Suburban clubs to get safety upgrades
Our sporting and community clubs are at the heart of our communities.
From hosting sporting activities and playing a part in community events, they also bring residents together and support our youth.
We want to ensure these are safe spaces for everyone.
The Lord Mayor’s Safer Suburbs Grants are being offered to clubs to help deter crime with grants up to $10,000 available to go towards improvements to safety like security screens, CCTV cameras, new locks or improved patrol services and alarm systems.
It’s all about making our clubs safe for residents to enjoy. Further information can be found on Council's website.
Keeping costs down for Brisbane residents
Our sensible 2024-25 Budget is designed to take pressure off households while keeping Brisbane moving forward.
Brisbane’s residential minimum rates are again the lowest in South East Queensland, while still delivering plenty of free and affordable initiatives for residents to take advantage of.
Generous discounts and rebates are on offer for household composting equipment and green bins, and seniors can continue to enjoy free offpeak travel on buses, ferries and CityCats.
Residents can look forward to turn-up-and-go Brisbane Metro services starting in late 2024, which will connect the city and suburbs like never before.
The budget is also prioritising better roads for Brisbane, with the delivery of congestion-busting projects like the Moggill Road Corridor upgrade and funding future stages of the Beams Road project to get residents where they need to be sooner and safer.
Eighty-nine per cent of this year’s budget is being spent in the suburbs. Keep an eye out for upgrades to parks and playgrounds, new pickleball courts and more Active and Healthy classes.
More fun, less sun at our playgrounds
You can find amazing playgrounds in every suburb of Brisbane.
To make sure we’re keeping our littlest residents protected from the sun, we’re installing more shade sails over our playgrounds.
This is the third round of installs as part of the Sun Safe Suburban Playgrounds program. So far 116 playgrounds have had shade sail upgrades, and this year we’ll be installing 34 more, making playtime safer, cooler and easier to enjoy 'just one more swing or slide' at your local park.
New parkland coming soon
Brisbane’s latest lifestyle destination, Archerfield Wetlands is 80% complete.
The upgraded 4-hectare park will give the young and young at heart plenty to explore with an event activity lawn, youth hub, basketball court, bush foods garden trail, catchment centre nursery and upgraded picnic and barbecue facilities as part of the transformation.
More than 65,000 new native trees and plants have been planted to create shade, cool the area and increase habitat for local wildlife.
The Archerfield Wetlands District Park is on track to open this year and is part of our 20-year Oxley Creek Transformation initiative.
For more information, visit Council’s website and search ‘Archerfield Wetlands District Park’.
Transforming Kedron Brook
There’ll be more to enjoy about Kedron Brook as the catchment undergoes an incredible transformation as part of our 20-year vision.
As well as making the area more flood resilient, the Kedron Brook Vision will give residents another lifestyle precinct and improve tree cover by 80% creating plenty of shade on sunny days. Our long-term project will complement other destinations we have transformed like Hanlon Park and Archerfield Wetlands.
Enjoy Brisbane's heated pools
Just because the temperature has dropped, it doesn't mean you can't keep swimming when we have heated pools across Brisbane. Check out these top dips.
The Emily Seebohm Aquatic Centre in Fitzgibbon has 2 heated 25-metre pools.
At Mt Gravatt East Swimming Pool, there's an indoor pool that is heated all year round with a ramp and wheelchair access.
Head west to Bellbowrie Pool, where you can treat yourself to a hot coffee, after laps in the 25-metre heated pool.
Langlands Park Memorial Pool at Stones Corner is hard to beat as all their pools are heated, including the 50-metre Olympic outdoor pool.
Some pools undergo maintenance in the winter months, so visit Council’s website for up-to-date opening hours.
There'll be plenty of opportunities for fun, fitness and recreation when our popular $2 Summer Dips initiative returns from 1 December 2024. Save money and dive into our 22 pools for just $2.
Artist's impression: Archerfield Wetlands District Park
WASTESMART NOMINATIONS OPEN
Do you know a waste warrior who helps keep Brisbane clean and sustainable? Nominate them for a WasteSMART Brisbane Award. Nominations are now open, closing on Saturday 31 August. There are 12 awards with a prize pool of more than $4,000. Visit wastesmartawards.com.au
NEW NURSERY
You can now collect your free native plants from our newest nursery at Boondall Wetlands Environment Centre, 31 Paperbark Drive, Boondall. Choose from groundcovers, tufting plants, climbers, small and medium shrubs and feature trees. For more information about how to claim your free native plants, go to Council’s website.
PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE OPEN
Residents can walk or ride across the new pedestrian bridge at Hawera Court, Aspley. The 17-metre-long and 4.3-metre-wide bridge, was designed with flood resilience in mind. It connects Hawera Court to Hawera Crescent Park and Little Cabbage Tree Creek Bikeway for a seamless link to Aspley Hypermarket.
Keeping our city safe
Our Safety Camera Network has been bolstered with 200 new CCTV cameras installed across the city, in locations identified with support from the Queensland Police Service.
The cameras, which deter crime and assist law enforcement, have been installed in parks and on new major infrastructure such as the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Breakfast Creek Bridge and at the Metro Depot in Rochedale.
To protect your personal safety, you should follow simple tips such as removing headphones or putting your phone away to stay alert while walking through busy areas and crossing roads. For more safety tips, search ‘personal safety’ on Council’s website.
Good choices for kerbside collection
The new kerbside collection calendar is now available. Before kerbside collection comes to your suburb, here’s some tips for what you can (and can’t) put out for pickup.
You can put out items like bicycles, sporting equipment, furniture and white goods.
You can’t put out batteries, glass and mirrors, hazardous waste, bricks, concrete and car parts or tyres. Download the Brisbane Bin and Recycling app to learn more about correct disposal for these items.
Make sure your items are on the kerbside in front of your property in a small, neat pile by 6am on the first day of the collection period. Remember that items from kerbside collection go to landfill. So, if you think any items are in good condition, look at upcycling or donating them instead.
You can find the new calendar on our website, brisbane.qld.gov.au or download Council’s free Brisbane Bin and Recycling app.
Donate items in good, usable condition to Council's Treasure Troves via our resource recovery centres.
CityCats arrive at Howard Smith Wharves
CityCats are now stopping at Howard Smith Wharves, connecting you to the popular entertainment and dining hotspot from any ferry terminal along a 22-kilometre stretch of the Brisbane River.
The new stop has already been a hit, with people taking 10 times as many trips to and from the terminal since CityCat services began in late May. It’s a lifestyle win for Brisbane, helping you plan your day or night out without relying on a car.
Don’t forget that the Cross River and CityHopper ferries also operate from Howard Smith Wharves ferry terminal, with CityCats operating from approximately 6am-11pm on weekdays and 6.45am-midnight on weekends.
Kangaroo Point Bridge now spans the river
Kangaroo Point Bridge is now fully connected between the CBD and Kangaroo Point.
The final span has been lifted into place and removal of the tower crane is currently underway.
The river crossing will save walkers, cyclists and scooter riders at least 15 minutes with a direct connection between Kangaroo Point and the CBD once it opens later this year.
The new Story Bridge underpass at Main Street and signalised crossing at Alice and Edward streets will make the bridge safe to access on both sides of the river.
Go to Council's website and search 'Kangaroo Point Bridge' for more information.
CityGliding to 4 million
Brisbane residents have taken approximately 4 million trips on our CityGlider services since July 2023.
Brisbane’s Maroon and Blue CityGliders are Council-subsidised services that run along 2 highly popular routes in Brisbane, connecting Teneriffe-West End and CoorparooAshgrove via the CBD.
Since 2019, we have invested more than $45 million in providing CityGlider services – making it easier for people to leave their car at home.
Meanwhile, Brisbane’s most mature residents are also taking full advantage of our bus subsidies. Since 2019, seniors have taken more than 11.2 million free seniors’ offpeak trips.
Learning bike maintenance saves money! Our Cycling Brisbane program offers free basic and intermediate bike maintenance workshops including women-only sessions. Visit our website for more information.
Artist's impression: Kangaroo Point Bridge at night.
