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Craig & Karl’s Colourful Takeover Connects Brisbane at Kangaroo Point

Kangaroo Point has become a focal point of Brisbane Festival 2025, featuring a large-scale installation by international art duo Craig & Karl as part of a citywide creative takeover celebrating colour, community, and connection.

A City Transformed Through Art

Artists Craig Redman and Karl Maier, known globally as Craig & Karl, have returned to their hometown for Brisbane Festival 2025 with their most extensive project to date. The pair have created 75 artworks across 20 key sites, including striking inflatables and geometric designs that now brighten the Kangaroo Point Bridge and other major landmarks.

The installation, which runs until 27 September 2025, forms part of the festival’s Public Art Trail presented in partnership with Griffith University Art Museum, BCC, and Tourism and Events Queensland.

Craig & Karl Kangaroo Point — *Photo Credit: Brisbane Festival*

Kangaroo Point Bridge Installation

At Kangaroo Point, the walking bridge has been transformed into a series of large inflatable arches, described as one of the duo’s most ambitious projects in nearly three decades. The colourful display symbolically connects Brisbane’s city centre to the Kangaroo Point headland, celebrating the city’s riverfront identity and creative culture.

This major public intervention is part of ANZ’s Walk This Way and reflects Craig & Karl’s hallmark aesthetic of bold colours, symmetry, and playfulness.

Rear Vision and Double Vision Exhibitions

The Kangaroo Point display is complemented by Craig & Karl: Rear Vision, an Outdoor Gallery exhibition running from 14 June to 20 October 2025 across Brisbane’s streets, laneways, and car parks. The exhibition, co-curated by Carrie McCarthy and Angela Goddard, showcases works exploring community, identity, and imagination.

At Griffith University Art Museum, Craig & Karl: Double Vision runs from 28 August 2025 to 7 January 2026, mapping three decades of the duo’s creativity and marking the 50th anniversary of Griffith University’s Queensland College of Art and Design, where both artists began their collaboration.

Public Art Trail and Guided Tours

Beyond Kangaroo Point, the Public Art Trail extends to locations such as Brisbane Airport, Brisbane Powerhouse, Brisbane Quarter, Fish Lane Arts Precinct, and South Bank Cultural Forecourt. The artworks collectively create a visual journey celebrating Brisbane’s evolving creative landscape.

Although sold out, guided tours held between 5 and 27 September 2025 offered participants a closer look at these installations, tracing the artists’ journey from their early Brisbane days to their global career. Each tour ran for 90 minutes, following accessible paths through key city highlights.

Creative Homecoming

Now based in London and New York, Craig & Karl’s return to Brisbane is regarded as a creative homecoming. Their playful pop art style—rooted in the city’s subcultures of the 1980s—continues to evolve through international collaborations with brands like Nike, Apple, and Vogue.

Through Rear Vision, Double Vision, and the Public Art Trail, the duo’s installations invite locals and visitors alike to rediscover familiar cityscapes through a new lens of colour and imagination.

Published 25-Sep-2025

‘World-first’ Wheelchair-accessible Flying Fox to Link Kangaroo Point and CBD before Brisbane 2032

A ‘world-first,’ wheelchair-accessible flying fox has been proposed for Kangaroo Point, targeting lift-off before Brisbane 2032.

Brisbane adventure entrepreneur John “Sharpey” Sharpe has outlined plans for a dual-line flying fox stretching over the Brisbane River from the Kangaroo Point cliffs to the city. Sharpe says the attraction would be a world first for wheelchair accessibility, positioning Brisbane to showcase inclusive adventure tourism in the lead-up to 2032.

Known locally for Riverlife, the Story Bridge Adventure Climb and the high-perched Vertigo dining experience, Sharpe says the flying fox would be a world first of its kind because of its built-in accessibility.

The proposal has been taking shape in the background for years and is now being progressed through Queensland’s new Tourism Icons Investment Fund under the state’s Destination 2045 plan.

The goal is to open ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with the attraction designed from the ground up to accommodate wheelchair users.

How it would work

The concept uses two parallel cables for a one-way glide from the cliffs to the CBD. Guests could then make the return journey via the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge, which officially opened on 15 December 2024 and now provides a direct link between the two banks.

Photo Credit: Facebook/ space4cyclingbne

Accessibility is built into the design brief: the flying fox would incorporate hardware and procedures so wheelchair users can take part safely, comfortably and without being treated as an exception.

