Craigan Crescent in Aspley tells a fascinating story of Brisbane’s northern suburban evolution. Historical records show that in 1936, this pocket of Aspley was sparsely developed, with only Gympie Road and Robinson Road West serving as the main thoroughfares.
The street’s transformation is evident in its real estate journey, exemplified by the sale of 19 Craigan Crescent for $71,000 in April 1982. Today, the crescent stands as a testament to community stability, with 70% of its 24 properties being owner-occupied and residents staying an average of 19.5 years – a remarkable statistic that highlights the street’s enduring appeal. The high proportion of long-term residents, with 62% calling Craigan Crescent home for over a decade, reflects the strong sense of community that has developed in this peaceful pocket of Aspley.
Craigan Crescent, Aspley Residents
NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 24 % OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 70% AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 19 years and 6 months % OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 62%
Craigan Crescent, Aspley – As It Looked in 1936
Craigan Crescent, Aspley in 1936
SOME RECENT SALES ON CRAIGAN CRESCENT, ASPLEY
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
22 Craigan Cr, Aspley
$2,260,000
Oct 2024
27 Craigan Cr, Aspley
$1,126,000
Sep 2024
45 Craigan Cr, Aspley
$1,016,000
Jul 2024
SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON CRAIGAN CRESCENT FROM YESTERYEAR
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
19 Craigan Cr, Aspley
$71,000
Apr 1982
14 Craigan Cr, Aspley
$140,000
Jul 1988
50 Craigan Cr, Aspley
$147,500
Jun 1992
SUBURB PROFILE
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Aspley in 2024 was $988,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Aspley in 2020 was $583,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASPLEY SINCE 2020 : $405,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Aspley in 2024 was $1,190,000 The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Aspley in 2020 was $675,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASPLEY SINCE 2020 : $515,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Aspley in 2024 was $1,490,000 The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Aspley in 2020 was $752,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASPLEY SINCE 2020 : $738,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Aspley in 2024 was $778,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Aspley in 2020 was $426,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN ASPLEY SINCE 2020 : $352,000
Queensland entertainment mogul Harvey Lister has responded to recent calls to demolish the Brisbane Entertainment Centre (BEC) in Boondall, defending the venue’s place in the city’s cultural and entertainment landscape.
The BEC, built on swampland in 1986, has been a key part of Brisbane’s identity for nearly four decades. However, it has faced criticism due to logistical challenges over the years.
Photo credit: Brisbane Entertainment Centre/Facebook
Last week, Hutchinson Builders chairman Scott Hutchinson stirred controversy by offering to demolish the venue for free, arguing that a fresh approach to Brisbane’s entertainment infrastructure is needed.
Hutchinson has also shared his vision for improving Brisbane’s music infrastructure, including his proposal for Riverstage. Hutchinson argues that Riverstage, currently an outdoor venue, requires significant upgrades, including a roof over the band area to improve weather protection, along with better sound infrastructure to prevent noise spillover into nearby areas like Kangaroo Point.
Lister, whose Legends ASM events company manages several Brisbane venues, including the BEC, called the proposal to demolish the 13,000-capacity venue “reckless.” He emphasised the venue’s ongoing success, which has been bolstered by a recent report from Billboard magazine, ranking the BEC among the most successful mid-sized indoor venues in the world.
Photo credit: Brisbane Entertainment Centre/Facebook
Lister further pointed to the venue’s upcoming year, with over 750,000 people expected to attend in 2025.
The BEC earned global recognition in Billboard’s 2024 rankings, placing 15th worldwide for concert gross revenue among mid-sized venues and 9th for hosting 76 concerts that year. Venue general manager Patricia McNamara echoed Lister’s sentiments, describing the venue as “going from strength to strength.”
Despite criticisms, McNamara highlighted improvements to issues such as access and transport connectivity over the years, noting that patrons continue to enjoy the venue.
Upcoming events at the BEC include major performances by Billie Eilish, Drake, Kylie Minogue, and Chris Stapleton, alongside family-friendly shows like Disney on Ice and The Wiggles. The Brisbane Bullets have also seen a 31 percent increase in crowd numbers since returning to the venue this season. Other events this year include Frozen, monster trucks, indoor motocross, and Les Miserables.
