About North Lakes Guide: Who Are We?

Welcome to the North Lakes Guide – your trusted source for all things local in North Lakes and surrounding suburbs of 4509. We provide valuable information, news, stories, and connections to our vibrant community. As the premier local community magazine and website, we take pride in being the go-to resource for local people, their families, and businesses alike. At the North Lakes Guide, our mission is simple: to serve as a bridge between local businesses and the community they serve. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, we’re here to connect you to the local area by sharing local people’s stories, promoting local businesses, and keeping you informed and engaged with everything happening in our beautiful community.

Just Like You – We’re Local!

At the North Lakes Guide, we’re not just a publication; we’re your neighbours, your friends, and your fellow community members. Our team is are born and bred locals who have a deep-rooted understanding of what makes North Lakes and its surrounding areas special. From growing up in the local suburbs to experiencing the rich tapestry of local events, our writers and staff members embody the true spirit of North Lakes.

Who Do We Reach?

We reach people who live in Griffin, Kallangur, Mango Hill, North Lakes, Petrie and Rothwell. Our target audience is people who live in North Lakes and the surrounding suburbs and those looking to move here. Our readers are usually deeply invested in their community and eager to support local businesses. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer to the area, the North Lakes Guide is your essential companion for discovering the latest news and stories and everything our region has to offer.

Connected to the Community

At the North Lakes Guide, community isn’t just a buzzword – it’s at the core of everything we do. We actively participate in local Chamber of Commerce meetings, ensuring that we’re always abreast of the latest developments and opportunities in the area. Our commitment to community extends beyond words; we hire local writers, support local businesses, and strive to give back to the place we call home. When you engage with the North Lakes Guide, you’re not just accessing information – you’re becoming part of a larger, interconnected community.

Advertise With Us

Are you a local business looking to connect with your target audience? Look no further than The North Lakes Guide. Our platform offers a range of advertising opportunities designed to maximize your visibility and reach within the community. Whether you’re promoting a new product, showcasing your services, or simply looking to raise brand awareness, we have the tools and expertise to help you succeed.

In our print magazine, on our website, in our e-newsletter or via our social media channels, we ensure that your message reaches the right audience at the right time. Contact us today on (07) 3518 0828 to learn more about advertising opportunities with the North Lakes Guide. Let us send you our Media Kit and help you connect with your target audience and grow your business in the local area.

Join us in supporting local businesses and strengthening the fabric of our community – advertise with the North Lakes Guide today.

Our Team

Alyssa Mackay

Alyssa Mackay is a freelance writer and Honours graduate from Griffith University with a Bachelor of Communication, majoring in journalism, film and television. Her background includes being a theme park attraction presenter and more than 10 years working in local government in human resources and industrial relations. After leaving full-time work to focus on being a parent, Alyssa has continued in her writing career, winning the Thunderbolt Prize Emerging Authors Award and being shortlisted in various national short story competitions. Since 2021, she has been a writer for the Guides, where she enjoys delving into the unique stories of individuals within the community. View articles by Alyssa Mackay

Brooke Jacobson

Brooke Jacobson has an Arts degree in English and Communication Studies from the University of New England, in NSW. She spent 18 years working in newspapers in a range of areas including country NSW, the United Kingdom, and here in Brisbane. Brooke has been a reporter, sub-editor, and section editor, and she now runs a boutique freelance writing and editing business of her own.
She has lived in Brisbane for close to 16 years and is the proud mum of two boys. Brooke is passionate about her local area and believes Brisbane is the best place in Australia to live. View articles by Brooke Jacobson

Janine Mergler

Janine Mergler is a veteran Queensland teacher, graduating from QUT with a BEd majoring in Social Sciences. After many years in the classroom, Janine moved on to academia. She has proudly trained new generations of teachers in her role as a lecturer at Queensland University of Technology Faculty of Education. She has also worked in the Queensland Government as an education specialist, developing education resources and delivering community awareness programs to help families conserve water. Currently she is the BDM of The Guides magazines covering Caboolture, North Lakes, Redcliffe, Sandgate and Chermside. View articles by Janine Mergler

