Baby Luka, now one-year old, has undergone seven operations at Queensland Children’s Hospital since the August 27 attack, which left him with serious burns to 60 percent of his body, including his face, upper body, and arms.
“In those first few weeks, we had no idea what his future was going to look like, especially because the burns were so significant,” his mother told The Courier Mail.
While Luka’s skin has “healed really well” since receiving synthetic skin grafts, his father indicated it could take years for the scars to settle. The infant remains wary around people and becomes shy in group settings, often hiding behind his mother’s legs before gradually warming up to others.
The 33-year-old suspect, captured on CCTV leaving the park, fled overseas via Sydney Airport three days after the attack, just hours before police confirmed his identity. Queensland Police and the Australian Federal Police have issued an arrest warrant for acts intending to cause grievous bodily harm.
The police are searching for this man who poured a thermos of scalding coffee over the infant. Photo Credit: Facebook / True Crime Trending
According to extradition expert Jasmina Ceic from Nyman Gibson Miralis law firm, the process to bring the suspect back to Australia could take between three to five years due to the complexity of international extradition procedures.
Brisbane has released detailed plans for the Stones Corner Suburban Renewal Precinct, marking a significant milestone in the city’s Sustainable Growth Strategy. The precinct plan outlines a comprehensive vision to transform the suburb into a vibrant urban village with increased housing options and enhanced community spaces.
The precinct plan aims to breathe new life into this well-connected suburb while preserving its distinctive character. Located along the Eastern Busway and home to the award-winning Hanlon Park, Stones Corner is positioned as an ideal candidate for sustainable urban development.
A Blueprint for Modern Urban Living
The renewal strategy centres on four key themes: housing choice, vibrant village atmosphere, subtropical lifestyle, and connected communities. At its heart, the plan seeks to address Brisbane’s growing housing needs while creating a more dynamic and liveable neighbourhood.
The focus area encompasses the core sections of Cleveland Street and Logan Road, extending to include Gladys Street, Hanlon Park, the local library, and the busway precinct.
Key Development Features
Artist’s impression of plans for Cleveland St (Photo credit: brisbane.qld.gov.au)
The precinct plan outlines several transformative elements:
Diverse housing options catering to various demographics, with a particular focus on essential workers and older residents
Enhanced streetscapes featuring improved landscaping, lighting, and public art
New public spaces including arcades and laneways
Expanded retail and commercial opportunities along street frontages
Innovative parking solutions that promote active transport
Preservation of character and heritage build
Smart Growth for a Connected Community
Photo credit: brisbane.qld.gov.au
What sets this renewal approach apart is its targeted nature. Unlike broad-scale neighbourhood plans, the suburban renewal precinct model focuses on maximising opportunities in smaller, strategically located areas. The plan emphasises creating walkable neighbourhoods with comfortable, shaded connections between local destinations.
The selection of Stones Corner as the first suburban renewal precinct reflects its unique potential. With its historic main street, established public transport links, and strong community foundation, it offers an ideal testing ground for Brisbane’s sustainable growth principles.
Community Engagement
Residents and stakeholders have until 19 November 2024, to provide feedback on the proposed changes. The consultation period offers an important opportunity for the community to shape the future of their neighbourhood while ensuring the renewal process aligns with local needs and aspirations.
The precinct plan aims to provide clear guidance to both the local community and building industry, ensuring that opportunities for new homes and jobs are maximised in appropriate areas while maintaining the suburb’s character and enhancing its appeal.
As Brisbane continues to grow, the Stones Corner Suburban Renewal Precinct may serve as a model for how established suburbs can evolve to meet contemporary needs while preserving their unique identity and improving quality of life for residents. Residents can provide their feedback on these plans by visiting BCC’s website.
As the warmth of an Australian summer approaches, so does the unfortunate reality of natural disasters. The Salvation Army is gearing up to face this challenge head-on, calling 1,000 volunteers to join their Emergency Services (SAES) teams before summer’s start.
These emergencies range from summer bushfires to the recent floods in Queensland. They offer those affected by disasters vital meals, supplies, and emotional support.
The Salvation Army seeks to bolster its ranks in anticipation of the upcoming disaster season. It’s calling on Australians to step forward and become part of its SAES teams, ready to respond whenever and wherever disaster strikes.
Volunteering with the SAES is a significant commitment. It entails providing vital aid to first responders and evacuees and offering comfort and a listening ear to those in distress. The Salvos emphasise that volunteering is an enriching experience, allowing individuals to make a tangible difference in the lives of others during their darkest hours.
The application process to become an SAES volunteer is thorough, including interviews, reference checks, and police checks. Successful applicants will participate in online training and may receive calls to assist in their local area anytime throughout the year.
