that the removal was unnecessary since the birds’ do not number enough to even cause a disturbance or an outbreak. Bardon’s peafowl population has dwindled to just 10 within the last four decades compared to other suburbs with 30 or more of these animals. The birds are usually found near the Outlook Cres at the foothills of Mt Coot-tha.

The relocation was discovered by someone who saw the birds impounded at the Animal Welfare League Queensland and shared the photo in a local group online. Mr Fihelly wondered why the move took place despite no consultations with the public. He was more bothered when Council allegedly denied that the peafowls are at the shelter, according to reports

Cr Kim Marx, the Civic Cabinet Chair for City Standards, said that the transfer was decided following a complaint about the presence of the peafowls in Bardon. She added that peafowls may cause a lot of noise or damage properties by roosting, thus the need to act on the complaint. Cr Marx also said that they consulted with bird experts about the relocation. 

Bardon peafowl
Photo Credit: Kolm-Jany/Pixabay

However, Mr Fihelly pointed out that the birds prefer to roost on trees and not houses or cars and that the noise only happens during the breeding season. He also checked public records of complaints but found none as of December 2022. 

“My neighbours that don’t want them around have shooed them away in the past and hence never see them anymore so there is an easy solution without having the BCC remove them,” he said.



Published 30 March 2023

 

Bardon Ranked Top 6 Safest Suburbs in Queensland

Data analysis of the property crime records in Queensland shows that Bardon ranks as the sixth safest place in the city.



Postal Code 4065, covering Bardon and Rainworth, located northwest of Brisbane CBD, logged 26 crimes per 1,000 properties from Queensland Police Service data drawn between 2017 to 2022 for crimes under Unlawful Entry and ‘Other Theft (excluding Unlawful Entry). The state average is 130 crimes per 1,000 properties. 

According to Budget Direct, Bardon’s crime rate dropped by 14 points in the last year, further lowering its risk profile for residents. However, it’s still a few points higher than the number one postal code on the list, 4055, covering the suburbs of Ferny Hills, Kedron Upper, Bunya, Ferny Grove, Ferny Hills and Upper Kedron which average 14 crimes per 1,000 properties.

Bardon’s ranking comes as no surprise as it has maintained its desirability and liveability for many years.

Nestled at the Mt Coot-tha foothills, Bardon, with a little under 10,000 residents, has a peaceful and rustic charm where families and their dogs can walk to local parks, biking trails and recreational places. Residents raise their kids amongst nature and wildlife and enjoy the weekly community events or dine at thriving cafes and restaurants.

Top 10 Safest Post Codes in Queensland from 2017 to 2022

  1. 4055 Ferny Hills, Kedron Upper, Bunya, Ferny Grove, Ferny Hills and Upper Kedron
  2. 4070 Anstead, Bellbowrie, Moggill and Priors Pocket
  3. 4061 The Gap
  4. 4037 Eatons Hill
  5. 4154 Gumdale, Ransome and Wakerley
  6. 4065 Bardon West, Jubilee, Rainworth and Bardon
  7. 4035 Albany Creek, Bridgeman Downs and Cashs Crossing
  8. 4025 Moreton Island, Bulwer, Cape Moreton, Cowan Cowan, Kooringal and Tangalooma
  9. 4067 St Lucia, St Lucia South and Ironside
  10. 4069 Brookfield, Chapel Hill, Fig Tree Pocket, Kenmore, Kenmore East, Kenmore Hills, Pinjarra Hills, Pullenvale, Upper Brookfield, Kenmore Dc and Lone Pine


Published 18 March 2023