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COVID-19 Outbreak Confirmed at Buckingham Gardens Aged Care Facility in Alexandra Hills

Authorities have confirmed a COVID-19 outbreak at Buckingham Gardens Aged Care in Alexandra Hills after families raised concerns about lockdowns and staff wearing full protective equipment.

Authorities contacted the facility directly and confirmed they have no extenuating concerns about the current outbreak, which the facility is managing under its outbreak management plan. The facility has placed two residential houses on the site, each accommodating 10 residents, into lockdown and requires carers to wear full personal protective equipment, including gowns, masks and gloves.

Families Report Confusion Over Transparency

The confirmation follows reports from visitors and families who noticed signs alerting people to the outbreak and staff in full PPE working in affected areas. One visitor said a staff member confirmed the presence of COVID-19 when asked directly, describing how uncomfortable the protective equipment was to wear during shifts.

Churches of Christ, which operates Buckingham Gardens, declined to answer questions about case numbers or provide details about the outbreak, citing privacy regulations. The organisation issued a brief statement saying it would not comment on anyone’s medical status, a response that left some families frustrated about the lack of early clarity.

Churches of Christ statement regarding the outbreak at Buckingham Gardens — Photo Credit: Churches of Christ

Lockdown Limited to Specific Houses

Buckingham Gardens consists of five low-set residential-style houses with shared communal spaces. Lockdown measures apply only to the two affected houses, not the entire complex, allowing unaffected residents to continue normal activities within their own areas.

The residential-style design allows staff to contain outbreaks within specific buildings instead of imposing facility-wide restrictions, and the facility must clearly inform families about which areas are affected.

Outbreak Reporting Sits With Authorities

Queensland Health said outbreaks of acute respiratory illness in aged care facilities are not notifiable to the state, with responsibility for outbreak reporting and management sitting with the federal government. This means state health authorities have limited involvement in monitoring or communicating about outbreaks in federally regulated aged care settings.

Families said the confirmation validated their concerns and highlighted ongoing anxiety around transparency during outbreaks in aged care environments. The lack of proactive communication from the facility left some relatives distressed, particularly those unable to visit loved ones during the lockdown period.

Published 9-February-2026.

Capalaba Dog Attack Highlights Ongoing Training Concerns Across Queensland

A dog attack in Capalaba has renewed focus on owner training and dog behaviour, as Queensland data shows attack numbers remaining high across major local areas.

Capalaba Incident At Wentworth Park

An attack at Wentworth Park in Capalaba earlier this year involved Vanessa Roberts, who was bitten three times while using a mobility scooter with her support dog. She reported ongoing impacts beyond her physical injuries, including anxiety about travelling with her support animal following the incident.

Capalaba dog attack — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Attack Numbers Show Little Change

The Capalaba incident reflects a broader pattern across Queensland, where figures compiled from the state’s ten largest councils recorded 6,457 dog attacks in 2025, similar to 6,670 in 2024 and 6,490 in 2023. The dataset was described as equating to at least 124 attacks a week across the state’s largest towns and cities.

Population-based rates in the breakdown included 5.4 attacks per 1,000 people each year in Cairns, nearly 3 per 1,000 in Townsville, and 2.7 per 1,000 in Moreton Bay. The report also identified North Queensland and Moreton City Council as the worst-affected areas, with no improvement reported over the past four years.

Online Advice And Socialisation Debated

Dog training operators said owners can struggle when relying on online material that is incomplete or unsuitable for their situation. They also raised concerns that social media messaging can discourage socialisation, including warnings that may push owners away from common settings such as dog parks.

Community Response Focuses On Responsibility

Public reaction to the report centred on owner responsibility, with repeated calls for training, leashing and, where appropriate, muzzles. Comments also included discussion about compulsory training, with differing views on whether it could be monitored or enforced.

Bite Risk Guidance

The RSPCA said children are at higher risk of severe injury and noted that any dog can bite, particularly when fearful, in pain, or feeling threatened. It also highlighted the role of recognising warning signs in dog behaviour before situations escalate.

Published 3-Feb-2026

Photo Credit: Pexels

Birkdale’s Former US Army Radio Receiving Station And Its Wartime Role

A former World War II radio receiving station in Birkdale operated as a major communications hub during the conflict, supporting Allied command networks across the South West Pacific.

World War II Radio Receiving Station In Birkdale

A former World War II radio receiving station in Birkdale played a critical role in Allied military communications across the South West Pacific, operating as one of the region’s most important listening and relay facilities.

