The face of Taigum’s central shopping precinct is set to transform with the approval of a 90-townhouse community that will bring hundreds of new residents to the doorstep of the Taigum Square Shopping Centre.
The development application for the residential project, located across 189, 193 & 203 Beams Road, was recently given the green light. Planners from Murray Bell Planning stated that the project directly responds to current housing needs by delivering high-quality homes in an area already rich with services and transport. They noted the development presents a significant opportunity for both families and residents looking to downsize.
Designed by MAS, the project will be constructed in four stages on a site measuring over 21,000 square metres. The plans detail a community of 90 two-story townhouses, carefully balanced between 47 four-bedroom homes and 43 three-bedroom homes, catering to a range of household sizes.
Beyond the homes themselves, the development is designed with community living in mind. Each townhouse will feature its own private open space. The overall plan includes nearly 600 square metres of communal open space, which will house a community garden and other recreational facilities for neighbours to share. Significant landscaping and deep plantation areas are also a key feature of the design.
A major focus of the development is its integration with the local area, particularly its immediate proximity to the shopping centre. The project aims to provide a convenient lifestyle for its future residents while managing the needs of a growing community.
To support the new households, the plans include 264 car parking spaces, with 59 of those dedicated for visiting friends and family. Acknowledging other transport options, the plans also incorporate 90 dedicated bicycle parking spaces for residents. Planners believe the final built form will be a premium addition to the suburb, offering a modern living solution for the Taigum community.
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Concept design of Shorncliffe Train Station (Photo credit: Queensland Rail)
Construction on the long-awaited renewal of Shorncliffe Train Station is set to commence later this year, marking a major step in Queensland Rail’s ongoing efforts to modernise its network while preserving key elements of the state’s rail history.
First announced in 2022, the Shorncliffe Station project is part of the Station Accessibility Upgrade Program, designed to improve access to public transport for all commuters. Queensland Rail has appointed contractor Degnan to carry out the work, with construction set to begin before the end of 2025.
Accessibility and Station Upgrades
Concept design (Photo credit: Queensland Rail)
The station’s transformation will focus heavily on accessibility improvements to ensure it caters to passengers with diverse mobility needs. Key features of the upcoming works include:
A 90-metre high-level platform at the accessible boarding point
Upgraded hearing augmentation loops
Tactile ground surface indicators
New security cameras and lighting
Clearer wayfinding and platform signage
A new accessible entrance ramp
Two new platform seats
An accessible ticket window, toilet, and additional facilities
These upgrades aim to provide a safer, more comfortable, and inclusive environment for all passengers, while also supporting the growing community in Brisbane’s bayside suburb.
A Nod to History
Shorncliffe Train Station, formerly Sandgate station when it was built in 1897 (Photo credit: Queensland Rail)
As part of the project, Queensland Rail is also undertaking careful restoration works to preserve the station’s heritage-listed features. Originally opened in 1897 under the name Sandgate Station, the current station building has stood for over a century and remains a key part of the area’s character. The project will see the building restored to its original 1914 footprint, including conservation of the historic awning.
Photo credit: Google Street View
During early works, over 900 heritage items were uncovered beneath the station’s floorboards, ranging from old train tickets and clothing to newspapers and bottles, many believed to date back to the late 1800s. These artefacts were carefully catalogued by independent heritage assessors, and Queensland Rail has since been exploring options to rehome them for public viewing.
Queensland Rail has stated it will continue to keep the local community informed as the project progresses, balancing essential modern upgrades with a strong commitment to preserving the past.
A new accessible kitchen facility has been launched in Bald Hills to support people with low vision or blindness in developing independent living skills.
A newly built Kitchen Hub has been officially unveiled at the Guide Dogs Queensland campus in Bald Hills, offering a dedicated space for people with low vision or blindness to build confidence in the kitchen. The project was made possible through the backing of Community Bank Samford, which contributed $30,000 for the development.
Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only Photo Credit: Pexels
Background and Purpose of the Project
The Kitchen Hub forms part of the organisation’s broader mission to support daily living skills. Designed in consultation with occupational therapists, the space includes accessible appliances and assistive technologies that mirror real-life settings. Therapy sessions in the hub focus on practical cooking tasks in a safe and structured environment.
