A Season of Giving
The generosity of our community continues to shine brightly!
Thank you to everyone who joined us at our Christmas Market. It was wonderful to see so many people come together, shopping for unique gifts, enjoying delicious treats,
Here are just a few highlights:
n Our wonderful volunteers helping make the day a success.
n Steph from Healthy Connections filling the air with Christmas carols.
n Councillor Danita Parry shopping at our Club Respite clients, Mary and Faye's handmade card stall.
n CEO Andrew Watson and Head of IT, Andrew C, serving up tasty snags!
n Vishakha from KV Design generously donating all of her market profits back to our Burnie Brae community.
We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our friends at Kedron State School, who collected food donations at their Christmas Market to support our Project Pantry program.
The generosity doesn't stop there! We’ve been overwhelmed by the generous donations already pouring in for RizeUp, an incredible initiative that supports children impacted by domestic violence.
We are collecting unwrapped gifts for children up to 17 years old until Friday, 13 December. Please drop off your donation under the Christmas tree at Reception, located at 60 Kuran St, Chermside. Your generosity will help bring joy to those in need this holiday season.
We are so thankful for the support of our Burnie Brae community. Together, we are making this holiday season brighter for those in need and we look forward to continuing this spirit of giving throughout the year.
Life Membership Award
Congratulations to our former Board Chairman, Neville Mew, on being awarded Life Membership at our recent Annual General Meeting.
After 12 years of service, including eight as Chairman, Neville stepped down in August 2023. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping Burnie Brae’s direction, and his dedication inspired all of us to aim higher and strive for excellence. His vision and commitment have truly left a lasting mark on our organisation.
Neville’s legacy will continue to guide us, and we’re confident that the values he instilled in Burnie Brae will remain at the heart of everything we do. He’s also continuing to support us by sharing his knowledge of Burnie Brae’s history at new members meetings, helping to pass on his wisdom and inspire the next generation of Burnie Brae members.
CEO Message
To our clients & members
As 2024 comes to a close, I want to wish you all a warm holiday season. This time of year allows us to celebrate, reflect and look ahead to new opportunities. At Burnie Brae, we’re especially grateful for the community that continues to inspire and uplift us every day.
This year, we’ve expanded our Home Care Packages and Allied Health services, helping more of you stay supported at home. We’ve also implemented new systems to offer more comprehensive care for those in need. Your positive feedback means the world to us and we’re grateful for your trust.
I also want to acknowledge the dedication of our incredible staff and volunteers who make everything possible. Their hard work and compassion drive everything we do.
As you celebrate with loved ones, I hope you find time to relax and enjoy the season. Wishing you a joyful Christmas and a peaceful New Year—here’s to a bright 2025 ahead!
Andrew Watson Chief Executive Officer
Centre Carpark Updates
The Burnie Brae Centre carpark can now be accessed via Kuran Street only, with one entry and two exits.
The driveway on Kingsmill Street will now be an EXIT ONLY, as indicated on the diagram.
The area outside Healthy Connections and the Project Pantry shed has been upgraded to a shared zone for both pedestrians and cars.
Please remember, the speed limit in the carpark is 5 km/h.
Top 10 Destinations in 2024
Here are the most-loved spots our travelers visited this year:
1. Istanbul, Turkey
2. London, UK
3. Paris, France
4. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
5. Antalya, Turkey
6. Hong Kong, China
7. Bangkok, Thailand
8. New York, United States
9. Cancun, Mexico
10. Tokyo, Japan
Looking ahead to 2025, the top bucket-list destinations are Canada/Alaska and Antarctica! And for Canada, the Rocky Mountaineer is the must-do experience.
Burnie Brae MemberPlus Members
Enjoy $50 off your booking and 10% off travel insurance! Join or upgrade today at burniebrae.org.au/membership. Your Local, Helloworld Associate!
Ready to turn your travel dreams into unforgettable adventures?
We offer everything you need—flights, hotels, travel insurance, car hire and insider tips— whether you're off on a solo journey, family getaway or luxury cruise.
