A 46-year-old woman from Greenslopes has been charged with multiple counts of attempted murder and arson following a harrowing incident in the early hours of July 12, 2024.
Queensland Police reported that the woman allegedly set fire to a house while three occupants, including two children, were asleep inside.
The blaze was discovered at approximately 4 am in a residential property in Greenslopes. A 44-year-old man and two children, aged 12 and 9, were inside the house at the time of the incident. Fortunately, all three managed to escape without sustaining any injuries.
According to police statements, officers arrived at the scene and took the woman into custody. As a precautionary measure, she was initially transported to a local hospital. Following a thorough investigation, authorities formally charged her on Friday, August 9.
The accused Greenslopes woman now faces three counts of attempted murder and one count of arson, all classified as domestic violence offences.
The woman has been denied bail. She is scheduled to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Saturday, August 10, where further details of the attempted murder and alleged arson case may come to light.
Authorities urge anyone experiencing family violence to report it to the police. Support services are available, including 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) for general assistance and 13YARN (13 92 76) for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals seeking help.
A 91-year-old Stradbroke Island resident has made history as the 500th person to undergo a minimally invasive heart procedure at Greenslopes Private Hospital.
Sydney Owens, who had been grappling with severe aortic stenosis, underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) led by Dr. Peter Hadjipetrou.
TAVI, a less invasive alternative to open-heart surgery, involves replacing a narrowed aortic valve with an artificial one through a catheter inserted in the groyne. This approach significantly reduces recovery time and surgical trauma for patients.
Dr. Hadjipetrou expressed his pride in participating in this milestone procedure, emphasising its significance in the hospital’s commitment to advanced cardiac care. He highlighted that reaching 500 TAVI cases signifies a shift towards less invasive options, offering patients a better quality of life and a faster recovery.
The success of the TAVI programme is attributed to the collaborative effort of the cardiac team and the state-of-the-art facilities at Greenslopes Private Hospital. Dr. Hadjipetrou commended the team’s expertise and dedication, acknowledging their instrumental role in providing exceptional care to patients with heart conditions.
The hospital boasts a custom-built hybrid operating theatre for cardiac and vascular cases. This unique facility enables a seamless transition from
Additionally, the hospital’s comprehensive approach ensures that patients receive emergency care, procedures, and post-operative rehabilitation all under one roof.
Dr. Hadjipetrou thanked Sydney Owens and all patients, their families, and the healthcare team for their support and collaboration in achieving this remarkable feat.
This milestone showcases the hospital’s commitment to innovation and reaffirms its position as a leader in cardiac care.
A Greenslopes mother’s life turned unexpectedly when she discovered a lump on her foot one summer’s day in 2022. Jacqui Cooper, then 36, was diagnosed with a rare form of sarcoma, a malignant tumour more commonly found in children and adolescents.
The Greenslopes resident was warned that the cancer could have quickly spread to her chest and lungs if left unnoticed.
Ms Cooper, a human resources coordinator, underwent six gruelling rounds of chemotherapy, which severely impacted her physical and emotional well-being. The treatment left her bedridden and unable to care for her two-year-old son, Max, who struggled to understand his mother’s sudden absence.
Photo Credit: Pexels
Despite the immense challenges, Ms Cooper remained determined to overcome the disease. While confined to her bed, she dreamt of future travels and unfulfilled goals, clinging to the hope of a life beyond cancer. After going into remission, she has remained cancer-free for the past year and a half.
Now, Ms Cooper is on the road to recovery, undergoing physiotherapy and counseling to regain her strength and adjust to life after cancer. She has returned to work, resumed walking, and can once again care for her now four-year-old son. Her story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of early detection.
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Medical experts warn that both patients and doctors often miss rare cancers like sarcomas until they have progressed significantly. Dr Wayne Nicholls, director of oncology at the Queensland Children’s Hospital, emphasised the need for more research into sarcomas, which can manifest in unusual ways and often deviate from textbook descriptions.
Dr Nicholls highlighted that sarcomas sometimes present as non-specific pain, often mistaken for a sporting injury. This delay in diagnosis can lead to the cancer spreading, making treatment more difficult and reducing survival rates.
The Australian and New Zealand Sarcoma Association (ANZA) is actively involved in sarcoma research, having conducted numerous studies and clinical trials to understand how patients respond to different treatments. The organisation stresses the importance of raising awareness and securing funding for further research to improve outcomes for sarcoma patients.
