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Hashtag Burgers & Waffles Capalaba Forced To Close After Neighbouring Business Incident

Hashtag Burgers & Waffles Capalaba was forced to close without warning on Saturday morning after damage from an incident involving its neighbouring tobacconist made it unsafe to trade. The restaurant stayed shut for several hours while staff assessed the damage and waited for approval to reopen.

Temporary Shutdown Disrupts Morning Trade

The closure happened in the early hours of 25 October 2025, when a suspected targeted attack on the adjoining PT Tobacco and Gifts caused smashed glass and fire damage to the restaurant’s exterior. Staff arrived later that morning to find broken windows and charred walls, prompting an immediate shutdown and sanitation process before trading could resume.

*Photo Credit: Hashtag Burgers & Waffles Capalaba/Facebook*

The restaurant confirmed it was unable to open at its usual time and informed customers through social media that service was paused until further notice. Staff said they had already experienced similar disruptions before due to repeated attacks on the neighbouring business and were disappointed but prepared to respond quickly. They prioritised safety checks and began cleaning once police cleared the area.

Fast Cleanup And Evening Reopening

Hashtag Burgers & Waffles Capalaba reopened at 5pm the same day after the team completed a full cleanup. They sanitised all surfaces and equipment before welcoming customers again, hoping to recover from the lost lunch rush.

The business thanked locals for their support and said the decision to reopen so quickly was driven by its commitment to stay reliable for the community.

Community Response And Frustration

Locals expressed concern for the restaurant and frustration over the repeated impact on businesses that were not involved in the conflict.

Some called for stronger action to protect neighbouring operators who continue to be affected by incidents they did not cause. Others said they planned to visit the restaurant that evening specifically to support its recovery.

Police awareness of ongoing issue

Police confirmed the incident as a deliberate attack on the tobacconist next door and said investigations were ongoing. There have been multiple incidents targeting the same business in recent months, and nearby operators like Hashtag Burgers & Waffles have been repeatedly affected.

The restaurant has continued to trade but acknowledged the stress of ongoing disruptions.

Published 27-October-2025

Featured Photo Credit: Hashtag Burgers & Waffles Capalaba/Facebook

Electric Bus Link Proposed for Capalaba to Boost Metro Connections

Capalaba has been identified as one of four key routes in a proposed expansion of Brisbane’s public transport network through electric “Metro Glider” buses aimed at improving suburban connectivity.

Electric Buses to Strengthen Suburban Connections

Electric “Metro Glider” services have been proposed along major suburban routes to connect commuters to Brisbane Metro extensions and train stations. A $50 million business case has been approved to explore potential extension routes to Carseldine, Springwood, Capalaba, and the airport, though work has not yet commenced.

These smaller, electric buses are designed to travel on existing roads where larger Metro vehicles cannot, offering a faster way to expand coverage without constructing new busways.

Capalaba electric bus network — *Photo Credit: Brisbane Metro*

Expanding the Network for Accessibility

The SEQ Gliders Vision identifies key routes along Lutwyche, Waterworks, Sandgate, Wynnum, and Logan roads, as well as Kingsford Smith and Coronation Drives. The proposal forms part of efforts to improve access across the city and reduce congestion by enhancing suburban connections.

Industry feedback indicates that the buses could be deployed more rapidly than larger infrastructure projects, helping to strengthen public transport networks in the short term.

Public Priorities and Survey Findings

RACQ’s 2025 Future Brisbane Survey found that three in four Queenslanders viewed more frequent and reliable public transport as the most important legacy from the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The survey also identified investment in motorways and accessible neighbourhoods as key priorities.

RACQ has expressed support for the Metro Glider concept as a practical and efficient way to enhance suburban transport services across South East Queensland.

Community Discussion on Implementation

Public discussions have focused on the importance of safe, shaded bus stops, pedestrian-friendly upgrades, and separated e-mobility paths to connect residents to bus services. Some contributors also supported building light-rail-style routes with improved stations and direct corridors to enhance reliability.

Next Steps for the Capalaba Route

Engineering and construction firms have shown interest in the project, with planning arrangements still being finalised. The Capalaba route is expected to play a key role in linking suburban areas to the broader Brisbane Metro network.

If realised, the electric bus network would strengthen public transport access for Capalaba residents and neighbouring suburbs, improving travel efficiency across Brisbane’s growing transport corridors.

Published 14-Oct-2025

Photo Credit: Brisbane Metro

Police Warn Of Counterfeit Cash Circulating In Alexandra Hills

Police are investigating reports of counterfeit $50 and $100 notes being used in Alexandra Hills and nearby Bayside suburbs, urging residents and local businesses to remain cautious.