Originally conceived as part of Brisbane’s bid for the 1996 Olympics, the BEC will also host handball competitions during the 2032 Olympic Games.
Lister’s stance reaffirms the BEC’s status as one of Queensland’s most successful and beloved entertainment venues, ensuring its place in the city’s future.
The first stage of the Beams Road Upgrade in Carseldine is now complete, transforming one of Brisbane’s busiest northside corridors with significant improvements to traffic flow and safety.
Stretching 1.3 kilometres between Lacey Road and Balcara Avenue, the upgraded road now features a safer, signalised intersection at Dorville Road, replacing the previous roundabout. The changes are designed to benefit the 20,000 motorists who use this route daily while also enhancing pedestrian and cyclist safety.
Key upgrades for the Beams Road Upgrade project include widening the road from two lanes to four lanes at critical sections, installing pedestrian-activated crossings, and constructing a new shared path along Beams Road for pedestrians and cyclists. The project also added 235 native trees and grasses along the corridor, improving the area’s aesthetics and sustainability.
In addition to these visible changes, the project involved 10 major utility upgrades to support future growth in Carseldine, Fitzgibbon, Taigum, and Zillmere. A “super weekend” of round-the-clock works and over 10 traffic switches ensured the project remained on schedule.
The improvements also address safety concerns along a stretch of road that recorded 75 crashes between 2015 and 2023. With 42 of these accidents occurring at intersections, the upgraded features are expected to significantly reduce incidents.
Looking ahead, the next stage of the Beams Road project, between Carselgrove Avenue and Handford Road, is set to begin this year. Planned upgrades include further road widening, additional shared paths, and a pedestrian underpass at Cabbage Tree Creek.
Visit BCC’s website for construction updates and future stage’s work notifications. You may also phone the project team on 1800 870 437 to find out more about this project.
Global music phenomenon Billie Eilish is set to return to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in February 2025 as part of her highly anticipated “Hit Me Hard And Soft” world tour, marking her second major visit to the city after her acclaimed 2022 performances.
Eilish’s 2025 tour promises to build on the magic of 2022 while adding new dimensions. Set to perform four shows at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre (18, 19, 21, and 22 February), Eilish will debut songs from “Hit Me Hard And Soft” alongside her iconic hits.
A Focus on Sustainability
Eilish’s commitment to sustainability will be a cornerstone of the tour, with several initiatives designed to reduce its environmental impact. The partnership with environmental nonprofit REVERB will see the introduction of “Eco-Villages” at the venue. These hubs will allow fans to participate in climate-focused activities and learn more about sustainability efforts.
The tour aims to minimise single-use plastics, promote plant-based food options, and encourage the use of public transport to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Special “Changemaker Tickets” will be available, with a portion of proceeds supporting OzHarvest and other charities addressing food insecurity and the climate crisis.
Fans can expect a 26-song setlist featuring new tracks like “CHIHIRO” and “THE DINER,” as well as collaborations such as “Guess” with Charli XCX and “Lovely” with Khalid. With all Australian shows confirmed as all-ages events, this is a concert experience Brisbane won’t want to miss.
Billie Eilish Pirate Baird O’Connell has emerged as one of the defining artists of her generation. Born in Los Angeles in 2001, Eilish first gained global recognition at 15 with her breakout single “Ocean Eyes.” Known for her ethereal vocals, introspective lyrics, and bold aesthetic choices, she has continuously redefined pop music.
Her debut album, “When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?,” skyrocketed her to superstardom in 2019, sweeping the Grammys and solidifying her status as a musical innovator. She followed up with “Happier Than Ever” in 2021, exploring themes of fame and self-identity with a more mature sound. Now, with her third album, “Hit Me Hard And Soft” out since May 2024, Eilish continues to push boundaries, blending her signature style with new sonic landscapes.
Beyond her music, Eilish is an outspoken advocate for sustainability, mental health, and inclusivity, connecting deeply with fans worldwide. Her ability to remain authentic while evolving artistically has earned her a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim.
