Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 14 of 43

How Koor is Redefining Eco-Friendly Snack Solutions in Milton

Photo Credits: Jean-Francois Roiron/LinkedIn

Koor, an innovative reusable food container designed by Brisbane-based industrial engineer Jean-Francois Roiron, is making waves in Milton by offering a sustainable alternative to single-use plastics. The award-winning product is gaining traction in schools, homes, and workplaces.

Koor Milton — *Photo Credit: Koor/LinkedIn*

Koor was developed in response to the growing concern over single-use plastic waste. Mr Roiron, frustrated by the environmental impact and cost of disposable yoghurt pouches, created Koor as a durable, reusable, and eco-friendly alternative.

The product’s design was inspired by the French word “cours,” meaning “run,” reflecting the concept of quick and convenient snacking for active children.

Meet the Mind Behind Koor

Mr Roiron has achieved significant milestones throughout his career. In addition to winning two Gold Awards at the Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design Awards 2024, he has recently secured funding from Advance Queensland’s Ignite Spark Fund to support its development and commercialisation.

Mr Roiron has also been instrumental in driving Koor’s expansion into the European market, positioning it as a leading sustainable packaging solution.

Koor owner won 2 awards and secured grant — *Photo Credits: Jean-Francois Roiron/LinkedIn*

Why Koor Stands Out

Koor is made from high-quality food-grade polypropylene (PP), known for its durability and safety. Key features of Koor include:

BPA-Free: Free from harmful chemicals such as Bisphenol A (BPA).
Replaceable Parts: Encourages repairing rather than discarding.
Versatile Use: Suitable for storing food and non-food items such as soups, yoghurt, sauces, hand creams, and glue.
Easy Maintenance: Dishwasher-safe components ensure hassle-free cleaning.

The product aligns with international safety standards, including FDA, EU Directive 2006/122/EC, and REACH compliance. The polypropylene material is widely recyclable; however, users are advised to confirm local recycling capabilities.

Koor vs. Single-Use Plastics: The Smarter Choice

Compared to single-use plastic pouches, Koor offers long-term cost savings and environmental benefits. Households can save up to $480 per person annually by purchasing bulk yoghurt and using Koor instead of disposable packaging.

Other refillable bottle solutions exist in the market, such as those introduced by Berry Global and Ocado Retail, but Koor’s focus on versatility and replaceable parts sets it apart.

Koor products — Photo Credits: *Jean-Francois Roiron/LinkedIn*

What People Are Saying About Koor

People across Australia have responded positively to Koor, praising its practicality and sustainability. Many have highlighted its ease of use, environmental impact, and cost-saving benefits.

Emma, a mum from Brisbane, described it as “a great invention, simple yet effective for busy parents.” Lochlan, a dad from Perth, shared that “my kids love using Koor for their school snacks.” Meanwhile, Amy, a mum from Milton, appreciates that “it’s easy to clean and reduces our plastic waste.”

The Future of Koor

Looking ahead, Mr Roiron plans to expand Koor’s reach across Australia and Europe. Future developments include the introduction of fridge-sized refill stations and bulk refill options to further reduce single-use packaging.

As Koor continues to gain momentum, it represents a promising step towards a more sustainable future for Milton and beyond.

Published 27-Jan-2025

Manning Street Development to Transform Milton Landscape

Photo Credit: SFD-01017

Milton is planning a landmark 30-storey residential development, with a proposal lodged for 33 Manning Street.

The development application, lodged with the council, outlines a striking high-rise designed by i2C-SMAC Architecture to house 304 residential units, ranging from one to three bedrooms.

The proposed structure will replace existing dwellings and structures on the site within a medium-density residential zone. A key feature of the development is the inclusion of 46 affordable housing units designed to cater to the needs of low—to moderate-income households.

Key Features of the Development

33 Manning Street — *Photo Credit:* *SFD-01017*

304 residential units (a mix of 1, 2 & 3-bedroom apartments)
46 affordable housing units (1 & 2 bedroom)
30-storey height
22,440sqm gross floor area
Communal open space spanning 418 sqm, featuring a rooftop pool, deck, lounge and dining areas, and BBQ facilities.
Ample parking with provision for 106 car spaces and 420 bicycle spaces.

Property Projects Australia, the project’s planners, acknowledge that the proposed 30-storey height may overpower the existing neighbourhood character.

However, they argue that the design thoughtfully responds to the local context while minimising any adverse impacts on residents’ amenities. The development aims to address the growing need for housing in the area while providing diverse living options.