Located off Old Cleveland Road East, the site was built between 1942 and early 1943 by the US Army Signal Corps. Known during the war as the Capalaba Receiving Station, it functioned as a key communications link between Allied command centres and the United States via San Francisco.

Queensland Heritage Register — *Photo Credit: The Ram/Radschool Association Inc*

Strategic Role In Allied Communications

The station serviced the entire South West Pacific Area, handling multiple teletype and radio telegraph circuits connecting command locations across the region. Its position within a layered communications network ensured messages could continue flowing even if other facilities were damaged or disrupted.

Signals received at the Birkdale site were relayed by secure cable links to Brisbane, supporting rapid decision-making during military operations.

Birkdale radio receiving station — *Photo Credit: The Ram/Radschool Association Inc*

Purpose-Built For Long-Range Interception

During World War II, radio interception was essential to intelligence gathering. Large, direction-based antenna systems were required to determine the origin and direction of transmissions, necessitating isolated sites away from electrical interference.

The station was established on Willards Farm, later known as Cotton Farm, selected for its terrain and radio reception qualities. The land was acquired to allow construction of a purpose-built facility capable of supporting multiple antenna arrays.

Inside the building, radio equipment once lined much of the interior. Records confirm the use of the CW3-D Radio Receiver Assembly OA-59/FRC, a crystal-controlled, fixed-frequency receiver designed for long-range communications. These receivers operated with matched rhombic antenna arrays, a configuration critical to signal reliability.

World War II history — *Photo Credit: The Ram/Radschool Association Inc*

Secure Communications And SIGSALY

The Birkdale station also supported the SIGSALY system, an advanced digital speech encryption network used for high-level Allied communications. This system enabled secure voice contact between Brisbane and overseas command centres and remained uncompromised throughout the war.

military communications — *Photo Credit: The Ram/Radschool Association Inc*

Post-War Transition And Heritage Status

By January 1946, preparations were underway for the US Army to withdraw from the site. After negotiations regarding repairs and acquisition, the final evacuation occurred at midnight on 30 November 1946, when the station transferred to the Postmaster-General’s Department.

One complete rhombic antenna remains on the site. The former receiving station was added to the Queensland Heritage Register on 26 June 2020, recognising its intact structures and its role in wartime intelligence and communications in Birkdale.

Published 6-Jan-2026

Photo Credit: The Ram/Radschool Association Inc

Capalaba Carpet Court Goes Into Liquidation, Reopens Under New Ownership

Formerly published as Capalaba Carpet Court Shuts as Franchise Businesses Go into Liquidation

31-Dec-2025 – A Carpet Court franchise store in Capalaba has closed and entered liquidation, alongside two related Brisbane locations, with liquidators now reviewing the circumstances surrounding the business failure.

Closures Involving Capalaba

The Carpet Court store in Capalaba ceased trading earlier this week, at the same time as franchise locations in Macgregor and Underwood. All three businesses entered voluntary liquidation on the same day.

Each outlet operated as an independently owned franchise under the Carpet Court brand.

Brisbane liquidation — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Liquidation Review Underway

Liquidators from BDO were appointed to the three businesses following the closures. They are currently investigating the reasons for the business failure, though it has been stated that it is too early to provide further detail.

The total level of debt associated with the Capalaba business and the related entities has not yet been confirmed.

Employment Impact

The number of staff affected across the three stores, including Capalaba, is still being verified. At the time trading ceased, fewer than 10 workers were employed across all locations.

Business Entities Confirmed

ASIC and ABN Lookup records list the Capalaba store as trading under Krytenberg 3 Pty Ltd, which is now formally in liquidation. Two related entities operated the Macgregor and Underwood stores, with all three companies registered in 2022.

The sole director declined to comment on the liquidation, noting further information would be provided through liquidators and public filings.

Capalaba Carpet Court — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Franchise Context

Carpet Court operates a national franchise network with more than 200 stores across Australia. Individual outlets are locally owned and operated, meaning closures at specific locations do not reflect the status of the wider brand.

Carpet Court has been contacted for comment regarding the closures.

What Comes Next

Liquidators will continue assessing the financial position of the Capalaba business and the related entities. Further updates are expected as the liquidation process progresses and additional public information becomes available.

Published 31-Dec-2025

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Birkdale in the Frame as Design Search Begins for Redland Whitewater Centre

Residents across Capalaba and neighbouring bayside suburbs are being invited to follow the early planning stages of a major new sporting venue, with the Queensland Government launching a design search for the Redland Whitewater Centre at the Birkdale Community Precinct.

