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Brisbane Bullets’ Keandre Cook: Early Signs of a Game-Changer

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Brisbane Bullets’ new addition, Keandre Cook, has been cooking on the court since joining the team for the NBL25 season. The 27-year-old import sharpshooter, signed on a one-year deal, has wasted no time making his mark in the league.

Read: Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall Braces for Twenty One Pilots’ Triumphant Return

Keandre Cook, early impact

Cook’s debut with the Bullets has been nothing short of spectacular. In the season opener against the Breakers, he posted an impressive 25 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block. Nine of his 25 came as Brisbane took on a 18-2 run late in the game, bombing away three triples to put the game within two.

Cook followed this with a solid two-way performance against the Hawks, contributing 17 points, 3 steals, and 1 block, once again leading the team in scoring.

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Though these performances have yet to translate into wins, Cook’s impact is undeniable. Leading the team with 21 points per game, his contributions extend beyond scoring: Cook is tied for first in blocks (1.0 per game) as a guard, alongside centre Tyrell Harrison, and leads the team in steals with 2.5 per game.

Background and experience

Cook brings a wealth of international experience to the team, having played professionally in Hungary, France, Macedonia, and Germany after starting his career in the NBA G-League with Greensboro. Most recently, he won the 2023 Macedonian league and cup double with MZT Skopje.

Before joining the Bullets, Cook showcased his scoring prowess with Crailsheim in the German Bundesliga. In 33 league appearances for the Merlins, he averaged an impressive 14.5 points per game, shooting 48.5% from the field, 45.7% from three-point range, and 89.7% from the free-throw line.

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Brisbane coach Justin Schueller expressed his excitement about Cook’s signing before the season, stating, “Keandre comes to us with great experience internationally and fits our needs of an impact scorer and high-level shooter.”

Schueller also praised Cook’s defensive abilities and his potential to complement the existing roster—a facet of his game that he’s already proven in his first two appearances.

For Cook, joining the Bullets fulfils a long-held professional goal. He shared his excitement, saying, “I’ve always dreamed of playing in Australia. I’ve heard nothing but great things about the country and look forward to exploring Brisbane.”

Read: Bullets Blaze Through Blitz: Brisbane’s NBL25 Season Preview

Fans eager to see Cook continue his hot streak at home won’t have to wait long. He is set to feature at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Saturday, 5 October, at 8:00 p.m. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Cook to see if he can maintain his impressive form and help elevate the Brisbane Bullets to a long-awaited playoff appearance.

Published 29-September-2024

Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall Braces for Twenty One Pilots’ Triumphant Return

Photo Credit: Twenty One Pilots/ Facebook/a>

Boondall is set to erupt in a symphony of sound and light as the Grammy-Award winning duo Twenty One Pilots descends upon the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on 21 November 2024.

This marks a long-awaited homecoming for the band, who haven’t graced Australian shores in six years. The electrifying performance is part of their highly anticipated ‘Clancy World Tour’, showcasing music from their forthcoming album of the same name.

With an astounding 33 billion streams worldwide and over 3 million tickets sold across their global headline tours, Twenty One Pilots—comprised of Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun from Columbus, Ohio—have cemented their status as a powerhouse in the 21st-century music scene. The duo is renowned for pushing musical boundaries and blending genres to create a unique sound that has resonated deeply with a generation of fans.

*Photo Credit:* *Twenty One Pilots/ Facebook*

The Brisbane Entertainment Centre, with its capacity to hold thousands of enthusiastic fans, will provide the perfect backdrop for Twenty One Pilots’ energetic and visually stunning performance on 21 November 2024. Fans can anticipate an unforgettable night filled with excitement.

The band’s signature blend of alternative rock, hip-hop, and electronica, thought-provoking lyrics, and captivating stage presence will captivate the audience.

Clancy: A New Era

The ‘Clancy World Tour’ is a launchpad for Twenty One Pilots’ forthcoming album, “Clancy,” promising a fresh chapter in their musical journey. Fans eagerly anticipate the new material, which will surely showcase the duo’s evolution and growth while staying true to the sound that has made them a global phenomenon.