The pitch builds on a recent run of inclusive tourism moves in Brisbane. Earlier this year, the Story Bridge Adventure Climb launched a wheelchair-accessible experience — another claimed global first — reinforcing that major attractions here are starting to design for all abilities from the start.

The Vertigo connection

Sharpe is also the man behind Vertigo Restaurant at Brisbane Powerhouse — a vertical dining experience where guests are clipped into safety gear and seated on platforms suspended roughly 17 metres above the ground.

Vertigo offers an “Access Vertigo” option that uses a purpose-built lifting wheelchair: guests transfer with staff assistance, are raised to the dining platform, and the chair locks securely into the table for the meal before a controlled descent.

That hands-on experience with adaptive equipment and procedures is informing the flying fox proposal’s accessibility features, with the goal of ensuring wheelchair users can participate from day one.

Where the project sits now

Funding pathway: The proposal is being prepared for consideration under Queensland’s Tourism Icons Investment Fund, part of the state’s Destination 2045 agenda.
Consultation and approvals: Exact launch and landing points would be confirmed through community consultation, engineering, environmental assessment and statutory approvals.
Design considerations: Early engineering work has reportedly focused on minimising vegetation impacts along the Kangaroo Point cliffs.
Timing: The stated aim is to be operating well before Brisbane 2032 so staff, systems and partnerships are in place ahead of the Games.

Why it matters for Kangaroo Point

If approved and built, the flying fox would add a fresh “river-to-city” experience to Kangaroo Point’s outdoor line-up — launching from the cliffs, soaring to the CBD, and strolling home over the new bridge. Just as importantly, it would continue Brisbane’s shift toward designing major attractions with accessibility at the centre rather than as an afterthought.

Key facts at a glance

What: Proposed dual-line, wheelchair-accessible flying fox across the Brisbane River
Where: Kangaroo Point cliffs to Brisbane CBD (one-way)
Return route: Via the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge (opened 15 December 2024)
Proponent: John “Sharpey” Sharpe (Riverlife, Story Bridge Adventure Climb, Vertigo)
Target opening: Before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games
Status: Concept progressing through funding, design, consultation and approvals

Future of Brisbane River Travel? Electric Hydrofoil Taxis Raise Hopes

Visitors and commuters may one day see futuristic river taxis gliding silently past Kangaroo Point and beneath the Story Bridge, as talks progress to bring Swedish-made electric hydrofoil taxis to Brisbane.

Read: Queensland Architecture Awards Honour Kangaroo Point Bridge for Urban Design

The sleek vessels, made by Scandinavian firm Candela, appear to “fly” above the water on submerged wings, allowing them to travel up to 55km/h without creating a wake. The design means they avoid the destructive riverbank erosion that Brisbane’s first CityCats once caused, including along the busy stretch of river near Kangaroo Point.

At present, Maritime Safety Queensland limits vessels to 15 knots (about 28km/h) between the William Jolly Bridge and the Story Bridge. However, in Stockholm authorities allow Candela ferries to travel much faster because they generate no wake, raising the possibility of a similar arrangement in Brisbane.

Local hospitality operators are already in discussion with the company, which unveiled its vessels at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show earlier this year. The interest follows Brisbane’s move to open eight river pontoons for businesses such as water taxis, floating bars and restaurants.

Candela’s Australian distributor has argued that the electric hydrofoil taxis are far more energy-efficient than conventional ferries, needing only compact batteries that can recharge with the same type of equipment as an electric car. Unlike larger CityCats, which can carry up to 170 passengers, the P-12 hydrofoil shuttle has capacity for about 30 people, positioning it more as a nimble commuter service than a mass transit option.

Supporters say that could be a perfect fit for Kangaroo Point, where new riverside developments are drawing residents, workers and tourists who may benefit from faster, cleaner connections across the water. The vessels’ long range and quiet operation could also add to the precinct’s appeal as a lifestyle destination, just minutes from the CBD.

Read: Kangaroo Point Bridge Becomes Centrepiece in Bezzina’s Final Brisbane Festival

Although previous river taxi schemes in Brisbane have faltered, proponents believe the hydrofoil’s unique design and efficiency could finally make the idea viable. If so, Kangaroo Point could soon become one of the first places in Australia where the futuristic boats take flight.

