Two lifelong mates from Carseldine have struck gold after two decades of persistence, claiming a staggering $1.25 million prize. The pair’s unwavering commitment to their weekly ritual finally paid off, turning a ordinary Sunday morning into a life-changing event.
The windfall came as a complete surprise to the friends, despite their meticulous record-keeping. One of the winners recounted the moment of discovery: “I got an email on Sunday morning from The Lott about a win, but it didn’t specify how much we had won. I immediately started to think to myself, ‘Holy dooley! What is the prize amount?’.
“I rang up my friend straight away and I asked him to give me the ticket number so I could look up the results of our ticket.
“I looked it up straight away and I was in complete shock.“
The revelation led to an emotional phone call between the friends, with “a few colourful words” exchanged in their excitement. The winner admitted to a sleepless night following the news, his mind racing with the possibilities their newfound fortune brought.
True to Australian tradition, the pair celebrated their windfall in quintessential Aussie style. “My mate and his wife came over last night and we enjoyed a bottle of red to celebrate!” one winner shared. The evening was spent not only toasting their good fortune but also reminiscing about their long-standing tradition and discussing potential plans for their prize money.
The winning numbers for the draw were 42, 37, 4, 45, 10 and 38, with supplementary numbers 36 and 15. The Carseldine friends’ ticket was one of four division one entries, with two other winners in Queensland and one in Western Australia sharing in the prize pool.
Legendary British heavy metal band Iron Maiden is gearing up to electrify Australian fans with their highly anticipated “The Future Past Tour” at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Tuesday, 10 September 2024.
This marks the band’s first return to Australian shores since their 2016-17 “The Book of Souls Tour,” which saw them arrive in spectacular fashion aboard their custom Boeing 747, Ed Force One.
The upcoming Brisbane show follows a string of triumphant performances across Europe, Western Canada, and a recent headline-grabbing set at California’s PowerTrip Festival. Iron Maiden’s enduring appeal is evident in the tour’s success, having already played to over 750,000 fans in more than 30 sold-out European shows during the summer of 2023.
Photo credit: Iron Maiden/Facebook
“The Future Past Tour” promises a setlist that spans the band’s illustrious career, featuring tracks from their latest studio album “Senjutsu” alongside classics from their 1986 masterpiece “Somewhere In Time.” Fans can also expect a selection of other beloved hits from the band’s extensive catalogue.
Photo credit: Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Steve Harris, Iron Maiden’s founder and bassist, expressed his enthusiasm for the band’s return to Australia, acknowledging the patience of their loyal fanbase who have eagerly awaited their return.
Iron Maiden: Architects of Heavy Metal
Photo credit: Iron Maiden/Facebook
Formed in East London in 1975, Iron Maiden has become synonymous with the heavy metal genre, influencing countless musicians and amassing a dedicated global following. The current lineup, consisting of Steve Harris, Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, Bruce Dickinson, Nicko McBrain, and Janick Gers, continues to push boundaries and deliver high-energy performances that have become their trademark.
Critics have hailed the European leg of “The Future Past World Tour” as a resounding success, with the band reportedly in top form. The tour has not only broken attendance records but has also reaffirmed Iron Maiden’s status as one of metal’s most enduring and vital acts.
As the countdown to their Brisbane show begins, fans across Australia are eagerly anticipating the chance to witness Iron Maiden’s legendary live performance. With their combination of intricate musicianship, theatrical stage presence, and a setlist spanning decades of metal mastery, Iron Maiden’s upcoming concert promises to be an unforgettable night for metal enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
Visit Brisbane Entertainment Centre’s website to get your tickets.
Residents and motorists in Carseldine will soon experience significant changes as the Beams Road upgrade takes centre stage as part of an initiative to address problematic level crossings in South East Queensland, aimed at improving safety and easing congestion across the region’s transport network.
This project is one of 14 priority level crossings identified for improvement or removal under the new South East Queensland (SEQ) Level Crossing Program 2024.
Traffic Changes and Construction Details
From early August until late 2024, traffic conditions will change along Beams Road between Cowie Road and Dorville Road in Carseldine. The works will focus on upgrading the road pavement on the southern side of this stretch, with several key construction activities planned.