Features and Practical Use
Occupational therapists will use the facility to deliver tailored training sessions, including cooking classes and product demonstrations. The facility also allows clients to trial various kitchen appliances before deciding on home use, reducing the risk of unsuitable purchases. The kitchen will be used to explore strategies and tools that make cooking safer and more efficient for people with visual impairments.
Continued Support and Additional Funding
An additional $20,000 has been committed to support individual therapy, group training, and lifestyle programs operated from the hub. These include activities like yoga, mosaics, pottery, and self-defence—programs developed specifically for people with low vision or blindness.
Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only Photo Credit: Pexels
Community Impact in Bald Hills
The hub is expected to have a lasting impact on the local community by offering hands-on learning and support in a controlled setting. Employees and clients involved in the program highlighted the benefit of real-time guidance from specialists when testing new technologies, reducing uncertainty around product suitability.
With the new Kitchen Hub now in use, future sessions will focus on increasing client confidence and encouraging independent decision-making. The facility represents a key development in delivering accessible training services at the Bald Hills campus.
Published 18-July-2025
Photo Credit: Pexels Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
A new fast food development may soon take shape in Brisbane’s north, with a proposal (DA/A006796700) lodged for the construction of a standalone KFC restaurant at 397–399 Bracken Ridge Road. The project involves the full demolition of an existing commercial building and the construction of a 4.9-metre-high KFC outlet that includes a drive-through facility and an outdoor dining area.
Bayer Stevens Architecture, the firm behind the design, has incorporated low-maintenance and durable materials such as fibre cement, aluminium battens, and metal screening. The layout includes features intended to improve both customer access and urban appearance, such as a landscape buffer and improved pedestrian pathways. The total gross floor area of the proposed restaurant is 265 square metres.
The site plan outlines 24 on-site car parks and 12 vehicle queuing spaces for the drive-through lane. In addition, the proposal includes new roadworks to facilitate entry and exit, with a left-out only arrangement onto Bracken Ridge Road.
Zoning and Planning Framework
According to planning documents prepared by Saunders Havill Group, the site falls under the Rural Zone and Emerging Community Zone of the Bracken Ridge and District Neighbourhood Plan. The proposed development is described as being of similar scale and bulk to previous approvals on the site and is intended to meet the food service needs of the surrounding residential area.
Photo Credit: DA/A006796700
Operational Details and Signage
The restaurant is expected to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The application also includes provisions for new signage and advertising, with an adjustment to the previously approved sign location due to the revised site layout. Landscaping totalling 783 square metres is also part of the proposed works.
Bald Hills Memorial Hall is set to receive a $300,000 upgrade to enhance accessibility and provide modern facilities for the local community. The project includes the installation of accessible bathrooms, ramps, and widened doorways to accommodate those with mobility needs.
Built in the early 1920s as an Anzac memorial and having served as a gathering place for community events for over a century, the hall holds a special place in the hearts of locals.
The new enhancements will include refreshed bathroom amenities and improved entryways, designed to meet current accessibility standards and ensure everyone can use the hall comfortably.
Members of the Bald Hills Memorial Hall Committee have welcomed the news, expressing gratitude that the hall—used for events, commemorations and local meetings—will be easier to access for all. The facility’s renewed inclusiveness is expected to breathe new life into the much-loved community hub.
A spokesperson for the committee said, “Upgrading the bathrooms and adding ramps will allow residents of all ages and abilities to access the hall safely and with dignity.” These improvements reflect the commitment of the Bald Hills community to preserving and lifting up their historical gathering place.
A memorial wall and arch were later added for World War II veterans. After fire damage in 2015, it was rebuilt and reopened in 2018 with strong community support. The new funding will help keep the hall inclusive and accessible for future generations.
Construction is expected to begin later this year, with plans to have the upgraded hall open and ready for events and community activities by mid-2026. The result will be a refreshed, welcoming space that continues to honour its heritage while serving the needs of today’s residents.
Support for Local Facilities
The $300,000 upgrade for Bald Hills Memorial Hall is part of a wider set of local infrastructure projects in the state budget. Other regional upgrades include security works at Wavell Heights State School and planning support for the Mitchelton Youth Club. Though modest in scale, the hall funding highlights the government’s focus on making public spaces more inclusive.
