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Coorparoo RSL’s Revamp of Greenslopes Bowls Club Underway

Photo Credit: Coorparoo RSL & Community Club/Facebook

Construction is set to begin at the former Greenslopes Bowls Club site as Coorparoo RSL embarks on a major refurbishment to revitalise the long-closed community venue. The redevelopment aims to restore the site as a family-friendly space featuring a restaurant, live music, and social bowling greens.

Once a thriving hub for live music, community events, and social bowls, the Greenslopes Bowls Club at 131 Ridge Street officially closed in late 2022. In response to concerns over the loss of vital community spaces in the area, BCC opened the site for tender in 2023, seeking a non-profit organisation capable of restoring and managing the venue.

Coorparoo RSL and Community Club was chosen as the preferred leaseholder and, in September 2023, secured a 10-year lease agreement with BCC. The agreement also includes an option to extend the lease after three years.

The Redevelopment Plan and Timeline

Coorparoo RSL is investing $3.5 million into the site’s refurbishment, partnering with Paynters, a hospitality design and construction firm, to deliver the transformation.

The project will include:

A bistro, bar, and café to cater to families and visitors.
Two bowling greens, one dedicated to social bowls and the other as a community green space.
An outdoor covered deck for dining and entertainment.
Expanded parking facilities to accommodate visitors.
Gaming facilities as part of the club’s operations.
A welfare office to support veterans, aligned with RSL Queensland’s mission.

The staged refurbishment timeline is as follows:

February 2025 – Worksite establishment.
March 2025 – Removal of building materials.
April 2025 – Commencement of the refurbishment fit-out.
Second half of 2025 – Expected project completion and relocation of Coorparoo RSL operations to the site.

Greenslopes Bowls Club — *Photo Credit: CrFionaCunningham/Facebook*

Community Sentiment and Future Impact

The project has received strong support from Coorparoo RSL members and the wider Greenslopes community. Club president Mervyn Cuylenburg expressed optimism, stating that the redevelopment would restore a key social space while securing the club’s long-term future.

BCC’s decision to lease the site to Coorparoo RSL has also reassured residents concerned about the land being sold for private development. Many locals have welcomed plans to reintroduce live music, dining, and recreational activities to the area.

Next Steps

Coorparoo RSL has assured members and residents that the transition will be smooth, with its current Coorparoo site remaining operational until the new Greenslopes venue is ready. Regular updates on the refurbishment process will be shared via official club communications and a dedicated email address (greenslopes@coorparoorsl.com.au).

As construction begins, the club has urged the community to remain patient during the initial stages, with some noise expected during normal building hours.

With work now underway, the Greenslopes community looks forward to welcoming back a beloved venue, set to offer a fresh mix of entertainment, dining, and social engagement by late 2025.

Published 12-Feb-2025

Construction Rebounds in Stones Corner with Stonebrook and Lumina Projects

Photo Credit: Pexels

The Australian construction industry is showing signs of recovery, and Stones Corner is witnessing this firsthand with two major residential projects—Stonebrook and Lumina—progressing despite past industry setbacks. Both developments are set to redefine urban living in the area, reflecting a renewed sense of confidence in the sector.

The Australian construction sector has endured a challenging period, plagued by rising costs, material shortages, and delays—issues that worsened after the COVID-19 pandemic. However, BCI Central’s Construction Outlook Report – Australia suggests that the industry is stabilising, paving the way for a more optimistic 2025.

Two notable developments in Stones Corner, Stonebrook and Lumina, reflect this renewed activity, bringing new residential options and lifestyle amenities to the growing suburb.

Stonebrook: A Boutique Development Near Hanlon Park

Stones Corner developments — *Photo Credit: Gardner Vaughan Group*

Located at 10 Flora Street, Stonebrook is a 90-apartment development (DA A006705266) spanning nine levels, offering high-end residences with premium amenities. The project is rising at the intersection of Flora and Lincoln Streets, adjacent to Hanlon Park, which was named Australia’s Best Park in 2023.