A Look Back at 2022: Brisbane’s Electrifying Night with Billie
Billie Eilish’s 2022 Happier Than Ever tour stop at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre was nothing short of magical. The September concert drew 13,500 fans into an intimate yet exhilarating experience. Eilish opted for a minimalist stage setup, allowing her music and charisma to take centre stage.
Opening with “Bury a Friend,” Eilish transitioned seamlessly into hits like “bad guy,” “Happier Than Ever,” and fan favourites such as “Ocean Eyes” and “Lovely.” The stripped-back moments, including an acoustic duet with her brother and collaborator Finneas, showcased her raw vocal power.
Fans were awestruck by Eilish’s energy, charm, and relatability. Her heartfelt message about kindness and inclusivity resonated deeply, creating a sense of community. The night ended with confetti and cheers, leaving a lasting impression on Brisbane’s music scene.
The Bullets vs Taipans showdown at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Friday night dealt a major blow to Brisbane’s playoff aspirations, as bottom-barrel Cairns delivered a commanding 111-80 victory.
Facing their third game in six days, the depleted Bullets struggled against a red-hot Taipans offence that sank 16 three-pointers at an impressive 59 percent shooting clip. Missing key players Tyrell Harrison, Deng Adel, and Rocco Zikarsky, Brisbane showed resilience on the offensive glass with 20 offensive rebounds, but their poor shooting—just 36 percent from the field—proved costly.
Early Momentum Shift In Bullets vs Taipans
From the outset, Cairns seized control, racing to an early 14-5 lead. Brisbane mounted a brief comeback led by Casey Prather, who overcame a first-quarter scare when he appeared to injure his right knee. Prather returned to action and delivered an outstanding performance, leading the team with 22 points and 10 rebounds.
Josh Bannan provided valuable support with a double-double of 16 points and 12 rebounds, while Keandre Cook added 13 points in extended minutes. Despite these efforts, the Bullets couldn’t keep pace with Cairns’ efficient offence.
Cairns’ Sharp-Shooting Showcase
Cairns guard Rob Edwards stole the show, pouring in 35 points, including seven three-pointers, in a shooting clinic. Taran Armstrong added 19 points, while Tanner Groves contributed 17 points, rounding out a dominant offensive display by the visitors.
“I’ve felt a couple of times in these last few games it’s physically gotten that hard,” said Bullets head coach Justin Schueller. “That’s the challenge I’ve got right now: how do we turn this around quickly?”
Brisbane’s grueling schedule continues with a crucial away clash against the Illawarra Hawks on Monday night in Wollongong. As the playoff race tightens, the Bullets will need to address their defensive struggles, having conceded significant margins in their last three defeats.
The loss marks Brisbane’s third straight defeat in six days, underscoring the importance of recovery and adjustments as they navigate a challenging end to the season.
Published 19-January-2025
Match preview published 16-January-2025
Bullets vs Taipans: Brisbane Aim to Keep Finals Dream Alive
Brisbane Bullets face a must-win encounter against the Cairns Taipans at Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Friday, 17 January as their NBL finals aspirations hang by a thread. Bullets vs Taipans tip off 6:30 p.m. at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
The Bullets find themselves in a precarious position following a crushing 112–85 defeat to the Perth Wildcats, sitting eighth on the ladder with a 10-13 record. With six games left in the regular season and only two at home, the Bullets have no room for error. The upcoming clash against the bottom-placed Taipans represents a golden opportunity to stay within reach of the top six.
Next Man Up
Despite a recent resurgence that saw them win six of eight games, the Bullets have hit a challenging stretch, dropping five of their last six encounters. Injuries have sidelined key players, including Rocco Zikarsky, Emmett Naar, Deng Adel, and Tyrell Harrison, further complicating their campaign.
In spite of recent setbacks, the dynamic duo of Casey Prather and Josh Bannan has emerged as a formidable combination. Bannan’s resilience was on full display against Perth, contributing a double-double despite knee concerns. Prather’s explosive 32-point performance showcases the team’s scoring capability even with a depleted roster.