Published 17-September-2025

Developer Seeks Approval for Design Amendments at Kangaroo Point Tower

Photo Credit: YPM Group

AS Mountain Pty Ltd, owned by Sam Sgroi and Peter Schmidt, has taken Sorano House seek approval for more than 40 design changes to the near-complete Kangaroo Point apartment tower.

Latest Application

The developer lodged the application on 26 August 2025, with proposed modifications including the removal of a column in the ground-level swimming pool, repositioning of the rooftop pool and deck on level eight, widening of the lobby, and a reduction in the size of the dining and meeting room.

Architect affidavits filed stated that the adjustments will not alter the number of apartments, bedrooms, floors, or the height of the building. Additional changes include moving air-conditioning units behind screening and minor amendments to the sun hood profile.

Brisbane apartments — *Photo Credit: YPM Group*

Project Background

Sorano House is located at 12 Hamilton Street, Kangaroo Point. The development comprises seven full-floor apartments, with each residence spanning an entire level. AS Mountain Pty Ltd purchased the site for $16.69 million on 10 May 2022.

Court approvals were granted in 2021, 2023, and 2024, despite opposition from some neighbours during BCC’s initial consideration of the project. The development is being delivered by Trezetto Developments, also directed by Sgroi.

Sales and Market Position

The project has already seen strong sales, including a two-level penthouse sold off the plan for $14 million and another apartment for $9 million. Each residence features views of the Brisbane River and city skyline.

Earlier marketing material highlighted interior finishes such as a 5.5-metre natural stone kitchen bench, oak flooring, and premium appliances. Shared amenities include a rooftop pool, spa, sauna, gym, outdoor dining, and a private wine cellar. Apartments were originally marketed from $7.75 million, with completion targeted for the first quarter of 2025.

Community Context

Local residents had previously opposed the development, but their objections were unsuccessful. The developer has said the new design changes are intended to respond to demand in the inner-city apartment market. Architects involved in the project described the adjustments as functional refinements with minimal visual impact.

Outlook

The Planning and Environment Court will review the application and determine whether the requested modifications can proceed as Sorano House approaches completion on Kangaroo Point’s riverfront.

Published 11-Sep-2025

Brisbane’s Best Dog-Friendly Walks: Why Kangaroo Point Cliffs Deserves a Spot on Your List

Brisbane is known for its abundance of dog-friendly walks, offering everything from bushland trails to riverside strolls. Among them, the Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park stands out as one of the city’s most scenic spots for dog owners looking to combine history, exercise, and sweeping views of the skyline.

Read: Safety Upgrade to See Old Bollards Removed from Kangaroo Point Cliffs

The 1.1 kilometre loop at Kangaroo Point Cliffs takes around 15 minutes to complete, but its appeal goes far beyond the short walk. The heritage-listed cliffs, created through convict quarrying in the early days of the Moreton Bay penal settlement, have since been transformed into a lively recreational hub. Today, the site attracts walkers, runners, and climbers, as well as locals enjoying a barbecue or picnic by the river.

dog-friendly walks — Photo credit: David Lai/Google Maps

For those bringing their dogs, the park is fully accessible and pet-friendly, though leash rules apply for safety. With its proximity to busy roads and steady stream of cyclists and joggers, dogs are required to stay on-lead, making it a secure but enjoyable outing for pets and their owners. The well-maintained paths and open spaces provide plenty of opportunity for exercise, while the river views add to the experience.

Reviews from visitors highlight the park’s versatility—wheelchair-friendly paths, picnic facilities, climbing areas, and grassy spaces where families and pets alike can relax. Dog owners in particular value the clean environment, the mix of shade and sun, and the chance to combine a leisurely stroll with social activities in one of Brisbane’s most photographed locations.

Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park joins other Brisbane favourites such as the Hamilton to New Farm Riverwalk, Mount Coot-tha trails, and Kedron Brook Floodway as part of the city’s network of dog-friendly walks. Each offers its own character, but the cliffs are unique in blending heritage with lifestyle, giving dog walkers not only exercise but also a glimpse into Brisbane’s early history.

Read: Soaring Over Brisbane: Kangaroo Point Cliffs Eyed for High Diving at Brisbane 2032 Olympics

For those seeking a short, scenic, and pet-friendly walk with a strong sense of place, Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park is an essential addition to the list.

Published 1-September-2025

Oktoberfest in Kangaroo Point to Feature Munich’s Six Breweries

Photo Credit: Brisbane German Club

The Brisbane German Club in Kangaroo Point will host its annual Oktoberfest, showcasing beers from all six official Munich breweries alongside food, music, and traditional festivities.

