Stones Corner Archives - Page 2 of 5

Authorities Pursue Diplomatic Channels as Baby Luka Continues Recovery After Hanlon Park Attack

Baby Luka continues his remarkable recovery nearly a year after suffering severe burns in a shocking attack at Hanlon Park, whilst authorities pursue diplomatic channels to secure justice for the family.

Baby Luka, who will turn two in October, was just nine months old when a stranger approached his family’s picnic at the popular local park on 27 August 2024 and poured hot coffee over him before fleeing. The incident occurred around midday when the infant was enjoying time outdoors with his mother.

The attack left young Luka with burns covering 60 per cent of his body, including his face, arms, and upper torso. The severity of his injuries required multiple surgeries and extensive medical treatment at Queensland Children’s Hospital.

Community Impact and Investigation

The random nature of the assault sent shockwaves through the tight-knit Stones Corner community, with Queensland Police immediately launching a comprehensive investigation. CCTV footage captured the suspect fleeing from Hanlon Park, running approximately half a kilometre to the Apostolic Church of Queensland in nearby Annerley, where he changed clothes before taking a rideshare vehicle to Brisbane’s CBD.

Despite the extensive police investigation involving 30 detectives, the 33-year-old Chinese national suspected of the attack managed to evade capture by mere hours. Queensland Police Detective Inspector Paul Dalton revealed the devastating moment when investigators identified their suspect, only to discover he had already left the country.

The man had departed Australia via Sydney on 31 August 2024, just four days after the attack and approximately 12 hours after police confirmed his identity. He is believed to have returned to China via New Zealand.

Diplomatic Challenges

Queensland Police issued an arrest warrant for the suspect on charges of intending to cause grievous bodily harm, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. However, the pursuit of justice has encountered significant diplomatic obstacles.

Under Chinese law, Chinese citizens cannot be extradited to foreign countries for prosecution. This legal protection has prompted Australian authorities to work through diplomatic channels, providing evidence to Chinese officials in hopes they will prosecute the case under their domestic jurisdiction.

Former Australian Federal Police officer David Craig recently expressed concerns about the likelihood of securing justice through traditional extradition methods. However, authorities maintain that China has extraterritorial jurisdiction to prosecute its citizens for conduct occurring outside the country.

Acting Commissioner Shane Chelepy assured the community in June that the investigation remains active. The case has clearly affected investigating officers, who describe the incident as particularly distressing given the victim’s age and the random nature of the attack.

Suspect’s Background

Reports indicate the alleged perpetrator had been in Australia since 2019 on various visa arrangements, including working holiday and student visas. He had lived in multiple locations across Australia’s east coast and previously worked in meat processing.

Chinese media reports suggest the man became frustrated after his most recent visa application was rejected, though no clear motive for targeting baby Luka has been established.

Family’s Journey

Despite the traumatic circumstances, Luka’s parents report their son is thriving. The toddler continues to receive regular medical treatment, primarily for cosmetic purposes to reduce scarring, with doctors optimistic about his long-term prognosis.

The family notes that whilst Luka initially showed wariness around strangers following the attack, he no longer appears to remember the incident. The prominent burns that initially covered much of his body have healed better than medical professionals initially expected, though he retains scars on his chin, shoulder, and back.

Luka’s mother recently emphasised that her son deserves justice, expressing frustration that someone could commit such an act and seemingly escape consequences.

Ongoing Efforts

Both Queensland Police and the Australian Federal Police continue working with Chinese authorities to explore all available options for prosecution. In a joint statement, the agencies affirmed their commitment to securing justice for Luka and his family, whilst acknowledging the complexity of the international legal situation.

The case has highlighted the challenges law enforcement faces when suspects flee to countries without extradition treaties, prompting discussions about diplomatic cooperation in criminal matters.

For the Stones Corner community, the incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of random crime, whilst Luka’s recovery demonstrates remarkable resilience. Local residents continue to use Hanlon Park, though many remember the August day that shocked their peaceful suburb.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the focus remains on supporting Luka’s ongoing recovery and ensuring such incidents don’t go unpunished, regardless of international boundaries.

Published 18-August-2025

Stones Corner Faces One of Brisbane’s Highest Rate Increases

Brisbane’s 2025–26 budget will bring rate increases for most homeowners across the city, with those buying inner-city units after 1 October facing some of the steepest hikes — and Stones Corner among the hardest hit.