Key Features

Ground-floor heated pool & gymnasium
Rooftop terrace with indoor and outdoor dining overlooking park views
Multi-recreational spaces for relaxation and social gatherings
High-quality fixtures and finishes throughout

Stones Corner residential growth with new high-rise apartments. — *Photo Credit: Gardner Vaughan Group*

Stonebrook is designed to blend nature with urban living, providing direct access to 5.21 hectares of open green space while still being within walking distance of Stones Corner Village. The development has seen strong demand, with one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and four-bedroom units sold out and three-bedroom apartments starting from $1,329,000. The penthouse collection begins at $2,219,000.

Construction progress at Stones Corner’s Stonebrook and Lumina. — *Photo Credit: Gardner Vaughan Group*

Construction began in mid-2023 and is progressing rapidly, with work reaching Levels 2 and 3 and key structural elements advancing. Waterproofing, glazing, and mechanical installations are nearing completion on the ground floor.

Lumina: Stones Corner’s Tallest Residential Tower

Stones Corner developments with rooftop pools and premium amenities. — *Photo Credit: Lumina*

At 17 Cleveland Street, Lumina is a 12-storey development (DA A005844851), making it the tallest residential building in the area. Designed with luxury and functionality in mind, Lumina is tailored for owner-occupiers and includes spacious 1, 2, and 3-bedroom residences.

Key Features

Resort-style rooftop pool with submerged seating and panoramic views
Movie theatre for resident entertainment
Fully equipped health club and custom sauna
Co-working space and private meeting room for remote work
Lush gardens and alfresco dining areas with BBQ facilities
Communal herb garden for relaxation

Luxury apartments in Stones Corner’s new residential projects. — *Photo Credit: Lumina*

The development aims to offer a well-balanced urban lifestyle, positioned in one of Brisbane’s most connected addresses for education, healthcare, and transport. Its proximity to Stones Corner Village ensures easy access to cafés, restaurants, and retail.

Stonebrook and Lumina developments in Stones Corner. — *Photo Credit: Lumina*

A Positive Outlook for Stones Corner

Both Stonebrook and Lumina reflect a resurgence in Brisbane’s construction sector, driven by growing demand for quality residential developments. The BCI Central report notes that Queensland is leading early-stage project values, with significant investments in residential, commercial, and energy sectors.

As construction on Stonebrook and Lumina progresses, Stones Corner is poised to attract new residents, further cementing its status as a sought-after urban precinct.

Published 4-Feb-2025

Parents of Baby Luka Announce Engagement

Photo Credit: Tiny Hearts

In a bittersweet turn of events, the parents of baby Luka, who suffered severe burns in an unprovoked coffee attack at Stones Corner’s Hanlon Park last August, have announced their engagement while the search for their son’s attacker continues to stall.

The couple celebrated their engagement on New Year’s Eve in their new home, where Luka’s father proposed in an intimate setting. “Starting 2025 with my best friend as my fiancé,” Luka’s mother shared on Instagram, accompanied by a photo showing her engagement ring.

The happy news comes amid ongoing frustration over the stalled investigation into the brutal attack that left then nine-month-old Luka with burns to 60% of his body. The incident occurred during a family picnic at Hanlon Park, a popular community space in Stones Corner.

Despite CCTV footage capturing the suspect fleeing the scene, police have been unable to apprehend the attacker, who is believed to have fled to China after travelling from Queensland to Victoria and departing from Sydney Airport on August 31. Detective Inspector Paul Dalton described the investigation as “one of the most complex and sometimes frustrating investigations” he’s had to lead, noting the suspect’s apparent knowledge of police methodologies.

The community rallied around the family following the attack, with a GoFundMe campaign raising over $230,000 to support Luka’s treatment and recovery. The family has since relocated to a new area for a fresh start.

However, Luka’s mother recently expressed her disappointment with the investigation’s lack of progress. “No progression on our case and at a standstill from what we have been told,” she posted on social media. “Super upsetting when you see others getting the justice they deserve… but then your boy isn’t receiving the same.”

Queensland Police confirmed this week that investigations remain ongoing, though no new updates are available. A warrant remains active for the suspect on charges of acts intending to cause grievous bodily harm, which carries a potential life sentence.