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A Global Phenomenon

Twenty One Pilots’ impact extends beyond impressive streaming numbers and ticket sales. The duo has cultivated a dedicated fanbase that connects deeply with their music and message. Their songs often explore themes of mental health, faith, and the human experience, striking a chord with listeners worldwide.

For fans in Boondall and beyond, 21 November promises to be a night to remember. Twenty One Pilots’ return to Australia is a testament to their enduring popularity and the power of their music to transcend borders and connect with audiences on a profound level.

Published Date 26-September-2024

Teenage Girl In Serious Condition After Geebung Traffic Incident

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A 14-year-old girl is in serious condition following a traffic incident in Geebung yesterday evening. The collision occurred at approximately 5 pm on September 25, near the intersection of Ellison Road and Murphy Road.

According to initial police reports, a white Toyota Hilux struck the young pedestrian. The teenager sustained severe head injuries and was immediately transported to Queensland Children’s Hospital for treatment. Her current condition has not been disclosed.

The driver of the vehicle, identified as a man in his 50s from Eatons Hill, was not physically harmed in the incident. He is currently assisting police with their ongoing investigation.

Local authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could aid in their inquiry. Specifically, they are seeking individuals who were in the area at the time of the crash and may have witnessed the event or possess relevant CCTV or dashcam footage.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Quote this reference number: QP2401649107

Published 26-September-2024

Plans Released for Major Housing and Retail Development in Carseldine

Residents of Carseldine could witness a significant transformation as plans for a new housing development and community hub have been released.

Read: Carseldine Markets Celebrates a Decade of Delicious Saturdays

The project, part of the broader Carseldine Village initiative, promises to bring 152 new dwellings along with a retail and commercial “Village Heart” to the area.

The development application for this ambitious project has been lodged with Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) by St George Community Housing Ltd (SGCH), marking their first venture into Queensland.

Render of the project in Carseldine (Photo credit: DKO Architecture)

This $87 million undertaking, situated within the Fitzgibbon Priority Development Area (PDA), is poised to make a substantial impact on both the local housing market and economy.

Construction is slated to commence in early 2025, generating approximately 200 jobs for the region. Upon completion, expected towards the end of 2026, the housing component will be operated by Bric Housing, a leading community housing provider in South East Queensland.

Render of Village Heart (Photo credit: DKO Architecture)

Designed by DKO Architecture, the proposed multiple dwellings are a crucial element of the larger 15-hectare Carseldine Village development being orchestrated by EDQ. When fully realised in 2028, this 5-Star Green Star community will boast over 600 dwellings, significantly boosting the suburb’s residential capacity and sustainability credentials.

Joe Achmar, Acting Group CEO of SGCH, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “The housing crisis transcends borders, and we are committed to delivering more homes for the most vulnerable in our communities.” He emphasised the unique partnership between SGCH and Bric Housing, highlighting their complementary strengths and shared vision for increasing sector capacity nationwide.

Jane West, CEO of Bric Housing, echoed this sentiment, adding, “Providing good quality social and affordable housing is vital to ensuring that people have a safe and affordable place to call home.” She noted that this project would add to the hundreds of homes already managed by Bric Housing in the Greater Brisbane area.

Read: Brisbane Metro Expansion: New Stations Planned for Carseldine and Beyond

As Carseldine prepares for this significant development, residents can look forward to not just new dwelling options, but also enhanced community facilities and potential economic growth stemming from the Village Heart’s retail and commercial spaces.

Published 25-September-2024

Boondall Bus Crash: Community Gathers to Mark 30th Anniversary

Thirty years after the devastating Boondall bus crash, Maryborough is set to honour the victims and survivors with a memorial service. The tragic incident, which occurred near Boondall on Brisbane’s northside, remains one of Queensland’s worst road accidents.

Read: Bruce Highway Safety Crisis: New Data Reveals Alarming Crash Rates

On Thursday, October 24th, the lawn of Maryborough City Hall will host a solemn gathering to commemorate the lives lost and forever changed by the 1994 crash.

On 24 October 1994, a tragic incident occurred when a vehicle transporting fifty individuals lost control, flipped onto its side, and careened across a major road before plummeting down a sharp incline. The devastating Boondall bus crash resulted in 12 fatalities and left 38 people wounded.