Our Travel Experts
With over 60 years of combined travel experience, Paul and Sonja are avid travelers with extensive global knowledge. Their expert advice and insider tips will help make your trip smooth, memorable and stress-free.
As we say, "if you don’t travel first class, your loved ones will!"
For exclusive travel deals, check out our website at travelconnections.org.au or drop by the Burnie Brae Centre, 60 Kuran St, Chermside. Let’s plan your next getaway and make it one to remember!
What Our Travelers Say:
"We are happy to report that everything went smoothly as planned and we were able to enjoy an exciting and carefree holiday!" - Peter
"First time at Travel Connections...Paul couldn't have been more helpful. A peaceful atmosphere and first-class service!" - Jan
Service Holiday Closures
Reception & Member Centre
2 January 2025 Café Connect Travel Connections
Community Nursery 1pm, Wednesday 18 December
Healthy Connections | Allied Health & Exercise Chermside location & in-home services (North Brisbane & Moreton Bay)
Member Exercise Sessions
One-on-ones: Physiotherapy, Exercise Physiology & Massage
Care Services
Essential home care services available on Public Holidays, include medication support, personal care and meal prep.
Centre Activities Holiday Closures
Club Respite
Centre Activities Holiday Closures
13 January 2025
30 December 2024 Transport Taxis will be used for essential transport on Public Holidays.
Member Activities Holiday Closures
27 December 2024 Book your trips during our office closures by 12:30pm 24 December. Corporate Office & Facilities Friday 27 December 2024
To confirm or reschedule any services during our closure, please contact us at 3624 2121 by 12:30pm on Tuesday, 24 December.
Member Activities Holiday Closures
KNITTING FOR A CAUSE
Our talented knitters and crafters have been busy with some truly heartwarming projects.
Jacqui mastered casting on for her new project. Leonie and Karen crafted beautiful coffee cup sleeves for Christmas. After a 10-year break, May returned to knitting and started off with a pair of cabled socks.
Ann and Elle worked together on a granny square blanket for Elle's grandchild. Leonie has been busy knitting a gorgeous scarf and a tea towel topper.
Di generously donated baby cardigans, complete with buttons she sewed on, to raise funds for the Australian Foundation for Children with AIDS. She also made teddy bears to comfort kids in ambulances.
DIWALI AT DREAMWORLD
Our Burnie Brae Bollywood Dance Group joined forces with 80 talented dancers from Let's Bollywood to light up the stage at Dreamworld, performing in front of over 4,000 people.
This experience truly shows that when we step outside our comfort zones, we can break down barriers, build connections across cultures, and create lasting memories! Thank you to our amazing instructor, Swina, for bringing us into these unforgettable performances.
STAY TUNED UPCOMING EVENTS
Keep an eye on our Facebook, subscribe to Member News emails or drop by Burnie Brae Reception.
Scan to subscribe to our emails
Burnie Brae Gift Guide
This holiday season, why not give a gift that supports a great cause AND brings a smile to your loved ones? Check out these fantastic finds at Burnie Brae:
Lions Cakes – Delicious Christmas cakes and puddings are now available at Reception. Every purchase supports a worthy cause!
Magnesium Oils & Relaxation Tools – Find your zen with soothing oils and other relaxation essentials available at Healthy Connections.
Nursery Plants – Green gifts that grow! Bring a bit of nature into someone's home with our beautiful nursery plants. Find our community nursery at the Burnie Brae Centre. We are open Mondays 9:30am - 1pm, Tuesdays and Wednesdays 9am - 1pm
Gift Store – From hair products to umbrellas, kitchen tools and handmade Christmas cards created by our talented Burnie Brae member, you'll find the perfect stocking stuffer at our gift store in Reception.
Gift Cards – Give the gift of choice! Our gift cards, available for purchase at Reception, can be used throughout the Centre, including at the café, for activities and more!