The motive for the attack remains unclear, though there has been speculation in China about a possible connection to a visa application refusal. Police have withheld the suspect’s identity and specific location to avoid compromising their investigation.

Published 3-February-2025

Dog Declared Dangerous After Fatal Cat Attack in Stones Corner—Owner Fights Back

Photo Credit: Pexels

A greyhound has been officially classified as a dangerous dog after fatally attacking a cat in Stones Corner in 2022, leading to a dispute between its owner, Lisa Dalgliesh, and local authorities.

Ms Dalgliesh argues that her dog, Budd, was startled and acted instinctively rather than aggressively, challenging the ruling that now places strict conditions on his movements and care.

Fatal Stones Corner Attack Raises Concerns

On 15 August 2022, a cat named Coco was killed on Old Cleveland Road, Stones Corner, following an encounter with Budd, a five-and-a-half-year-old rescue greyhound.

Ms Dalgliesh maintains that Coco ran out from nearby bushes, startling Budd and prompting a defensive reaction rather than an unprovoked attack. She describes Budd as a rehabilitated family pet and argues that his classification as dangerous is unfair.

A Second Attack Leads to Dangerous Dog Ruling

Before Ms Dalgliesh could formally dispute any action related to the Stones Corner incident, Budd was involved in a second fatal attack. In April 2023, while on a leash in Greenslopes, he attacked another cat, Mickey, who later had to be euthanised due to the severity of his injuries.

Following this second attack, authorities officially declared Budd a dangerous dog on 7 June 2023. The ruling was based on findings that Budd’s actions were unprovoked and consistent with an unrestrained attack rather than self-defence.

Despite this, Ms Dalgliesh continues to dispute the classification. She contends that the incidents were circumstantial rather than indicative of a behavioural pattern. As a compromise, she has proposed muzzling Budd in public but believes the restrictions placed on him are excessive.

Dog Attacks and Their Consequences

Dog attacks—whether involving other animals or humans—are treated as serious incidents with legal and regulatory consequences.

While aggression is a natural behaviour in dogs, it can arise for various reasons, including fear, territorial instinct, or a history of trauma. If left unmanaged, it can escalate into an attack. Veterinary consultation and behavioural training are recommended for dog owners whose pets show signs of aggression.

Dangerous and Menacing Dog Declarations

Under the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008, a dog may be declared dangerous or menacing if it has attacked or threatened another person or animal.

A dog is classified as dangerous if:

It has severely attacked a person or another animal.
An authorised officer determines the dog poses a serious risk of attacking.
It has displayed behaviour that caused fear or injury.
Another local council has previously declared the dog dangerous.

Once declared dangerous, strict conditions apply, including muzzling in public, specific enclosure requirements, and potential euthanasia in severe cases.

Dangerous dog legal dispute — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pexels*

Ongoing Debate Over Dog Safety

Ms Dalgliesh’s case highlights the complexities of dog behaviour, instinct, and aggression, as well as the responsibilities of pet ownership under Queensland law.

In the meantime, Budd, now classified as a dangerous dog, must be registered with the council. He is required to wear a distinctive collar with a yellow and red striped pattern and a muzzle when in public. At home, Budd must be kept in a council-approved enclosure, which must have signs posted near each entrance. He must remain at his registered address, and the council must be notified of any changes in his residence.

For dog attack reports, contact 07 3403 8888.

Published 30-Jan-2025

Authentic Sri Lankan Cuisine Arrives in Stones Corner with Walkway to Ceylon

Photo Credit: Walkway to Ceylon/Facebook

Walkway to Ceylon, a new Sri Lankan restaurant in Stones Corner, has officially opened, offering a menu inspired by the success of the popular food truck, Cafe 299.

With over 160,000 Sri Lankan diaspora in Australia, Sri Lankan cuisine has stayed rather underrepresented in Brisbane’s food scene. Acknowledging this disparity, husband-and-wife team Sam Weerappuli and Nirosha Jayasekara opened Cafe 299 as a food truck in 2020.

