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.
Tapri offers an array of mouthwatering Indian snacks and dishes at budget prices, making it the perfect spot for a quick bite before or after catching a movie at Blue Room Cinebar located just next door.
The owners’ passion for Indian food led them to launch their flagship restaurant Old Monk – Modern Indian in 2022, which was nominated for best Indian restaurant in Queensland its first year.
Tapri team (Photo credit: tapribne.com.au)
Now their expertise and enthusiasm is on display at Tapri, bringing diners an authentic taste of India’s vibrant street food culture right in the heart of Rosalie Village.
Photo credit: Darshan Pandya/Google Maps
The menu highlights include an array of flavorful chatori chat appetisers like aloo laccha, tokri, crispy kale, and palak or samosa channa chaat. Be sure to also try the Chinese Bhel, a tasty combination of fried noodles, homemade slaw, and Szechuan chutney.
For an iconic Indian street snack, Dahi Puri is a must-try – puffy fried bread filled with a zesty mix of potato, chickpeas, yogurt, and chutney.
Tapri also serves up hot savoury treats like Aaloo Paranthas, the flaky flatbreads enclosing a spiced potato filling, and Hole Bhature, fluffy fried bread served with chickpea curry. Or sample the Papdi chaat, a tangy mix of fried dough wafers, tamarind chutney, yogurt, potatoes and chickpeas.
For those unfamiliar, a tapri is a small roadside tea stall or shop commonly found in India, where patrons gather to sip hot chai and enjoy street food snacks. Tapris play an integral role in Indian culture, acting as lively social hubs where people from all walks of life come together to connect over a cup of chai.
The name Tapri aims to evoke the spirited atmosphere of these beloved community spaces, bringing people together to share great food and conversation.
Inspired by contemporary Japanese izakaya-style dining, the cosy yet spacious space features an open kitchen, artwork-lined walls, and comfortable counter seating that wraps around the kitchen.
With ample room for dining, Lulu Ramen offers a relaxed ramen experience in a stylish but laid-back setting.
Photo credit: Lulu Ramen/Google Maps
The star of the show at Lulu Ramen is, unsurprisingly, the ramen. The house specialty is the Special Chicken & Bonito Chintan Ramen, made with both chicken and fish broth for maximum depth of flavor.
It comes loaded with slices of duck breast and low-temp chicken breast char sui, dried bamboo shoots, king oyster mushrooms, soft boiled egg, black truffle sauce, shredded green onions and snow peas. Each component adds its own unique flavour and texture, coming together in perfect harmony with the expertly crafted broth and fresh ramen noodles.
Photo credit: Lulu Ramen/Google Maps
In addition to ramen, this place also offers small plates like pan-fried gyoza dumplings, tempura, karaage fried chicken and edamame to complement your noodle fix.
To drink, there is a modest selection of Japanese beverages including junmai sake, Japanese beer, green tea and unique cocktails made with sake and shochu. This ramen bar is licensed, so feel free to BYO your favourite wine to enjoy with your meal for a $12 corkage fee.
Photo credit: Lulu Ramen/Google Maps
With its intimate vibe and scrumptious ramen freshly made to order, this ramen bar is a can’t-miss spot for Japanese food lovers on Brisbane’s northside and beyond. Just be prepared to slurp your noodles loudly – it’s the polite way to eat ramen in Japan!
More than 70 roads across Queensland were closed on Friday due to flash flooding caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily, including Bowman Parade in Bardon.
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily has already dumped several hundred millimetres of rain and caused widespread flooding over the past four to five days in Queensland. The former cyclone is expected to make a sharp turn southward on Friday back towards the coast, bringing another round of heavy rainfall to the region as well as eastern Northern Territory.
Bowman Parade is no stranger to flooding, having been subject to inundation for years. According to Brisbane City Council’s Flood Awareness Map, Bowman Pde has a high likelihood of creek flooding and likelihood of overflowing because of its proximity to Ithaca Creek.
Photo credit: brisbane.qld.gov.au
Although emergency alerts have been cancelled, some Brisbane residents are still waiting for flood waters to recede. Heavy rainfall has temporarily subsided across southern and southeast Queensland, but authorities caution residents to stay alert as the flooding danger remains high.
This flooding is likely to have a major impact on transportation, with several rural roads remaining closed. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a Severe Weather Warning for areas likely to see the heaviest rainfall over the next 24 hours along the path of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Kirrily.
Residents are reminded to avoid non-essential travel, stay informed about weather warnings and road closures, and follow all directions from emergency personnel.
Those who would like to monitor updated forecasts and warnings are encouraged to visit www.bom.gov.au or install the BOM weather app and follow the advice of emergency services. To check Queensland road conditions, residents may visit qldtraffic.qld.gov.au.
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.
