Bardon Neighbourhood Watch Program Set To Revolutionise Community Safety

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.

Published Date 08-April-2024

Bardon Neighbourhood Centre Fights Against a Soaring Demand for Aid

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.

Bardon Neighbourhood Centre
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.

Published 2-March-2024

Hidden Gem in Bardon: Civosity Park

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.

Civosity Park Bardon
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.

Civosity Park Bardon
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.”

Civosity Park Bardon
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. 



Published 17-Jan-2024

Sunset Celebrations to Showcase Rosalie Village Precinct Upgrades

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.


Read: 5 Interesting Details You Might Not Know About Rosalie


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.


Read: Rosalie Village Pedestrian Crossing Faces Uncertainty


Published 2-January-2024

Historic Bardon Property Linked to Royal Visit Hits the Market

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. 

Leslie St Bardon
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​​.

Leslie St Bardon
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.

Published 8-Dec-2023

Stuartholme School: Historic Junior School Precinct Construction Commences in Bardon

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. 

Stuartholme School
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.

Stuartholme School building
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. 

Sports Centre Approved

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. 

Stuartholme School building
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.

Published 31-Oct-2023

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

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