Stones Corner Sri Lankan cuisine — *Photo Caption: Golden, crispy Fish Cutlets served with tangy sauce and fresh greens.*
*Photo Credit: Walk to Ceylon/Facebook*

Inspired by the passionate community response and growing demand, they grew their business with a permanent site right in the heart of Stones Corner.

A Culinary Expansion in Stones Corner

Located at 1/417 Logan Road, in the former Yum Yum Duck premises, Walkway to Ceylon offers an extensive menu featuring authentic Sri Lankan street food and seafood specialities. The restaurant’s minimalist fit-out includes concrete floors, yellow and black furniture, and a distinctive timber bar.

Walk to Ceylon's interior design — *Photo Credit: Walk to Ceylon/Facebook*

Menu Highlights

Walkway to Ceylon’s menu offers a diverse range of traditional Sri Lankan dishes, including:

Street Food: Fish cutlets, crispy chicken rolls, and spiced vegetarian patties.
Roti Specialties: Kottu roti (shredded roti with egg and vegetables), egg roti, and coconut roti.
Signature Dishes: A standout Sri Lankan crab curry, available by pre-order, served with string hoppers, rice, and coconut sambal.
Drinks Selection: A curated list of cocktails, wines, and Sri Lanka’s popular Lion Lager beer.

Walk to Ceylon's Sri Lankan food — *Photo Caption: Walkway to Ceylon’s authentic Sri Lankan Kottu.*
*Photo Credit: Walk to Ceylon/Facebook*

Upcoming Dinner Buffet Event

To celebrate its growing presence in Stones Corner, Walkway to Ceylon is hosting a Sri Lankan dinner buffet on 31 January 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., providing an all-you-can-eat experience for $49 per person.

Buffet highlights include:

Starters: Chef’s special soup and appetisers.
Mains: Stringhoppers, rice, crab curry, black pork curry, and more.
Desserts: Famous Sri Lankan coffee cakes and the chef’s special desserts.

Reservations can be made by calling 0412 008 107.

Community Response to Walkway to Ceylon

Since opening in mid-December, Walkway to Ceylon has been warmly received by Stones Corner residents. The restaurant’s growing popularity has prompted the owners to consider adding a lunch service, pending staffing arrangements.

Sri Lankan cuisine Stones Corner — *Photo Caption: Sri Lankan coconut roti served with meat curry.*
*Photo Credit: Walk to Ceylon/Facebook*

For now, Walkway to Ceylon serves dinner from Tuesday to Thursday, 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Friday to Saturday, 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Sunday, 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Published 20-Jan-2025

What’s Next for Lady Marmalade? Stones Corner Cafe Ends 15-Year Run

Stones Corner’s Lady Marmalade cafe has officially closed its doors after 15 years of serving the local community.

Read: Lady Marmalade in Stones Corner Now Under New Management

Established in 2010 by My Kitchen Rules contestants Bec Saul and Malcolm Gill, the cafe quickly became a beloved gathering spot known for its creative menu and welcoming atmosphere.

In 2015, the cafe underwent its first major transition when Sonja and Howard Searle took over ownership. Under their management, Lady Marmalade flourished, undergoing significant transformations that helped it navigate the challenges of the pandemic. The couple’s stewardship saw the cafe evolve into a vibrant hub for locals, with its unique charm and historical setting playing a key role in its popularity.

The cafe is housed in a 1930s heritage-listed building that carries its own rich history. Before becoming Lady Marmalade, the site served a variety of purposes, including a canary house, bird hospital, and later a record shop. This blend of vintage character and modern cafe culture made this cafe a standout destination in Stones Corner.

In 2022, new owners took over the business, marking another chapter in the cafe’s story. However, as of this week, operations have come to an end. A brief and cryptic message on the cafe’s website simply reads, “Something is happening!” This has sparked curiosity among regulars, with many speculating about what might come next for the iconic site.

Read: Why Lady Marmalade Cafe and Bar is a Favourite Hangout in Greenslopes and Stones Corner

While the closure marks the end of an era for Lady Marmalade, the cafe’s legacy as a cornerstone of the Stones Corner community will not be forgotten. Its unique setting and long-standing connection to locals leave open the possibility for exciting new developments. For now, the community waits eagerly to see what the future holds for this storied location.