While the Salvation Army encourages Australians to consider volunteering responsibilities carefully, it also stresses that it will work to find meaningful ways for everyone to contribute.
The Salvos urge interested parties to join their SAES family and help support those in need during crises.
The Brisbane Broncos face the top-seeded Cronulla Sharks in a crucial match this Saturday, 14 September, with the top position on the NRLW ladder hanging in the balance. Broncos vs Sharks kick off 1:45 p.m. at Cbus Super Stadium in Gold Coast.
The Broncos enter this crucial match riding the wave of a historic comeback against the Knights last week. Down 18-4 in the 37th minute, the team staged a momentous second-half comeback, clinching a 32-24 victory.
The second half was a clinic, an impressive display with five tries from five different players: Julia Robinson (46’), Brianna Clark (50’), Stacey Waaka (57’), Lavinia Gould (60’), and Romy Teitzel (64’). Teitzel’s near-perfect conversion record (4/5) in the second half further solidified the win.
Broncos vs Sharks
Currently sitting third on the ladder, the Broncos have a golden opportunity to leapfrog the first-placed Sharks with a victory in their final home game of the home-and-away season. This match is pivotal for both teams as they head into the final stages of the season, each aiming for a strong finish.
Broncos head coach Scott Prince stresses the team’s focus, stating, “We want to chase that top 2 for a home final. That’s the advantage we’re striving for.”
The Broncos have turned their season around with five consecutive wins, recovering from a challenging two-loss start. A win in this match would put them on the verge of securing a spot in the finals series, though mathematically, they need another victory to guarantee it.
“We were put on the back foot initially, it wasn’t the perfect start, but the resilience that the girls showed to stick to their process and get back in the game and come home like a wet sail was well done.”
Following this weekend’s game, the Broncos will take on the ninth-placed Dragons in the final game of the season—in what could be another decisive match for their charge towards the minor premiership.
A heinous act of violence has shaken the Stones Corner community in Brisbane, leaving a nine-month-old boy hospitalised with severe burns and his parents pleading for justice.
On Tuesday, the infant, Luka, was enjoying a sunny winter day at Hanlon Park with his mother and a friend when a stranger approached and poured scalding liquid from a Thermos onto the child before fleeing the scene.
Luka suffered severe burns to his chin, neck, and chest, the full extent of which remains unknown until his dressings are removed. His distraught parents, who witnessed the attack, are reeling from the trauma. Luka’s mother expressed online that her son didn’t deserve this, and no one did. She wishes the hot coffee had been poured on her instead of her boy. She emphasised that the man needs to be found and charged.
Police have released chilling CCTV footage of the attacker fleeing the scene and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Detective Inspector Paul Dalton, a 35-year veteran of the force, expressed his shock at the “callous and cowardly” attack.
The attacker is described as being in his 30s or 40s, with a proportionate build and tanned skin. He wore a black hat, glasses, a shirt, and shorts. Police are working tirelessly to identify and apprehend him and vow to hold him accountable for his actions.
Meanwhile, a GoFundMe page set up by Zara Mazza, a friend of the victim’s mother who witnessed the attack, has already surpassed its $5,000 goal. The funds will assist the family with medical and household expenses during Luka’s long road to recovery.
This senseless act of violence has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about safety in public spaces. As police continue their investigation, residents are left grappling with the aftermath of this horrific incident, hoping for swift justice and a sense of security restored to their neighbourhood.
A Stones Corner-based company Surgery TV Pty Ltd is at the forefront of medical innovation, developing a groundbreaking app and cloud-based surgical data recording software platform.
In a recent announcement, Innovation Minister Leanne Linard revealed that 56 small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) would receive a share of $5.5 million in funding. Among them is the Stones Corner-based firm, which was recognised for its innovative approach to transforming surgical procedures through advanced data recording and analysis.
Surgery TV Pty Ltd
Surgery TV Pty Ltd is an Australian-based media production company that specialises in creating and distributing high-quality, educational content focused on surgical procedures and medical practices. The company aims to provide valuable resources for medical professionals, students, and the general public interested in the intricacies of surgical techniques and advancements in medical technology.
Photo Credit: Pexel
Surgery TV Pty Ltd produces a variety of programming, including live broadcasts of surgeries, detailed instructional videos, interviews with leading surgeons, and documentaries that explore the latest developments in the field of surgery. The company’s content is designed to be both informative and accessible, making complex medical procedures understandable to a broad audience.