Key aspects of the construction include:
– Upgrading underground infrastructure and services – Kerb demolition and road profiling works – Installing new kerb and channel – Asphalting and line marking
Night works will be conducted for crucial sections, and updates will be provided as the project progresses. All works are subject to weather and site conditions, and notifications will be issued if dates change.
Impact on Local Residents
Local access will be intermittently affected for residents facing Beams Road and Tullamore Street. Traffic controllers will be on-site during the day to assist with property access, ensuring minimal disruption to daily routines.
A significant change for Tullamore Street residents is the permanent shift to left-in and left-out only access, as part of the project’s design. This alteration aims to improve traffic flow and safety in the area.
Photo Credit: BCC
SEQ Level Crossing Program 2024 Overview
The Beams Road upgrade is a cornerstone project within the SEQ Level Crossing Program 2024. This coordinated approach aims to find cost-effective solutions to some of South East Queensland’s most problematic level crossings, with a focus on reducing congestion and enhancing the performance, safety, and reliability of the transport network.
“The SEQ Level Crossing Program demonstrates our commitment to improving and removing priority level crossings across the South-East. The program is aimed at improving safety, traffic flows and public transport reliability at and around level crossings. It also allows us to prepare for increased rail services when Cross River Rail and Logan Gold Coast Faster Rail are finished.”
Bart Mellish, Transport and Main Roads
The program has garnered support from various stakeholders, including the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) and the Queensland Trucking Association, highlighting its significance for multiple sectors of the community.
“This is a terrific announcement which will make communities safer. We want to make level crossings history. Removing level crossings is transformational for communities. It means trains don’t have to blast their horn every time they approach the crossing. It makes for safer streets. It makes the jobs of our members safer. Everyone wins,” RTBU Queensland Branch Secretary Peter Allen commented
With a commitment of $10 million for planning studies on priority level crossings and a focus on creating better-connected communities, the program aims to deliver long-term benefits for residents and commuters alike.
Queensland Rail customers at Carseldine train station will soon be able to collect their parcels during their daily commute, thanks to a new partnership with Australia Post.
This innovative service is part of a broader 12-month trial bringing Australia Post’s free 24/7 Parcel Lockers to select train stations across South East Queensland.
The trial will see Parcel Lockers installed at five train stations in the region, with the installation at the Carseldine train station scheduled for the coming months. Eagle Junction station has already launched its operational locker, paving the way for the expansion of this convenient service.
Photo credit: auspost.com.au
This new amenity offers a practical solution for time-pressed commuters, allowing them to collect parcels within 48 hours at a time that fits their schedule. The secure lockers will be accessible around the clock, catering to those with varying work hours or commitments.
Drew Brock, Queensland Rail’s Acting General Manager of Station Customer Service, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative.
“We are excited to partner with Australia Post to offer customers an easy way to collect their parcels as part of their journey with us,” Mr Brock stated. He also highlighted the dual benefit of enhancing customer convenience while providing a commercial return to support operational costs.
Photo credit: auspost.com.au
Australia Post’s Executive General Manager of Retail, Josh Bannister, emphasised the user-friendly nature of the service. Customers can easily sign up by downloading the Australia Post app, creating a MyPost account, and registering their preferred Parcel Locker location. The app also provides real-time tracking and estimated delivery dates.
“With over 750 Australia Post Parcel Locker locations across the country, customers have the option to register at multiple locations, making it easy to receive online orders in their local area or away from home,” Mr Bannister added.
To access this new service, customers can sign up through the Australia Post website or by downloading the AusPost app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.
As the trial unfolds, both Queensland Rail and Australia Post are optimistic about the potential for expanding this customer-focused initiative. If successful, this collaboration could lead to similar services at more stations, further integrating public transportation with everyday tasks and enhancing the overall commuter experience in Queensland.
Magnay’s path to the Olympics is a reflection of his resilience and dedication.The 208cm centre played a crucial role in the Tasmanian JackJumpers’ triumphant NBL season, where they clinched the championship in just their third year.
Magnay averaged 10.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game, marking his best season as a professional player. His efforts were noticed, earning him a spot on the Boomers squad for the upcoming Olympics.
Despite facing significant injury setbacks in recent years, Magnay’s determination never wavered. Upon receiving his selection letter, he expressed his emotional reaction, acknowledging the rarity and honour of representing Australia on such a prestigious stage.
