Hornets vs Sharks: Aspley Face Redland-Victoria Point with Historic Three-Peat on the Horizon

The Aspley Hornets are two wins away from a historic three-peat as they prepare for a high-stakes preliminary final against the Redland-Victoria Point Sharks this Saturday at the Zupps Aspley Oval.


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


A season of dominance

Despite a recent setback in the qualifying final against Morningside, the Hornets enter this match as the top-ranked team from the regular season. Their impressive record has positioned them 12 points clear of the third-placed Sharks on the home-and-away ladder.

The club’s dominant performances extend to their youth program. Three Aspley youth teams have recently clinched premiership trophies—a testament to the club’s strength across all levels.

Now, the Hornets faithful eagerly await the senior team’s chance to bring home the most cherished prize of all.

Hornets vs Sharks

The Sharks have had a strong season, finishing third with a solid performance in their games leading up to the preliminary final. Their resilience and tactical gameplay make them a formidable opponent, adding an extra layer of challenge for the Hornets.

The Hornets have reason to be confident heading into this crucial match. They boast a perfect 2-0 record against the Sharks this season, demonstrating their ability to outperform their upcoming opponents.

On 13 April, Aspley secured a hard-fought 15.4 (94) to 12.16 (88) victory at home. A month later on 18 May, the Hornets dominated the Sharks with a 13.11 (89) to 9.15 (69) win away at Totally Workwear Park.

More notably, the Hornets defeated the Sharks in last year’s grand final to secure their second consecutive premiership trophy. Now, as they aim for another, they must face their familiar rivals once again on the path to glory.


Read: NE-YO’s Champagne & Roses Tour Hits Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall


A victory in this preliminary final will book an Aspley-Morningside rematch in the grand final—an opportunity for Aspley to not only avenge their recent loss but also to pursue their third consecutive premiership title, setting a new standard in the league’s recent history.

Published 04-September-2024

Brisbane Metro Expansion: New Stations Planned for Carseldine and Beyond

Carseldine is set to become an essential stop in the Brisbane Metro expansion, with plans for a new station to be built in time for the 2032 Olympic Games.



Expansion Plans Announced

The Brisbane Metro rapid bus service is gearing up for a significant expansion to extend its reach to the outer suburbs, including Carseldine, Capalaba, Springwood, and the Brisbane Airport. This expansion includes the construction of 22 new stations to improve public transport connectivity across Brisbane and neighbouring communities. 

The proposal aims to develop a high-frequency, high-capacity public transport network crucial for managing the anticipated increase in public transport usage during the 2032 Olympics and beyond. It is expected to alleviate congestion and support the growing population, with an estimated 1.55 million more people predicted to move to Brisbane by 2041.

Brisbane Metro
Photo Credit: QLD/BCC/Brisbane Metro

Community and Infrastructure Development

The expansion plan focuses on enhancing the Metro service to better connect key destinations such as the Brisbane Airport and DFO and extending lines to the north, south, and east of Brisbane. This initiative aims to ensure that more suburbs are linked to the public transport network, which will reduce the number of cars on the road, decrease congestion, and contribute to a cleaner environment.

Transport modelling has highlighted the northern corridor, including Chermside and Carseldine, as a priority area for new Metro stations to support both short—and medium-term transport needs, especially in the lead-up to the Olympics.

In addition to the new stations, plans include establishing a new Metro depot in the northern suburbs to support the extended services. This infrastructure is part of a broader strategy to enhance Brisbane’s public transport network, which features fully-electric, high-capacity buses designed to integrate seamlessly with existing busways.

Brisbane Metro
Photo Credit: QLD/BCC/Brisbane Metro

Challenges and Next Steps

While the expansion plans are ambitious, several challenges remain. The exact cost of the project has yet to be determined, and further discussions regarding funding are ongoing. Additionally, the project must navigate existing agreements, such as the Airtrain exclusivity agreement, which currently restricts public transport links to Brisbane Airport until 2036.

Despite these challenges, all parties involved strongly commit to pushing the project forward. Following changes in priorities and cost assessments, funds have already been redirected from other projects to support the expansion.

The expansion of the Brisbane Metro will begin with the opening of its first stage on October 21, linking Eight Mile Plains and the University of Queensland. The extension to Carseldine and other suburbs will follow, subject to the outcomes of the detailed business case and funding availability.



