Springfield Lakes Archives - Page 10 of 12

Coffee Guru Brookwater: Springfield Lakes Couple’s Venture Pays Off Amid the Pandemic

Gregory and Vickey Slack have no regrets about launching their cafe, Coffee Guru Brookwater, in the middle of the pandemic. The restaurant located at the Brookwater Village Shopping Centre has built up its regular customers eight weeks since its opening day whilst new customers continue to visit the restaurant.

The Slacks took on the chance to run a cafe at the height of the COVID-19 scare in April 2020 after Coffee Club permanently closed. Despite the ill-timed opportunity, the couple worked on building their restaurant and opened in the middle of August.

Every day since the opening, customers would line up at Coffee Guru Brookwater before 7:00 a.m. for their coffee fix and brekkies. The couple said that many of their customers have expressed concern for opening a food business at this uncertain time.

But Gregory and Vickey are happy to say that business has been brisk, thanks to the support of the locals. Although, Gregory admits that apprehensions and worries have crossed his mind during one rare instance when it had been slow and quiet at the cafe.

Locals, however, seem to love coming back to Coffee Guru Brookwater because of the service and the food. Whilst the store is a franchise of an NSW-based company, it is still independently managed and owned by the Slacks.

Coffee Guru Brookwater serves all-day breakfast and lunch daily, while Fridays from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. are for Tapa Nights. Aside from the delicious coffee, diners may also enjoy wine, beer and spirits on their drink lists.

The restaurant is pet friendly. For trading hours and other cafe updates, visit their Facebook page.

“The owners Vic and Greg were lovely, everything seemed very clean and was well sanitised. The breakfast was really good and came out quick. They had a great display of sweet treats and savoury snacks up the front too. Will have to come back for lunch.”
Erin Clarke, Google Reviews

“Coffee Guru is a must! Best Bircher I’ve had for a long time. Menu is fantastic. Service is always amazing. The tapas night on Friday’s is SO delicious. We love it here.”
Bianca Mulligan, Facebook

Springfield Lakes and Ipswich Popular Picks for FHLDS Scheme With First Home Buyers

Springfield Lake and Ipswich’s housing markets have been getting a boost from first home buyers despite COVID-19 restrictions.

A recent report from the National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation (NHFIC) showed that these are two of the hottest sites where buyers secured a First Home Loan Deposit Scheme (FHLDS).

Whilst 62.2 percent of buyers preferred the major cities, more than half of first home buyers had homes 15 to 30 minutes away from the CBD. Nearly 70 percent of the buyers picked detached houses, 25 percent chose apartments whilst fiver percent bought a townhouse unit.

Of the 1850 FHLDS issued in the last six months, 70 percent were homes from the 4350 postcode comprising Toowoomba, Newton and Centenary Heights, among others. About 56 percent of buyers took deposits in Ipswich and the rest of postcode 4305. Postcode 4300, comprising Springfield, Brookwater, Goodna and Camira, was also in the top ten of preferred areas.

According to Realestate.com.au chief economist Nerida Conisbee, Springfield Lakes is attractive to buyers because there are heaps of new homes and potential building activities.

Queensland introduced the FHLDS on 1 Jan 2020, allowing 10,000 new homeowners to acquire a property by depositing just five percent of the value. Under the scheme, the government serves as the guarantor for the rest of the 15 percent, reducing the cost of mortgage insurance that normally comes with a 20 percent deposit for house purchases.

Church Service With a Side Order of Popcorn!

This cinematic event with a difference has just commenced at Event Cinemas Springfield on a Sunday courtesy of C3 Church, Springfield.

The recurring theme of disruption caused by COVID has stopped so many events that Event Cinemas has reached out to local church C3, based in Springfield, for them to be able to hold their regular Sunday meet ups at one of their theatres.

Matt Hickson, the pastor, stressed how the church community as a whole has struggled with the lack of human interaction. Having such a fun location that can accommodate their community with strict, COVID-safe industry plan guidelines. They are always happy to welcome new members so this has really provided a positive focus on the group at large.

The community has a large following and has been regularly meeting up in the area since 2017. Whilst technology has helped reach a number of individuals, there is nothing like catching up in person to support each other in a space that can provide the required social distancing.

There is spiritual learning as a Church, and a wish to invest in the community and help wherever they can at this time.