The investment reflects growing awareness of the need for accessible community facilities. Local leaders say such upgrades help boost participation and keep venues relevant to changing community needs.
Improvements Focused on Accessibility
The upgrade will aim to make the amenities block easier to use for elderly residents, people with disabilities, and families with young children. This includes updates to the hall’s toilets, entrance pathways, and other access points. The announcement reflects growing recognition of the need for older buildings to match modern accessibility expectations.
No specific completion date was given, but the funding has been confirmed within the current fiscal year. Planning and construction timelines are expected to follow local procurement and council procedures.
Looking Ahead for Bald Hills
The Bald Hills Memorial Hall upgrade is just one step in a larger vision to maintain and improve valued public spaces across Queensland. With strong community roots and regular use, the hall remains central to local life.
Taigum households will pay more in rates than nearly any other Brisbane suburb, after Brisbane City Council’s latest budget revealed an 8.02 per cent jump in average charges for the northside community, more than double the city-wide average.
Council Budget Signals Shift for Suburban Ratepayers
Brisbane City Council’s $4.1 billion 2025–26 budget promises suburban investment, but not all areas are affected equally. Taigum residents will see their rates rise by $136.31 to an average of $1,664.06, an 8.02 per cent increase, more than double the city-wide average.
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council
The Council hasn’t explained the suburb-specific jump, though land revaluations and local upgrades are possible factors. Taigum is close to major projects like the Beams Road upgrade, which may be influencing costs. While the Lord Mayor says the budget supports essential infrastructure, locals will notice the hit to their household bills.
Transport Projects Bring Big Spending to the Northside
The Beams Road upgrade is one of the biggest projects affecting Taigum, with more than 20,000 vehicles using the road daily. Plans include widening it to four lanes, adding a pedestrian underpass, improving shared paths, and upgrading bus stops.
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council
These works aim to reduce congestion and improve safety in a growing part of Brisbane’s north. Some residents question whether infrastructure like this is driving up local rates. The Council says the project is a northern suburbs priority, with funding from both local and federal sources.
Community Spending Tied to Green Projects and Olympic Legacy
Taigum could see some green benefits from Brisbane City Council’s broader push to improve suburban liveability. A citywide rollout of green waste bins is on the way, with Taigum households among those included.
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council
The suburb might also feel the flow-on effects of new parks in nearby areas and a $1.9 million tree planting program linked to Olympic corridor upgrades. While Taigum isn’t in the heart of Olympic planning, its streetscapes could still see a boost. These initiatives aim to make everyday life a little cleaner, cooler and more connected.
A Costly Year Ahead for Families in Taigum
For Taigum residents already juggling rising living costs, the 8.02 per cent rates increase adds another pressure. It means paying about $3 more each week for the same local services. Council says most of the budget is focused on suburbs, including projects like Beams Road and waste services.
The real test will be whether locals feel these changes are worth the extra cost. As upgrades roll out, the suburb may become better connected and greener, but not without a higher bill.
A Taigum choreographer is helping bring one of Broadway’s most powerful musicals to Brisbane this winter, working behind the scenes on a production set to stir audiences at the Ron Hurley Theatre in Seven Hills.
Maureen Bowra, a Taigum local and seasoned theatre professional, is choreographing Parade, a Tony Award-winning musical returning to Brisbane for the first time in two decades. Running 19 July to 3 August at the Ron Hurley Theatre, the Bump In Productions show marks its Queensland debut.
Parade tells the true story of Leo Frank, a Jewish factory manager wrongly accused of murder in 1913 Georgia. Bowra brings years of experience from national tours and major productions, including Xanadu and Spamalot. She began her career performing at QPAC alongside icons like Jon English and later shifted into directing and choreography.
Relevance Beyond the Stage
Though set over a century ago, Maureen Bowra sees Parade as deeply relevant to today’s world. She’s drawn to its powerful mix of music and meaning, especially in how it explores prejudice, injustice, and public reaction.
For Bowra, the score isn’t just beautiful, it gives weight to a story that still echoes now. Bringing a show like this to local audiences is a rare opportunity she doesn’t take lightly. And doing it with a Brisbane-based company means she’s telling that story right in the heart of her own community.