Event Dates and Schedule

Oktoberfest will take place across the first four weekends of October 2025 at the Brisbane German Club on Vulture Street. Events will run from 5:00 p.m. on Fridays and from 11:00 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Tickets are priced at $40 for Fridays and Sundays and $50 for Saturdays. First-release tickets include entry, access to all areas, a commemorative half-litre stein, and the first drink.

Background of the Celebration

The Brisbane German Club, founded in 1883, began hosting Oktoberfest in 1975, making it Queensland’s oldest festival of its kind. Each year, thousands of people attend to experience Bavarian culture in Kangaroo Point.

Oktoberfest Kangaroo Point — *Photo Credit: Brisbane German Club*

view events info

Securing Munich’s Six Breweries

For 2025, the club has arranged for draught beers from Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbräu, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, and Spaten. The venue team believes this may be the first time all six official Munich Oktoberfest breweries will be available on tap at a single event in Australia.

To achieve this, organisers ordered 301 kegs, with 240 shipped together in one container. These beers, which are rarely available in kegs locally, were secured through careful planning and coordination with importers.

Food, Drinks, and Authentic Traditions

Across the four weekends, around 6,000 attendees are expected to drink more than 15,000 litres of beer. Traditional dishes such as pork knuckles, schnitzels, and pretzels will be served, while choirs, dance groups, and bands provide cultural entertainment.

The event will feature 30 German beers on tap and more than 100 bottled options. Authentic German glassware has also been imported to enhance the experience.

Entertainment and Activities

Festivalgoers can expect choirs, Alpine performances, DJ sets, yodelling, trivia, and competitions including stein-holding, sausage eating, pretzel cutting, potato bowling, and Mr and Mrs Oktoberfest.

On Sunday, 19 October, a dedicated Family Day will feature puppet shows, craft activities, and free entry for children under 18.

Visitor Information

A popup store at the entrance will sell dirndls and lederhosen for attendees looking to dress traditionally. The club will offer a range of food options and will accommodate dietary requirements where possible, though cross-contamination may occur. Pets are not permitted except for service animals.

No on-site parking will be available during the event, but surrounding street parking and public transport services provide alternatives.

Looking Ahead

With its long history in Queensland and the rare inclusion of Munich’s six breweries, Oktoberfest in Kangaroo Point is set to deliver one of the most authentic Bavarian-style celebrations in Australia.

Published 27-Aug-2025

A Century of Compassion: Celebrating the Life of Sister Angela Mary Doyle

Sister Angela Mary Doyle, one of Queensland’s most remarkable women, marked her 100th birthday this year, a milestone in a life defined by compassion, courage, and quiet determination.

Read: Evans Deakin Shipyard: Brisbane’s Wartime Engine of Industry

Born on the 19th of August, the Irish-born Catholic nun first arrived in Brisbane in 1947 at the age of 21. Her first posting was to St Joseph’s Convent, Kangaroo Point, where she began teaching before moving into health care. It was the start of a vocation that would see her become one of Queensland’s most influential figures in education, nursing and hospital leadership.

Angela Mary Doyle — Photo credit: Mater Foundation/Facebook

Sr Doyle later trained as a nurse and rose to administrator of the Mater Hospital, where she helped modernise services and expand care across the state. But it was during the AIDS crisis of the 1980s that her bravery shone most clearly.

With Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen refusing federal funding for treatment, she quietly took the funds herself and channelled them through the Mater to the Queensland AIDS Council. She often visited patients under the cover of night, meeting them in their homes, listening to what they needed, and arranging care despite the risk of being discovered.

Federal Health Minister Neal Blewett once described the Sisters of Mercy as “the most altruistic of money launderers” for their covert role in supporting AIDS patients. For those facing illness and stigma, Sr Doyle’s actions brought comfort and dignity at a time of widespread fear.

Although she stepped back from leadership in the 2000s, Sr Doyle has remained closely involved with the Mater, continuing to support staff, visit patients and advocate for those in need.

Reflecting on her long life, she has often said that her focus was always more on helping others than on herself, and that her faith remained at the centre of everything she did.

Read: WilsonArchitects Marks 140 Years, Highlights Kangaroo Point Project

From Kangaroo Point to the Mater, from the classroom to the frontline of the AIDS crisis, Sister Angela Mary Doyle’s 100 years tell the story of a woman whose life has been lived for others.