Through partnerships with hospitals, medical schools, and professional organisations, Surgery TV Pty Ltd ensures that its content is accurate, up-to-date, and reflective of current best practices in medicine. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and high production standards, the company has established itself as a trusted source of surgical education and an important contributor to the global medical community.
The Ignite Ideas Fund, now in its eleventh round, distributed $3.3 million among 26 businesses, acknowledging their high-growth potential and commitment to commercialising groundbreaking products and services.
The funding will also support projects like ‘You After X,’ a mobile app designed to assist women navigating separation or divorce, and ‘Clean&Recover,’ an initiative aimed at helping mining companies repurpose waste streams into valuable assets.
Additionally, the inaugural Ignite Spark Programme funding round will allocate $2.2 million to 30 innovative enterprises. This support will enable them to further develop their prototypes and move closer to bringing their products to market. Among the recipients are ‘Attunga,’ a tethered drone designed to enhance rural communication networks, and a project focused on developing ultraviolet water sterilisation devices for health and aged care facilities.
Ignite Spark Program inaugural funding round recipients
Organisation
Project
Location
Amount
15 Times Better
Igniting And Scaling First Nations’ Engagement
Brinsmead
$75,000
Aamber Software Pty Ltd
Academic Electronic Medical Record and Simulation Platform for Health Education
Brookfield
$74,800
AirBridge Networks Pty Ltd
ARNI-Emergency Communications Infrastructure Benefitting Australians in Remote Locations
Smithfield
$75,000
Carbonaught Pty Ltd
A Platform to Carbon Neutralise QLD Agriculture
Brisbane City
$74,800
Convergence Medical Pty Ltd
The World’s First Arthroscopic Surgical Robot
Newstead
$55,100
D3 Genetics Pty Ltd
Precision Management for Agriculture using D3 Genetics Platform
Oxley (Recipient HQ)St Lucia (project location)
$75,000
DefenceX Pty Ltd
AI Enabled Edge Data Recorder (Military, Ground Applications)
Fortitude Valley
$75,000
Defining Future Solutions Pty Ltd
Integrated Smart Downlight and Smoke Alarm System with App Connectivity
Parkwood
$75,000
Everlast Networks Pty Ltd
Single-Use Encrypted Connections for Trusted and Heavily Secured Communications
Noosa Heads
$75,000
Finn Biogas Pty Ltd
Small-Scale FOGO Composting System For Remote and Regional Communities.
Sumner
$75,000
G S Sturman and M Sturman
Carbon Dioxide to Ethylene Electrochemical Device for Producing Carbon-Neutral Fuels
East Barron
$75,000
Genics Pty Ltd
Genics Shrimptracker – Advancing Shrimp Health and Breeding Program Management
St Lucia
$75,000
integratedPRIVATE Pty Ltd
Cloud Platform for Project And Retention Trusts
Fortitude Valley
$75,000
Intelligent Software Design Pty Ltd
Hazview
Caloundra West
$73,950
Legacy Habitats Pty Ltd
Cost-Effective Artificial Reef Modules for Ecosystem Enhancement and Coastal Protection
Burleigh Heads
$72,500
Mirragin Project Isidore Pty Ltd
Airborne Cellular Repeater for Emergency and Temporary Communications Infrastructure
Brisbane City
$75,000
New Building Solutions Pty Ltd
Innovative Wall Construction for Single and Multi-Residential Buildings
Noosa
$74,938
Paile Solutions Pty Ltd
PAILE – Win First Clients!
Daisy Hill
$,650
Pathmaster Pty Ltd
Above-Ground, Modular Travelator: the Future of Sustainable Urban Movement
Hope Island (Recipient HQ)Northgate (project location)
$75,000
Rain Harvesting Pty Ltd
Modular, Variable Rainwater Filter for any Rainwater Collection System Globally
Milton
$75,000
Rainstick Pty Ltd
Rainstick Mimics Lightning to Germinate Seeds and Increase Food Production
Smithfield
$75,000
Repurpose Recycling Pty Ltd
Textile Recycling Plant – Microniser
Luscombe
$75,000
Resilience Design & Build Pty Ltd
EVGLE: Autonomous, Solar Powered Awning To Charge EVs & ES
Brisbane City
$75,000
Specialist Airway Solutions Pty Ltd
D-FLECT Bougie: a Steerable Introducer for Tracheal Intubation
Seven Hills
$74,966
Surgery TV Pty Ltd
App and Cloud-Based (Medical) Surgical Data Recording Software Platform
Stones Corner (Recipient HQ)Brisbane City (Project location)
$74,824
The Research & Development Company Pty Ltd
Development of Australia’s First Dual-Purpose Hydraulic Rock Mining Drill System.