A Cast and Crew Close to Home
Bowra is one of many Queenslanders bringing Parade to life, with cast and crew drawn from suburbs including Cleveland, Paddington, Bulimba and Bridgeman Downs. Bump In Productions, founded in 2004, focuses on musicals that may be lesser-known but rich in story and artistic value.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
This Brisbane staging of the Tony Award-winning show aims to connect with audiences through its local roots. The team is entirely professional, with members who live and work in the region. That local connection brings a sense of pride and place to the production.
Bringing Broadway to Brisbane’s Suburbs
With Maureen Bowra leading the choreography, audiences can expect a performance that moves with both emotion and purpose. Her Taigum roots bring a local connection to a story set far from home. She works alongside fellow Queensland creatives, including director Johnny Peek from Cleveland and musical director Michael Keen from Wynnum.
Together, they contribute to Brisbane’s growing reputation for producing standout theatre. Parade runs for three weeks at the Ron Hurley Theatre in Seven Hills, with tickets available via TryBooking and more details at bumpin.com.au.
We’ve combed Bracken Ridge, Brighton, Brighton Eventide, Brighton Nathan Street, Deagon, Sandgate, Sandgate DC, and Shorncliffe for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!
Stephanie M ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Loved this place! The Italian food was so delicious. We also tried two desserts which were equally delicious. How can you go past a cake recipe from Nonna? The service was very friendly, the staff answered questions about the menu and the chef came out to say hello and thank us which was a nice touch. Can’t wait to go back!
Nadia O ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hands down, the BEST seafood pasta you’ll eat in Brisbane. Stepping into Acciuga is like stepping into your local in Italy; the ambience is spot on and the customer service is exceptional from the wait staff right through to the owners who are passionate about what they create and love to chat with you about it. Definitely our new favourite Italian in Brisbane! 10/10
A S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Our experience at this restaurant was outstanding. The service was warm and attentive, making us feel instantly welcome. My risotto was perfectly creamy and full of flavor, while my partner’s spaghettoni was rich and cooked to perfection. With its inviting atmosphere, incredible food, and excellent service, this spot is a must-visit!
Kat V J ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Steak cooked perfect medium rare, parmigiana was one of the best schnitzels I’ve had in a long time. The dough for the garlic cheese bread was amazing, will definitely be back to try the pizzas! Great cocktail menu.
Joey B ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We were surprised that the food was good (we expected average), and the steaks cooked perfectly. The staff were friendly and attentive, and it had a good buzz about the place with a mixed clientele. If you are looking for a casual setting to eat, or have coffee/cake, I’d definitely give it a try 🙂
Wentzel F ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I head here for trivia regularly. Very good food and lovely staff that are willing to accommodate the most unusual of food requests if you ask nicely. Definitely come to the Tuesday trivia!
Rita ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Busy cafe with great reviews. Staff are amazing. Coffee is bellisimo which I love but my almond latte was bubbly and not smooth. If you’re a coffee drinker I don’t think this cafe cuts it but everything else looks great! Thank you
Ngato-Zharnaye L ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ After having a rough night I decided to treat myself to breakfast at Greenfield. I ordered the Katsu Chicken Avo, Macadamia Crepes and Sunrise Juice – each one left me feeling satisfied and I felt my mood lift after every bite. I’ve been to Greenfield a few times over the years and I’m constantly being introduced to new flavours each time. If you plan to visit, I would highly recommend to try something different from what you’d normally order. You won’t be disappointed!
Nancy C ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Lovely local cafe with alfresco dining area, delicious food and friendly service. We come here regularly for brunch on Sundays and all the dishes we’ve tried are delicious. Sometimes they run daily specials which are pleasant surprises for customers. Their coffees are decent too. Get here early on weekends as their kitchen may close a bit earlier than their closing time.
Charmaine H ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely amazing burgers! My mouth was watering reading the menu, and we weren’t disappointed!! Calamari was well cooked and tender. Burgers were juicy and hot! Fresh, well seasoned chips made this the perfect lunch. The owner was very lovely, polite, and accommodating.. also said hi to our puppy dogs who joined us at the outside tables
Renee H ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely amazing food! Highly recommend! The burgers are to die for, freshly made to order, and delicious flavours. Menu has plenty of options. The service is outstanding, and everyone catered for even the furbabies. The owner brought out some fresh water for our doggos, making sure they had plenty of cool water! Thank you for an amazing dining experience. I will definitely be coming back and telling everyone about this place! 🧡
Nicole M ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The burgers were fantastic. Patties juicy and full of flavour. Reasonably priced – chips were included in the burger price! Had great banter with the staff too!