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Dr Denise Caruso, ANZA’s chief executive, pointed out that while sarcomas account for only 1 per cent of adult cancers, they represent 20 per cent of childhood cancers in Australia. Sarcomas are the leading cause of cancer death in children and young adults nationwide, underscoring the urgency for more outstanding research and awareness efforts.
As Sarcoma Awareness Month continues throughout July, ANZA is raising funds to support its vital work. Medical professionals like Dr Vivek Bhadri, a medical oncologist and researcher, echo the call for greater attention to this often-overlooked cancer. Dr Bhadri noted that Ewing sarcoma, a common type of sarcoma, is often misdiagnosed as a sports injury or growing pain due to its presentation as non-specific pain.
Jacqui Cooper’s experiences and medical experts’ warnings highlight the importance of early detection and increased research in the fight against sarcoma. As awareness grows and research progresses, the hope is that more lives will be saved and outcomes improved for those affected by this rare but devastating disease.
Jacqueline Cooper, a resident of Greenslopes, initially mistook a growing lump on her foot as an injury from an everyday accident involving her young son. Believing the swelling resulted from something as simple as a dropped toy, Ms Cooper’s concern grew as the lump enlarged.
Seeking answers, she visited a podiatrist who conducted multiple scans, which led to a referral to a specialist at the Wesley Hospital. It was there that she was diagnosed with a rare type of sarcoma in her right big toe, a cancer so uncommon that it has yet to be named.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Diagnosed in 2022, Cooper underwent a series of treatments, starting with chemotherapy that did not shrink the tumour, necessitating surgical intervention. This was followed by additional chemotherapy sessions.
Now, a year and a half later, she celebrates being cancer-free but remains committed to raising awareness about her condition, especially during Sarcoma Awareness Month this July.
Ms Cooper is eager to share her story to enhance awareness and support for sarcoma and other rare cancers. She emphasises the importance of recognising the existence of support networks and resources available for those facing similar challenges. Ms Cooper’s experience highlights the emotional and medical journey faced by individuals diagnosed with rare cancers, underscoring the need for increased research and better support systems.
Sarcoma, which comprises only 1% of adult cancers and accounts for 20% of childhood cancers, is often misdiagnosed due to its symptoms resembling sports injuries or growing pains. The rarity of such cancers means that treatment advancements are slow to develop, prompting healthcare professionals to advocate for more substantial awareness and research efforts.
The Brisbane Tigers mounted a spirited second-half fightback against Wynnum Manly in Round 13 but their valiant efforts ultimately fell just short as the Seagulls held on for an 18-16 victory. Tigers vs WM Seagulls kicked off at 3:00 p.m. last Saturday, June 8 at the Totally Workwear Stadium.
Wynnum Manly came out of the gates firing, with lock Josh Stuckey grabbing a first-half double to help the home side race out to an 18-6 lead at the break. The Seagulls looked in complete control after their blistering start.
However, the Tigers refused to go away quietly. Led by a phenomenal individual performance from centre Kane Bradley, Brisbane turned the tide in the second stanza.
The towering Bradley was simply unstoppable, scoring two tries while racking up 193 run metres, 79 post-contact metres, 2 line breaks, 5 tackle busts and 2 offloads in a true master class of powerful centre play.
Despite Bradley’s herculean efforts, the Tigers just couldn’t quite get over the line as Wynnum’s first-half burst proved too much to overcome.
Tigers captain Ryley Jacks bemoaned his side’s slow start as the ultimate difference maker.
Jacks said that their atrocious first half really hurt them with those two sin bins and lack of discipline. “If we can fix that up, I back us to win games like this,” he argued.
In other news, the club’s major fundraising Long Lunch is announced for Friday, August 9th at Victoria Park Golf Course. Rugby league legends Wally Lewis and Gene Miles are the special guests, with raffles, auctions and amazing prizes on offer for fans.
Developers have submitted plans for a six-storey mixed-use development in Greenslopes, which aims to transform the site into a vibrant hub offering a diverse range of amenities.
The subject site is located at 730-742 Logan Road and 11, 11A & 15 Plimsoll Street.
At the heart of the proposal is a 5045 sqm gross floor area, catering to office spaces, healthcare services, a food and drink outlet, and a gym.
This blend of functions, designed by Wiltshire Stevens Architecture, reflects a modern approach to urban development, promoting both productivity and leisure within the same space.
Photo credit: Wiltshire Stevens Architecture
According to planning documents, the proposed building is envisioned as a contemporary marvel, boasting sleek design elements and versatile spaces. Its strategic location on a prominent corner holding further enhances its visibility and accessibility.