The centre is planned as part of the broader Sport and Active Recreation Precinct and will play a role in Queensland’s preparations for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with long-term community use built into the project.

Design Phase Gets Underway

The design search marks the first step in shaping how the Redland Whitewater Centre will look and operate. Architects and designers are being asked to submit ideas that consider both elite competition requirements and everyday community use.

Officials say the process will help identify a lead design partner and guide future planning decisions as the project moves forward.

What the Centre Will Deliver

Once completed, the Whitewater Centre is expected to provide a permanent venue for paddlesports, supporting training, events and recreational activity well beyond 2032.

The facility is being developed through the Queensland Government’s Delivering the Games program, with an emphasis on creating lasting infrastructure rather than a temporary Games-only venue.

Community Involvement to Come

While the current stage is focused on design concepts, opportunities for community input are expected as the project progresses. Further details on consultation and feedback will be shared once designs are refined.

Officials say early engagement will help ensure the centre fits well within the Birkdale Community Precinct and delivers benefits for surrounding suburbs, including Capalaba.

Next Steps for the Project

Following the design search, submissions will be reviewed to inform the selection of a design team. More detailed plans and visual material are expected to be released in later phases of the project.

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Published 30-Dec-2025

Featured Image Credit: Delivering2032.com.au

First-Home Buyers Turn to Alexandra Hills as Brisbane Market Shifts

Alexandra Hills has been identified as one of Brisbane’s most promising suburbs for first-home buyers heading into 2026, reflecting a growing recognition of the area’s balance between affordability, liveability and long-term appeal.

The bayside suburb has been flagged through national property research examining where first-home buyers are most likely to find realistic opportunities in an increasingly competitive Brisbane market. The findings point to a shift in buyer focus towards established suburbs that offer strong amenities without the price pressures seen closer to the CBD.

Located in Redland City, Alexandra Hills combines family-friendly streets, established housing and convenient access to schools, shopping centres and transport links. Its inclusion among Brisbane’s leading first-home buyer suburbs suggests the area is increasingly viewed as a place to settle, rather than simply an entry point into the market.

Property analysts behind the research assessed dozens of suburbs across Greater Brisbane, weighing factors such as typical price points, housing supply, infrastructure access and eligibility for government support schemes. Alexandra Hills stood out as a suburb capable of meeting first-home buyer needs on multiple fronts, rather than relying solely on price.

The recognition comes as affordability challenges continue to reshape buyer behaviour across Brisbane. With inner-city and middle-ring suburbs increasingly out of reach, attention has turned to areas that offer both value and established community infrastructure. Alexandra Hills’ proximity to both Brisbane and the bayside lifestyle has added to its appeal for buyers seeking convenience without compromise.

For first-home buyers, the listing may offer reassurance that suburbs like Alexandra Hills provide a stable and practical option amid ongoing market pressures. Industry observers note that established suburbs often deliver greater certainty for buyers compared with newer developments, particularly in terms of services, transport and community networks.

As Queensland continues to grow, areas that combine accessibility, liveability and relative affordability are expected to play an increasingly important role in helping first-home buyers enter the market.

Published 30-Dec-2025

Featured Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Rickertt Road Bottleneck: $500K Business Case Study Underway

A $500,000 business case study examining options to fix Capalaba’s notorious Rickertt Road and Tingalpa Creek bridge bottleneck is progressing, with a funding agreement expected within weeks.

Read: Victoria Point Set to Get New Skatepark and BMX Track at Cascades Park

According to a Redland City spokesperson, the council is reviewing Queensland’s proposal to develop a business case examining options for improving capacity along the Rickertt Road corridor, from Thorneside to Green Camp Road.

Green Camp Rd (Photo credit: Google Street View)

The spokesperson said that if council accepts the proposal, the business case would help council better understand the project’s complexities and scale, and would assist in determining whether future consideration or alternative funding pathways may be required.

The funding deed is anticipated in coming weeks, with work on the business case expected to progress over the next 12 months once finalised. Negotiations between the Transport and Main Roads Department and Redland City officers have been ongoing for several months to determine project delivery arrangements and the scope of the business case.

The Bottleneck Problem

Local resident Howard Driver described Rickertt Road as a vital link for the northern Redlands that experiences significant congestion during peak times and flooding during heavy rain. Driver said the road is the only route in and out of the northern part of Redlands and becomes very slow and congested during peak times while remaining subject to flooding in heavy rain.

The road represents one of three key arteries into Capalaba, all of which are experiencing increased traffic volumes. Residents have identified the bridge bottleneck as a priority issue for years.