Published 13-January-2025

Australia Day at Hanlon Park Offers Free Fun for Families

Photo Credit: St Paul's Antiochian Orthodox Church Brisbane/Facebook

Hanlon Park in Stones Corner will transform into a lively community hub on Australia Day, featuring free rides, cultural activities, and live entertainment for the whole family.

A Day for Community Connection

Organised by St Paul’s Antiochian Orthodox Church Brisbane, with assistance from the National Australia Day Council, the event promises a full day of activities to celebrate Australian culture and heritage.

Scheduled for 26 January, the festivities will take place at Hanlon Park and offer free entry.

Families attending can enjoy attractions such as free rides, an animal farm, competitions, food stalls, and face painting.

The event also honours Australia’s rich cultural diversity, with First Nations cultural performances featured as part of the program. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs, picnic mats, and umbrellas to enjoy the day comfortably.

Australia Day — *Photo Credit: St Paul’s Antiochian Orthodox Church Brisbane*

A Church with Deep Roots

St Paul’s Antiochian Orthodox Church Brisbane, the event organiser, has long been a cornerstone of its community. Founded in 1989 under the leadership of Archbishop Gibran Ramlawey, the Church has grown to serve approximately 200 families across regions like Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Toowoomba.

The Church’s journey has been marked by a dedication to fostering faith and community. In its early years, services were held in various borrowed spaces before the Church established its permanent home at 66 Junction Street in 2002. Along the way, the Church built initiatives such as Sunday School and youth programs, which remain active today.

Bringing People Together

The Australia Day event highlights the Church’s ongoing mission to strengthen community ties and celebrate shared values. With various activities and entertainment, the event allows people of all backgrounds to come together.

The festivities reflect the spirit of collaboration and cultural respect, which are central to both the Church’s work and the broader significance of Australia Day. The organisers have ensured the event is accessible and enjoyable for all, making Hanlon Park the perfect setting for a memorable celebration.

Published 10-January-2025

Stones Corner: A Rising Star for Downsizers and Rightsizers in Brisbane

Did you know that Stones Corner is being seen as one of Brisbane’s most sought-after suburbs for both downsizers and rightsizers in 2025?

Read: First Look: Brisbane Releases Stones Corner Suburban Renewal Precinct Plans

Downsizing involves moving to a smaller property, while rightsizing focuses on finding a home that aligns perfectly with current life circumstances—whether that’s a different suburb, a single-storey house, or a more suitable layout.

According to property site Urban, Stones Corner has emerged as a top choice in Brisbane for both downsizers and rightsizers.

The suburb’s rise in popularity is no surprise. Its proximity to Brisbane’s CBD, combined with its rejuvenated public spaces, makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a lifestyle change.

The Allure of Hanlon Park and Infrastructure Growth

Hanlon Park (Photo credit: iTraveller (Thomas)/Google Maps)

Officially recognised as a standalone suburb in 2017—previously part of Greenslopes—this neighbourhood offers a unique mix of urban convenience and suburban charm.

Hanlon Park, for example, has undergone a complete transformation, now featuring scenic walking and cycling paths alongside a natural waterway. Named one of Australia’s best parks, it’s a key drawcard for residents and visitors alike.

It’s also set to benefit from the broader infrastructure boom around Woolloongabba, driven by preparations for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. These developments are creating a vibrant community atmosphere while enhancing local amenities.

Stones Corner is also catching the eye of developers keen to cater to this growing demand. Gardner Vaughan Group is leading the way with Stonebrook, a nine-storey, owner-occupier-focused apartment building that directly connects to Hanlon Park.

Meanwhile, Huon Property Group has plans to launch a 114-apartment development at 22 Cleveland Street, ensuring a steady stream of high-quality housing options for the suburb’s growing population.

Read: Stones Corner Readies for Sky-High Transformation with New Apartment Approval

Whether you’re downsizing to a smaller home or rightsizing to a space that better fits your lifestyle, Stones Corner offers an unmatched blend of convenience, community, and modern living.