Joanne Crane

Joanne is the Editor of Families Magazine – Brisbane and a top notch researcher and writer for the Guides websites. Joanne loves speaking directly to people of all ages through the medium of writing, sharing tips and knowledge for families and kids to help everyone get the most out of life. Her focus is on the development of resilience, confidence and independence in children, and on helping families engage and create lasting memories. Self-esteem, self-respect and self-worth are vital skills that Joanne believes children need to learn early to help them grow as adults. View articles by Joanne Crane

Julia Lewis

Julia is a proud Moreton Bay local with a deep affection for its coastlines and vibrant community. Julia initially delved into the world of academia before pivoting her focus to her beloved food blog, “Recipes on Paper”. Now, as a passionate freelance journalist, she channels her creativity into capturing the essence of her community. Julia’s love for the area is evident in her vivid storytelling, which brings to life the rich history and vibrant community of Redcliffe. Julia thrives on connecting with people and weaving their stories into narratives. When not savouring local flavours or documenting her culinary adventures, Julia can be found exploring hidden gems in the Redcliffe Peninsula or penning tales that illuminate the spirit of her beloved coastal haven. View articles by Julia Lewis

Katy More

Katy More is a retired, award-winning executive specializing in Human Resources, Media, Mental Health, and Business. As an entrepreneur, wife, mother, and author, Katy expertly balances her diverse roles. She is a skilled interviewer, writer, consultant, and speaker who fosters growth, collaboration, and success. View articles by Katy More

Kelly Walker

Kelly Walker is a Brisbane based freelance writer with extensive writing experience across a diverse range of industries. With a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Kelly began her career in Canada working for 15 years in both agencies and head offices developing brand identities, marketing materials, corporate communication pieces, digital content, and packaging copy. Kelly has been successful at creating concise, user-friendly copy, while maintaining consistent and engaging messaging both online and off. Since transitioning to the freelance world, Kelly has written numerous feel-good community articles, SEO driven blog posts and website copy, and was entrusted as the ghost writer for a book project in 2023. In her free time she loves paddle boarding and walking her dogs along the waterfront in Sandgate. View articles by Kelly Walker

Marnie Birch

Marnie Birch is a graduate of Environmental Science and Allied Health, and has a lifetime of collaborative experience in multi-disciplinary health-based NGOs, as well as volunteering for community organizations. Hailing from a family of writers, Marnie has specialist knowledge in art and community advocacy. Her current focus is local history, community events and environmental awareness. In her rare moments of spare time, Marnie enjoys Art, Yoga and teaching creative writing to seniors. View articles by Marnie Birch

Natalie Turner

Natalie started her career in the media as a radio announcer for Triple M and B105 before crossing over to the not for profit space, including Cancer Council Queensland. She excels in marketing and communications roles and loves to find events and activities to share with our readers. As mum of two spirited young children, Nat’s number one passion is enjoying new experiences with her family. This takes her out and about exploring and reporting back for readers. Natalie has a Bachelor of Communication from Griffith University as well as a Graduate Certificate in Business from University of Queensland. View articles by Natalie Turner

Nick Allford

Nick was born and bred in the UK but now calls Moreton Bay home. For over 20 years he has created content for some of the world’s largest companies such as Disney, News Corp and Foxtel. His passion for storytelling means he can’t get enough of podcasts. So he spends most of his time scouting the airwaves to unearth the best podcasts that may have slipped under your radar. View articles by Nick Allford

Panayiota

Panayiota’s career began in the printing industry after completing her BS in Fine Arts (USA). For 16 years, she worked her way up from typesetting to design, then publishing with local newspapers and publishers plus, in-house marketing/communications and event management. She also moved back to Australia.
As a visual artist, she’s exhibited in both solo and group exhibitions around Australia and internationally. As an actor, freelance writer and emerging filmmaker, she’s produced two short films since 2021. As a writer, she’s been a theatre critic and enjoys writing community based stories for The Guides. View articles by Panayiota

