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St John Fisher College Educator Honoured for Transforming Maths Learning Across Queensland

A St John Fisher College teacher has been recognised among Queensland’s most innovative educators after developing a groundbreaking online model that is helping rural and remote students succeed in mathematics.

Connecting Classrooms Across Distances

Narelle Morris, a senior mathematics educator with FisherONE, the online learning arm of St John Fisher College in Bracken Ridge, was named the recipient of the 2025 Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) Innovation in Teaching Award. The award highlights teachers who use creative, evidence-based approaches to improve learning outcomes.

*Photo Credit: FisherOne Online Education/Facebook*

Through her work with FisherONE, Morris built a digital-first teaching model that brings together students from all parts of Queensland, including those living hundreds of kilometres from major cities. Her classes blend real-time interaction with personalised mentoring, ensuring students receive individualised support regardless of location.

Raising Standards in Mathematics

Morris’ students have consistently outperformed state averages, with 57 per cent achieving an A grade in 2024 compared to Queensland’s average of 41 per cent. This success has been attributed by FisherONE to her use of structured digital tools balanced with strong student connections.

She incorporates interactive whiteboards, diagnostic quizzes, and one-on-one video mentoring sessions to make learning both engaging and data-informed. Her approach has been recognised by professional associations for improving both academic results and student engagement.

Supporting Teachers and Building Community

Beyond the classroom, Morris has played a leading role in supporting other educators through her co-created professional learning initiative, Teachers Supporting Teachers, developed with the Queensland Association of Mathematics Teachers (QAMT).

The program provides a space for teachers to collaborate, share strategies, and strengthen senior secondary maths education across the state. Her leadership has been recognised for its collaborative focus, particularly in supporting teachers adapting to online learning and curriculum changes.

Recognition Beyond the Award

Morris has also contributed to curriculum design as a Chief Endorser and Subject Matter Expert with the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA). At St John Fisher College, her work reflects a shared vision of “connection, learning, and transformation” that has become central to the FisherONE approach.

Her recognition at this year’s TEACHX Awards, which celebrated 31 outstanding Queensland educators, highlights the impact of innovative teaching taking place in Bracken Ridge.

Published 17-October-2025

Featured Photo Credit: Queensland College of Teachers

Bullets Fired Up for Home Test Against Unbeaten Melbourne United

The Brisbane Bullets return to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre this Friday night determined to carry their momentum from Perth into one of their toughest challenges of the season — a showdown with the unbeaten Melbourne United.

The Bullets’ 17-point victory over the Wildcats earlier this week reminded fans of their potential when their offence clicks, and now they face the benchmark team of the NBL with a chance to make a statement at home.

Head coach Stu Lash said his players are embracing the schedule rather than complaining about it. “We embrace the challenge, there’s no complaints,” Lash said in the lead-up to the game. “If you’re a competitor, coming off a great win on the road and you get the top team in your home building… we’ll be ready to go.”

Facing the Benchmark

Melbourne United arrive in Brisbane undefeated through four games and chasing a sixth consecutive win. Under coach Dean Vickerman, United have found the right balance of defence and tempo, consistently wearing down opponents with depth and discipline. Their record against Brisbane is formidable — eight straight victories on Bullets’ home courts — but this season’s Brisbane outfit has shown flashes that suggest they could break the pattern.

United guard Tyson Walker said the team was fully aware of Brisbane’s talent and that finding ways to limit their offensive rhythm would be key. Brisbane’s front-court pairing of Tyrell Harrison and Casey Prather have averaged more than 40 points per game combined, while their ability to draw contact and attack the rim has made them hard to contain. Melbourne’s interior defence, led by Jesse Edwards and Finn Delany, will again be tested against one of the league’s most physical duos.

Keys to the Match

The Bullets’ own scouting report highlights that they have traditionally fared better when spreading the scoring load beyond one or two players. In their last win against Melbourne, Brisbane shot 59 per cent from two-point range and outscored United 50-38 in the paint — a model they’ll look to replicate. When their attack has been too reliant on one player, results have tended to slip. The coaching staff have emphasised the importance of sharing the ball and keeping the tempo high to counter Melbourne’s structured half-court defence.

Historically, Brisbane have averaged 93.7 points at 48 per cent from the field against Melbourne, compared with the league’s average of 81 points on 42 per cent shooting. United, however, have capitalised on their efficiency from long range, averaging 43 points from three-point territory against Brisbane at a 40 per cent clip. The battle beyond the arc could be decisive: when Brisbane control the boards and contest perimeter shots, they stay competitive deep into games.