Growing up in Brisbane, Magnay’s talent was evident early on. He shone as a junior player and spent a year at the Basketball Australia Centre of Excellence in 2016. He then moved to the United States to play college basketball for the University of Tulsa during the 2016-17 season, where he averaged 3.9 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game.
Professional Career
After his stint in college basketball, Magnay returned to Australia to play for the Brisbane Bullets. His impressive performance in the 2019-20 season, where he averaged 8.1 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game, earned him the title of the league’s most improved player and an opportunity with the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans. Although his NBA career was brief, with only one appearance, he gained valuable experience playing in the G League before returning to the NBL with the Perth Wildcats.
Magnay joined the JackJumpers in their inaugural season in 2021-22. Despite being limited to 33 games due to injuries in his first two seasons, he bounced back in the 2023-24 season, solidifying his reputation as the best rim protector in the NBL. Boomers coach Brian Goorjian recognised his defensive prowess, likening his physicality to that of Aron Baynes and Andrew Bogut.
In addition to Magnay, the Australian team includes notable players such as Josh Giddey, Patty Mills, Joe Ingles, Dante Exum, and Josh Green. The Boomers will face tough competition in Group A, with games against Canada, Greece, and Spain in the opening stage.
Magnay’s recent performances, including a standout game against the Illawarra Hawks where he recorded 25 points, 10 rebounds, four blocks, and two steals, have bolstered his case for a significant role in the national team. His season stats, including an average of 11.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game, highlight his impact on the court.
The Paris Olympics will take place from 26 July to 11 August 2024, bringing together athletes from around the world to compete in various sports, including basketball, where Will Magnay will represent Australia.
Did you know that Aspley State School was the first school established in Brisbane’s outer northern suburbs? Built in 1890 with funds raised by local farming families, the timber and tin school building known as ‘A’ Block stands today as the oldest surviving school building in the area.
From its earliest days, the school served as a community hub, hosting not just classes but dances, picnics, teacher training sessions and more. Its grounds evolved over the decades, gaining trees, gardens, sport facilities and even air raid trenches during World War II. But the heart of the campus remained the A Block, which has been considered a local heritage place since July 2002.
The ‘A’ block in 1895 (Photo credit: Aspley State School P&C Association/Facebook)
In March 1889, John Morris, William Brown, and William Wallin contacted the Queensland colonial government’s Department of Public Instruction to request a school for their district. As a result, a local committee comprising Morris, Brown, Wallin with Robert Graham and Thomas Ridley, was formed.
Matthews’ settlement, Aspley, on the site of the Aspley State School ca 1887 (Photo credit: Brisbane John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)
They issued a formal, written request that detailed four possible school sites on 20 March. John Shirley, a school inspector, visited these sites and presented his official report on 15 April. Shirley rejected all four sites, as they were too close to existing schools. He recommended that a more central location be found for the proposed school before the matter could be reconsidered.
Whilst the Department of Public Instruction had already selected a site on Portion 454 along Maundrell Terrace on 13 July 1889, for the proposed school, they chose not to proceed until the local residents resolved their disagreements.
Following a prolonged dispute, the government ultimately accepted the proposal from William Brown to build the school on Maundrell Terrace, and the institution came to be called the Little Cabbage Tree Creek School.
The school commenced operations in 1890 with an initial enrollment of 40 students. Archibald Robert Wing assumed the role of the inaugural head teacher and continued to lead the institution until 1901.
As the suburb transitioned from its agricultural roots to a residential area after World War II, Aspley State School expanded rapidly to accommodate the growing population. New classrooms, libraries, amenities and other buildings were constructed, even as other local schools like Aspley East and Craigslea relieved some of the pressure on student enrolments.
Through it all, that iconic 1890 school house has endured – a link to Aspley’s past as Soldier’s Flat and Little Cabbage Tree Creek.
Photo credit: Aspley State School P&C Association/Facebook
The name of the school was changed when the area received its official designation as Aspley in the year 1897. The name Aspley is thought to originate from the Aspley Orangery and Aspley Vineyard, which were owned by Morris during the 1860s. Morris had arrived from Nottinghamshire in England, where there existed an estate called Aspley Hall.
Today, the school remains a source of pride for the community that raised the funds for its construction over 130 years ago. Named after the orchard that gave the area its current moniker, Aspley State School’s humble beginnings echo the story of the suburb itself.