Mount Isa
$74,250
The Trustee for Trikids Family Trust
UVC Water Sterilisation Devices
Robina
$75,000
Think Logic Pty Ltd
Intelligent Earth Fault Detection Device
Corinda
$66,025
Valiant Space Pty Ltd
Small In-Space Thrusters for Cubesats
Tennyson
$75,000
Will Surety Pty Ltd
Prototype Modifications, Industry Compliance Integration and Testing
Varsity Lakes
$75,000
Minister Linard highlighted the government’s commitment to assisting these innovators in developing and commercializing their products as he expressed pride in the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit displayed by Queenslanders. The Ignite programme already plays a significant role in job creation across the state and represents a substantial investment in Queensland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Selina Millers, founder of ‘You After X,’ expressed gratitude for the funding, stating that it marks a pivotal moment in the app’s development. The financial support will enable the company to expand its reach, assisting more women across Queensland and beyond in navigating the challenges of separation or divorce.
Millers emphasised that the app’s POWERHOUSE Method equips users with practical tools and emotional support, empowering them to thrive during this difficult transition.
Applications for the next rounds of both funding programmes are now open, encouraging further innovation and entrepreneurial endeavours in Queensland.
Situated just off Hanlon Park, on a sprawling 3,846-square-metre site at 73-85 Cleveland Street, the development marks a significant addition to the evolving urban landscape on the cusp of the Woolloongabba Olympic precinct.
The project, which Peter Gartshore and the family-run Idec Group are spearheading, promises 226 apartments in a variety of styles to meet different living needs. But it’s the architectural vision of NMDS that truly stands out. A skybridge will connect two rooftop havens atop the towers, giving residents access to a sizable 1273 square meter oasis.
Rooftop Recreation: A pool, spa, terrace, gym, sauna, dining areas (both indoor and outdoor), a theatre, a community garden, and even a dedicated dog walking zone are all part of the sky-high offerings.
Green Living: Extensive landscaping by Wild Studio will see the building adorned with vertical green walls, feature trees, and lush gardens, creating a cool, inviting micro-climate.
Transport Options: Three basement levels will house 330 cars, while a car share system with 10 electric vehicles and ample bicycle parking (with a workshop) will encourage sustainable mobility.
Strategic Location: Situated within a growth node identified in the City Plan, the project addresses the housing needs of the region while providing proximity to amenities and transport links.
This project signals a shift in Stones Corner, with a focus on higher-density living that seamlessly integrates green spaces and communal areas. As the Woolloongabba Olympic precinct gears up for 2032, Stones Corner finds itself at the forefront of a revitalised urban identity.
The construction crews and heavy machinery have commenced work on this vital project, which is aimed at addressing a pressing need. The development will comprise 46 one-bedroom units, nine two-bedroom units, and the remainder as studio apartments, providing a range of housing options for the community.
The Stones Corner development marks the fifth project announced under a partnership between the Brisbane Housing Company (BHC) and QIC, all funded through the Palaszczuk Government’s signature $2 billion Housing Investment Fund.
So far, the HIF has approved over $479 million in project funding, with 1,600 homes in the pipeline, and an additional 71 proposals shortlisted for future assessment. In total, this initiative will contribute to the construction of more than 5,600 new social and affordable homes over the next five years.
Enhancing Local Communities
Construction is anticipated to span the next 18 months, creating opportunities for local workers and supporting the community’s growth. Minister for Housing Meaghan Scanlon highlighted the importance of institutional investors and super funds in the housing sector.
“Places like these will become homes for local workers, families escaping domestic violence, young people looking to get a good job or education, and a place for many people with a disability to live independently,” Ms Scanlon stated.
The Member for Greenslopes, Joe Kelly, praised the density of the development and its alignment with the surrounding neighbourhood. He noted the convenient location near public transport options like the Stones Corner busway station and the Buranda train station, schools, shops, and essential services, ensuring residents can connect with the services and supports they need.
“We know that our inner-city suburbs are growing, and that we need to provide more social and affordable homes to accommodate this growth,” Mr Kelly said.
Changing Lives with Quality Housing
Rebecca Oelkers, the Chief Executive Officer of the Brisbane Housing Company, expressed her enthusiasm for the project.
“Every single one of these new social and affordable homes will change the life of someone in housing need in Brisbane,” she said. “We are thrilled to get this inner-city development underway – we know that providing high quality, safe and affordable housing across our communities has never been more important. We look forward to contributing to the thriving and diverse community here in Stones Corner and to welcoming our new residents home as soon as possible.”
With the commencement of this project, Stones Corner takes a step closer to addressing the housing challenges faced by its residents, while also contributing to the broader vision of the Housing Investment Fund to make affordable housing accessible to those in need.
