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Capalaba Shopping Centre Calls for More Santas This Christmas

Capalabais facing a festive challenge, with organisers at local shopping centres calling for more Santas to meet growing demand from families this Christmas.

Rising Demand for Santa Photos

Organisers say the popularity of Christmas photos has increased each year, with parents keen to capture special moments for their children. Extended shopping hours have also made it harder for a single Santa to manage long shifts.

*Photo Credit: Canva / For Illustration Purpose Only*

To ensure everyone has a chance to enjoy the tradition, more Santas are being recruited for shorter sessions at Capalaba and Wynnum centres.

What Makes a Santa

The role does not depend on a real beard or large frame, with padding, wigs, and whiskers provided. Organisers stress that enthusiasm for Christmas and a love of people are the most important qualities.

The job is centred on creating smiles, engaging with children, and listening carefully to their wishes. While children’s requests once focused on toys, organisers note that many now ask for expensive gifts such as pets, computers, or electric bikes.

Who Takes the Role

Many Santas are retirees who return each year, enjoying the chance to spread Christmas cheer while earning seasonal income. With pay starting at $30 an hour plus penalties, some use the extra money to fund holidays after the festive season.

Mrs Claus has also become a familiar feature at events, with shopping centres adding activities such as storytime, cookie-making, and photos.

Applying for the Job

Anyone interested in joining the seasonal team will need to complete a police check and specific training. Organisers encourage those who enjoy the Christmas spirit to apply, emphasising that the role is about creating a welcoming experience for families.

Applications can be made by emailing info@jampromo.com.au or calling 0408 873 799.

Published 15-September-2025

Featured Photo Credit: Canva / For Illustration Purpose Only

Victoria Point Man Fighting for Life After Alleged Targeted Gym Assault

A 27-year-old Victoria Point resident remains in hospital fighting for life after suffering critical head injuries in what police allege was a targeted assault outside a Bunker Road gym on Monday evening.

The incident occurred around 8pm when the victim was allegedly approached and physically assaulted by a 22-year-old man from Victoria Point outside the fitness facility. Queensland Police investigations suggest the attack was not random, with officers alleging it was orchestrated by a 22-year-old Redland Bay man who was known to the victim.

The severity of the victim’s injuries required immediate hospitalisation, where he remains in a critical condition receiving treatment for life-threatening head trauma.

Police moved swiftly in their investigation, executing a search warrant at a Cypress Street address in Redland Bay on Wednesday. The Redland Bay man was taken into custody and subsequently faced Cleveland Magistrates Court, where he was charged with grievous bodily harm, assault, and contravening an order to access electronically stored information. He was remanded in custody until 18 September.

The alleged attacker, the Victoria Point man, voluntarily presented himself to Bayside Criminal Investigation Branch detectives on Friday. He has been charged with grievous bodily harm and was scheduled to appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court on Saturday.

The incident has highlighted concerns about violent crime in the community. According to official police sources, the attack was allegedly organised by the Redland Bay man, who was known to the victim.

Detective Inspector Wayne Francis emphasised the seriousness with which police treat such violent offences, noting that investigators were committed to pursuing all avenues of inquiry to apprehend those responsible and provide answers to the victim’s family during this difficult time.

The attack occurred near Victoria Point Shopping Centre, which is located at 2-34 Bunker Road, an area frequented by local residents for shopping and fitness activities. Several fitness facilities operate in the Bunker Road precinct, including gyms within the shopping centre complex.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact violent crime can have on victims, their families, and the broader community. Both men now face serious charges as the legal process unfolds.

The investigation remains ongoing as the victim continues his fight for recovery in hospital.

Published 8-September-2025

Finucane Road Speed Cut to 60 km/h from Capalaba to Cleveland

Motorists in Capalaba will soon be driving at a maximum of 60 kilometres per hour on Finucane Road, with the Queensland Government set to lower limits across the busy stretch between Elmhurst Street and Waterloo Street in Cleveland.

When the changes take effect

The Department of Transport and Main Roads confirmed works will begin in early September 2025 and are expected to take three weeks, weather permitting. Construction will occur overnight from 7:00 p.m. until 5:00 a.m., Monday to Thursday, to minimise daytime disruption.

Why the reduction is happening

The decision comes after a speed limit review of Finucane Road identified safety concerns and recommended reductions across several sections. Officials say the change is designed to improve safety and reduce both crashes and road trauma.

Specific changes

According to the Department, three key stretches will see lower limits:

From Elmhurst Street to McDonald Road, the limit will drop from 70 km/h to 60 km/h.
Between McDonald Road and Delancey Street, the limit will fall from 80 km/h to 60 km/h.
From Delancey Street to Waterloo Street, the limit will change from 70 km/h to 60 km/h.

In practice, this means the entire corridor from Capalaba to Cleveland will operate under a consistent 60 km/h limit once the works are complete.

Photo Credit: Victoria Point Community/Facebook

What drivers can expect during works

Crews will replace existing signs, install electronic message boards, and add temporary notices reading “New Limit” and “New Speed Limit Ahead.” These warnings will remain in place for three months after the new limits are introduced, to give motorists time to adjust.