From farming families to modern residents, generation after generation has passed through its doors. As the school celebrates more milestones ahead, the heritage-listed ‘A’ Block will continue standing as an enduring symbol of Aspley’s evolution – and its pioneering vision for education.
Residents of Zillmere and Sandgate will have the opportunity to explore their local Police Citizens Youth Clubs (PCYC) during upcoming open days, offering a range of free activities and the chance to win gym memberships.
The events are scheduled for Saturday, 6 July 2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at both PCYC Zillmere and PCYC Sandgate locations.
Community Engagement
PCYC Queensland aims to strengthen community ties through these open days. The events are designed to welcome both long-time members and newcomers, providing a glimpse into the clubs’ contributions to local neighbourhoods.
“This is a perfect opportunity to see what PCYC is all about and how we contribute to the community with your help,” said a PCYC spokesperson.
Photo Credit: PCYCSandgate and Zillmere
Activities and Attractions
Both locations will feature a variety of family-friendly activities:
– Free trial classes – Sausage sizzle – Face painting – Jumping castle – Meet and greet with PCYC staff
Zillmere-specific offerings:
Sandgate-specific offerings:
– Chance to win a 12-month gym and fitness membership – Fitness challenges – Interactive sports and games – Soft play area – Key ring making – Photo opportunities with a police car
– Gymnastics, trampoline, and freeG (ninja/parkour) classes – Little n active program for children under 5
Photo Credit: PCYCSandgate and Zillmere
Photo Credit: PCYCSandgate and Zillmere
How to Participate
Interested community members can RSVP through the respective Facebook event pages. Attendees are encouraged to invite friends and family to join the festivities.
For more information, visitors can check the PCYC Queensland website or contact the clubs directly:
The PCYC open days promise to be an engaging start to the school holiday weekend, fostering community spirit and showcasing the clubs’ commitment to youth development and local engagement.
Get ready, music fans! The Brisbane Entertainment Centre has just revealed some exciting news. Brace yourselves for the arrival of Tenacious D, the dynamic GRAMMY®-winning duo consisting of Jack Black and Kyle Gass.
They will be gracing the stage as part of their highly anticipated Spicy Meatball Tour in 18 July 2024. After captivating audiences with a string of fully booked shows in Europe, the UK, and the USA throughout 2023, the iconic duo is set to grace Australian stages for the first time in more than ten years.
Formed in the late 1990s in Los Angeles, Tenacious D quickly rose from their humble beginnings as former theatre students to becoming one of the most beloved rock bands globally. Numerous significant events have occurred along their journey, such as a popular HBO variety series in 1999, a platinum-certified debut album in 2001, and the cult classic movie Tenacious D in the Pick of Destiny in 2006.
The band’s 2012 release, Rize of the Fenix, earned them a GRAMMY® nomination for ‘Best Comedy Album,’ and in 2014, they clinched their first win for ‘Best Metal Performance.’ Demonstrating their versatility, Black and Gass launched Los Angeles’ Festival Supreme in 2013, featuring a mix of music and comedy with big names like Adam Sandler and Sarah Silverman.
In 2018, Tenacious D showcased their creative prowess with the animated film Tenacious D in Post-Apocalypto, with Black hand-drawing each frame and the band providing voices and an accompanying soundtrack. In 2020, a graphic novel will further enhance this project.
The past few years have seen Tenacious D continue to innovate. In 2021/22, they covered songs for charity, launched a line of fibre bars, and released an Audible Original, Words + Music | Vol. 29 | Tenacious D’s The Road To Redunktion. Last year, they ignited stages with The Spicy Meatball Tour, performing in 24 cities and selling out London’s O2 arena within a week of the announcement.
Their latest musical offerings include the single ‘Video Games,’ their first new track in five years, and a viral cover of Chris Isaak’s ‘Wicked Game.’ Jack Black also enjoyed solo success with the hit ballad ‘Peaches’ from the Super Mario Bros. Movie in December 2023.
As Tenacious D prepares to return to Australia and New Zealand, fans can expect an electrifying performance that reaffirms their status as the Greatest Band That Ever Played on Planet Earth. Their tour promises to be a spectacular event, with seven massive arena shows lined up, culminating in an unforgettable night at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
This tour marks a significant moment for Australian fans, providing a rare opportunity to witness the unparalleled energy and humour that Tenacious D brings to the stage. With a history of sold-out shows and critically acclaimed performances, the Spicy Meatball Tour is set to be one of the standout events of 2024.