There are a number of smaller events that the group regularly holds — from fortnightly youth groups for older children to smaller walking groups and parent groups for those that need human interaction and a chat.

There is still an online outlet that is communicated through social media to keep abreast of current projects and be able to reach members of the group when needed.

Photo Credit: C3 Church Springfield/Facebook

There is also a branch of the church community, known as ‘Beyond,’ which helps those in need by partnering with local organisations to assist practically where possible by providing such things as garden makeovers, providing vouchers to families in need, issuing food hampers to name but a few.

Sundays are their biggest gathering and this helps to bring the community together. While the theatre is occupied with adults, another smaller space opposite it is utilized for children programs including videos and arts and crafts.

This is a welcome relief to people who are struggling alone or in financial distress, struggling with family issues and need support from community members and whilst online has helped to bridge a gap to a degree, the ability to meet up in person through the gesture of Event Cinemas has gone a long way to helping people get through this time.

At a later stage, the church hopes to have a facility of their own, but while COVID is still prevalent, having places available that they can reach as many people as possible is extremely important to them and their community and will continue to do so for some time to come. If you feel that the church can help you at this time, please contact them for further details on some of the activities that they are involved in.

Plans Lodged for New Springfield Housing Estate for 800 Families

The Ipswich City Council received a proposal to build a Springfield housing estate for over 800 families in a vegetated land south of Camira and east of Brookwater. Covering 167 hectares, the site will be part of Springview Estate and will cover the boundaries along Mur Boulevard, Telopea Way and Panorama Drive, as well as the Woogaroo and Opposum creeks.

The application (4272/2020/ADP), filed by Cherish Enterprises Pty Ltd on June 2020, seeks to carry out 23 stages of development with 10 to 60 detached houses built per stage, with approximately 821 residential lots. Each of these houses will sit on 250 sqm to 575 sqm lots, which will be properly spaced apart.

The plan, which is part of Village 2, also includes building local parks and open spaces, as well as road network improvements that will connect the new estate to the current housing development on Panorama Drive (Village 1). No natural resources and sites of cultural significance in the land area exist, thus the proposed development won’t impact conserved or protected sites.

Photo Credit: PD Online/Ipswich City Council

A neighbourhood or town centre in this Springfield housing estate is not part of this proposal. The developers’ focus is on building a “safe, attractive and desirable” residential environment.” However, the proposal stated a community centre might be added to Village 3. Detailed planning for Village 3 has yet to be undertaken.

“The layout of the proposed subdivision has had the benefit of civil engineering, stormwater, ecological, traffic and bushfire input,” the design team Reel Planning stated in the proposal. “In our opinion it strikes a balance between maximising the use of an area that is zoned for residential development, protecting significant natural features and ensuring adequate access to nearby services and facilities.”

The proposal falls under the Springfield Structure Plan and will not require public notification. Council is currently assessing the development application.

Urban Pantry To Remain Open For Great Takeaway Food

Well-known for its tasty burgers, good brews and delicious menu line-up, Urban Pantry continues to rise to the occasion, despite concerns about the coronavirus pandemic. The Greenbank eatery is committed to remaining open for customers who are staying or working from home who still want to keep eating delicious, homemade meals without the need to prepare it themselves.

The tiny cafe announced that it will keep serving takeaways despite adjusting its trading hours.

We are open…We will be trading as long as we are allowed…To allow us to do so we have Social Distancing Measures…
Posted by Urban Pantry on Saturday, March 28, 2020

“We will also be taking extra precautions to make sure that everything is sanitized and as clean as possible,” the store owners said on Facebook.

“If you have any concerns about waiting for your food please phone ahead and we will give you the best approximate wait time that we can. If you chose to come in and order and wish to wait in your car please let the staff member know when placing your order and advise make and colour of your vehicle…we will run it out to you.”

Take note of the Urban Pantry’s store hours during this indefinite period:

Monday	5:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Tuesday to Friday	5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Saturday	6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Sunday	7:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The store can prepare dim sums, pulled pork sandwiches, and various combination meals or family bites for group takeways. Please phone 3462 9065 ahead of time to make arrangements for your orders and the pick-up:

Urban Pantry used to be in Ipswich but has since moved to Greenbank in late 2019.