The victims, many of whom were members of Maryborough’s Civilian Widows Association on a shopping trip to Brisbane, will be remembered in a half-hour service beginning at 10:00 a.m.

The service, to be held near the Boondall Bus Memorial Stone on the City Hall lawn, will feature Pastor Chris Foley presiding and performances by the combined choirs of St Mary’s Primary School and St Mary’s College. A poignant moment will occur at 10:10 a.m. when a bell will toll 12 times, marking the time of the accident and honouring those who perished.

Attendees will have the opportunity to lay wreaths or flowers in memory of their loved ones. Following the outdoor service, the community is invited to gather inside City Hall to share memories and support one another.

As the event coincides with market day, those planning to attend are advised to allow extra time for parking. The city council has also made provisions for limited seating for those unable to stand and has plans to move the service indoors in case of inclement weather.

Read: When Doctors Were Far and Few: Healthcare History in Sandgate

While RSVPs are not mandatory, interested attendees can register with Customer Service at 1300 79 49 29 to help local officials estimate attendance numbers.

Published 20-September-2024

St John Fisher Students Brew Marketing Success with Origin Tea

Photo Credit: Facebook / St John Fisher College

At just 16 years old, three students from St John Fisher College in Bracken Ridge have turned their school project into a real-world success by partnering with Queensland’s Origin Tea. Their fresh marketing concept, crafted as part of a QUT competition, resonated with the tea company’s founders, leading to an exciting collaboration.

Charlotte Crago, Grace Bell, and Simrat Gill impressed the company’s founders with their innovative marketing ideas, leading to their immediate hiring.

The opportunity arose through a competition organised by Queensland University of Technology’s (QUT) Business School, which challenged over 120 high school students to develop strategies for building a tea culture among Generation Z. The Bracken Ridge trio’s “spill the tea” campaign caught the eye of Origin Tea’s founders, brothers Chris and Lawrence Seaton.

Their creative concept revolves around fostering connections and sharing news over a cup of tea, embodied in the tagline “there’s a juicy conversation brewing in every cup of Origin Tea.” This fresh approach is now being rolled out across Origin Tea’s Instagram and TikTok channels, aiming to resonate with younger consumers.

For Chris Seaton, this collaboration represents a full-circle moment. He initially conceptualised the tea business during his own marketing studies at QUT. Twelve years later, Origin Tea has become one of Australia’s fastest-growing consumer tea brands, with a presence in over 1,000 cafés, international markets, and Woolworths supermarkets.

The experience has been equally rewarding for the students. Grace Bell expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The opportunity to work with Origin Tea was an enriching experience because I got to work with a real-world business and gain valuable insight into the field.”

Looking ahead, both Grace and Simrat are considering studying business and law at QUT after completing high school. Charlotte is also interested in pursuing a business degree, potentially majoring in entrepreneurship, international business, or marketing.

Published 18-September-2024

Bullets Blaze Through Blitz: Brisbane’s NBL25 Season Preview

The Brisbane Bullets kicked off their NBL25 campaign in impressive fashion, securing the Loggins-Bruton Cup as champions of the pre-season Blitz tournament.

This success goes beyond the trophy; it’s a significant step in building a winning culture for the team and setting the tone for the season ahead.

Read: Carseldine Markets Gears Up for 8th Annual Barktoberfest

Blitz success fuels optimism

Head coach Justin Schueller emphasises the importance of this pre-season performance, stating, “We’re at a stage of our program where we need to try and win everything we can.”

The Bullets’ clean sweep during the Blitz, which included victories over Melbourne United, South East Melbourne Phoenix, and the Cairns Taipans, highlights the team’s potential and depth as they head into the regular season.

If Brisbane can carry this form into the regular season, an improved record seems imminent and they could make a deep postseason push.

An inconsistent 2023/24

The 2023/24 season saw inconsistency plague the Bullets, finishing seventh with 13 wins and 15 losses. Missing out on the play-in by the slimmest of margins due to percentage, Brisbane showed flashes of brilliance but couldn’t string together consistent performances.

However, they competed fiercely against top teams and appeared like a top-six contender for much of the season.

Individual standouts and team depth

Tyrell Harrison emerged as the standout of the Blitz, earning the Ray Borner Medal with averages of 17.3 points and 7.0 rebounds per game. His efficient shooting—64.3% from the floor and 84.2% from the free-throw line—underscored his improved offensive game.