Published 20-August-2025

Safety Upgrade to See Old Bollards Removed from Kangaroo Point Cliffs

More than 40 concrete climbing bollards at the top of Kangaroo Point Cliffs are being removed as part of ongoing efforts to upgrade and maintain the popular inner-city climbing destination.

Read: ‘Brisbane Favours the Bold’ Campaign Inspires Adventure Seekers to Climb Kangaroo Point’s Cliffs

The 41 bollards, which have long formed part of the cliff-top facilities, are being taken out following the installation of new safety equipment earlier this year.

In March 2025, ring bolts embedded in the stone wall at the top of the cliffs were replaced with certified fittings, and additional ring bolts were installed to ensure climbing facilities meet current safety standards. With these upgrades now in place, the old concrete bollards are no longer required.

The project has been designed to keep the site operational throughout the works. While the removal takes place, exclusion zones will be set up both at the top of the cliffs and at their base. These safety barriers will ensure visitors, climbers and pedestrians are kept away from the immediate construction areas. The main cliff face and the majority of climbing routes will remain accessible to the public.

Temporary closures will, however, be required in some areas. Short-term footpath blockages and localised car park closures are expected at the top of the cliffs when crews are working nearby. Visitors are being advised to plan ahead and allow a little extra time if accessing the area during the project period.

Not all infrastructure will be affected. The 18 stainless-steel bollards that were installed in recent years will remain in place, as they already meet the required standards and continue to provide safe access points.

Read: Soaring Over Brisbane: Kangaroo Point Cliffs Eyed for High Diving at Brisbane 2032 Olympics

The Kangaroo Point Cliffs are one of Brisbane’s most recognisable recreation landmarks, drawing climbers, abseilers and sightseers year-round. The removal of the outdated bollards forms part of an ongoing monitoring and maintenance program aimed at ensuring facilities are safe, reliable and fit for the thousands of people who use the site each year. For more information, phone the project team on 07 3178 541 or visit Council’s website.

Published 18-August-2025

New ‘Toast at the Top’ Experience Launches at Kangaroo Point

Photo Credit: Story Bridge Adventure Climb

A new group climbing experience on Brisbane’s Story Bridge in Kangaroo Point now includes a summit toast with beer or champagne.

New Experience for Groups

A new group package called ‘Toast at the Top’ has been introduced as a premium addition to the Story Bridge Adventure Climb. The experience allows participants to toast a glass of Felons beer or champagne upon reaching the summit. It is currently the only bridge climb globally offering an alcoholic drink at its peak.

The 90-minute guided experience accommodates up to 14 participants per group. Climb leaders provide commentary on the bridge and city during the ascent. Upon reaching the top, guests can choose between Felons Crisp Lager, Australian Pale Ale, or Veuve Clicquot Champagne.

The package also includes a group photo, a commemorative hat, a certificate of achievement, and a post-climb drink at Felons Brewing Co.

*Photo Credit: Story Bridge Adventure Climb*

Safety Measures and Participation Conditions

To ensure safety, participants must be over 18 and register a blood alcohol reading of 0% before beginning the climb. All procedures are aligned with the Story Bridge Adventure Climb’s operating standards.

Booking and Pricing

‘Toast at the Top’ is available for private group bookings, with packages starting at $165 per person. Final pricing varies depending on drink selection and time of day. Bespoke options are available for smaller groups upon request. All enquiries are managed directly by the Story Bridge Adventure Climb team.

Community and Tourism Appeal

The launch aligns with broader efforts to enhance Brisbane’s tourism offerings and provide unique experiences in the lead-up to future international events, including Brisbane 2032.

Looking Ahead

The new group climb experience at Kangaroo Point adds a celebratory element to the existing Story Bridge Adventure Climb. Bookings are now open for private groups, with tailored options available.

Published 2-Aug-2025

Kangaroo Point Voice Adds Urgency to Mental Health Reform

Photo Credit: Unsplash

A Kangaroo Point resident’s long struggle through Queensland’s mental health system is now shining a light on how much could be saved—and how many lives improved—if suburbs across Brisbane received support that truly matched their needs.

Community Data Reveals a Quiet Crisis

New modelling shows that nearly $482 million could be saved over the next 11 years across Brisbane South if funding focused more on preventing mental health issues by addressing their root causes—things like housing stress, unemployment, drug misuse, and childhood trauma.