We invite you to play a key role in shaping our community at Burnie Brae by joining our Consumer Advisory Committee for 2025! The committee offers a platform for our valued service recipients to have a voice, and it delivered excellent outcomes for clients and members in 2024.
We welcome clients, representatives and members who benefit from our services to express their interest. Your participation will make a meaningful impact by providing valuable feedback to our governing body, ensuring that the consumer perspective is considered in the development of our services.
To express your interest or learn more, please contact our Head of Care Services, Aynsley Johnson, at aynsleyj@burniebrae.org.au or pick up an Information Pack at Burnie Brae Reception.
A New Mindset & Healthier Life
When Ian spotted Burnie Brae’s “Move for Mental Health” activity, he knew he had to give it a try.
After COVID disrupted his regular gym routine, Ian found himself struggling with his fitness. “I needed something to change my mindset and get me back into regular exercise,” he said.
The session, led by our Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapists from Healthy Connections, was a game-changer for Ian.
It wasn’t just your typical fitness class—it included a mix of balance exercises, yoga, Pilates and strength training using resistance bands.
“The exercises were easy to follow, but what really stood out was the mindfulness at the end. I never realised how important it is to relax and listen to your body,” Ian shared.
One thing Ian couldn’t help but notice, though, was the lack of male participants.
“There were only three of us men in a group of about 20 women. Guys, it’s just an hour out of your day, and it could be the start of a healthier and happier life for you. Don't let the women have all the fun!” he laughed.
Since the session, Ian has taken it a step further and started exercising at Healthy Connections.
“I’m so happy to be back on track with regular exercise,” he says, feeling stronger, more focused, and with a renewed sense of motivation.
Meet Lauren New Physiotherapist
Lauren brings a diverse range of expertise, with a special focus on orthopaedic rehabilitation. She’s passionate about helping patients recover from joint replacements and post-operative care, as well as treating lower limb injuries, including issues with the back, hips, knees and ankles.
In addition to her orthopaedic work, Lauren has experience in treating neurological conditions like Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s Disease. She’s also skilled in managing vestibular conditions, such as BPPV and is dedicated to community falls prevention, helping people stay safe and independent.
Lauren can support you from the comfort of your home and is available to assist those living in North Brisbane and Moreton Bay. If you'd like to book an appointment with Lauren or learn more about how she can help you, feel free to get in touch with us today!
Funding and rebates are available through Medicare, private health insurance, DVA cards (with referrals), NDIS, and aged care funding including Commonwealth Home Support Programme and Home Care Packages. Contact us or your provider for more details. We also welcome brokered clients and private payers.
Exercise: Your Secret Weapon Against Heart Disease
Did you know that around 1.3 million Australians over the age of 18 are living with heart, stroke, or vascular disease? That’s nearly 7% of the adult population, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics 2022 survey. But here's the good news—cardiovascular disease is one of the most preventable health issues out there.
And the secret weapon? Exercise!
The Australian Physical Activity Guidelines suggest that adults aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity, five days a week. This should include two days of resistance training.
Why? Because regular exercise isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling good and keeping your heart, blood vessels, and overall health in tip-top shape.
You don’t need to be running marathons or doing intense workouts to reap the benefits.
Walking, cycling, dancing, even housework and gardening all count as moderate physical activity! We’ve been conditioned to think of exercise as something that makes you sweat and leaves you breathless, but that’s just one way to move your body. The truth is, any form of movement is better than none at all.
The key is finding what you enjoy.
Exercise doesn’t have to feel like a chore—it should be something that becomes a natural part of your
Another happy client!
routine. Think about how you automatically brush your teeth every day. Now imagine if you could feel just as motivated to do some physical activity every day.
Consistency is key, and the more you move, the better you’ll feel—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
If you're unsure where to start or how to exercise safely, an Accredited Exercise Physiologist can help guide the way.
We’re here to provide tailored advice and ensure you’re getting the most out of every move, no matter your fitness level.