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Schueller’s praise for Harrison shows the high expectations surrounding the centre this season. “I don’t think Tyrell is a secret anymore,” Schueller remarks, signalling that Harrison is ready to become a key player in the team’s strategy.

“I think he’s showing what we’ve known inside the walls for a while, that he’s ready to take a leap,” Schueller adds. This timely progression coincides perfectly with the Bullets’ roster shake-up, as former NBA champion Aron Baynes bid farewell to the team during the offseason.

The Bullets’ strength extends beyond Harrison. Promising performances from NBL Next Star Rocco Zikarsky and new arrivals Deng Adel, Keandre Cook, and James Batemon III add depth to the roster.

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Brisbane fans anticipate Josh Bannan and Sam McDaniel to build upon their stellar 2023/24 performances; and they expect continued solid contributions from Tohi Smith-Milner and Jarred Bairstow. Meanwhile, veteran leaders Mitch Norton, Casey Prather, and Isaac White shoulder the responsibility of steering the team through the season.

All eyes on Rocco Zikarsky

At just 18 years old, Rocco Zikarsky represents the future of Australian basketball. Standing at 7-foot-3, Zikarsky is already projected as a first-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. His time training alongside former Bullet and Boomer Aron Baynes has provided invaluable mentorship, accelerating his development.

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Zikarsky’s aspirations reach far beyond the NBL, with his eyes on representing Australia in the 2028 and 2032 Olympics. “Especially with 2032 being a home Olympics,” Zikarsky notes, emphasising his desire to be a core player for the Boomers on home soil.

Back to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre

The Brisbane Bullets will make a highly anticipated return to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre for their home opener on 5 October, facing off against the Sydney Kings. This marks their first game at the venue in 16 years, reclaiming what was once their fortress.

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The Bullets’ offseason acquisitions, alongside Harrison’s breakout and the continued development of Zikarsky, position the Bullets as a formidable contender in the NBL25 season.

Read: Brisbane Bullets Back to Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Aim for New Heights with Major Move

With their success in the Blitz and the return to their formidable home ground, all eyes will be on the Bullets. Will this be the season they finally break their playoff drought?

Published 17-September-2024

Carseldine Markets Gears Up for 8th Annual Barktoberfest

Photo Credit: Carseldine Barktoberfest 2024

Dog lovers and their furry companions are in for a treat as the 8th Annual Barktoberfest prepares to take over Carseldine Markets.

This free-entry event will occur on Saturday, 12 October, from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. It promises a day brimming with canine-centric activities, competitions, and a vibrant market atmosphere.

Paw-some Competitions and Activities

This year’s Barktoberfest is set to be a standout, with the highly-anticipated Pawparazzi Competition offering five categories for pups to strike their best poses. The Strike, a Paws Fashion Parade, will see stylish dogs strutting their stuff, while the brand-new Pawesome Performer Competition will showcase talented canines and their tricks.

The Animal Welfare League Queensland will also be on hand, providing a Puppy Hydration Station and engaging activities to keep tails wagging and pups refreshed throughout the day.

A Market for Everyone

Beyond the dog-themed festivities, Barktoberfest will showcase a diverse range of vendors. Visitors can explore unique handmade treats, artisan crafts, and farm-fresh produce from over 150 stalls. Specialty businesses catering to canine needs will also be present, alongside dog behaviour and obedience trainers like One With The Dog.

Entry and parking are free, making the event accessible to all. Follow the Barktoberfest 2024 Facebook Event for the latest updates on competitions and giveaways. Register for free tickets and the chance to win a Barktoberfest Hamper.

Carseldine Markets, North Brisbane’s leading farmers and artisan market, welcomes over 5,000 visitors every Saturday morning. Goodwill Projects, the driving force behind this event, is renowned for curating exceptional markets, events, and venue experiences across Queensland.

Published Date 09-September-2024

Aspley Special School Finds a Friend in the Force

Photo Credit: MyPolice Brisbane North

For Sergeant Jodie Murray, her 29-year career in the Queensland Police Service culminated in a truly rewarding role: the Adopt a Cop (AAC) for Aspley Special School.