Published Date 16-Jan-2025

Residents Fight to Save Roma Street Parkland in Brisbane Arena Bid

Photo Credit: Protect Roma Street Parkland/Facebook

The proposed construction of Brisbane Arena at the Roma Street Parkland has drawn strong opposition from residents and community groups who argue the project threatens one of Brisbane’s most cherished green spaces.

Concerns Over Green Space and Community Impact

Roma Street Parkland, a 16-hectare inner-city sanctuary praised for its natural beauty and community facilities, is at the centre of a growing debate over its future. Residents and advocacy groups claim the planned 17,000-seat arena will irreversibly harm the parkland’s environment and usability. While originally proposed to be built over railway tracks, a revised plan moved the site to the northern corner of the park, near the Normanby five-ways.

Local groups, including the Protect Roma Street Parkland committee, have submitted formal objections, highlighting risks to established trees, rare urban rainforest areas, and community amenities. Detailed analysis within their submission notes the potential loss of over 1,200 mature trees, disruption of carefully designed ecosystems, and fragmentation of the park by walkways and new infrastructure such as lifts and escalators. The maintenance depot for park operations would also need to be relocated, a move residents argue will disrupt essential upkeep.

Committee spokesperson Ross Beames described the project as rushed and lacking proper community consultation, arguing it overlooks environmental and community risks. Many residents and visitors were unaware of the proposal until shown renderings, at which point they expressed strong opposition in surveys and petitions. The proposal’s visual impact, particularly on nearby residential buildings, and the shadowing of key park areas were highlighted as unacceptable changes.

Roma Street Parklands — *Photo Credit: Protect Roma Street Parkland/Facebook*

Alternative Proposals Suggested

Opponents of the arena have put forward several alternative sites for consideration, including Victoria Park, Hamilton, and the Gabba. The committee supports returning to the original proposal of building above railway tracks or constructing an arena adjacent to Woolloongabba’s Cross River Rail station. They argue these locations offer better transport connectivity and fewer community disruptions.

The submission also criticises the cost and constructability challenges of the Roma Street location. For example, the proposed site’s triangular shape, surrounded by rail lines and residential roads, presents logistical hurdles for construction access and operation. Additionally, the estimated cost of $2.5 billion for the project would result in one of the highest per-seat expenses for an arena globally, exceeding comparable venues like the proposed Gold Coast Arena.

Petition and Community Response

Meanwhile, a petition led by community member David Meredith has garnered over 2,100 signatures, urging Queensland to relocate the arena. The petition stresses that the parkland’s unique design and role as a host for over 200 annual events would be jeopardised by the construction. It also raises concerns about traffic congestion, loss of carparks, and the shadowing of mature trees by large structures.

Park visitors surveyed by local residents overwhelmingly opposed the project when informed of its details. Many had previously believed the arena would be built at the original Brisbane Live site and expressed shock at the new plan’s potential impact on the park.

The petitioners requested that officials revert to earlier development plans under the 2021 Cross River Rail Priority Development Area guidelines. They also urged decision-makers to consider the broader social, economic, and environmental benefits of maintaining Roma Street Parkland as a fully functional green space.

The 100-day review of Brisbane’s Olympic infrastructure is underway.

Published 14-January-2025

Milton Among Areas Needing Urgent Blood Donations After Holiday Cancellations

Photo Credit: Australian Red Cross Lifeblood

Milton residents are being asked to roll up their sleeves and participate in the nationwide blood donations drive to replenish critically low stocks following a record number of donation cancellations over the New Year period.

Lifeblood issued an urgent call this week after more than 6,500 people across Australia cancelled their appointments last week, the highest number of New Year week cancellations in three years. A further 14,000 individuals either rescheduled or failed to show up.

This significant drop in donations at a crucial time of year means an additional 12,000 people urgently need blood donation this week. Lifeblood executive Cath Stone stressed the situation’s urgency, highlighting that the need for blood doesn’t stop for holidays.

However, the recent holiday season saw an alarming number of people cancelling or rescheduling their appointments. Over 6,500 individuals cancelled their donations last week—the highest number of New Year’s week cancellations in three years—with an additional 14,000 either rescheduling or failing to attend.

This significant decrease in donations at a crucial time of year has created an urgent need for 12,000 people to donate this week. Lifeblood Executive Director of Donor Experience, Cath Stone, stressed the importance of maintaining blood supplies, highlighting that the need for blood doesn’t take a holiday. She emphasised that hospitals continue to perform thousands of blood and plasma transfusions daily, with patients relying on the generosity of donors.