Published 26-December-2024

First Gidget House in Queensland Launches in Greenslopes to Aid Parents

Gidget House Greenslopes, Brisbane’s first dedicated perinatal mental health facility, has opened at Greenslopes Private Hospital, offering free, specialist counselling for Queensland parents dealing with perinatal depression and anxiety (PNDA).

A Needed Service for Queensland Families

On Thursday, 5 December 2024, Gidget House Greenslopes officially launched as the first of its kind in Queensland and part of a growing national network of 32 locations. This new service responds to alarming statistics showing that over one-quarter of Queensland parents have experienced symptoms of perinatal mental health issues but did not seek help. The service aims to close gaps in access, providing no-cost, GP-referred counselling sessions either in person or via telehealth.

According to Gidget Foundation Australia, affordability and awareness remain critical barriers, with 25 per cent of Queensland parents unable to afford support and 16 per cent unaware of how to access it. The Foundation’s CEO, Arabella Gibson, said this expansion to Queensland marks a significant step in providing parents with access to much-needed professional care.

Arabella Gibson founder of Gibson House — Arabella Gibson, Founder
Photo Credit: Supplied

Support Tailored to Early Parenthood

Perinatal depression and anxiety affect one in five mothers and one in ten fathers in Australia during the perinatal period, which spans pregnancy and the first year of a child’s life. These challenges, while widespread, often go unaddressed, leaving many parents without the tools they need to manage their emotional health during early parenthood.

Greenslopes Private Hospital CEO, Justin Greenwell, highlighted the partnership with Gidget Foundation Australia as an extension of the hospital’s commitment to the health of the local community. He emphasised that services like Gidget House Greenslopes are crucial for addressing the mental health needs of parents as they navigate the challenges of parenthood.

A National Effort with Local Impact

The creation of Gidget House Greenslopes is part of a broader national mission by Gidget Foundation Australia to address perinatal mental health on a larger scale. By offering year-long, specialist mental health counselling, the organisation hopes to ensure more families feel supported during the crucial perinatal period. The Foundation also provides training and mentoring for its network of clinicians to enhance care quality across its locations.

Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, The Hon Emma McBride MP, who officiated the launch, reiterated the Albanese Government’s commitment to mental health services. She emphasised that the new facility will provide parents in Brisbane with essential support that is accessible, affordable, and tailored to their needs.

With services now available, Gidget House Greenslopes is poised to support parents across Brisbane and the broader Queensland region. For more information, families can visit the Gidget Foundation Australia website or consult their GP for a referral.

The facility’s team is optimistic that this step will reduce barriers to accessing care and improve the mental health outcomes for many parents in the community.

Published 5-Dec-2024

Greenslopes Residents Stunned by Sudden Flash Flooding

Photo Credit: Facebook / Higgins Storm Chasing

Greenslopes experienced sudden flash flooding on Sunday, December 1, 2024 as intense rainfall transformed local streets and parks into raging waterways, with some areas receiving up to 88 mm of rain in just two hours.

The suburb was among the hardest-hit areas in Brisbane’s inner south, with AJ Hanlon Park turning into what locals described as a “raging torrent” in a matter of minutes.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Higgins Storm Chasing

Sarah and Jake Barros, local residents, described the unprecedented flooding in their neighbourhood. “It is pretty scary,” Sarah Barros said.

“Our backyard and garage have been flooded, though our house itself remains okay. We see the park flood regularly, but it hasn’t been this bad in a while. It just happened so quickly – only ten minutes from the first raindrops to full flash flooding.”

Emergency services were active in the area, with multiple cars on Lincoln Street submerged up to their roofs. The speed and intensity of the water rise caught many residents off guard, highlighting the sudden and unpredictable nature of the storm.

The flooding was part of a broader severe weather event across southeast Queensland, characterised by the Bureau of Meteorology as a result of a “humid and unstable” air mass causing slow-moving storms.

Local authorities continue to monitor the situation and advise residents to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel.

Published 1-December-2024