Bullets vs Taipans
The Bullets’ small-ball strategy, anchored by Prather and Bannan, showed early promise against the Wildcats and could serve as a tactical blueprint for the Taipans clash. Their ability to build early leads, as demonstrated in the Perth game, offers a foundation to build upon.
With the finals cut-off line sitting two wins away, every game becomes a virtual elimination match. The home court advantage against Cairns provides Brisbane with a prime opportunity to reignite their campaign and build momentum for the season’s final stretch.
Motorists in Deagon, Zillmere, and Bracken Ridge are finding some relief at the bowser, with these suburbs ranking among the cheapest in Brisbane for unleaded fuel in 2024, as prices across the city hit an average of 194.5 cents per litre, the most expensive in Australia.
In 2024, Brisbane drivers paid the highest-ever recorded prices for regular unleaded fuel, surpassing the 2023 record by 1.4 cents per litre, according to the RACQ Annual Fuel Price Report.
Brisbane retained its position as the nation’s most expensive capital city for fuel, with the average price exceeding those in Perth by 13 cents per litre. RACQ highlighted that retail margins continued to grow, hitting an average of 21.4 cents per litre, which is 4 cents higher than the previous year and 7 cents higher than in 2022.
Community Price Disparities
While Brisbane’s average fuel price set records, significant variations were seen between suburbs. Deagon, Zillmere, and Bracken Ridge emerged as some of the most affordable places to fill up, with prices averaging between 178.5 and 184 cents per litre.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Comparatively, nearby suburbs such as Salisbury and Toowong were among the priciest, with prices exceeding 203 cents per litre.
Moorooka also stood out as one of the cheapest suburbs, with an average price of 184.1 cents per litre. In contrast, Salisbury, only a short distance away, averaged 203.3 cents per litre, a stark 19-cent difference.
RACQ emphasised the importance of using fuel comparison apps to locate cheaper service stations, noting that travelling to the next suburb can make a significant difference in savings.
In response to record-high prices, the state is exploring various models to regulate fuel prices, including implementing a daily cap on price hikes. The RACQ has repeatedly called for a 5-cent daily limit on price increases, similar to Perth’s “Fuel Watch” system, where service stations lock in prices for 24 hours. Officials have suggested that increasing market competition and reviewing planning systems for new service stations could also help alleviate rising costs.
Dr Ian Jeffreys, RACQ economist, described the market as “failing,” citing the consistent rise in retail margins and dramatic price hikes. He stressed that intervention is needed to curb price volatility and provide relief to Queenslanders.
The RACQ remains optimistic about a slight decline in fuel prices this year due to expected drops in global oil prices. However, the motoring body continues to advocate for robust measures to stabilise prices and protect motorists from unpredictable cost spikes.
The Brisbane Bullets’ finals hopes dimmed after a 112-85 loss to the Perth Wildcats at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Wednesday night. Despite a strong start in the Bullets vs Wildcats match, Bryce Cotton’s 36-point masterclass, particularly during a dominant second-quarter surge, proved too much for the injury-hit Bullets to handle.
The undermanned Bullets, missing key players Rocco Zikarsky, Emmett Naar, Deng Adel, and Tyrell Harrison, opened the game with remarkable intensity. Josh Bannan and Casey Prather led the charge, combining for Brisbane’s first 18 points. Bannan, who overcame a knee concern from Saturday’s game, impressed with 20 points and 11 rebounds, showing no signs of discomfort.
However, the game’s complexion shifted dramatically in the second quarter. The Wildcats unleashed a shooting clinic, sinking their first eight three-point attempts. Their blistering 38-15 run in the period built a 23-point halftime lead, leaving the Bullets reeling.
Brisbane fought back admirably in the second half, trimming the deficit to 11 points at one stage. However, a missed opportunity on a three-on-one fast break stalled their momentum. Cotton responded with a signature floater, steadying the Wildcats and extinguishing Brisbane’s hopes of a comeback.
Postseason picture
The loss sees Brisbane (10-13) slip to seventh place on percentage, now two wins outside the finals positions with six games remaining in the regular season. The pressure mounts with only two home games left, including a crucial clash against the Cairns Taipans on 17 January.