As a dedicated volunteer, Sergeant Murray has fostered positive relationships between the police and the school community, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of students and staff.

The AAC programme pairs police officers with schools and other community organisations to promote understanding and trust. Sargent Murray’s commitment to her role is evident in her dedication to teaching students that police are there to protect and assist them. Her furry companion, Charlie, has become integral to the school community, endearing himself to students and staff alike.

Sargent Murray’s involvement in the school extends beyond classroom visits. She has accompanied students on excursions to the Mounted Police Unit and Railway Squad, participated in school events like Sports Day and the Year 12 Formal, and celebrated cultural milestones such as Harmony Day and NAIDOC Week. Her presence has provided security and comfort for the students, who have formed strong bonds with Sargent Murray and Charlie.

Aspley Special School Principal Mrs Kathleen McDonald praised Sargent Murray’s exceptional dedication to the role. She noted the heartwarming connections that students and staff have formed with the AAC and Charlie and emphasised their positive impact on the school community. The students’ interactions with Charlie, a calm and friendly canine companion, have created a soothing and welcoming atmosphere during school assemblies.

Sargent Murray’s experience as the AAC has reinforced the valuable lessons that can be learned from dogs. Charlie’s gentle nature and unwavering loyalty have taught her and others important life lessons.

Through her work at Aspley Special School, Sargent Murray has not only served her community but has also left a lasting legacy of friendship, trust, and understanding

Published Date 04-September-2024

Brisbane Alert: Carseldine and Bracken Ridge Among Top Swooping Hotspots

Brisbane residents, particularly those in Carseldine and Bracken Ridge, are being urged to stay vigilant as the city enters the peak of its annual swooping bird season.

Read: Bruce Highway Safety Crisis: New Data Reveals Alarming Crash Rates

These two suburbs were among those with the highest reported swooping incidents year to date, according to Brisbane City Council. As spring unfolds across the Queensland capital, September typically marks the most active period for magpies.

Last year, this month alone accounted for 165 reported incidents to Council, representing nearly 43% of all cases throughout 2023. Since the start of the 2024 swooping season in July, 68 incidents have already been logged, signalling another active year.

The breeding season, which begins in July and can extend into January, sees native birds becoming more territorial and protective of their nests. This natural behaviour, while disruptive to daily life, is a crucial part of the local ecosystem.

In response to the seasonal threat, Council has ramped up its efforts to keep residents safe. More than 120 new warning signs have been deployed across 36 suburbs, marking potential swooping hotspots. These signs, introduced in 2021, feature eye-catching colours and designs aimed at grabbing attention and reducing incidents.

Cr Adrian Schrinner emphasised the seriousness with which the council approaches this annual challenge.

“We take every bird swooping incident seriously and act appropriately to protect the community,” Schrinner stated. He encourages residents to report any swooping occurrences promptly, allowing council officers to erect signage and monitor bird activity.

“Our signs are quickly rolled out if we’re alerted to swooping incidents and they have proven incredibly effective with fewer incidents reported to Council since they were introduced,” Cr Schrinner explained.

He also stressed the importance of coexistence with native wildlife, noting, “Native wildlife contributes to the incredible lifestyle we have here in Brisbane, and we have to coexist with these birds during swooping season while keeping the community safe.”

To help residents navigate this tricky time, the Council has issued a list of precautions:

Avoid known nesting areas during breeding season.
If swooped, leave the area quickly but calmly – don’t run.
Wear protective gear: hats, umbrellas for head protection, and glasses for eye safety.
Don’t interfere with birds or their nests, as this may intensify swooping behaviour.
Maintain eye contact with the bird while walking away.
Refrain from harassing or provoking birds.
Never touch young birds.
Cyclists should dismount and walk away if swooped.

Read: Shorncliffe: A Coastal Haven of Sun, Surf and Savoury Delights

As Brisbane’s residents, especially those in Carseldine and Bracken Ridge, prepare for the peak of the swooping season, the message is clear: stay alert, be prepared, and remember that this too shall pass.

With proper precautions and community cooperation, Brisbane can safely share their beautiful city with its feathered inhabitants, ensuring that spring remains a time of renewal rather than fear.

Published 5-September-2024