The 22 new stations planned for the Brisbane Metro expansion:

  1. Eight Mile Plains
  2. Rochedale
  3. Springwood
  4. Upper Mount Gravatt
  5. Griffith University
  6. Holland Park West
  7. Greenslopes
  8. PA Hospital
  9. Boggo Road
  10. UQ Lakes
  11. Buranda
  12. Stones Corner
  13. Coorparoo Square
  14. Camp Hill
  15. Carindale
  16. Chandler
  17. Capalaba
  18. Langlands Park
  19. Carina
  20. Kedron Brook
  21. Kedron North
  22. Chermside

Additionally, there are future Metro extensions indicated to:

  • Carseldine
  • Doomben
  • Brisbane Airport
  • DFO
  • Clayfield
  • Hendra
  • Ascot
  • Eagle Junction
  • Windsor
  • Woolloongabba

Published 30-Aug-2024

When Doctors Were Far and Few: Healthcare History in Sandgate

In the days before the advent of the triple zero emergency hotline, residents of Sandgate and its surrounding districts faced the same threats to life and limb as we do today: disease, accidents, and violence.



Photo Credit: Pexels

The stark difference lies in the odds of survival. Advancements in medical treatment and access to specialised care have significantly reduced the likelihood of succumbing to such perils.

This is not to imply that our forebears were devoid of medical attention. Sandgate was fortunate to have several resident doctors. However, these physicians were often overburdened and stretched thin. In 1884, 70-year-old Dr. Henry Girdlestone was summoned to an accident scene in present-day Woodford, a journey that would have taken nearly a day on horseback. Similarly, Dr. Guildford Davidson regularly attended to patients on the Redcliffe Peninsula, necessitating hours of travel.

The Challenges of Early Medical Practice in Sandgate

Photo Credit: Pexels

This constant demand taxed doctors and left other patients without immediate care. A mother who rushed her snake-bitten daughter from the North Pine River to Sandgate in 1894 was fortunate to find Dr. Paul available to treat the child.

General practice in those times truly encompassed a wide range of medical needs. Doctors required diverse skills and experience, from surgical procedures like Dr. Girdlestone successfully reattaching a child’s severed toes to diagnosing and treating cases of food poisoning caused by improperly preserved meat or tinned fish.

More complex cases were referred to the nearest hospital in Herston. Patients from outlying areas like Sandgate endured long and arduous journeys by horse-drawn carriage, dray, or, if lucky, by train. Consider the plight of Mr Roberts, who was struck by a horse-drawn bus in Rainbow Street in 1890 and transported to Brisbane Hospital by the local constable—a journey that would have been far from comfortable.



Photo Credit: Pexels

Without a doctor or for dental issues, one could turn to the chemist. Mr Henry Field, “Chemist, Druggist, and Surgeon Dentist,” opened a shop in Sandgate in 1891, offering dispensing services and “teeth carefully extracted.”

So, the next time you find yourself waiting at a hospital or dental clinic, spare a thought for the resilient individuals who came before us, particularly Mr. Field’s dental patients. His advertisement made no mention of anaesthesia.

Published Date 30-August-2024

NE-YO’s Champagne & Roses Tour Hits Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall

The Brisbane Entertainment Centre is about to become a haven of soulful melodies and unforgettable vibes as the sensational, three-time GRAMMY® Award-winning artist, NE-YO, graces the stage with his electrifying Champagne & Roses Tour.



A Night of R&B Royalty

Photo Credit: NEYO/ Facebook

Doors will swing open at 8:00 p.m. on 2 October 2024, setting the stage for a night of unforgettable music. NE-YO, celebrated for his chart-topping hits like “So Sick,” “Sexy Love,” and “Miss Independent,” promises an electrifying performance showcasing his signature blend of soulful vocals and captivating stage presence. Adding to the excitement, special guest Lloyd will join the bill, ensuring a night of R&B excellence.

Exclusive VIP Experiences

NE-YO
Photo Credit: NEYO/ Facebook

A range of VIP packages are available for those seeking an extra special evening. The Ultimate Meet & Greet Experience grants fans early entry, a coveted photo opportunity with NE-YO, exclusive merchandise, and a commemorative tour laminate. Other packages provide options for early access or prime seating in the lower bowl.

From Camden to Global Stardom

NE-YO
Photo Credit: NEYO/ Facebook

NE-YO’s journey to musical stardom is a testament to his dedication and talent. Born Shaffer Chimere Smith in Camden, Arkansas, he inherited a passion for music from his parents.  His early songwriting talent blossomed, and by the time he was five, he had penned his first song.