Tactical and Mental Edge

For Lash’s side, the key is composure and defensive effort. Melbourne are masters at punishing turnovers and have outscored Brisbane 71–30 from transition opportunities in recent meetings. Brisbane’s ability to limit errors will determine whether they can turn the match into a physical grind rather than a shoot-out.

Lash said maintaining focus and effort will be critical if the Bullets are to match it with the ladder leaders. “Our mentality needs to be good regardless of the situation, coming in with the right mind to play the right way,” he said. He added that maintaining the right preparation and execution would be vital against such an experienced opponent.

A Chance to Make a Statement

For Brisbane fans, Friday night’s clash represents more than just another round fixture — it’s a chance to see if the team’s renewed confidence can translate into consistency. A win against the league leaders would not only boost morale but also signal that the Bullets are ready to challenge for a finals spot.

Even analysts from Scores24 noted that while Melbourne enter as favourites based on their statistical dominance and historical margins, Brisbane’s recent resurgence makes them a genuine threat to upset the odds at home.

If the Bullets can match Melbourne’s intensity from tip-off and sustain the defensive pressure that floored the Wildcats, Brisbane supporters could be in for a thrilling contest — and possibly, the moment this team turns potential into performance.

Tip-off is at 6:30pm AEST, with coverage live on ESPN and streaming via Kayo Sports.

Published 16-October-2025

Bracken Ridge Among Suburbs Targeted in Recent Registration Plate Thefts

Residents across North Brisbane, including Bracken Ridge, are being urged to take extra precautions after a concerning spike in registration plate thefts over the past day.

Local police have received half a dozen reports of number plates being stolen from vehicles within a 24-hour period, with incidents occurring in Bracken Ridge, Kedron, Eagle Farm, Nundah, Pinkenba and Geebung.

According to authorities, criminals steal registration plates to avoid identification when committing other offences, making it harder for police to track them down.

The opportunistic nature of these thefts means any vehicle could be targeted, but police say there are practical steps residents can take to protect themselves. Where possible, motorists should park off the street, behind gates or in locked garages to reduce the risk of theft.

To help the community fight back against this crime wave, the Gateway District Crime Prevention Unit has created special anti-theft screw packs available free of charge to North Brisbane residents. These unique one-way screws can only be removed using a specialised tool carried by police, making it significantly more difficult for thieves to steal plates.

Local residents can order their free anti-theft screw pack online through the Queensland Police MyPolice website.

For those who prefer hands-on assistance, police will be hosting a community fitting event this Sunday, 19 October, at Bunnings Virginia from 9am to 11am. Residents are invited to bring their vehicles along to have the anti-theft screws professionally installed by officers.

The initiative is part of a broader “turn the screws on crime” campaign aimed at reducing opportunistic theft across the region.

Published 14-October-2025

North Brisbane Area Sports Results – Oct 10 to 12

Sun, October 12, 2025 – NRL – Round 1
• PNG PM XIII 10 | AUS PM XIII 28

Sun, October 12, 2025 – WNCL 2025-26 – Women – Match 11
• Queensland Fire 8-278 (49.1) | ACT Meteors 8-277 (50.0)

Bracken Ridge Welcomes New Ambulance Station to Support Growing Community

Along Hoyland Street in Bracken Ridge, a fresh coat of paint still lingers on the walls of a building that many residents have been waiting for. Inside, paramedics gather in bright new locker rooms and check over equipment in a ten-bay garage where gleaming ambulances stand ready. For this community, the arrival of the Sandgate & Districts Ambulance Station means help is now closer when minutes matter most.

The $12 million station officially began operations on 6 September 2025, giving locals improved access to emergency health care.

Built for a growing community

For years, Bracken Ridge and neighbouring Sandgate have felt the squeeze of population growth. With more families moving into the area, the demand for ambulance services only increased. The new station directly addresses that need, offering staff the right facilities to keep up with callouts.

Paramedics now have spaces not only to rest between shifts but also to train, write reports, and gather as a team. Officials have said these improvements were overdue for a region where emergency demand continues to climb.

Photo Credit: Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)/Facebook

The team behind the response

The station is staffed with 25 full-time paramedics, alongside an Officer-in-Charge and three patient transport officers. They are the ones residents will see on their streets, responding to calls at any hour. With the new base, they now have a modern environment that supports both their physical needs and their training.

For the community, that means quicker response times and reassurance that skilled help is always within reach.

Queensland Ambulance Service has placed this project within a broader plan to strengthen emergency care across the state. Investments in new vehicles, more paramedics, and upgraded facilities are part of the effort to ease pressure on busy hospitals and reduce ramping.