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

New property owners in the inner suburbs will see an extra $100 added to their annual rates bill, more than double the inflation rate. In Stones Corner, the average total rates and charges will rise by over $143, marking a 7.99 per cent increase, among the highest ones under the new cap.

Announced by Cr Adrian Schrinner, the $4.1 billion budget includes an average rate rise of 4.7 per cent for owner-occupiers — roughly $1.14 a week — with the minimum increase set at 3.87 per cent. Although rates in a few suburbs, such as Yeronga and Tennyson, will drop slightly due to land valuation adjustments, suburbs like South Brisbane, Bowen Hills, Fortitude Valley and Stones Corner will bear the brunt of the changes.

Coorparoo Ward Cr Fiona Cunningham, whose electorate includes Stones Corner, said the rate increases had been carefully managed in the face of rising construction costs and limited external funding. She pointed to a 40 per cent spike in concrete prices and a 26 per cent jump in other building materials, adding that councils had long been underfunded by both state and federal governments.

Cr Cunningham also noted that about 273,000 Brisbane residents would continue to benefit from the on-time payment discount, which will save them a combined $47 million this financial year. She said the pensioner rebate would increase by $50, bringing it to $1298, and confirmed the continuation of the popular $2 Summer Dips pool entry initiative.

Despite speculation earlier this week, the council confirmed a citywide rollout of green bins will go ahead. This move is designed to divert more organic waste from landfill and avoid a state-imposed “bin tax”, even though the waste levy for green bins will rise by almost $50 annually — including for those who may not want one.

Cr Cunningham defended the budget as responsible and focused on service delivery, stating that if Labor or the Greens had been elected last year, rates could have risen by up to 30 per cent due to what she described as billions in unfunded commitments with no identified savings.

Read: Stones Corner Residents Grapple with Flood Mitigation Amidst Sandbag Debate

The budget also forecasts a $298 million surplus and a drop in city debt to $2.9 billion by 2028–29. Council assets are now valued at $45.2 billion, with 85 per cent of spending committed to projects in the suburbs.

Published 19-June-2025

Hanlon Park Rejuvenation Pays Off: Park’s Quick Recovery After the March 2025 Floods

Last March, ex-tropical cyclone Alfred brought intense flash flooding to Brisbane, submerging roads and cars and bringing parts of the city to a standstill. Yet, just a week later, Hanlon Park in Stones Corner showed little sign of the disaster, standing as a proof to the success of its 2022 rejuvenation project.

Read: Stage 3 Of The Hanlon Park Rejuvenation Project Now Complete

A Test of Resilience

When ex-tropical cyclone Alfred dumped record-breaking rain across Brisbane in March 2025, Hanlon Park in Stones Corner faced a major test. Streets turned into rivers, storm drains overflowed, and flash flooding hit hard. But unlike many urban spaces that were left damaged or inaccessible, Hanlon Park emerged remarkably unscathed.

This resilience wasn’t an accident.

Hanlon Park during Cyclone Alfred, March 2025 (Photo credit: Imran Ahmed/Facebook)

A Decade of Vision and Planning

Back in 2022, the park underwent a major transformation. The goal was to turn sterile infrastructure into vibrant green space.

Once a concrete drain, Hanlon Park was transformed into a lush green corridor designed to work with nature rather than against it. The $21.5-million project replaced the artificial channel with a naturalised creek, introduced more than 460 trees and 43,000 plants, and created spaces for recreation and relaxation. This investment not only enhanced the park’s beauty but also strengthened its ability to endure extreme weather events.

Concrete channels were removed, and the creek was reshaped to follow a slower, meandering path that helped absorb floodwaters. This ecological redesign not only enhanced biodiversity, but also provided natural flood mitigation.

The recent flooding tested the resilience of this design. Water levels rose rapidly as stormwater poured in from surrounding urban areas, but the park absorbed the impact remarkably well. While some mud and debris remained, and a few plants were flattened, the park’s core structures and pathways remained intact.

The strategic selection of plant species played a crucial role in this recovery—deep-rooted vegetation stabilised the banks, preventing erosion, while water-tolerant plants allowed floodwaters to pass through without lasting damage.

Built for Climate Adaptation

One resident and cyclist observed that the water rose quickly during the flood but drained just as fast, noting that by the next day, it was difficult to tell a flood had even occurred.

Environmental engineer Alan Hoban, who worked on the rejuvenation, explained that the park had been intentionally designed for such events. He emphasised that the goal wasn’t only to prevent flooding, but to create a space that could recover quickly while continuing to serve the community.