After relocating to Las Vegas with his mother, NE-YO honed his skills at the Las Vegas Academy and performed with the R&B group Envy. While the group eventually disbanded, NE-YO’s songwriting prowess caught the industry’s attention. His breakthrough came in 2004 when he wrote Mario’s smash hit “Let Me Love You.”

A Legacy of Hits

NE-YO
Photo Credit: NEYO/ Facebook

NE-YO’s success as a songwriter paved the way for a remarkable solo career. His debut album “In My Own Words,” featuring the unforgettable “So Sick,” solidified his position as an R&B force to be reckoned with. Subsequent albums like “Because of You” and “Year of the Gentleman” further showcased his artistry, and he has amassed over 23 billion streams globally.

Beyond his solo achievements, NE-YO’s songwriting contributions to artists like Beyoncé and Rihanna have solidified his legacy as a hitmaker.  With album titles like “R.E.D” (Realising Every Dream), NE-YO’s passion for fulfilling aspirations shines through, inspiring fans worldwide.



Tickets for NE-YO’s Champagne & Roses Tour are available through Ticketek, and fans are encouraged to secure their spots early. This all-ages event promises a night of exceptional music and memories. Parking is available on-site for $18, and early arrival is recommended.

Boondall is gearing up for a night of R&B magic. Get ready to experience the extraordinary talent of NE-YO as he graces the Brisbane Entertainment Centre stage.

Published Date 29-August-2024

56 New Townhouses to Redefine Taigum Living

Substantial housing development is in the pipeline for Taigum, with plans lodged for 56 new townhouses at 321 Rogan Road. The ambitious project, designed by Linear 56 Design, aims to construct three two-storey buildings, offering a mix of detached and attached four-bedroom dwellings.



Taigum
Photo Credit: DA A006484714

The proposal outlines a low-medium density development, ensuring each townhouse benefits from private outdoor space in a 35sqm courtyard. In addition, residents will have access to generous communal areas, including a swimming pool, sun lounge, pavilion, and lawn. The development will also feature ample parking, with 154 car spaces and dedicated bicycle parking for residents and visitors.

Taigum
Photo Credit: DA A006484714

JFP Urban Consultants, the project’s planners, emphasise the development’s efficient use of existing urban land and infrastructure and compliance with all relevant planning regulations. The proposed buildings will occupy 13,540 sqm of the 28,534 sqm site, ensuring a significant portion of the open space remains.

Taigum
Photo Credit: DA A006484714

Access to the development will be via a new private road off Rogan Road, and extensive landscaping, including deep planting and creating a drainage reserve, is planned. The project will be developed in two stages, with the first incorporating the communal open space amenities.

Photo Credit: DA A006484714

This development represents a considerable addition to Taigum’s housing stock, catering to the growing demand for family-friendly accommodation in the area. The focus on providing private and communal outdoor areas, convenient locations, and ample parking will likely make this development highly attractive to prospective buyers.



The development application is currently under review, and if approved, construction is expected to commence shortly.

Published Date 27-August-2024

Aspley Mum Wins $100 Million After Leaving Winning Ticket in Glovebox

A lucky mum from Aspley absentmindedly left her Division 1 ticket in her car’s glovebox, then remembered to check on it after her morning run a couple of days later, and made a life-changing, $100-million discovery!



The massive prize, drawn on Thursday night, 22 August 2024, had eluded officials as the ticket was unregistered, preventing them from identifying the winner. 

The search for the lucky individual became increasingly urgent as the jackpot was the only division one winning entry in the draw. The winning numbers, drawn at 9:00 p.m., were 16, 24, 11, 4, 10, 18, 23

A Life-Changing Discovery

The winner, who purchased the ticket at a local Westfield, remained unaware of her newfound wealth until Friday morning. After returning from her morning run, she finally checked the ticket that had been sitting in her car’s glovebox. 

“I was shopping the other day, and it’s coming up to my birthday, so I thought ‘why not?’ and purchased a Powerball ticket.

“The funny thing is too, I almost lost it. I had to pull over on the way home from the shops because I thought I had left it there.

“After that, I put it in my glovebox, and I completely forgot about it until this morning.

“I’m scared to breathe in case this isn’t real. We’re in complete shock.”

The woman promptly contacted officials to confirm her win, becoming the third-biggest lottery winner in Australian history.

While the identity of the Aspley mum remains private, the impact on the local area is already being felt, with businesses and residents buzzing with the news.