One of the standout features of the development is the 24-hour gym, providing round-the-clock fitness opportunities for patrons. Meanwhile, the rooftop pool deck and garden offer an exclusive retreat for members, elevating the concept of leisure amenities to new heights.
“The development capitalises on the site’s location and access to social and transport infrastructure to provide additional housing choice within a key inner-city location and represents the efficient use of the of the land,” planners stated.
Photo credit: Wiltshire Stevens Architecture
With 147 car parking spaces spread across two and a half levels, convenience is prioritised for visitors and tenants alike. The remaining four levels are dedicated to accommodating the food and drink outlet, healthcare services, indoor sport and recreation facilities, and office spaces, ensuring a dynamic blend of activities within the building.
The project is the brainchild of Brisbane-based office park developer Bill Henderson of OPD, in collaboration with Capital Transactions’ David Watson.
If approved, the food and beverage establishment, healthcare services, and office spaces will adhere to the designated operating hours outlined in the Centre’s code, spanning from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., inclusive of deliveries.
Photo credit: Wiltshire Stevens Architecture
Conversely, the proposed gym plans to operate continuously, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Group classes will start daily at 5:00 a.m. and conclude by 8:00 p.m. Moreover, access to the rooftop garden will be exclusive to gym members, open from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
In summary, the proposed six-storey mixed-use development at Greenslopes represents a fusion of innovation, functionality, and luxury. It embodies the evolving needs of modern urban communities while setting a new standard for mixed-use developments in Brisbane.
Dr Andrew Nicol, a leading Greenslopes haematologist and oncologist, has launched a virtual cancer choir, providing a harmonious refuge for patients undergoing gruelling cancer treatments from the comfort of their own homes or hospital beds.
Dr Nicol spent over 20 years leading cutting-edge haematology-oncology research at the Greenslopes Private Hospital, testing innovative lymphoma, myeloma, and leukaemia therapies. His Brisbane Clinic for Lymphoma, Myeloma and Leukaemia ensures rapid access to specialist care and seamless coordination with other medical experts.
However, he recognised the need for a more holistic approach, one that addresses the emotional and psychological toll of cancer treatment.
Thus, the idea for Hope Sings was born. The project was officially formed in 2023.
Collaborative Healing Melodies
Hope Sings is a virtual choir that allows patients to record themselves singing from anywhere in the world, with their voices merged into a unified performance by music technicians.
The project is a joint effort between Dr Nicol’s Exercise, Music and Art in Medicine charity, Queensland’s renowned Voices of Birralee community choir, cancer survivor and podcaster Jacqui Cowan, and the support of university composers.
Voices of Birralee, under the guidance of musical director Paul Holley, has provided backing tracks and a repertoire of uplifting songs tailored to various vocal abilities. Patients can download the tracks, sing along while recording themselves on their smartphones, and optionally submit video performances.
Ms Cowan is a patient of Dr Nicol, who has been in remission for 10 years. She hosts the “Cancer Culture” podcast on Spotify.
Harmonising Hope
Dr Nicol explained that cancer treatment often involves extended periods of isolation or being bedridden, leading to feelings of boredom and depression. Their research consistently demonstrates the positive effects of singing, collaborating, engaging in art, and exercising for individuals undergoing treatment.
The therapeutic power of music is already evident among the choir’s first participants.
David Taylor, undergoing leukaemia therapy, has experienced the emotional benefits of choir singing firsthand.
Terry Ryder, a 76-year-old lymphoma patient and music lover, sees the choir as a source of solace and hope during his cancer journey. For Nerida Rienecker, a mother of four, the choir is a source of comfort and relief from the stresses of cancer as her son battled stage 4 Wilms tumour.
As the virtual choir expands, participants can collaborate with university composers, share their stories on podcasts, and eventually participate in hybrid concerts streamed online. Hope Sings aims to bring hope and healing to cancer patients worldwide with an inclusive and innovative approach.
Legacy is relocating its head office to Greenslopes Private Hospital to support veterans undergoing treatment and to provide comprehensive assistance to their families
A troubling statistic revealed by the Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research indicates a veteran contacts emergency services every 16 hours in Queensland due to suicidal thoughts. This data, forming part of the evidence for the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, highlights a critical need for better support mechanisms.
Between 2014 and 2017, 1625 Queensland veterans had interactions with police or paramedics, showing a 24% higher likelihood of suicide-related contacts compared to civilians.