For Perth (14-9), the victory keeps them within striking distance of second-placed Melbourne United (15-9), as they push for home-court advantage in the finals. Alongside Cotton’s brilliance, Keanu Pinder (19 points, 6 rebounds) and Dylan Windler (16 points, 6 rebounds) made valuable contributions, showcasing Perth’s depth.
Despite the setback, Prather’s stellar performance (32 points, 11 rebounds) and Bannan’s gutsy display provide some encouragement for Bullets fans. With their finals aspirations hanging by a thread, Brisbane’s resilience will be tested in the defining moments of the season.
Published 15-January-2025
Match preview published 12-January-2025
Bullets vs Wildcats: Injury-Hit Brisbane Aim to Tame Perth
Still reeling from a gut-wrenching loss and a growing injury list, the Brisbane Bullets are desperate for a win against the Perth Wildcats at home on 15 January, Wednesday. Bullets vs Wildcats tip off 6:30 p.m. at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
The Bullets showed incredible resilience in Traralgon, battling through a mounting injury toll before ultimately falling to the Phoenix 105-86. Despite the final score, Brisbane proved they can go toe-to-toe with the best, even when facing adversity.
The Bullets entered the game already missing center Tyrell Harrison. Then, in a cruel twist of fate, they lost Deng Adel and Emmett Naar to injuries in the first half. Despite this, Brisbane, led by a dominant Josh Bannan (23 points, 9 rebounds) and the ever-reliable Casey Prather (21 points, 11 rebounds), held a lead for much of the game. However, disaster struck again when Bannan slipped on the court and injured his knee in the fourth quarter. With a depleted roster, the Bullets couldn’t withstand the Phoenix’s final surge.
Bullets vs Wildcats
Now, the Bullets face a crucial matchup against the Perth Wildcats. Both teams are vying for playoff positioning, making this a must-win game for Brisbane. The Wildcats, currently sitting above the Bullets on the ladder, present a formidable challenge. But if Brisbane can replicate the grit and determination they displayed against the Phoenix, they have a real chance of securing a vital victory.
Postseason hopes hang in the balance
The Bullets’ postseason hopes are hanging in the balance. With seven games remaining in the regular season, they sit two wins behind the fifth-placed South East Melbourne Phoenix and sixth-placed Tasmania JackJumpers. However, their destiny is now largely out of their own hands, as they don’t have any remaining games against their direct competition for the play-in spots.
The upcoming schedule presents a mixed bag for the Bullets. They face a challenging stretch with three games in six days, starting with this clash against the Wildcats and culminating in an away game against the league-leading Illawarra Hawks. However, they also have two games against bottom-of-the-league Cairns Taipans, offering opportunities to gain crucial wins.
With a difficult road ahead and a depleted roster, the Bullets will need to dig deep. But if their performance against the Phoenix is anything to go by, they won’t go down without a fight. The home crowd at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre will be crucial in providing the support they need to overcome the odds and keep their playoff dreams alive.
Kylie Minogue’s fans in Brisbane are in for a treat in February 2025 as the pop icon brings her highly anticipated Tension Tour to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall. This exciting return marks Kylie’s biggest tour since 2011, showcasing the hits from her latest album, Tension, and more.
Minogue expressed her excitement for the tour, stating, “I am beyond excited to announce the Tension Tour 2025. I can’t wait to share beautiful and wild moments with fans all over the world, celebrating the Tension era and more! It’s been an exhilarating ride so far and now, get ready for your close-up because I will be calling Lights, Camera, Action … and there will be a whole lot of Padaming!”
The tour will take place on Wednesday 26th and Thursday 27th February 2025 and is set to be a spectacular performance for her Brisbane fans, who have previously witnessed her electrifying shows in the city.
Minogue first performed in Brisbane in 1990, during her Enjoy Yourself Tour. She returned to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre just a year later, in 1991, as part of her follow-up Let’s Get to It Tour. This tour continued to build on her growing popularity, further solidifying her place in the music industry.