Stone encouraged Australians to find an hour in their schedules to give blood, suggesting that with the holidays over and routines resuming, it’s an ideal time to make a difference. She acknowledged that people might be motivated to donate for various reasons, from personal connections to those battling illness, to simply wanting to do something positive.

To facilitate blood donation, the nation’s blood supply levels are now available to view online in real-time. Potential donors can see exactly where and when their blood is most needed.

Published Date 07-Jan-2024

Roar vs Jets: Brisbane Eyes First Win in Bottom-of-Table Clash

Brisbane Roar’s challenging A-League season continues as they prepare to host Newcastle Jets on Tuesday, 7 January. Both sides find themselves languishing at the bottom of the table, desperate for a win to reignite their campaigns. Roar vs Jets kick off 7:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Kuremara Expands Services with Cutting-Edge Activity Centre in Milton

The Roar, still searching for their first victory after ten matches, enter the fixture with just two points to their name. Friday night’s 3–1 loss to Central Coast Mariners underscored the struggles that have defined their season so far.

Home form needs addressing

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by A-Leagues (@aleagues)

Brisbane’s failure to claim even a single point at home this season has been a glaring issue for coach Ruben Zadkovich’s side. Ben Halloran’s 71st-minute strike against the Mariners showed glimpses of potential, but the team’s inability to maintain momentum and hold onto the equaliser resulted in another disappointing outcome at Suncorp Stadium.

There were moments of promise in Friday’s match, with Thomas Waddingham’s one-on-one opportunity and Keegan Jelacic’s creative movements causing problems for the opposition. However, turning these opportunities into tangible results remains elusive for the Queensland side.

Read: Community to Benefit from Planned Short-Stay Accommodation

Roar vs Jets

Tuesday’s opposite side, Newcastle Jets, sit just above Brisbane with six points, making this a crucial fixture for both teams. The match presents a golden opportunity for the Roar to narrow the gap and potentially bag their first points at home this season.

With both teams eager to improve their positions on the ladder, Tuesday’s clash shapes as a pivotal encounter in the context of both clubs’ seasons. For Brisbane faithful, the wait for that first win of the campaign continues.

Published 03-January-2025

Roar vs Mariners: Brisbane Seek First Home Points in New Year Clash Against Central Coast

Brisbane Roar aims to kick off 2025 on a positive note as they host Central Coast Mariners this Friday, 3 January, with Brisbane still searching for their first points on home soil this season. Roar vs Mariners kick off 6:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Kuremara Expands Services with Cutting-Edge Activity Centre in Milton

Wooden spoon form continues

The Round 12 A-League clash presents an opportunity for Brisbane to bounce back from their recent 1-0 defeat to Western United. Despite creating numerous chances in their final match of 2024, the Roar were unable to find the back of the net at Ironbark Fields.

The loss to Western United highlighted both promise and frustration for Brisbane supporters. Jacob Brazete, making his first start for the club, nearly opened the scoring in the 29th minute after connecting with Harry Van Der Saag’s cross. Keegan Jelacic also came close to breaking the deadlock, only to be denied in a one-on-one situation with Western’s GK Matt Sutton.

The decisive moment came late in the first half when Antonee Burke-Gilroy’s challenge on Angus Thurgate resulted in a penalty, which Hiroshi Ibusuki converted. Despite subsequent chances from Ben Halloran and Thomas Waddingham, the Roar couldn’t find an equalizer.

Read: Community to Benefit from Planned Short-Stay Accommodation

Roar vs Mariners

Friday’s match against Mariners marks the beginning of an important home stand for Brisbane, with Newcastle Jets visiting Suncorp Stadium just four days later. These back-to-back home fixtures could prove crucial in turning around their fortunes at Suncorp Stadium.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Brisbane Roar FC (@brisbaneroarfc)

The fixture represents more than just another fixture for the Roar—it’s a chance to start the new year with renewed purpose and finally reward their home supporters with points on the board.

Published 31-December-2024

Kuremara Expands Services with Cutting-Edge Activity Centre in Milton

Photo Credit: Kuremara/ Facebook

Kuremara, a leading disability support provider, is set to open a new activity centre in Milton this January, offering a wide range of programs and services for people with disabilities.

Kuremara, a trusted NDIS-registered provider, will launch its cutting-edge facility at 38B Douglas Street in mid-January 2025. The spacious 400-square-metre centre is designed to be a welcoming and inclusive environment for participants to connect, learn, and thrive.