“Great food, the pulled beef loaded fries was to die for and the service and hospitality was awesome”
Marie Longworth, Facebook

“Awesome fresh made food exactly how you like it.. friendly staff who go the extra mile to give you the best service possible.”
Neil Briscoe, Google Reviews

Springfield Lakes to Pilot Test Energex’s New Energy-Saving Systems

Some homes in Springfield Lakes are going to get the chance to test Energex’s new home energy management systems (HEMS) to improve their energy use. The energy company is set to conduct a seven-month pilot test phase in selected households, including those in Chapel Hill, North Lakes, Wakerley, from mid-2020 until April 2021.

Residents of these four suburbs may voluntary sign up online to be considered for the pilot test. Only 500 homes will be selected and provided with the new cutting-edge technology, which should be physically installed at home.

The HEMS are smartphone-controlled via an app to allow homeowners to switch household devices on and off remotely, such as air conditioners, pool pumps, and hot water systems. The device may also monitor the household’s solar panels’ efficiency.

“This pilot will test just how much impact HEMS has on householders’ energy behaviour and if they save money on their power bills,” Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said.

“Energex is also trialling HEMS systems to see how they can help Energex deal with peak demand, with managing solar energy coming into the network and also provide important data to help develop new pricing options for the future.”

Energex has been looking into a range of devices and configurations for the trial through a tender. Included in the tender bids are perks and benefits to the consumer, such as cashback offers, free or discounted HEMS systems, or discounted solar and battery storage systems.

The trial phase will be funded by the Australian Energy Regulator.

Springfield Lakes Family Pest Fishing Classic: Help Remove the Cane Toad of the Waterways

Spend a fun and enriching morning outside with your children as the third Springfield Lakes Family Pest Fishing Classic gets underway! Happening on Sunday, the 17th of Nov 2019, the event will help rid Spring Lakes of tilapia, the cane toad of the waterways, whilst participants may get a chance to win prizes.

The schedule of activities for the Springfield Lakes Family Pest Fishing Classic is as follows:

7:00 a.m.	Sign in and briefing
7:30 a.m.	Fishing commences
12:30 p.m.	Fishing ends; Weigh-in and prize giveaways begin

Fishing at Spring Lakes is not permitted unless through this regulated event. This is your chance to expose your children to create awareness about the local biodiversity. Engaging the kids in this outdoor activity is also a good idea for them to learn valuable life skills and sustainability.

The Springfield Lakes Family Pest Fishing Classic is organised by Brisbane Valley Anglers Fishstocking Association (BVAFA) with 2 Bent Rods leading and teaching the participants. Whilst fishing, both children and adults will be able to:

learn about the pest species that affect the local waterways
help prevent an infestation
meet people and families who share a common goal and interest
give back to the community

According to the rules of handling invasive pest fish, tilapia or similar species “are to be euthanised humanely as soon as they are caught.” These are not supposed to be sold or given away. All measures must be taken to “minimise the risk of these fish from escaping.”

“These types of events are a lot of fun for the kids while also educating the community as well as the entrants. Tilapia is prevalent in many of our waterways and people need to be made aware of the best practices for dealing with them,” said Sam Beckmann of 2 Bent Rods.

A Psychic Tent is Popping Up at the Orion Central Shopping Centre in Springfield Lakes

The stars have aligned and opened a chance for you to know what’s in the cards for 2020 as a tent featuring psychic mediums, tarot card readers and healers will be popping up at the Orion Central Shopping Centre in Springfield Lakes on Sunday, the 17th of Nov. 2019.

Five professionals in the psychic field will be at the Pennies Bazaar Psychic Tent from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. for consultations about your future for your amusement. Aside from tarot card reading, they also do palm reading, angel card reading, pendulum interpretations, personal energy clearing, and psychic intuitive one-on-one sessions.

*Photo Credit: Pennies Bazaar Psychic Tent/Facebook*

Teresa has been a professional tarot reader, palmist and psychic since 1991. She can provide insights and guidance about relationships, money, career and wellbeing.

Brett is from the International Psychics Association who can connect with spirits and have proven his psychic reading accuracy for years as a preferred guest for psychic interpretations on television.

Natasha of Old Sea Hag Tarot is a regular at Brisbane Night Markets and interstate mind, body and spirit events. She has helped numerous clients find clarity in solving their problems.

Morticia is a psychic intuitive who provides spiritual guidance through tarot and the pendulum. She is also a lightworker who advocates for positive living.

Debbie has been a medium for over 30 years. She is a tarot card interpreter and a clairsentient who can provide healing.