Don’t miss the chance to see Tenacious D live, delivering their unique blend of rock and comedy that has captivated audiences worldwide. Secure your tickets now and prepare for an extraordinary night with the dynamic duo.
Justin Turner, originally from Aspley, has made a significant impact on the chess scene in Spain. He earned recognition as his club’s Most Valuable Player and has achieved notable success in recent tournaments.
Now playing for a club in Valencia in Spain, Justin was named the Most Valuable Player for his performance in the Valencia State 2nd Division. As the 7th-ranked member of the club’s A Team, he played a crucial role in keeping his team near the top of the division, narrowly missing promotion to the 1st Division.
Justin moved to Spain in 2020 and dedicated himself to intensively studying chess during the COVID lockdown. He attended Aspley East State School and worked as a civil engineer in Brisbane before retraining as a Teacher of English as a Second Language, now makes a modest living by giving private English lessons in Valencia.
“Between the dozen tutorials each week, I can fit in the three hours daily chess-study that I need to do to compete at this level.”
Photo Credit: Supplied
Chess Celebration in June
In June 2024, the Valencia City Council sponsored a chess celebration to mark the end of the school year. Justin was one of four club members who participated with 20 other players from various clubs, playing simultaneous games against about 350 junior players. Each senior player played against 12 to 15 juniors.
Justin performed well in the recent Under 2400 Rating chess tournament in Spain. With a rating of 1937, he won all his games against lower-rated players and drew two games against players rated above 2100. Of the 158 entrants, including 21 Masters across three categories, Justin was ranked 52nd and finished in 40th place. Despite a challenging final match against a Master rated 2325, where he lost after 3.5 hours, his overall performance is expected to increase his rating by about 20 points. Justin aims to reach a rating of 2000 by the end of the year.
Club Awards and Farewell Party
The club’s final party and the closing of the chess EEDD were held recently, with an awards ceremony in the conference room of the Petxina cultural and sports centre. The best boards of the interclubs 2024 received rewards, and all players took home a small souvenir of the season. Justin was recognised as the best board for Basil A.
Other notable players included Lucas Ainsa Jiménez, Pablo Sánchez Navarro, Héctor Valero Crespo, Ángel Del Campo Hernández, Marco Penadés Chuluunpurev, Magnus Larson, David Cortijo, and Theo Clark Sanchez. A special award was given to Héctor Sirit, with a farewell tribute to Nestor. After the event, attendees enjoyed a snack, including paella, in the chess room.
A fire that erupted during peak hours at Fitness Cartel, one of Brisbane’s newest and largest gyms located in Aspley, caused approximately $1 million in damages.
The fire, which originated in an infra-red sauna, was discovered just before 4:00 p.m. on the 17th of June 2024 when the gym was bustling with patrons.
Nathan James, the founder of Fitness Cartel, recounted a trainer spotting a glowing light inside the sauna and quickly evacuating the premises, ensuring everyone’s safety. Despite the gym being full, the fire brigade was able to contain the flames before they caused even more extensive damage.
The intensity of the fire was such that objects 30 metres away from the blaze, including a sanitiser dispenser and an emergency exit sign, melted due to the heat. While the fire destroyed significant portions of the gym, including the bathrooms and roughly 50% of the overall facilities, the swift action of emergency services prevented total loss.
The aftermath leaves the gym with severe structural and water damage, requiring extensive repairs.
As the clean-up and restoration commence, James has rallied a team of 16 tradespeople to work on refurbishing the gym with an aim to reopen by the 5th of July.
Photo Credit: Fitness Cartel Aspley
In the interim, Fitness Cartel plans to accommodate its members at nearby locations in Virginia and Nundah. Despite previous experiences with natural disasters, such as floods and cyclones, James emphasized his team’s resilience and forward-looking strategy to overcome this setback.
James also expressed concern for his staff, particularly primary earners in their families. The temporary closure of the gym could impact their livelihoods amid a cost of living crisis. However, plans are underway to redistribute staff to other facilities, ensuring minimal disruption to their income.
The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) confirmed their swift response to the emergency call, managing to extinguish the fire shortly after arrival. The building has since been handed back to the management for ongoing recovery efforts. Further investigations will determine the precise cause of the fire and assess additional safety measures to prevent future incidents.