The Uncertainty of the Unregistered Ticket

Spokeswoman Anna Hobdell noted the anticipation surrounding the draw, especially since the jackpot is the biggest prize any Australian lottery game has offered in nearly three months. Ms Hobdell also highlighted the importance of registering tickets to ensure winners can be notified immediately after a draw.

The unregistered winner’s ticket added to the suspense, as officials were unable to contact the winner directly. This situation has prompted officials to encourage all players to register their tickets in the future to avoid any delay in receiving life-changing news.

Photo Credit: Supplied

Luckiest Store in Australia

The ticket was sold at Nextra Chermside Newsagency at Westfield Chermside. Shannon Hickey, who owns the Nextra Chermside Newsagency, expressed his amazement at having another major division one prize claimed through his store, describing the situation as “crazy.”

“It’s so exciting! We’ve had so many division one wins over the years. We counted up the other day and realised we’d sold division one winning tickets worth more than $64 million. Now we’ve sold over $164 million!” Mr Hickey said.

“Funnily enough, about a decade ago, we sold a $40 million Oz Lotto prize and at the time, that was the third biggest win in Australia. Now, this $100 million Powerball prize is the third-biggest win in Australia and the biggest in Queensland.



“It’s just fantastic and means we are the luckiest store in Australia!

“Congratulations to our winners. We wish them all the very best with their prize.”

Published 23-Aug-2024

Bruce Highway Safety Crisis: New Data Reveals Alarming Crash Rates

New data from RACQ has exposed the Bruce Highway’s alarming safety record, with Fatal and Serious Injury (FSI) crash rates three to five times higher than comparable major highways in NSW and Victoria. 


Read: Gympie Arterial Road & Webster Road In Aspley Ranks Sixth Among Ten Most Dangerous Intersections In Queensland


The findings have prompted a coalition of leading Queensland organisations to demand urgent action.

According to RACQ, around 1,398 kilometres of the Bruce Highway, which passes through the Gympie Arterial Road (M3) in Carseldine and M1 in Bald Hills remains single-lane and undivided.

This leads to an average ‘per kilometre travelled’ FSI crash rate three times higher than rural sections of the Pacific Highway and five times higher than rural sections of the Hume Highway.

crash rates
Crash rates (Photo credit: RACQ)

RACQ Managing Director and CEO David Carter emphasised the highway’s substandard condition compared to interstate counterparts.

“The Bruce Highway is the backbone of this State, it’s supposed to be a national highway but when you compare it to the Pacific or Hume, it’s substandard,” Mr Carter said.

“Those interstate highways have rightfully been upgraded to three, four and five stars out of five for infrastructure safety, yet around half of the Bruce is still a poor two-star rating. In 2024, there is no way Queensland should have any two-star sections on the Bruce Highway.

The coalition is advocating for comprehensive upgrades, including widening, more overtaking lanes, and progressive duplication to dual carriageway standards. They believe there’s a need for a 10-year funding commitment from the State and Federal Governments to continue upgrading the Bruce Highway.

Photo credit: Expressway

Alison Smith, CEO of Local Government Association of Queensland, highlighted the emotional and economic toll of crashes on local communities, stressing the critical need for improved road safety across Queensland.

“As the level of government closest to their communities, councils see the huge emotional toll that crash deaths and injuries create, even before you come to the economic cost,” Ms Smith said.

“Ensuring more funding flows to improve road safety across our decentralised state is critical to Queensland councils because it is critical to improving the liveability of their local communities.

“This includes crucial funding to improve local and state roads and support jobs throughout regional, rural and remote Queensland under key programs like the Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDs), as well as major transportation links like the Bruce Highway, which serves as a vitally important economic and social artery for so many local communities.”


Read: Beams Road Upgrade in Carseldine Prioritised in SEQ Level Crossing Program 2024


The “Fix the Bruce” campaign continues to gain traction, underlining the urgent need for significant infrastructure improvements to Queensland’s vital transport artery.

Published 13-August-2024

Carseldine Mates Strike Gold with $1.25 Million Windfall

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.

Published 12-August-2024

Iron Maiden Set to Rock Brisbane Entertainment Centre with ‘The Future Past Tour’

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.


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


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.


Read: Jerry Seinfeld Headed to Brisbane in 2024 as Part of Massive Australian Tour


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.

Published 10-August-2024

Beams Road Upgrade in Carseldine Prioritised in SEQ Level Crossing Program 2024

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.

Beams Road Carseldine
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

Future Outlook and Funding

The SEQ Level Crossing Program 2024 represents a significant step towards improving Queensland’s transport infrastructure.



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.

Published 5-Aug-2024