Multi-Council Coordination

The project’s location on the border between Redland and Brisbane areas involves coordination between multiple government bodies. Brisbane’s local officials clarified that while Redland is leading project delivery, Brisbane will be consulted on designs due to the project’s location within its local government boundary.

Redland City Cr Peter Mitchell said transportation issues across Redlands, Brisbane, and Logan would benefit from a shared and coordinated approach.

Cr Shane Rendalls said the study would determine the cost-benefit analysis of either replacing or duplicating the existing bridge and upgrading the single-lane sections on both the southern side in Redlands and the northern side in Brisbane. Rendalls said these works will only be possible with significant State and Federal funding.

Next Steps

Member for Capalaba Russell Field described the funding as a critical first step in a project that has been long overdue. Field said he has maintained regular contact with the Minister’s Office and TMR to monitor progress on the project.

The business case will examine various options for addressing capacity constraints along the corridor, though specific solutions have not yet been determined. The 12-month study is expected to examine options and their feasibility for potential upgrades. The business case represents a first step in a project aimed at addressing traffic congestion on a key route into Capalaba.

Published 22-December-2025

Trending TAFE Courses in QLD and What the New Alexandra Hills Facility Means for Locals

Artist’s impression of the Electrotechnology Centre at the Alexandra Hills TAFE campus (Photo credit: Facebook/Skills for Queensland)

TAFE Queensland continues to play a key role in preparing students for areas of workforce demand, with courses across trades, health and technology supporting employment pathways throughout the state.

Read: Brisbane Metro Expansion Planning Continues For Capalaba

The construction of a new Electrotechnology Centre at the Alexandra Hills TAFE campus highlights how training infrastructure is being expanded to better serve local communities, including Capalaba, Alexandra Hills, and the broader Redlands.

Photo credit: Facebook/Skills for Queensland

Below are 10 TAFE courses aligned with workforce needs in Queensland, reflecting areas where trained workers are required across multiple industries.

Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician
This apprenticeship-linked qualification leads to trade certification as an electrician. Workforce projections indicate ongoing demand for electricians in Queensland, particularly in South East Queensland, where the majority of new roles are expected to be located.
Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start)
This entry-level course provides foundational electrical skills and prepares students for apprenticeships. The course will be supported locally by the new Alexandra Hills Electrotechnology Centre, which is converting previously unused buildings into modern training workshops.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
This qualification supports careers in early learning and childcare services. Early childhood education remains an identified area of workforce need under Queensland training and skills initiatives.
Certificate III in Individual Support
Designed for those seeking work in aged care or disability services, this course prepares students for roles supporting individuals in residential and community-based settings.
Certificate III in Education Support
This qualification provides training for work as a teacher aide or support officer in schools, assisting students and teachers in classroom environments.
Certificate III in Community Services
A broad qualification that supports employment in community support roles, youth services and outreach programs across a range of organisations.
Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
This trade qualification supports careers as automotive technicians, providing practical skills relevant to workshops and service centres across Queensland.
Certificate III in Carpentry
An apprenticeship-based pathway into the construction industry, this course supports employment in residential and commercial building projects.
Certificate IV in Cyber Security
This qualification introduces skills related to protecting digital systems and networks, reflecting the growing importance of cyber security across industries.
Certificate III in Information Technology
This course provides foundational IT skills for entry-level roles, including technical support and basic network assistance.

The new Electrotechnology Centre at Alexandra Hills TAFE forms part of a $5 million investment by Queensland to expand training capacity in electrical trades. Once operational, the facility is expected to train up to 140 students each year in Certificate II and III electrotechnology courses, allowing more students to access industry-standard training closer to home.

Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates has said the facility will help secure a pipeline of skilled electrical workers, while Assistant Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training and Member for Oodgeroo Amanda Stoker has described the project as part of securing Queensland’s future energy workforce.

Local representatives have also highlighted the benefits for the Redlands. Member for Capalaba Russell Field said the centre would support local businesses seeking skilled electricians and technicians, while Member for Redlands Rebecca Young said it would help students train locally rather than travelling long distances.

Read: Victoria Point Set to Get New Skatepark and BMX Track at Cascades Park

With initiatives such as Fee-Free TAFE and Free Apprenticeships for Under 25s supporting access to vocational education, TAFE Queensland remains a central pathway into employment. As construction continues at Alexandra Hills, the new Electrotechnology Centre stands as a practical example of how training investment is responding to workforce needs across the region.