Legacy’s Response and New Initiatives
In response to these alarming figures, Legacy Brisbane is moving its headquarters and planning to construct Legacy House at the Greenslopes site. The new facility aims to be a sanctuary for veterans and their families, offering both clinical and non-clinical support to address the complex mental health consequences of military conflicts.
Brendan Cox, a 26-year veteran and the CEO of Legacy Brisbane, emphasised the need for community and governmental support to realise this vision.
The project, valued at $9 million, has successfully raised $8.3 million so far, with Legacy Brisbane spearheading the Bring it Home campaign to secure the remaining funds by Anzac Day. The community’s involvement is seen as pivotal in bringing this project to fruition, providing a lifeline to veterans and their families.
Dr. Annabel McGuire, the new president of Legacy Brisbane and the spouse of a Queensland war veteran, shared her personal experience to illustrate the everyday challenges faced by returning soldiers and their families. Her account of her husband’s struggle with post-traumatic stress after serving in Iraq underlines the profound impact of war on mental health and the dire need for accessible support networks.
Legacy Brisbane encourages the community to engage with and support the Bring It Home campaign, stressing the importance of such initiatives in providing crucial services to those affected by military service.
The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood is facing a critical shortage of donated breast milk, essential for premature and low birthweight babies in the state’s Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs).
“Donated breast milk is liquid gold for premature or very sick and small babies,” says Chris Sulfaro, Lifeblood Milk Service Manager. When a mother’s own milk isn’t available, donated breast milk provides vital nutrients and antibodies, helping these fragile infants fight off infections and grow strong.
Currently, Lifeblood supplies 120 litres of milk to 19 Queensland hospitals each month, but with demand on the rise, their freezers are running low. “We’re reliant on milk donations from other states to meet Queensland’s needs,” says Sulfaro. “Ideally, we’d triple the number of donors in Brisbane and the South East to ensure a consistent supply.”
Lifeblood is specifically looking for mothers residing in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Ipswich who have an excess of three litres of frozen or expressed milk that are less than 10 weeks old, and meet eligibility criteria.
The donation process is designed to be convenient for mothers. Milk can be expressed, frozen, and stored at home or in the hospital, with Lifeblood coordinating pick-up directly.
“Many mothers in NICUs need a temporary bridge of support while their milk supply establishes,” explains Sulfaro. “Donated breast milk fills that gap, providing the best possible nutrition for these vulnerable babies.”
Lifeblood’s national milk service distributes donated breast milk to 35 hospitals across Australia. With demand expected to rise from 5500 litres to 6000 litres this year, increasing the donor base in Queensland is crucial.
Mums interested in becoming lifesavers for Queensland’s tiniest patients can find more information and eligibility details at lifeblood.com.au.
On April 6, Saturday, defending premiers Brisbane Tigers will host the Western Clydesdales at Totally Workwear Stadium for a crucial Hosplus Cup matchup. Tigers vs Clydesdales kickoff at 3:00 p.m., with the women’s teams facing off at 1:20 p.m. for the BMD Premiership.
The Tigers (1-2) come into this game looking to build on their first win of the season, a dominant 24-0 victory over the Jets on March 24. Ricco Falaniko, Marion Seve (twice), Treigh Stewart, and Leivaha Pulu all crossed the line for the Tigers, who held a 4-0 lead at the halftime break.
Tigers vs Clydesdales in 2023
Photo Credit: QRL
Last season, the Tigers had the Clydesdales’ number, winning both the home and away fixtures. On April 23, the Tigers edged the Clydesdales 32-28 at home, before securing an 18-34 victory on the road on July 8.
The defending premiers will be looking to build momentum against the winless Clydesdales (0-2). The visitors have struggled to find their form in the early stages of the season, and the Tigers will be aiming to capitalise on their opponent’s troubles.
Search for the new CEO
In other news, the Tigers organisation has announced that they have begun the search for a new Chief Executive Officer, following the March 18 news that current CEO Brian Torpy will be stepping down from the role after 8 years.
Torpy will remain in the position until August 3, where he will oversee the completion of Stage 2 of the Langlands Park facility before his departure.
“The time is right for a change and to pass the baton on to my successor”, Torpy said. “It’s been a privilege to have served the Club and I am proud to have been part of such a great team that has put the Club in a position to hopefully move into the NRL.”
The Tigers will be hoping to provide their fans with a positive result on Saturday as they look to climb the Hosplus Cup standings and build momentum ahead of the remainder of the season.