For Bracken Ridge, the immediate impact is simple: when emergencies happen, the nearest ambulance is more likely to come from just down the road.

Featured image credit: Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)/Facebook

Published 12-Oct-2025

Bullets in Must-Win Home Opener – Will Freeman Liberty Play?

After three games on the road, the Brisbane Bullets finally get to play in front of their home fans at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall on Saturday, 4 October.

The season started so promisingly with an unexpected win against the Breakers in New Zealand, but going down by a single point last weekend in Cairns (Cairns then beat the Kings in Sydney in a massive upset) was a missed opportunity, followed by a loss to the 36ers in Adelaide with Bryce Cotton and without Montrez Harrell.

Casey Prather and Tyrell Harrison are continuing their great form from last season. Sam McDaniel and Mitch Norton are on the sidelines, leaving new recruits, Jaylen Adams and Alex Ducas (part of the OKC NBA Championship squad), to run the ball with crowd favourite Lamar Patterson back in the mix.

Javon Freeman Liberty did not play in Adelaide, and his absence was a big factor in the loss. Freeman-Liberty played 22 NBA games in 23/24 for the Raptors and averaged 21 points per game, 6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists in the 2025 Summer League for the Chicago Bulls.

The Jackjumpers went down in their opening home game of the season to Melbourne United, but then pulled off two unexpected wins on the road, at Perth and Illawara.

Bryce Hamilton, Tyger Campbell, and David Johnson are delivering offensively, with former Bullet, Josh Bannan, also contributing strongly. Former Nudgee College student, Will Magnay, is the backbone of a renowned defence that includes Anthony Drmic, Ben Ayre, Nick Marshall, and former Brisbane Boys College student, Nick Stoddart.

With the first of many important and likely very tight battles to come, the Bullets really need to avoid going 1-3, and hopefully that desperation will be the difference. The NBL rumour mill is already castigating Freeman Liberty and Coach Stu Lash (lets say Mark Worthington is not a fan), it will be interesting to see if Javon suits up and dazzles the home crowd, it isn’t an ideal start to the season for a former NBA import to have 3 games on the road and not benefit from the adulation of the home fans.

If you can’t get to Boondall, the game will be broadcast live at 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, 4 October, on Foxtel, Kayo and ESPN on Disney+.

Published 2-Oct-2024

Brisbane’s Gateway Motorway to See Major Safety Upgrades by 2026

Safety upgrades worth $8 million have begun on Brisbane’s Gateway Motorway, targeting crash-prone sections between Nudgee and Deagon.

Road Upgrades to Reduce Risks

The Gateway Motorway in Brisbane is set for safety improvements, with works now underway to address high-risk crash areas. Transport and Main Roads Queensland confirmed the project will focus on upgrading key sections between Nudgee and Deagon.

The improvements include installing new barriers, upgrading guardrails, resurfacing sections of road, and improving line markings to reduce run-off-road and rear-end crashes.

Funding and Project Scope

The works form part of the Australian Government’s Road Safety Program, jointly funded with the Queensland Government. More than $8 million has been allocated to the upgrades, designed to target road safety concerns raised by crash data.

Officials explained that the Gateway Motorway is a critical link for freight and commuters, and improving safety along this corridor is a high priority.

Minimising Disruption to Drivers

To limit impacts on traffic flow, most of the construction will be carried out at night. Lane closures and reduced speed limits will be in place during these hours, but all lanes are expected to remain open during peak travel times.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads stated that keeping delays to a minimum is an important part of the delivery plan, given the motorway carries tens of thousands of vehicles each day.

Completion Timeline

The upgrades are scheduled to finish by mid-2026, weather permitting. Authorities say the investment will help save lives and reduce serious injuries on one of Brisbane’s busiest motorways.

Once complete, the works are expected to provide long-term safety benefits for both local commuters and heavy vehicle operators.

Published 22-August-2025

Featured Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Deagon Shines as Brisbane’s Only Entry in SEQ Lifestyle and Growth Top 10

Deagon has emerged as one of Southeast Queensland’s most promising property markets, ranking in the top 10 for lifestyle and growth potential in new research, and standing as the only Brisbane suburb to make the cut.

Read: Local Restaurant Guide – 4017

The MCG Four-Pillar Lifestyle Index, developed using SuburbTrends data, analysed suburbs across Australia for their beach access, natural environment, urban amenities and family-friendliness, combined with long-term price performance. Four Gold Coast suburbs and five Sunshine Coast suburbs dominated the Southeast Queensland top 10, but Deagon secured eighth position, holding its own against the coastal competition.