In 1997, Kylie’s visit to Brisbane took on a slightly different tone as part of her promotional tour for the Pacific region. By this time, she had become an even bigger global star. This tour was a key moment in her career, as it marked her transition into more mature, dance-oriented pop music, including songs from her album Impossible Princess.
Kylie Minogue: A Legendary Artist
Photo credit: Kylie Minogue/Instagram
Kylie Minogue, often referred to as the “Princess of Pop,” has enjoyed a remarkable career that spans over three decades. Born and raised in Melbourne, Minogue first rose to fame with her role as Charlene Robinson in the iconic Australian soap opera Neighbours in the late 1980s. However, it was her music career that truly solidified her place as a global superstar.
Since the late 1980s, Kylie has released over sixteen studio albums, consistently evolving her sound from bubblegum pop to dance-infused anthems, making her one of the highest-selling Australian female artists of all time. With more than 80 million records sold worldwide, her influence on pop music is undeniable.
Minogue’s most recent work includes the highly praised Tension album, released in 2024. The lead single “Padam Padam” became a massive hit, securing Kylie’s place in history as the only female artist to have a top ten entry in the UK across four decades. Her seventeenth studio album, Tension II, followed shortly after, featuring collaborations with top artists such as Diplo, Sia, and Tove Lo. The album reached number one in both Australia and the UK, reaffirming her continued relevance in the music industry.
Over her career, Kylie has garnered numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards, four Brit Awards, and an impressive eighteen ARIA Music Awards. In 2024, Time magazine named her one of the most influential people in the world, cementing her legacy as a true music icon.
Kylie Minogue’s contribution to the world of entertainment is unmatched, and her upcoming Tension Tour is sure to be a celebration of her incredible journey.
Canadian rock legend Bryan Adams will bring his “So Happy It Hurts” tour to Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall on 13 February 2025, with special guest James Arthur.
This marks Adams’ return to Australia after his last tour in 2017. He played to sold-out crowds nationwide during that tour, including a memorable performance at Brisbane’s Riverstage. Fans are eagerly anticipating another high-energy show filled with his classic hits.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Stardom
Born in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, in 1959, Bryan Adams’ musical journey began in his teens. He taught himself to play guitar and started performing in local bands. His early career saw him working various jobs to support his passion, including stints as a dishwasher and a record store clerk. By the late 1970s, he had signed his first record deal and released his debut album in 1980.
Adams’ breakthrough came with his 1983 album “Cuts Like a Knife,” which featured the hit singles “Straight from the Heart” and “This Time.” He achieved international superstardom with his 1984 album “Reckless,” which spawned iconic tracks like “Run to You,” “Summer of ’69,” and “Heaven.” Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, Adams continued to dominate the charts with albums like “Into the Fire” and “Waking Up the Neighbours,” solidifying his status as a global rock icon. His music has been featured in numerous films, including the power ballad “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You” from the 1991 film “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves,” which became a worldwide sensation.
Bryan Adams isn’t just a rock star; he’s a music icon. His career spans over four decades and is marked by consistent success, critical acclaim, and a dedicated global fanbase. He’s sold millions of albums worldwide, with his songs becoming anthems for generations. Adams has received numerous awards, including a Grammy Award and multiple Juno Awards. He’s even been nominated for three Academy Awards for his songwriting contributions to film soundtracks.
Adams, known for his powerful vocals and feel-good rock anthems, promises a night packed with fan favourites. Concert-goers can expect to hear classics like “Summer of ’69”, “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You”, “Heaven”, and “Run to You”, songs that have topped charts globally and solidified his place as one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Joining Adams on tour is UK singer-songwriter James Arthur. Arthur rose to fame after winning the UK’s X Factor in 2012 and has since garnered a massive following with hits like “Say You Won’t Let Go” and “Impossible.” This tour marks Arthur’s first time performing in Australia and New Zealand.
Casey Prather put on a clinic Wednesday night, leading the shorthanded Brisbane to a crucial 83-74 victory in the Bullets vs Breakers matchup at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
Bullets vs Breakers, a matchup between injury-riddled sides
With both teams missing key players—the Bullets without Josh Adams, Keandre Cook, and Rocco Zikarsky, and the Breakers missing Parker Jackson-Cartwright and Mojave King—the game was set to be a battle of attrition, and Prather ensured the Bullets emerged victorious.