Rebecca W ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ First time visiting as a new local and loved it. Nice to listen to the live music while having a couple of Friday drinks. Really attentive staff, dog friendly, delicious food. We had the cheeseburger pizza and it was stacked. Loved the Aether lager on tap which was red/dark in colour surprisingly, but absolutely delicious. Can see the ocean from the tables out front. 10/10.
Sharon L ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Wow! What an amazing place EclecTea is. I saw the reviews online which were great, so we couldn’t wait to check it out. You wont be disappointed. We tried the cheeseburger pizza . My gosh – honestly the best pizza my husband and myself have ever had. A few cocktails as we listen to some live music. What a great place to have local here in Brighton.QLD . And I’m so lucky to have this place a few doors down. Definitely be going on a regular basis. Well done 👍🏼 EclecTea – You all were extremely welcoming.
Anna P ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This place is so good. Lemonade is hands down the best value I have ever found. The pizza is gigantic and the entrees, even tho they’re a bit exzy they’re so yummy and you can’t find them anywhere else so it has value. Go here if you want a good night. It’s so quiet too so you don’t have people always walking past and can eat in a chill place.
Nestled in the coastal suburb of Sandgate, Beaumetz Street offers a remarkable blend of historical significance and community stability. This quiet residential street holds deep connections to Australia’s military history while providing its residents with a strong sense of belonging and permanence.
With an impressive 95% of properties being owner-occupied and residents staying an average of 20 years and 7 months, Beaumetz Street demonstrates exceptional longevity in homeownership. This commitment to the area is further evidenced by the fact that 86% of residents have called Beaumetz Street home for more than a decade. The street’s history of property transactions reflects Brisbane’s evolving real estate market, with properties that sold for around $332,500 in 2013 now commanding prices exceeding $1.65 million in recent sales. This picturesque street continues to be a cherished part of Sandgate’s community fabric.
Remembrance: Honoring the Battle of Beaumetz
Beaumetz Street stands as a living memorial to the Battle of Beaumetz, a significant engagement fought by Australian troops during World War I. In February 1917, as German forces withdrew to the Hindenburg Line, Australian divisions pursued them across the Somme region in France, engaging in fierce combat around several small villages including Beaumetz.
The battle’s intensity was captured in the Creswick Advertiser on March 30, 1917, which reported: “The Australians fighting on the road at Cambrai encountered the stiffest opposition. An Australian division took Beaumetz…The Germans twice attacked the Australians with bombs north-west of Beaumetz, compelling a withdrawal towards the village. The Australians, reinforced and counter-attacked.” The report noted the “great superiority of the Australians” as they recaptured farm ruins in fierce hand-to-hand combat.
Today, Beaumetz Street serves as a permanent reminder of both the battleground and cemetery in France where Australian soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice. As part of Brisbane’s Streets of Remembrance, it honors the Anzac spirit and Queensland’s service men and women who fought so valiantly on foreign soil.
Beaumetz Street, Sandgate Residents
NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 24 (12 houses, 12 others) % OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 95% AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 20 years, 7 months % OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 86%
Beaumetz Street, Sandgate – As It Looked In 1936
Beaumetz Street, Sandgate in 1936
SOME RECENT SALES ON BEAUMETZ STREET, SANDGATE
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
17 Beaumetz Street, Sandgate
$1,650,000
Jun 2024
SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON BEAUMETZ STREET FROM YESTERYEAR
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
21 Beaumetz Street, Sandgate
$508,000
Dec 2014
9 Beaumetz Street, Sandgate
$332,500
Sep 2013
11 Beaumetz Street, Sandgate
$590,000
Sep 2011
SUBURB PROFILE
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2025 was $1,161,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2021 was $685,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN SANDGATE SINCE 2021: $476,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2025 was $1,375,000 The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2021 was $890,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN SANDGATE SINCE 2021: $485,000