Post-flood assessments showed minimal damage to the park’s core infrastructure. Paths remained intact. Playgrounds reopened within days. And unlike other areas of Brisbane, native birds and turtles were spotted in the creek within a week of the event.

Nature Returns to the City

Beyond its environmental benefits, Hanlon Park has become an essential part of the local community. Walkers, joggers, and cyclists quickly returned to its paths, families resumed playtime in its open spaces, and the park once again provided a refuge from the city’s hustle. The rapid recovery demonstrated not only the effectiveness of the restoration but also the importance of green spaces in urban resilience.

The transformation also turned the park into a thriving urban ecosystem. Fish populations in the creek have quadrupled since the redesign. Children are often seen playing in the water, engaging with nature more than ever before.

Designs from students, like Kuan U Chan from the University of Queensland, even envision the future of Hanlon Park to include a glasshouse and community learning spaces. These ideas reinforce the park’s potential as a hub for education, biodiversity, and climate adaptation.

Maintaining the Vision: A New Challenge for Brisbane

The rejuvenation of Hanlon Park/Bur’uda has transformed it into a vibrant urban oasis, but this transformation brings with it significant maintenance responsibilities for Brisbane City Council. As the project transitions from contractor maintenance to full council management, several challenges are emerging:

Infrastructure Upkeep: Eroding gravel paths and terraces require prompt attention to ensure safety and accessibility for park users.
Vegetation Management: The creekside vegetation currently exhibits limited diversity, and some plants are failing and need supplementation to maintain the park’s ecological balance.
Wildlife Interaction: Signs warning visitors about potential snake encounters highlight the complexities of managing a ‘wild’ space within an urban environment, balancing ecological authenticity with public safety.

These factors underscore the necessity for Council to adapt its management strategies to address the multifaceted demands of Hanlon Park. Coordinated efforts among various infrastructure services teams and active community engagement will be crucial in sustaining the park’s success and ensuring it remains a benchmark for urban waterway rejuvenation.

Read: Norman Creek Update After Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred Hits Brisbane

While ongoing maintenance remains a necessity, Hanlon Park’s ability to withstand and bounce back from extreme weather highlights the success of its redesign. It serves as a model for how cities can integrate nature into their infrastructure, creating spaces that are not only beautiful but also built to endure. As the climate continues to bring unpredictable challenges, Hanlon Park stands as a reassuring example of how thoughtful planning can lead to lasting resilience.

Published 2-April-2025

Stones Corner Residents Grapple with Flood Mitigation Amidst Sandbag Debate

Photo Credit: Reddit

Despite Hanlon Park in Stones Corner’s flood mitigation design, which allows the park to recover quickly from flooding, surrounding homes remain vulnerable. This necessitates using sandbags and sparks community discussion on the effectiveness of flood preparation.

Community Perspectives on Sandbagging

Online discussions revealed a range of community opinions regarding the effectiveness of sandbagging. One resident noted that “I think the issue was that – like toilet paper and water – people lost their minds and panic sand bagged,” adding that those in zero-risk areas who sandbagged and then complained of wasted time were misguided. Another commentator urged, “So will people please stop whining about how this cyclone didn’t destroy your house? Because some people are clearly doing it hard out there.”

Some residents expressed skepticism about the general effectiveness of sandbagging. One individual shared their experience from the 2011 floods, stating, “Our experience from the 2011 floods was that sandbagging was mostly useless. It kept anxious people busy though in the lead up to the flooding – I guess there is that.” They explained that residential sandbagging often fails to completely stop water, primarily acting as a filter for silt. However, others pointed out specific scenarios where sandbags can be highly effective. A resident noted, “For houses on properties with some fall towards the house and insufficient drainage, sandbags are very effective at redirecting the flow of water away from porous walls and doorways.”

Further online discussion revealed frustration with those who downplayed the severity of the weather event immediately after it occurred. One community member said, “It was actually alarming how many idiots were commenting on things right after the cyclone hit saying ‘iTZ wAs nOThinG, wE gOT LiEd tOo’ hopefully now they are sitting there thinking yeah maybe I should learn to just shut up.”

flood mitigation — *Photo Credit:* *Reddit*

The recent weather events prompted widespread sandbagging efforts. Some residents outside high-risk flood zones stockpiled sandbags, which led to subsequent frustration when their properties remained unaffected. Discussions within the community highlighted the importance of targeted sandbagging in flood-prone areas, contrasting the experience of those who prepared unnecessarily.