Published 8-Sept-2025

Capalaba Bulldogs Women Earn Promotion to Top League After Standout Season

Capalaba has reclaimed its place among Queensland’s football elite, with the Bulldogs’ women’s side securing promotion back to the National Premier Leagues after finishing second in the FQPL1 competition. The team’s rise was powered by a record of 14 wins, three draws and just one loss, making them one of the most consistent performers in the state.

Season of dominance

The Bulldogs’ defensive record has been a key talking point across the league. They conceded only five goals throughout the season, with goalkeeper Cass Zaffina earning high praise for her composure under pressure. The squad’s discipline at the back laid the foundation for their promotion and earned respect from rivals who struggled to break through their defensive line.

Club captain Demi Robins, one of Capalaba’s longest-serving players, has been central to the team’s resurgence. Her leadership on and off the pitch has been credited with helping to build a strong culture that carried the side through tight contests.

Finals push

Capalaba’s promotion was secured ahead of their finals campaign, which set up a clash against Caboolture at John Fredericks Park. The game marked another opportunity for the Bulldogs to showcase their competitive edge as they stepped into finals football with momentum behind them.

Building for the future

The Bulldogs have made it clear that their focus extends beyond short-term wins. The club has been vocal about its ambition to become one of the leading women-focused football programs in Queensland. By investing in pathways for junior players and building a competitive senior team, Capalaba aims to cement its reputation as a destination for aspiring female footballers.

With promotion secured, the Bulldogs are now preparing for the challenges of competing against stronger opposition in the National Premier Leagues. The club’s officials have said the squad’s growth this year shows they are ready for the step up and eager to test themselves against the best.

Published 4-Sept-2025

Featured Image: Calapaba FC/Facebook

Young Labourer Sentenced for Cannabis Dealing at Hungry Jack’s

A 24-year-old Alexandra Hills resident has been sentenced to probation and community service after pleading guilty to dealing cannabis from the car park of the local Hungry Jack’s restaurant.

Mitchell Leslie Rolfe appeared before Cleveland Magistrates Court last Thursday, where he admitted to multiple drug-related charges stemming from incidents that shocked local patrons at the Alexandra Hills Shopping Centre precinct.

The court heard that concerned members of the public contacted police after witnessing what appeared to be drug transactions taking place in broad daylight at the fast-food restaurant’s car park. Police responded to these reports and observed Rolfe conducting what prosecutors described as a transaction with a female customer.

Following his arrest, officers discovered approximately 30 grams of cannabis divided into individual bags of around 4 grams each, along with $460 in cash consisting primarily of small denomination notes. A search of Rolfe’s residence later revealed additional cannabis and drug paraphernalia.

The charges against Rolfe also included an incident from May this year, when he was caught driving on Finucane Road with drugs in his system whilst already disqualified from holding a licence.

During proceedings, Rolfe’s legal representative told the court that his client had worked full-time in the construction industry as a roof truss labourer and had distanced himself from criminal behaviour since his arrest.

Magistrate Deborah Vasta used the sentencing as an opportunity to warn about the potential progression from cannabis dealing to more serious drug offences. She emphasised that many people involved in trafficking harder substances often begin with cannabis before escalating to more dangerous drugs.

“Most people who end up trafficking in drugs don’t just start off a business of trafficking in ice or meth or cocaine,” Magistrate Vasta observed during sentencing. She noted that Rolfe had been apprehended before his offending could escalate further and encouraged him to take advantage of this opportunity.

The magistrate sentenced Rolfe to 18 months’ probation with strict conditions including regular reporting to authorities, mandatory counselling sessions, and random drug testing. He was also ordered to complete 60 hours of community service for refusing to provide police with access to his mobile phone during the investigation.

Whilst no formal convictions were recorded against Rolfe, he has been banned from entering Alexandra Hills Shopping Centre. The court warned that any breach of his probation conditions or failure to complete the community service requirements could result in significantly harsher penalties.

The incident has highlighted ongoing concerns about drug activity in public spaces within the local community, with police praising the vigilance of community members who reported the suspicious behaviour.

Published 5-September-2025

Victoria Point Sewer Project To Unlock New Housing Supply

A state-backed sewer upgrade in Victoria Point will support the delivery of hundreds of new homes as the authorities progress amendments to a major nearby development.

Background

In May, Redland City Council lodged two applications under the state government’s $2 billion Residential Activation Fund, a program aimed at accelerating shovel-ready infrastructure projects to support housing supply. In June, the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning confirmed one of the bids had been successful.

The State approved a $4.3 million grant for the Southwest Victoria Point Central Sewer Trunk Expansion Project. Covering a 175-hectare area around Double Jump Road in Victoria Point, the upgrade is expected to facilitate hundreds of homes in a key growth corridor.

An alternative sewerage upgrade for the Kinross Road estate in Thornlands was not supported by the fund, despite being designed to complete a long-planned precinct. The authorities has emphasised the need for broader infrastructure support to sustain ongoing development.

Victoria Point infrastructure — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Details of the Sewer Upgrade

The funding will enhance sewer capacity around Double Jump Road, unlocking housing development in the area. The $4.3 million allocation was confirmed by the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning.

