Jan Bowman

Mar 1, 2024 | nofibs.com.au | Jan Bowman |Lesley Howard |Margo Kingston |David Marler

Bio More info COUNCIL ELECTIONS ARE typically overlooked by national news outlets, but Brisbane Council elections stand out, largely owing to the city’s distinctive political landscape. The Brisbane City Council, Australia’s largest, serves 1.25 million residents across 190 suburbs with a $4 billion annual budget. Currently, the Liberal National Party (LNP) controls 19 of 26 wards, while Labor holds five, with one each for the Greens and an independent.

Feb 26, 2024 | westender.com.au | Jan Bowman

Planners Chris Buckley and Vanessa Bennett, along with Joe Hurley of the Brisbane Housing Company, praised Phil for his significant impact and lasting influence on planning in Queensland. Chris Buckley called him an “icon of the profession,” while Vanessa Bennett dubbed him a “national treasure”. Landscape architect John Mongard honoured Phil with a poem.

Jan 16, 2024 | westender.com.au | Jan Bowman

With a mix of sadness and a sense of anticipation for what comes next, I have decided to step away from the role of editor at the Westender. It’s a role I have loved over the past four years since giving up paid work and taking over from publisher Kerrod Trott. It has been satisfying to see the Westender grow significantly in readership and community participation. I came to citizen journalism when volunteering for Margo Kingston’s No Fibs during the 2013 federal election.

Jan 1, 2024 | westender.com.au | Jan Bowman

We are experiencing a housing and cost of living crisis nationally. The Queensland Council of Community Services says, “Families are losing more than $10,000 a year trying to maintain a basic standard of living in Queensland.”Fuel, grocery prices and rent increases have affected families across Brisbane, and we are seeing more and more people living rough under our bridges and in our parks. It is estimated that over 20,000 people are homeless in the state, most living in Brisbane.

Dec 11, 2023 | westender.com.au | Jan Bowman

Emmanuel City Mission, located in a warehouse on Merivale Street in South Brisbane, has been providing sustenance and respite for its visitors since opening its doors in 2013. Each week, 1000 meals, 150 shower packs, and 100 loads of washing are provided, as well as supportive conversations that aim to bring healing and hope to visitors. On arriving at Emmanuel just before lunch last Wednesday, my overwhelming sense was of a peaceful sanctuary. People were getting ready for lunch.