The design of Hanlon Park, with a creek running through it, allows the park to absorb and recover from floodwaters, but this design does not extend to protecting neighbouring residences.

The Science of Sandbagging

A study, conducted in collaboration with the Victorian State Emergency Services and the City of Port Phillip Council, examined the viability of sandbagging as a flood mitigation strategy. The research focused on the coastal suburb of Elwood, which experiences frequent flash flooding. It used a simulation tool to model the effectiveness of sandbagging depots. The study found that while sandbagging can be an effective method of flood defence, proper planning and execution are crucial.

The simulation tool allowed authorities to assess various factors, including the location of sandbagging depots, the time required to fill and distribute sandbags, and the community’s response. The research indicated that large-scale sandbagging depots may not always be the most efficient solution, especially in areas with short warning times.

Instead, the study emphasised the importance of individual preparedness and localised sandbagging efforts. The research also revealed that warning times are critical for sandbagging efforts to be successful.

Practical Sandbagging Advice

State Emergency Services provide practical guidance on the effective use of sandbags. Residents are advised to use sand to fill sandbags, as it is more effective than soil or gravel. Sandbags should be filled to two-thirds capacity and placed strategically, such as over floor drains and in front of doorways.

When building sandbag walls, plastic sheeting as a waterproof membrane is recommended. Self-inflating sandbags are also available as a lightweight alternative to traditional sandbags. Most homes built on a concrete slab can be protected with 25 sandbags or less.

Post-Flood Sandbag Disposal

Authorities urge residents to retain undamaged sandbags for potential future weather events, as catchments remain saturated. Before disposing of sandbags, residents should check local weather warnings for possible flash and storm surge flooding.

Sandbags that have come into contact with floodwater should be disposed of safely, following guidelines provided by local councils. Unused sand from sandbags can be scattered on lawns or used as garden topsoil, ensuring it does not wash into stormwater drains.

Over a million sandbags were distributed to southeast Queensland in preparation for recent flooding events, highlighting the scale of community preparation.

Published Date 11-March-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

Find Your Next Great Read at Books@Stones Book Clubs

If you’re searching for the best book clubs in Brisbane to join this year, look no further than Stones Corner’s very own Books@Stones. More than just a bookstore, it’s the heart of a thriving literary community, thanks to its well-loved book clubs.

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

A Family-Owned Gem

Books@Stones is a family-owned business run by Karen and Michael Weibler, who, alongside their dedicated team, pride themselves on offering personalised service and a thoughtfully curated collection of books.

The bookstore has been a staple of the community for over four decades, evolving from Balding Books to Allmedic Book Supplies and, since 2011, Books@Stones (incorporating Allmedic Book Supplies).

“We have an extensive range of Australian fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books,” Karen and Michael share on their website. “We also carry international fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books, as well as specialist medical textbooks.”

Books@Stones Book Clubs

If you’ve ever dreamed of joining a book club that blends literary discussions with a warm, community-focused vibe, Books@Stones Book Clubs are the perfect choice. They have been around for more than 13 years, providing a welcoming space for adults to connect through their shared love of reading.

Books@Stones runs four book clubs, each focusing on a specific genre: Australian fiction, crime fiction, and non-fiction. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere makes it easy for members to share insights and explore diverse perspectives. An added bonus? Members enjoy a 10 percent discount on the monthly book club selections.

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

How to Join

When and where: All four clubs meet at the Books@Stones store in Stones Corner, with sessions held monthly or every second month.
Cost: Members are encouraged to purchase their monthly book in-store. For those who prefer not to, there’s a small $5 surcharge to attend each meetup.

Whether you’re a local or just nearby, this bookstore offers an engaging way to discover new books, make friends, and support a cherished independent bookstore. It’s the perfect way to nurture your love of reading and be part of a vibrant literary community.

For more information or to join a club, pop into the store or visit their website. There’s always a story waiting to be shared at Books@Stones.

Published 28-January-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

Three Months After Baby Luka’s Hanlon Park Coffee Incident

Photo Credit: Facebook / True Crime Trending

A mother has revealed her baby’s challenging recovery journey, three months after he was doused with scalding coffee at Hanlon Park.

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.

Photo Credit: Facebook / True Crime Trending

“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.

Published 16-November-2024

First Look: Brisbane Releases Stones Corner Suburban Renewal Precinct Plans

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.

Read: Stones Corner Set to Undergo Suburban Renewal Project

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

Stones Corner Suburban Renewal — 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

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.

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

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.

Published 29-October-2024