The study by Sydney University’s Brain and Mind Centre combined local data, real-life stories, and economic analysis to understand what would happen if even small improvements were made in areas such as Mt Gravatt, Forest Lake, Woolloongabba, Acacia Ridge, and Inala.

The study used system dynamics modelling and included lived experience contributions like Jordan’s to simulate how small improvements in substance misuse, social cohesion, and childhood mental health could dramatically reduce demand on hospitals, increase productivity, and prevent suicide. It found that a modest 5 per cent improvement in substance misuse alone could deliver $274.8 million in health and economic value.

According to the Brisbane South Joint Regional Needs Assessment 2025–2027, these suburbs face growing demand on services due to rising populations, cultural diversity, and social disadvantage. In places like Forest Lake–Oxley, the pressure is especially high on families and young people. In Rocklea and Acacia Ridge, language barriers and limited access to culturally safe care are worsening mental health outcomes.

A Lived Experience from Kangaroo Point

Jordan van Rosmalen, 24, shared her personal experience with mental health challenges as a contributor to the research. Living in Kangaroo Point, she took part in the study by offering her story as someone who had accessed almost every level of Queensland’s mental health system—from inpatient care to community and private providers.

She reflected that, despite the range of services available, the support she received often failed to meet her needs at the time. The study quoted her views on how technology and tailored local responses could help create solutions that work better for specific communities. Her lived experience helped reinforce the study’s call for more responsive, locally adapted approaches to mental health and wellbeing across Brisbane’s south.

Suburbs Facing the Pressure

Across the Brisbane South region, certain suburbs are feeling the strain more than others. Inala and Acacia Ridge report high levels of chronic disease and difficulty accessing culturally appropriate services, particularly for First Nations and CALD (culturally and linguistically diverse) communities.

In Woolloongabba and Eight Mile Plains, increasing urban density and rapid population growth have created pressure on outpatient services, particularly for mental health. In Mt Gravatt, the ageing population is driving demand for more aged care and chronic disease support.

Meanwhile, Forest Lake and Oxley are seeing high numbers of families struggling to find support for children’s behavioural and developmental issues, while residents in Rocklea face affordability issues and language barriers when accessing basic healthcare.

Suburb	SA3 Region	Key Issues Identified	Health & Service Needs
Mt Gravatt	Mt Gravatt	Population growth, ageing demographics, and rising service demand	Aged care access, mental health services, chronic disease prevention
Woolloongabba	Woolloongabba	Urban density with increased pressure on outpatient and mental health services	Outpatient mental health support, culturally sensitive care
Corinda	Corinda	Access challenges due to geographic and transport limitations	Improved access to clinics and primary care, transport assistance
Eight Mile Plains	Eight Mile Plains	Rapid service demand growth and cultural diversity impacting care delivery	Inclusive service models, interpreter support, mental health access
Inala	Inala	High levels of chronic disease and barriers to healthcare for CALD and Indigenous populations	Chronic illness support, culturally appropriate care, health equity programs
Acacia Ridge	Rocklea–Acacia Ridge	High cultural diversity and language barriers, mental health stigma	Mental health support, interpreter availability, stigma reduction programs
Holland Park	Holland Park–Yeronga	Concentration of social housing and increasing demand for mental health support	Culturally safe care, transport access, chronic disease management
Oxley	Forest Lake–Oxley	Socioeconomic disadvantage and limited transport options to care services	Accessible health services, transport support, outreach clinics
Forest Lake	Forest Lake–Oxley	High number of social dwellings and demand for family and youth support services	Developmental and behavioural support for children, youth engagement
Rocklea	Rocklea–Acacia Ridge	CALD population facing service access issues due to language and affordability	CALD-focused services, mental health resources, affordable care access

A Smarter, Local approach

Professor Ian Hickie, co-author of the study, said the solution lies in understanding each community’s unique needs and building tailored responses.

“We can’t rely only on clinics and medication,” he said. “We need smarter investment in the things that help people thrive before they reach crisis point.”

Health economist Paul Crosland added that even small changes—like a 5 per cent drop in substance misuse—could lead to hundreds of millions in economic benefits.

Jordan van Rosmalen hopes the findings help guide governments to make real, community-based change.

“What we need is investment in solutions that are actually built around how people live—not just how the system works on paper,” she said through her contribution.

Published 28-July-2025