Patricia Higgins

Patricia Higgins has extensive experience in writing, from being published across many media platforms right down to the day-to-day of meeting individual client demands. Since a young age, Patricia has been passionate about telling stories. It was an interest that would inevitably translate into her first (creatively-based) love for feature writing. Her innate curiosity and commitment to the craft enable her to uncover compelling tales that resonate with and successfully reach her target audience. Patricia has a degree in Journalism and Political Science and has worked in branding, marketing, and digital SEO content creation for many years. This writer and marketing professional, who lives on the beautiful Moreton Bay Peninsula, is wholly invested in sharing regional issues, events, and human interest stories. She values the spirit of collaboration and intends to use her writing to give back to the community. View articles by Patricia Higgins

Pattie Tancred

Pattie Tancred studied history at UQ and loved reading and writing about it ever since. Having lived in several countries where history is hard to avoid (Greece, Italy, Cyprus, Jordan), she appreciates the beauty and significance of the past and the importance of keeping it alive. View articles by Pattie Tancred

Piper Zuino

Piper is a freelance journalist with a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Journalism and Public Relations from the Queensland University of Technology. She works as a Marketing and Communication professional with a focus on educational brand development and fostering organisational voice. With a passion for writing, Piper enjoys the creativity that freelance journalism provides alongside corporate work.

She has written for the Guides since 2022 and is passionate about community journalism. Piper believes in the power of local storytelling to foster community and belonging, reflecting a keen interest in current events, human interest and community dynamics. She has a passion and flair for storytelling and is an avid reader. View articles by Piper Zuino

Rachael Tickner

Rachael Tickner is a journalist, originally born in the UK, but grew up in Australia and spent her university gap year in her hometown of England. Graduating from the University of the Sunshine Coast, Rachael is also a published author, Flutterby Baby Book, which supports women and their families with pregnancy loss.

Rachael has worked as a Journalist, PR Consultant, and Editor for over 20 years. She has founded blogs, and has worked with an array of clients across various sectors, such as: Healthcare, IT, Education, and Retail.

Rachael has featured in media publications, such as: Mammamia, My Weekly Preview, Polka Dot Bride, The Bride’s Tree, and The Daily Mail Australia. In May of 2024, Rachael was named a finalist for the Women Changing the World Awards in London. Hosted by the Duchess of York.

One of Rachael’s passions is supporting people on the spectrum, and she is a big advocate for mental health and women supporting women, to achieve their hopes and dreams in life. She is a proud mum to two beautiful boys and also is a volunteer with her son’s school. View articles by Rachael Tickner

Sally Eberhardtv

Connection, integrity and being of service to others are Sally Eberhardt’s highest values – and she lives these every day. As a writer, author, photographer, business coach and business owner with experience across a vast number of industries, Sally has particular expertise in communications and marketing. She is comfortable talking with people from all walks and life and relishes the diversity of the human experience.

Nature, travel, art and pink gin make Sally happy but nothing makes her happier than shining a light on others so the world can see how wonderful they are. View articles by Sally Eberhardtv

Sheree Hoddinett

Sheree Hoddinett has been writing for community papers and magazines across the City of Moreton Bay area since 2009. Being able to share someone else’s story is a big part of why she became a journalist in the first place. Her biggest passion lies in feature writing, but the diverse nature of the written word has also allowed her to spread her wings and share her writing skills through other avenues including blogging and even tackling some editing as well.
When not tapping away at her keyboard (it does happen!), she is usually spending time with her family out and about, building Lego or puzzles, checking out a good show or even a book. She is always on the lookout for her next story adventure. View articles by Sheree Hoddinett

Tara Tyrrell

Tara Tyrrell has over 25 years of writing and editing experience and excels at creating engaging content across various platforms. With a deep passion for community engagement, Tara is dedicated to highlighting the unique stories and events that define the local area. Her work focuses on celebrating local events and places of interest, supporting small businesses, and fostering a sense of community pride. She aims to inspire residents to connect with and contribute to their vibrant neighbourhood. View articles by Tara Tyrrell