Counterfeit Notes Circulating In Bayside

Since 29 August 2025, authorities have received ten reports of fake notes being used to pay for goods and services in Alexandra Hills, Birkdale, Capalaba, Cleveland and Wynnum. These incidents have occurred at various service stations, retail outlets and takeaway stores. The counterfeit notes are mainly in $50 and $100 denominations, and police believe some individuals may be attempting to use them during busy trading hours or to exchange them for smaller amounts of legitimate currency.

Counterfeit notes Alexandra Hills — *Photo Credit: Queensland Police*

Varied Quality Of Counterfeit Notes

Investigations have shown that the counterfeit money circulating in the area has been printed with differing levels of quality. Some of the notes are marked with the word “COPY” and feature inconsistent serial numbers. The material used to produce these fakes includes paper, plastic and cardboard. Police have noted that the quality of these forgeries varies, with some appearing more convincing than others when handled quickly in low-light or high-traffic situations.

Police Urge Vigilance From Businesses And Residents

Residents and business owners in Alexandra Hills and surrounding suburbs have been urged to inspect all cash transactions carefully. Police recommend that anyone who comes across a suspicious note should handle it as little as possible, store it securely in an envelope, and record details of how it was obtained. Reports can be lodged immediately through Policelink or Crime Stoppers. Authorities also advise checking the Reserve Bank of Australia’s counterfeit detection guide for information on identifying genuine currency.

Ongoing Investigation

Investigations are continuing into how the counterfeit notes entered circulation across Brisbane’s Bayside region. Police have appealed to anyone who may have information about the source of these notes to come forward.

Published 10-Oct-2025

Photo Credit: Queensland Police

Capalaba Building Heights Cut as Council Tightens City Plan Rules

New rules will lower building heights and raise lot size limits across Capalaba, with most future developments capped at three storeys unless on larger sites.

Lower Heights, Larger Lots

Capalaba’s Parkland Living precinct is now limited to 20.5 metres, while Mount Cotton Road buildings are capped at 17.5 metres. The general height limit for medium-density zones has been cut to 11.5 metres, or about three storeys.

*Photo Credit: Canva / For Illustration Purpose Only*

New projects must meet stricter lot sizes of at least 800 square metres, and 1,000 square metres for taller developments. Smaller sites along Mount Cotton Road and Old Cleveland Road East may now need to be combined to qualify for multi-unit housing.

Design Rules Aim for Neighbourhood Harmony

Council officers said the amendments aim to help new projects fit better with existing neighbourhoods while protecting privacy and open space. Site coverage is now limited to 55 per cent, with clearer setback rules.

Developments must include deep landscaping for trees and communal areas for larger apartment buildings. Car parks and waste bins must be screened or built in, improving streetscape design and overall visual quality.

Support for Terrace and Freehold Homes

The updated Medium Density Residential Zone Code now supports terrace housing, allowing freehold homes instead of body corporate complexes. Cr Rowanne McKenzie said this gives residents more ownership options while managing density.

The approach promotes smaller, low-maintenance developments suited to local buyers. It forms part of a broader plan to balance growth with community amenity around Capalaba’s urban centre.

Council Seeks Certainty for Community and Developers

Mayor Jos Mitchell said the reforms tackle long-standing planning issues by setting clearer, more consistent rules. The goal is to improve liveability and give residents and developers certainty about future builds.

Cr Lance Hewlett warned some design rules could still cause confusion in planning disputes. The new controls, part of a citywide move toward lower-rise housing, are expected to take effect within weeks.

Published 3-October-2025

Featured Photo Credit: Canva / For Illustration Purpose Only

Ingenia Lifestyle Sanctuary Celebrates Launch Of Bushland Retreat

Residents at Ingenia Lifestyle Sanctuary in Victoria Point gathered to celebrate the opening of the Bushland Retreat, a clubhouse designed for health, social and wellness activities.

A Space For Connection

The Bushland Retreat clubhouse was launched on 25 September with a ribbon-cutting ceremony joined by residents, staff, and local leaders. Built in partnership with Hutchinson Builders and designed by OGE Architects, construction began in August 2024.

*Photo Credit: Ingenia Lifestyle/Facebook*

The new space serves as a hub for connection, offering a gym, wellness room, cinema, music space, magnesium pool, landscaped lawns, and barbecue areas. It also includes an arts and crafts studio and meeting rooms to support group activities.