The absence of offensive firepower was evident early, as both sides struggled to find their rhythm. The Breakers, relying heavily on free throws, managed to edge out a two-point lead at the first break, despite the Bullets’ greater number of field goal attempts.
Prather ignited in the second quarter, exploding for 11 points and relentlessly attacking the basket. He capitalised on the Breakers’ foul trouble, which saw their big men, including Tacko Fall, spending significant time on the bench. This allowed Brisbane to penetrate and dominate in the paint. Despite a late surge from young Karim Lopez, the Breakers headed into halftime trailing by three.
Bullets maintain control in the second half
The Breakers’ foul woes continued to haunt them in the second half. Brisbane, led by Prather and a strong defensive effort, maintained their advantage. They headed into the final quarter with an eight-point lead.
Despite a late push from the Breakers in the final quarter, including back-to-back threes from Matt Mooney, the Bullets held on for the win.
Prather finished with an impressive 31 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, and two blocks. His all-around performance, despite a tough shooting night from beyond the arc, proved the difference. Tyrell Harrison also played a crucial role, battling hard against Fall and contributing 13 points and 9 rebounds.
This win sees the Bullets improve to 10-11, keeping them firmly in the hunt for a top-six spot. They now face a crucial clash against the South East Melbourne Phoenix on Saturday, with both teams vying for a playoff berth. With Prather in this kind of form, and a hard-fought win under their belts, the Bullets will be confident of continuing their push towards the postseason.
Published 09-January-2025
Match preview published on 06-January-2025.
Bullets vs Breakers: Finals Aspirations Hinge on Pivotal NZ Breakers Clash
The Brisbane Bullets return home Wednesday, 8 January for a high-stakes showdown against the New Zealand Breakers, with both teams battling to keep their finals hopes alive. Bullets vs Breakers tip off 6:30 p.m. at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
Despite dropping their first game of 2025 to the Sydney Kings, the Bullets displayed encouraging signs in front of 7,028 loyal fans at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre. The 91–86 loss highlighted Brisbane’s defensive improvements and rebounding dominance, securing a remarkable 29 offensive boards.
Casey Prather, a consistent standout this season, recorded another double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds, while newcomer Josh Adams made an immediate impact, scoring 11 points and sinking three triples in his debut.
Bullets vs Breakers
Wednesday’s clash against the Breakers carries added significance, as both teams sit just outside the finals cut-off line. The seventh-placed Bullets (9–11) hold a slim edge over the ninth-placed Breakers (8–12), making this encounter crucial for playoff positioning. A victory would not only create breathing space from their rivals but could also propel Brisbane into sixth place, depending on other results.
The timely return of Deng Adel and the addition of Adams bolster head coach Justin Schueller’s rotation. Adel, back from a two-month absence, displayed a promising touch in limited minutes, connecting on two three-pointers.
Challenging road ahead
The Breakers game begins a gruelling final stretch for the Bullets, who face eight games in 30 days. Here’s how their schedule looks after the Breakers clash (team records as of 6 January):
11 January: @ S.E. Melbourne (6th, 11–10), Gippsland Indoor Stadium 15 January: Perth (4th, 12–9), Brisbane Entertainment Centre 17 January: Cairns (10th, 4–16), Brisbane Entertainment Centre 20 January: @ Illawarra (1st, 13–7), Wollongong Entertainment Centre 24 January: @ New Zealand (9th, 8–12), Wolfbrook Arena 26 January: Melbourne (2nd, 13–9), Brisbane Entertainment Centre 31 January: @ Adelaide (7th, 9–11), Adelaide Entertainment Centre 6 February: @ Cairns (10th, 4–16), Cairns Convention Centre
With only four of their remaining nine games at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, the Bullets must make the most of their home-court advantage.
Despite a three-game losing streak, the Bullets’ December form suggests they are trending in the right direction. Their defensive intensity and rebounding prowess must now translate into more efficient shooting if they are to seize this critical moment in their finals push.