Published 17-December-2025

Capalaba Dance Club Celebrates Historic Success At National Physie Championships

Millennium Dance Co (Millennium Physie & Dance) has reported unprecedented national results following its appearance at the 2025 Australian Physie & Dance Association National Championships.

National Achievement

Millennium Dance Co operates community-based classes in Capalaba, Chermside and Sunnybank. Following the 2025 national event, the club reported a level of success not previously achieved by any club in the history of physie or the Australian Physie & Dance Association.

The Capalaba location forms part of the club’s Brisbane network, supporting participants across recreational and competitive levels.

dance championships — *Photo Credit: Millennium Physie & Dance/Facebook*

Results Reported From The 2025 Championships

According to information provided by the club, 63 Millennium Dance Co competitors qualified for and represented the club at nationals, with participants aged between five and 44.

The club reported securing 11 national titles, along with seven second-place finishes and nine third-place results. Additional placings included one fourth, three fifths and four sixths.

Millennium Dance Co also stated that 18 competitors reached national finals, placing within the top 14 nationally, while 17 under-12 competitors progressed to the semi-final stage.

Multiple age divisions were reported to have achieved clean podium sweeps, finishing first, second and third, which the club described as an unprecedented outcome in Australian physie history.

Capalaba dance club — *Photo Credit: Millennium Physie & Dance/Facebook*

Event Schedule And Competition Format

The 2025 Australian Physie & Dance Association National Championships were held at the Darling Harbour Theatre at ICC Sydney on Saturday 29 November and Sunday 30 November 2025.

Junior competitions took place on Saturday 29 November 2025, with two sessions scheduled. Session 1 commenced at 9 a.m. for ages five, seven, nine and 11, while Session 2 began at 2 p.m. for ages six, eight, 10 and 12.

Senior and Open Advanced divisions were contested on Sunday 30 November 2025, featuring the top 14 competitors in each section. One competitor was crowned the 2025 Grand Champion.

Millennium Dance Co — *Photo Credit: Millennium Physie & Dance/Facebook*

Background On Physie And The Capalaba Club

Physie is an Australian-founded dance sport established in 1892 and has remained part of Australian cultural life for more than a century. The Australian Physie & Dance Association was established in 2012 and oversees national-level competition.

Millennium Dance Co describes itself as a family-focused club established in 1998. Its Capalaba program supports a wide age range, from early childhood through to adults, offering both recreational classes and competitive pathways.

Looking Ahead For Capalaba Participants

Following the 2025 national results, Millennium Dance Co continues regular training and classes across its Brisbane locations. The Capalaba studio remains open to participants of varying experience levels, supporting ongoing involvement in physie and future national representation.

Published 14-Dec-2025

Photo Credit: Millennium Physie & Dance/Facebook

Brisbane Metro Expansion Planning Continues For Capalaba

Planning work to assess a future Brisbane Metro extension to Capalaba is continuing, with an eastern expansion route currently under examination as part of broader network planning.

Background And Context

Brisbane Metro expansion planning is examining potential extensions to the north, south and east of the city, including a proposed link to Capalaba. The eastern corridor has been identified as part of longer-term mass transit planning connecting Brisbane with neighbouring urban areas.

A rapid business case announced in February is assessing whether Metro services can extend beyond current boundaries. The assessment is being undertaken in partnership with other levels of government, with dedicated funding allocated to support the planning phase.

Capalaba Metro — *Photo Credit: Brisbane Metro*

Proposed Capalaba Route

Under the eastern expansion option, Metro Line 3 would extend beyond its current endpoint at Langlands Park. The proposed route includes new stops at Coorparoo Square, Camp Hill, Carina, Carindale and Chandler before terminating at Capalaba.

The rapid business case is examining route alignment, depot locations, network integration and delivery sequencing for any future extension.

Progress And Timing

Despite confirmation that planning work is continuing, the Federal Department of Infrastructure and Transport website currently lists the business case status as not started. This difference in reporting has raised questions about timing, particularly in relation to transport planning ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Metro expansion has been described as essential to support ongoing population growth, with Brisbane adding more than 600 new residents each week.

Regional Connectivity

Regional authorities have continued to call for improved transport links to support growth and major future facilities, including venues planned for the Games. Improved connections to Capalaba are viewed as part of broader efforts to strengthen cross-boundary public transport access.

Next Steps

The rapid business case is expected to determine whether the Capalaba Metro extension proceeds to further planning stages, including decisions on delivery timeframes, funding models and network integration.

Published 13-Dec-2025

Photo Credit: Brisbane Metro