If you’re ready to start your fitness journey, pop by Healthy Connections or give us a call at 3624 2185. Take the first step today—it could be your heart’s best decision yet!
I can't thank Aaron, my physio, enough for the help he has given me after my total knee replacement which came with a couple of problems, but his expertise and persistence got everything working again.
— Pauline
Club Respite
Join us this December to enjoy Christmas party performances by Able2Rock, Nora, Liliana and Mike. Get creative with Christmas cookie decorating and crafts. Take a magical Christmas light bus trip, attend the Lord Mayor’s Christmas Concerts and indulge in a special high tea on Christmas Eve morning.
Enjoying the sunshine and breathtaking views of Brisbane City on our mystery drive to Mount Coot-tha!
Remembrance Day Service at Kedron Wavell. Hans and Faye laid a wreath on behalf of our community to honour those who served.
Melbourne Cup Day
We watched the race on the big screen, danced to Able to Rock, flaunted our fashions, won lucky door prizes and enjoyed a tasty gourmet lunch – what a day!
The local kindy kids visited us for our regular Intergenerational Playdate! We met in the cafe for baby chinos at the cafe, played games and enjoyed some gardening in the Burnie Brae Park.
Hop on our Shopper Bus
Need groceries, a gift or some retail therapy? Skip the parking and traffic stress!
How it works
1. We’ll pick you up from your home
2. Give you plenty of time to shop at your chosen shopping centre
3. Then drop you back home!
We are proud to accommodate a variety of mobility aids, including wheelchairs, walkers and handheld shopping trolleys.
Our drivers are trained to assist with boarding and ensure a comfortable and safe experience.
The shopper bus is specially equipped with a hoist, allowing for smooth and easy boarding and disembarking.
Service Areas
We cover North Brisbane, Brisbane City and surrounding areas. If you're outside of our catchment area, just give us a call and we’ll provide a quote for transport to your location.
What are the costs?
Private
$4.00 each way
Burnie Brae Members
$4.00 each way
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) clients
$4.00 each way
Home Care Package (HCP) clients
$2.50 each way
We also accept brokered clients.
Supported outings
Our Schedule
TUESDAYS
Westfield Chermside: 9am - 11:30am
Taigum Square: 10:30am - 1pm
WEDNESDAYS
Aspley Hypermarket: 10am - 12:30pm
THURSDAYS
Stafford City: 9:30am - 12pm Westfield Chermside: 11am - 1:30pm
Important Notices
If you need to cancel, please let our team know as soon as possible. To avoid a late fee, we ask that you book your trip by 11am the day before.
Cancellations made within 24 hours of your scheduled pickup may incur a cancellation fee.
Be ready at least one hour earlier than our pick up and drop off times.
We can't unpack groceries or assist inside your home (unless approved) and there's a four-bag limit. Contact our transport team if you exceed our limit.
Please confirm schedule time and price when booking. Information correct as at November 2024.
We offer specialised support for individuals with higher needs, ensuring an enjoyable day out with transport included. This month’s highlights include a CityCat cruise, shopping adventures, Lord Mayor’s Concerts, movies and a walking excursion to Lake Eden.
For more details, visit burniebrae.org.au/respite or call 3624 2121 (funding available).
Wrapping up 2024 with Burnie Brae
What a year it’s been! We’ve had so much fun introducing new activities like men’s and chair yoga, and our day trips around Brisbane with our Burnie Brae Members and Club Respite!
We’re also excited to welcome many new members, clients, and fresh faces to our team of staff and volunteers. Our dedicated team has been working hard to support clients in staying comfortably at home through our care and allied health services, even expanding into Moreton Bay!
And what a milestone March was! We celebrated 40 years of service with a month full of events and activities
that showcased our ongoing commitment to everyone who makes Burnie Brae what it is—clients, members, staff and the broader community.
It was a time to honour our rich history, celebrate the amazing relationships we’ve built over the years, and reflect on our continued dedication to supporting the people who make up this incredible community.
We can't wait to see you in the new year and continue making memories together!