With its bayside location just one suburb back from Moreton Bay and a 30-minute train ride to Brisbane’s CBD, Deagon offers residents a balance of lifestyle and accessibility. It is well connected by public transport, sits within sought-after school catchments, and is within walking distance of Sandgate’s cafes, foreshore, and community amenities.

Deagon Median House Price

Once regarded as a quiet, overlooked pocket, Deagon is increasingly on buyers’ radar, thanks to its relative affordability compared to its higher-priced neighbours Sandgate and Shorncliffe. While the MCG research noted a median listing price of $650,000, recent sales data from realestate.com.au shows the median price for a three-bedroom house in Deagon reached $815,000 between August 2024 and July 2025, representing a 9.9 percent rise over the past 12 months.

The suburb’s appeal spans multiple buyer groups. Families are drawn to its parks, proximity to the bay and access to private and public schools. Downsizers value the availability of lowset homes, while investors see potential for further growth, given the suburb’s transport links and development opportunities. Compared to nearby suburbs, Deagon also offers a mix of newer homes and larger blocks, adding to its value proposition.

Read: The Cavan Estate Sets New Bracken Ridge Record With $2.73M Sale

The report’s findings suggest that suburbs combining lifestyle amenities with sustainable growth drivers are more resilient in fluctuating markets. For Deagon, its combination of coastal charm, relative affordability, and strategic location appears to be positioning it as one of Brisbane’s strongest performers in the years ahead.

Published 15-August-2025

The Cavan Estate Sets New Bracken Ridge Record With $2.73M Sale

The Cavan Estate, a long-held 1930s brick homestead on one of Bracken Ridge’s largest residential blocks, has sold for $2,727,000, setting a new suburb record and drawing one of the biggest auction crowds the area has seen in years.

Auction Day Draws Hundreds

The landmark property at 16 Childs Street went under the hammer on 2 August, attracting about 10 registered bidders and a crowd of more than 200 locals. The final price beat the previous record of $2.05 million by about 33 per cent, resetting expectations for prestige properties in the northside suburb.

Marketed as “The Cavan Estate,” the home was offered for the first time, having been owned by the same family for decades.

Rare Land In High Demand

Set on 3,381 square metres, the estate’s size and privacy were key drawcards. The four-bedroom, two-bathroom home features a resort-style pool, enclosed alfresco pavilion and a 16-metre by 8-metre four-bay shed alongside a double garage.

Large parcels of land are scarce in Bracken Ridge, which has seen strong demand for properties with both lifestyle and potential development appeal.

A Premium Result For The Suburb

Local agents said the competitive bidding reflected the scarcity of such blocks and the appeal of owning a piece of the area’s history.

The price places the property far above Bracken Ridge’s median house value, which sits below $1.1 million, showing that unique estates can command a significant premium.

Community Interest And Local Pride

The sale was closely followed by the community, with neighbours and long-time residents attending the auction to witness the result.

Many remarked on the home’s prominent place in the suburb’s history and the scale of the turnout on auction day, seeing it as a sign of Bracken Ridge’s growing profile in Brisbane’s north.

Published 13-August-2025

Featured Photo Credit: Ray White Aspley

North Brisbane Area Sports Results – Aug 8 to 10

Sat, August 9, 2025 – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 18
• Aspley QAFL Seniors 80 | Surfers Paradise QAFL Seniors 104
• Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 57 | Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 70

Sat, August 9, 2025 – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 16
• Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 36 | University of Queensland QAFLW Seniors 19
• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 100 | Yeronga South Brisbane QAFLW Seniors 8

Sat, August 9, 2025 – QRL – BMD Premiership – Women – Round 7
• Northern Pride 20 | Norths Devils 12

Sat, August 9, 2025 – QRL – Hostplus Cup – Men – Round 20
• Northern Pride 30 | Norths Devils 31

Sat, August 9, 2025 – QRU – StoreLocal Hospital Cup – Men
• Brothers 1st Grade 29 | Souths 1st Grade 14
• Norths 1st Grade 26 | Bond University 1st Grade 60

Sat, August 9, 2025 – FQPL1 – Women – Round 16
• Grange Thistle 3 | SWQ Thunder 3

Sun, August 10, 2025 – FQPL1 – Women – Round 16
• Virginia United 3 | North Brisbane FC 0

Sat, August 9, 2025 – NPL – Men – Round 20
• Brisbane City postponed | Brisbane Roar postponed

Sat, August 9, 2025 – NPL – Women – Round 25
• FQ Academy QAS U23 2 | Mitchelton FC U23 0
• FQ Academy QAS 4 | Mitchelton FC 1