Road detours are currently in place in Victoria Point and Redland Bay while housing construction continues.

Shoreline Project Review

At the same time, Redland City Council is considering significant amendments to the $3 billion Shoreline development at Redland Bay. Proposed changes include relocating the town centre closer to Serpentine Creek Road, adopting terrace housing, and consolidating four sports fields into a single precinct with a clubhouse and community amenities.

Developer submissions indicate the town centre relocation would improve visibility and access to shops, cafés and services, creating a central hub. The developer has also committed to deliver the sports precinct by the 1 500th home and to contribute to clubhouse construction. Infrastructure agreements will be revised to reflect these adjustments.

Victoria Point sewer — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Looking Ahead

Further announcements on the Residential Activation Fund are expected soon, with authorities encouraged to reapply for projects that were not successful in the first round.

Published 1-Sep-2025

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Redlands Area Sports Results – Aug 22 to 24

Sat, August 23, 2025 – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 20
• Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 119 | Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 88

Sun, August 24, 2025 – FQPL1 – Women – Round 18
• Moreton City Excelsior U23 0 | Capalaba FC U23 0
• Moreton City Excelsior 0 | Capalaba FC 5

Sun, August 24, 2025 – FQPL1 – Men – Round 22
• Capalaba FC 1 | Magic United 6
• Southside Eagles 1 | Redlands United 5

NPL
Sat, August 23, 2025 – NPL – Men – Round 22
• Gold Coast Knights 2 | Sunshine Coast Wanderers 1

Medicare Urgent Care Clinic Coming to Capalaba to Improve Access

Capalaba is among the first in Brisbane South to get a walk-in Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, reducing pressure on local hospitals.

Community Health Needs Drive Expansion

Capalaba residents will soon have quicker access to urgent medical care with a new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic set to open in the suburb. The clinic is part of a national program expanding walk-in, bulk-billed services for non-life-threatening conditions.

*Photo Credit: Urgent Care Network Australia*

Capalaba, Carindale and Holland Park–Yeronga were marked as priority areas due to growth and rising healthcare demand. The new clinic will treat minor injuries, infections and acute conditions, helping residents avoid long GP waits or hospital visits.

Services Offered and Operational Details

Medicare UCCs operate seven days a week with extended hours, providing care for conditions such as sprains, fractures, respiratory illnesses, rashes, minor burns, and infections.

Patients do not need an appointment, and services are fully bulk-billed. The clinics work with nearby hospitals to quickly refer cases needing higher care. The clinics also work closely with nearby hospitals, so cases requiring higher-level care can be efficiently referred.

Opportunities for Local Practices

A local medical practice, chosen through an Expression of Interest process managed by Brisbane South PHN, will run the Capalaba clinic.

This approach allows local general practices and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services to expand their services and join the urgent care network. It strengthens healthcare capacity and community ties.

Broader Community Impact

The Capalaba UCC is part of a national plan to open 50 new clinics, aimed at giving Australians faster access to urgent care within a short travel distance.

For Capalaba, the clinic will ease pressure on nearby hospitals and provide quicker treatment for everyday health issues. It will also offer better support for families, the elderly, and residents needing urgent care.

Published 16-August-2025

Redlands Area Sports Results – Aug 15 to 17

Sat, August 16, 2025 – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 19
• Mt Gravatt QAFL Seniors 73 | Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 104

Sat, August 16, 2025 – FQPL1 – Men – Round 21
• Redlands United 0 | Capalaba FC 1

“This Will Help Us So Much”: Capalaba Retiree in Tears Over $1.6m Win

A morning of running errands turned into a moment of pure disbelief and happiness for a Capalaba retiree this week, who discovered he was the owner of a $1.6 million windfall. The first person he wanted to share the news with was his beloved wife of 67 years.

The Redlands resident held one of just four division one winning entries from across the country in last weekend’s major prize, taking home a life-altering sum of $1,668,614.99. Because the ticket wasn’t registered to a members card, officials had to wait anxiously for the mystery winner to check their numbers and come forward. When the gleeful man finally realised his good fortune, he was overcome with emotion.

“This is wonderful! My wife is in a nursing home, and this will help us so much. We’ve been married for 67 incredible years,” he cried during a call with officials. “We have heaps of expenses, and I can’t even begin to describe how good this is. I’ve been playing for years and years, and I never expected to win.”

he man said he couldn’t wait to share the incredible news with his daughter. “Thank you very much. You have made my day!” he said.

The win has also spread joy to the place the ticket was purchased: Mount Cotton Road News. Owner Meg Reilly said her team was ecstatic to learn they had played a part in changing a local’s life. “The entire team has been buzzing with excitement knowing we sold a division one winning entry,” she said. “We’ll be celebrating in-store with plenty of cheers, balloons and signs. Over the past 12 years, we’ve been fortunate enough to sell four division one winning entries, and it never gets any less exciting.”

This latest win marks the fourth major lottery win in the Redland region so far in 2025, with winnings for local players now totalling more than $4.9 million.

Published Date 14-August-2025