Spot the purple tent at the pop-up venue next to other new-age retailers and artisans, as well as heaps of food stalls of the Orion Central Shopping Centre. You may also pre-book your appointment for Saturday via their Facebook page.

Creative and History Grant Applications for 2019-2020 Now Open for Brisbane Locals

Are you a Springfield Lakes artist or innovator with a unique idea for a product or project who lacks the resources to make your dreams a reality? You can now submit your application for Brisbane City Council’s Creative and History Grant 2019-2020.

Applications have opened in mid-October but if this is your first time seeking a grant, it might help to join the Creative Grant Information Sessions first. Six sessions across different venues will be underway to help Brisbane locals prepare an effective application.

You’ll learn the following at these Creative Grant Information Sessions :

the different creative grant programs available
grant guidelines and application forms
advice on project eligibility and
tips on making an application

These are free sessions hosted by the Council but you will need to register your intent to join online for your ticket.

Date/Time	Location
Monday, 4 Nov 2019 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.	Brisbane Square Library 266 George Street, Brisbane City BOOK YOUR TICKET
Wednesday, 6 Nov 2019 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.	Nundah Library 1 Bage Street via Primrose Lane, Nundah BOOK YOUR TICKET
Thursday, 7 Nov 2019 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.	Seven Hills Hub 28 Tallowwood St, Seven Hills * near Ron Hurley Theatre BOOK YOUR TICKET
Monday, 11 Nov 2019 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.	Indooroopilly Library Indooroopilly Shopping Centre, Level 4, 322 Moggill Road, Indooroopilly * inside Indooroopilly Shopping Centre BOOK YOUR TICKET
Monday, 11 Nov 2019 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.	Garden City Library Level R4 – Yellow Car Park Garden City Shopping Centre Corner Logan Road &, Kessels Rd, Upper Mount Gravatt BOOK YOUR TICKET
Thursday, 14 Nov 2019 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.	Visible Ink 5 Green Square Cl, Fortitude Valley BOOK YOUR TICKET

Three types of Creative and History Grants are being offered for this particular period:

GRANT		DEADLINE of APPLICATION
Creative Sparks Grants Program Funding: $10,000	For creatives whose initiatives will help enrich Brisbane’s cultural, social and economic status.	Monday 9th of Dec 2019
Lord Mayor’s Young and Emerging Artists Fellowships Funding: $20,000	For budding creatives who want a career in the arts. Age limit: 17 to 30 years old	Monday 9th of Dec 2019
Innovation Grants Program Funding: $30,000	For innovators with unique ideas, products or projects.	Monday 16th of Dec 2019

Through these Creative and History Grants, the Council hopes to encourage local artists, innovators, historians and organisations to flourish in their chosen field of expertise. The funding will not just provide the resources to these individuals or groups but it will also bring more opportunities to develop their skills, talents and ideas to help the community.

Springfield Lakes Holds a Fete for Peace via the Orange and White Peace Day

Photo Credit: Couleur/Pixabay

The Gandhi Salt March Ltd (GSML) is hosting an Orange and White Peace Day at the Robelle Domain Parklands, in Springfield Lakes on Sunday, the 28th of April, to promote harmony and non-violence, as well as celebrate diversity in the community.

The event is free and open to all families or groups who believe in Gandhian values that embrace inclusiveness, peace, and trust. It’s also an opportunity to learn about the teachings and impact of world leader Mahatma Gandhi.

Orange and White Peace Day will kick off with a Peace March from Mahatma Gandhi Inspiration Bridge to Robelle Domain Park at 2:00 p.m. Event guests may also expect the following activities below since the affair will close at 9:00 p.m.:

Yoga and meditation
Rhythematic Expression of Peace & Freedom through Bhangra and African dances and drums
Flower arrangement contest
Cross-cultural dialogue and stories from Afghan women
Live performances from at least six bands, including Celtic and Middle Eastern ethnicities
Gandhian Art exhibition
Dinner picnic at the parklands

Food trucks will be at parked at the venue but participants are also free to bring their own food for the picnic. They are also encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and white and orange shirts to promote oneness.

“I am looking forward to moderating this dialogue to rekindle Gandhian values of collaborative leadership which embrace diversity, inner calm and outer dynamism – the keys to marshalling social capital and nation-building,” GSML Chairman Jim Varghese said in the press release.