A developer has recently submitted plans for a new residential development at Cleveland Street in Stones Corner, which features two towering buildings connected by a unique “skybridge.”
The towers, which are being proposed for 75-85 Cleveland Street, are set to accommodate a total of 226 modern apartments, ranging from one to four bedrooms. Each tower will stretch 12 storeys into the sky, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Designed by NMDS Architecture, this project stands out with the inclusion of rooftop recreation areas, bringing a touch of luxury and leisure to the residents’ doorstep..
Artist’s impression of rooftop communal space (Photo credit: NMDS Architecture)
The two rooftop spaces will be connected by a “skybridge,” which not only serves as a physical link between the buildings but also enhances convenience for residents by allowing them to seamlessly access the entire recreation area.
Photo credit: NMDS Architecture
To create a harmonious and visually appealing design, the skybridge and the buildings themselves will incorporate soft landscaping elements, providing a refreshing touch of greenery amidst the urban setting.
The communal open space areas on the rooftop will feature an array of facilities to enhance residents’ recreational opportunities.
The proposed amenities include a manager’s office, mail room, community garden, dog walk area, yoga lawn, dining and function area, theatre, alfresco dining spaces, a pool and communal deck, as well as changing rooms and bathrooms. Additionally, a fully equipped gymnasium will be available to cater to the residents’ fitness needs.
Parking provisions have also been taken into consideration, with a total of 273 car spaces allocated for residents, including 10 dedicated share car spaces, and an additional 57 spaces for visitors. The development will offer 226 bike parking spaces for residents and an additional 57 for visitors.
Street level perspective of main entry (Photo credit: NMDS Architecture)
Planners at B Planned and Surveyed said the proposed height is consistent with community expectation and the proposal itself is consistent with the strategic intent of the High density residential zone and Eastern corridor neighbourhood plan.
“There is a strategic benefit to locating higher intensity residential development within a well serviced part of Brisbane, which is reflected within the outcomes sought for the zone and within the Strategic Framework,” B Planned and Surveyed noted.
Did you know that the highly anticipated Stones Corner Festival is back for its eighth year this April? This year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, with an impressive lineup of talented Aussie artists that will have the locals dancing in the street. Here’s what to look forward to as it returns in 2023.
Leading the star-studded lineup of the 2023 Stones Corner Festival is the Australian dance-punk and electro-pop sensation, Art vs Science. The talented trio, renowned for their chart-topping hits like Flippers, Magic Fountain, and Parlez Vous Francais, will undoubtedly set the stage ablaze with their high-energy performance.
Joining them are several other sought-after artists, including Resin Dogs, Yacht Rock Revival, Good Will Remedy, Jem Cassar-Daly, John Hanley & The Hurricanes, Dusty, and Andy Martin.
Food and Drinks
Photo credit: Stones Corner Festival/Facebook
Grab a bite from one of the numerous food trucks that will be lined up along Stoneham St. Whether you’re in the mood for classic burgers and fries, savoury paella, tasty tacos, or flavorful pizza, there will be an option for everyone in the family to savour.
Make sure to pause for a moment and indulge in the mouth-watering libations from over 20 breweries that will be present at the event.
You can expect to be tantalised by the delicious offerings of renowned breweries such as Your Mates Brewing Co, Heads of Noosa, Better Beer, 4Pines, Slipstream, Balter, Brookvale Union, Stone & Wood, Burleigh Brewing, Newstead Brewing, Young Henrys, and Green Beacon, who will be serving up an array of refreshing beverages, including exciting new flavours that are sure to please your taste buds.
Market Stalls
Photo credit: Stones Corner Festival/Facebook
Show your support for the local community by visiting The Market Folk, a top Brisbane marketplace that specialises in pre-loved, hand-crafted, sustainable, and creative products. You’ll find their stalls scattered throughout the street at the festival.
If you’re in the mood for some browsing and shopping, make sure to stop by and pick up a unique knick-knack to commemorate your visit to the most epic street party of the year.
Supporting a Good Cause
Photo credit: Stones Corner Festival/Facebook
Whilst the Stones Corner Festival is all about having a great time, it’s also about supporting a good cause.
The festival’s roots are deeply connected to the MND and Me Foundation, which raises funds for Queenslanders living with Motor Neurone Disease and supports ongoing research. All funds collected on the day will be distributed towards this important cause.
Therefore, gold coin donations are encouraged, and there will be plenty of opportunities to win a variety of raffles.
Mark your calendar for 30 April 2023, from 10:00 a.m! Stones Corner Festival is a community-driven festival with FREE entry and a chance to support a meaningful cause.