This new centre represents a significant investment by Kuremara in the community and highlights the organisation’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the lives of people with disabilities. The facility has been purposefully designed to foster social interaction, creativity, and skill development in a supportive and engaging atmosphere.

A Hub for Creativity and Connection

The Milton Activity Centre will offer diverse activities catering to various interests and needs. Participants can engage in creative pursuits such as art, dance, and music therapy to encourage self-expression and provide therapeutic benefits. Practical life skills workshops, including cooking classes, will equip participants with valuable skills to enhance their independence.

The centre will also host various social and recreational activities, like barbecues, movie nights, and outings, to foster friendships and community. With dedicated outdoor spaces, participants can also enjoy gardening and games. Notably, the centre aims to provide respite and support for carers, offering them opportunities to connect with others while their loved ones participate in programs.

Addressing a Growing Need

The establishment of this activity centre comes at a time of increasing demand for accessible and engaging spaces for people with disabilities and their families in Brisbane and across Queensland. Kuremara CEO, Dr. Shashikant Varsani explained that the centre is intended to be more than just a facility; it’s envisioned as a community hub where participants feel valued, inspired, and empowered. He emphasised the organisation’s desire to create an environment where individuals can connect, explore their passions, and develop essential life skills in a fun and supportive setting.

Conveniently Located and Thoughtfully Designed

Situated on Douglas Street, the centre is easily accessible by public transport and offers ample parking, ensuring convenience for those travelling across Brisbane. The thoughtfully designed space includes spacious activity rooms, comfortable lounge areas, and accessible outdoor spaces to cater to various activities and group sizes.

The opening of the Milton Activity Centre marks a significant step forward in Kuremara’s mission to provide high-quality disability support services across Australia. The organisation has a long history of empowering people with disabilities through various NDIS services, including short-term accommodation, supported independent living, and community participation programs. This new centre represents a natural progression of its commitment to supporting individuals to live fulfilling and independent lives.

Looking Ahead

Kuremara is eager to welcome participants and their carers to the new facility when it opens in mid-January. The organisation sees the centre as a place where participants can access valuable programs, build lasting relationships, and grow in confidence. This initiative marks an exciting new chapter for Kuremara as it continues to expand its reach and make a positive difference in the lives of people with disabilities throughout Queensland and beyond.

Published Date 26-December-2024

Community to Benefit from Planned Short-Stay Accommodation

Photo Credit: DA A006656551

A proposed for 30 Little Cribb Street in Milton will convert an existing 8-storey commercial office building into 126 short-term accommodation units.

DA A006656551 features 98 one-bedroom and 28 two-bedroom units, designed to cater to diverse visitor needs.

By repurposing an existing structure, the development minimises environmental impact while addressing the growing demand for centrally located, accessible short-term housing.

Community Engages Strongly with Proposed Short-Term Accommodation Development in Milton — *Photo Credit:* DA *A006656551*

The site’s proximity to Milton Railway Station and other transport hubs has also been highlighted as a critical factor in the broader urban planning conversation.

The development team has addressed concerns about flood safety and air quality due to the site’s location near industrial facilities. A Flood Emergency Management Plan (FEMP) has been included to manage risks during floods and meet safety requirements.

Air quality checks show the project meets standards for sensitive uses, with improvements expected as nearby industrial facilities are upgraded.

Since the development application follows a Code Assessment under the Brisbane City Plan 2014, there was no need for public consultation or submissions. Council reviews the project to ensure it follows planning rules and includes necessary safety measures.

The proposed development aligns with the precinct’s Mixed-Use zoning, supporting a balance of commercial and residential functions.

By reusing existing infrastructure, the project maintains key built-form parameters, including height and gross floor area, ensuring harmony with the surrounding environment.

Traffic impact assessments confirm that the project will not introduce significant changes to local traffic patterns, minimising disruptions for the community.

The development’s parking provisions meet the planning scheme’s requirements, including 173 spaces with designated visitor spots.

The proposal has undergone a series of assessments to ensure compliance with planning benchmarks. Key findings include:

Traffic Impact: No changes to access or traffic generation, with adequate parking provisions.
Flood Safety: Compliance with flood planning levels, supported by a Flood Emergency Management Plan.
Air Quality: Meets criteria for sensitive uses, with anticipated improvements as nearby industrial facilities are redeveloped.
Engineering Report: Existing water, sewer, and stormwater infrastructure are deemed adequate for the project’s needs.