Growth Of The Sanctuary Community

Ingenia Lifestyle Sanctuary has been steadily expanding, with about 140 homes built or under construction and around 250 residents now calling it home.

Once the community is complete, it will feature 225 homes. The clubhouse adds to existing amenities such as dog parks and bush walking tracks, ensuring residents have access to both leisure and nature.

Voices From The Community

Residents welcomed the addition as a valuable step in strengthening daily life. Foundation resident Joy Lemon described the Bushland Retreat as a place that would encourage social gatherings and community spirit.

Ingenia representatives said the clubhouse reflects the organisation’s vision of creating communities that support an active and connected lifestyle for over-50s.

Local Support And Collaboration

While local officials attended the event, the focus remained on the partnership that made the facility possible. Hutchinson Builders delivered the construction, with OGE Architects leading the design.

The project highlights how collaboration between builders, designers, and lifestyle providers can deliver quality outcomes that meet the needs of a growing community.

Published 3-October-2025

Featured: Photo Credit: Ingenia Lifestyle/Facebook

Capalaba Warned as Counterfeit Notes Circulate Across Bayside

Businesses and residents across Capalaba and surrounding Bayside suburbs are being urged to stay alert after counterfeit notes were used at multiple local shops.

Queensland Police have received 10 reports of fake $50 and $100 notes being passed at retail outlets across the region since late August. The affected areas include Capalaba, along with neighbouring suburbs Alexandra Hills, Birkdale, Cleveland and Wynnum.

According to police, the counterfeit notes vary significantly in quality and have been printed on different materials including paper, plastic, and cardboard. Some fake currency even displays the word ‘COPY’ alongside various serial numbers.

Authorities say those attempting to use the counterfeit money often target businesses during peak trading periods when staff are busiest. In some instances, offenders have asked shop workers to exchange larger notes for smaller denominations.

Police are advising business owners and workers to exercise caution when handling cash transactions. If someone suspects they’ve been handed a counterfeit note, they should refuse to accept it, provided it’s safe to do so.

Anyone who comes across a suspected fake note should handle it minimally, place it in an envelope, and record any relevant details about how they received it before contacting police immediately.

Investigations into the incidents are ongoing, and police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

The warning serves as a reminder for Capalaba’s retail and hospitality workers to remain vigilant, particularly during busy service periods when counterfeit currency is more likely to slip through undetected.

Published 25-September-2025

Alexandra Hills Mum Jailed After Repeated Bottle Shop Thefts

An Alexandra Hills mum has been sentenced to one month behind bars after admitting to stealing alcohol from the same Raby Bay bottle shop on three occasions over six weeks.

Stephanie Mathers, 37, faced Cleveland Magistrates Court via video link from the Cleveland watchhouse on 23 September, where she entered guilty pleas to three counts of stealing after a previous conviction. All offences occurred at First Choice Liquor Market at Raby Bay, located behind Cleveland’s Sands Hotel.

The court heard details of Mathers’ offending, which began on 5 August when she concealed a bottle of whisky valued at $99 in her handbag and left the store without paying. She returned to the same shop on 5 September, this time taking a bottle of Wild Turkey worth $29 and four bottles of wine valued at $20. Her third visit on 19 September saw her conceal alcohol worth $41 before only paying for a four-pack of cans at the register. Each incident was recorded on the store’s CCTV system.

Prosecutors requested restitution of $159 to the store and indicated that imprisonment was an appropriate penalty, noting that Mathers had been under an 18-month probation order with mixed compliance. The court was told she had stopped using methamphetamine several months prior but had subsequently developed issues with alcohol. She was also experiencing housing difficulties and had recently gone through a relationship breakdown.

Despite being on probation almost continuously since 2019, Mathers had declined a referral to a women’s programme and had only attended one psychologist appointment.

Her defence lawyer requested that any custodial sentence be wholly suspended to enable her to continue rehabilitation efforts.

However, Magistrate Deborah Vasta said Mathers’ history demonstrated a failure to take advantage of opportunities for change.

“You’ve pretty much been on probation full time… it’s a shame that you have not taken up the referral to various organisations,” Magistrate Vasta said.

“You treated the bottle shops as your own pantry, just going and helping yourself. It’s not a crime to drink alcohol, but it is a crime to steal it. So if you want to drink alcohol, you’re going to have to go get yourself a job like everybody else and pay for it.”

Mathers received three months’ imprisonment on each count, to be served concurrently, with eligibility for parole release on 22 October. She was also ordered to pay $159 in restitution to First Choice Liquor.

Published 24-September-2025

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.

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