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OPEN FRAME, 18 TO 21 JULY
Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm
Open Frame is back with music icons and an eclectic mix of artists experimenting with sound. brisbanepowerhouse.org
PEAKS TO POINTS FAMILY DAY, 10AM TO 3PM, 21 JULY
Oxley Creek Common, Rocklea
Learn about community efforts to care for creek catchments along the Brisbane River with live entertainment, food trucks, kids' activities and environmental exhibits. peakstopoints.com.au
LORD MAYOR'S PHOTOGRAPHIC AWARDS EXHIBITION
29 JULY TO 16 AUGUST
Brisbane Square Library, Brisbane City
See work from some of Brisbane’s best photographers and vote for your favourite in the People’s Choice Award. brisbane.qld.gov.au
ANYWHERE FESTIVAL BRISBANE, 19 JULY TO 4 AUGUST
Various locations
Explore Brisbane’s nooks and crannies in a festival of shows and events celebrating exciting and engaging storytelling and performance. anywhere.is/brisbane
GLOW GOLF, FROM 5PM DAILY UNTIL 28 JULY
St Lucia Golf Links, St Lucia
Put your skills to the test with a glow in the dark ball and twinkling ambience at this whimsical winter wonderland of mini golf. hillstonestlucia.com.au
BRISBANE FESTIVAL, 31 AUGUST TO LATE SEPTEMBER
Various locations
Brisbane Festival starts with Brisbane's biggest and best fireworks extravaganza, Riverfire, on 31 August and continues with performances, installations and something for everyone. brisbanefestival.com.au
Image: Rosemary Featherstone
Please check details and confirm with organisers that events are still going ahead before you make plans.
REGIONAL EVENTS
GROW YOUR VEGGIES
14 July, 10.30am-12 noon
Chermside Library
Learn to select veggies for every season. Bookings essential. Call 3403 7200 brisbane.qld.gov.au
FUN SOCCER FOR KIDS
15 July, 9.30-10am
Teralba Park, Everton Park
A fun introduction to soccer for children aged 2 to 3 years. Bookings essential. gingersport.com.au
TAISO
16 July, 1–2pm
The Community Place, Kalinga
Improve your balance and movement at this fun class that is suitable for all levels of fitness. brisbane.qld.gov.au
MUSIC BEAT KIDS GROUP
17 July, 10.30-11am
Moora Park, Shorncliffe
Come and enjoy the outdoors with your little ones for musical play and movement. brisbane.qld.gov.au
GRANGE LIBRARY GROWERS
20 July, 8-9am
Grange Library
Help tend to the citrus and herb gardens. brisbane.qld.gov.au
CHILDREN’S STORYTIME IN THE PARK
22 July, 9.30-10am
7th Brigade Park, Chermside
Experience the magic of storytime with your child. brisbane.qld.gov.au
Check out the Brisbane app for more event listings!
DANCE CARDIO
27 July, 8-9am
The Community Place, Stafford
Low-impact dance fitness for everyone. Bookings essential. Call The Community Place on 0468 415 721.
BUSH KINDY
30 July, 10-10.45am
Downfall Creek Bushland Centre, Chermside West
Enjoy the natural surroundings with your little one. Bookings essential. eventbrite.com.au
NORTHEY STREET ORGANIC FARMERS MARKET
Sundays, 6–11am, Northey Street City Farm, Windsor
Shop for a range of fresh organic produce. brisbane.qld.gov.au
Listen on Council's website, Spotify or wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts.
Bike rides for everyone
Brisbane has an extensive network of bikeways that are fun for the whole family. Before you jump on your bike, check out some of the fun activities, safety tips and resources available on our website.
Search ‘bike’ on our ‘What’s On in Brisbane’ page to find a whole lot of free cycling fun for all ages and abilities including BMX workshops and guided rides along the river and beyond.
Download Cycling Brisbane’s Riding in Brisbane guide to learn the tips and tricks you need to ride safely and confidently.
Check out the bike parking and facilities available to keep your bike safe and yourself refreshed when you reach your destination.
Search 'riding in Brisbane' on Council’s website for more information.
Start planning for grants and opportunities
The new financial year is the perfect time for community groups, creatives and businesses to plan projects for the year ahead – including grants, awards and sponsorships.
We have a free funding finder on our website, which can help you find and manage a comprehensive range of grants. You can even register online for email alerts about new grants. You’ll also find resources, guidance and inspiration to help with your application.
If you, or someone you know, has been doing some exceptional work, there are also awards and fellowships for a range of achievements. Get planning now and search ‘grants, awards and sponsorships’ on brisbane.qld.gov.au
Are you ready for bushfires?
Be prepared, make your household emergency plan today.
brisbane.qld.gov.au Be prepared
Brisbane City Council acknowledges this Country and its Traditional Custodians. We pay our respects to the Elders, those who have passed into the dreaming; those here today; those of tomorrow.
• River •