Future Opportunities for Milton

This project demonstrates adaptive reuse, meeting market demands and supporting urban growth while maintaining the area’s character.

Visitors staying at the development will enjoy seamless access to Milton’s lifestyle hubs, public transport, and commercial amenities, supporting the suburb’s vibrant economy.

For the local community, the project brings opportunities to enhance Milton’s identity as a dynamic and connected precinct. Increased foot traffic and visitor numbers are expected to benefit local businesses, creating a ripple effect of economic growth and cultural exchange.

As Milton continues to evolve, the short-term accommodation development on Little Cribb Street has the potential to set a benchmark for sustainable and community-focused urban design.

Published-19-Dec-2024

Roar vs Perth Glory: Brisbane and Perth Seek First A-League Win

Brisbane Roar returns to Suncorp Stadium this Saturday, 21 December, hosting Perth Glory in a must-win contest for two sides languishing at the bottom of the A-League ladder. Roar vs Perth Glory kick off 4:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Milton Park to Receive Security Camera in Council Crackdown on Crime

At the bottom of the ladder

The match holds added significance for Brisbane, who have lost all three of their home matches this season and are yet to claim even a single point at Suncorp Stadium. Despite their poor position on the ladder, Brisbane’s youth has shown promising signs in recent weeks.

Talismanic striker Thomas Waddingham continues to shine, netting his fourth goal of the season in last weekend’s 2-2 draw against Western Sydney Wanderers. Waddingham’s tally is surpassed only by Wellington’s Kosta Barbarouses (5) and Western Sydney’s Nicolas Milanovic (5). Another positive for the Roar has been the emergence of 17-year-old defender Lucas Herrington, who delivered a composed performance on debut last week.

Roar vs Perth Glory

The match marks the start of a crucial period for Brisbane, who will play three of their next four games at home over the Christmas and New Year period. Head coach Ruben Zadkovich emphasised the importance of Saturday’s clash against his former club, describing it as a critical opportunity for his team.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Brisbane Roar FC (@brisbaneroarfc)

Adding intrigue to the encounter, several former Glory players now feature prominently for the Roar, including Scott Neville, Keegan Jelacic, Antonee Burke-Gilroy, and Adam Zimarino. Both Zadkovich and assistant coach Chris Coyne also have deep ties to the Perth outfit.

Read: Milton CityCat Commuters Advised to Replan their Travel as Service Cuts Begin

The pressure is also mounting for Perth Glory. A lacklustre season reached a low point with last week’s heavy 4-0 defeat to Newcastle Jets, and their inability to break their winless streak could further damage morale. The stakes are clear: both teams need three points to avoid being stranded at the foot of the table.

Published 17-December-2024

Milton Park to Receive Security Camera in Council Crackdown on Crime

Milton is set to receive enhanced security measures with the rollout of the latest round of the Suburban Safety Camera program.

This initiative is part of a wider push to combat rising crime rates and improve city residents’ safety. The program will see fixed cameras installed in Milton Common Park and other locations, such as Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve, Tinchi Tamba Wetlands in Boondall, and Minnippi Parkland in Murarrie.

The move comes in response to increased vandalism and crime reported at Council facilities. There have been 23 incidents in the last year compared to just two the previous year.

In addition to the fixed camera, 26 mobile cameras will be deployed across Council wards. These locations will be determined in consultation with police, community members, and Council security experts.

This program complements the Lord Mayor’s Safer Suburbs Grants, an election commitment by Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner to fund security upgrades at local sports and community clubs.

Almost 70 clubs have already benefited from the first round of funding, totalling over half a million dollars. Grants of up to $10,000 were awarded to clubs to improve security with security screens, CCTV cameras, new locks, enhanced patrol services, and alarm systems.

LM Schrinner emphasised the importance of these initiatives, stating that every dollar community groups spend on dealing with the impacts of crime is a dollar that can’t be used for community programs. He reiterated his commitment to supporting residents and community organisations in making Brisbane a safer and more enjoyable place to live and work.

Wilston Grange AFL Club, a grant recipient, will use the funds to upgrade external locks after experiencing two break-ins in recent months. Club President Rod Fidler expressed his gratitude for the funding, highlighting that any financial assistance is invaluable for community organisations. He believes the new security measures will help deter future break-ins.

Another round of the Safer Suburbs Grants, valued at $500,000, will be launched next year.

Published Date 16-December-2024