In what can only be described as a full circle moment, global superstar Niall Horan is making his way back to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall as part of his massive 2024 ‘The Show’ world tour.Did you know that Niall got his first taste of superstardom performing in Boondall with the beloved boy band one Direction before he launched his career as a solo artist and performed in the same venue as part of his Flicker World Tour?
The Irish singer-songwriter will be gracing the stage at the iconic venue once again in April, treating his Brisbane fans to what promises to be another unforgettable experience.
Photo credit: Niall Horan/Instagram
With overwhelming demand during pre-sales, the “Nice To Meet Ya” hitmaker has already added a second show in Melbourne at Rod Laver Arena on May 4th to his rapidly growing tour schedule.
Photo credit: Niall Horan/Instagram
Horan’s third studio effort ‘The Show’ has continued his streak of incredible success following his platinum-selling debut ‘Flicker’ in 2017.
Born out of the reflective downtime afforded by the pandemic, the album captures a mix of emotions through Horan’s signature blend of pop, rock, and folk. Led by infectious singles like “Heaven” and “Meltdown,” it’s set to provide the perfect soundtrack for his long-awaited return to Australian shores.
Photo credit: Niall Horan/Instagram
Niall Horan has repeatedly gushed that the times he’s spent touring in Australia and New Zealand were among the best periods of his life. The singer shared that he’s had amazing shows in these countries and cannot wait to return for his 2024 tour dates.
Having sold over 80 million records as part of the juggernaut that was One Direction, Horan’s name is permanently etched in pop culture history. With ‘The Show,’ he embarks on the next chapter as a solo powerhouse, ready to deliver an evening of surprises, laughter, and connection that his fans won’t soon forget.
Don’t miss your chance to witness Horan’s triumphant return on 28 April when he brings ‘The Show’ to Boondall in 2024!
Strathpine doctor Rebecca Langdon, known as “Bec the Boob,” joins Australian boxing legend Jeff Horn in the fight against breast cancer on International Women’s Day Fun Run in Brisbane.
Held on 10 March 2024, the fun run promises to be the largest ever, with a record 23,000 participants flooding the streets of Brisbane’s inner cities in a Sea of Pink.
Bec the Boob: A Symbol of Courage and Resilience
Among the sea of runners in Brisbane will be Dr Langdon who was nicknamed “Bec the Boob” because she runs clad in a giant inflatable breast costume. This year marks her sixth year participating in the event.
Photo Credit: Supplied
The Strathpine doctor finds solace in humour amidst the seriousness of cancer, acknowledging the role her participation plays in honouring the memory of her friend Tara Simmons and other women affected by breast cancer.
Reflecting on Tara’s journey with stage three multifocal ductal carcinoma, Dr Langdon underscores the aggressive nature of triple-negative breast cancer and the limited treatment options available.
Despite Tara’s passing shortly before her 35th birthday in 2019, Dr Langdon draws inspiration from researchers, medical professionals, and donors dedicated to advancing breast cancer treatment and care. She emphasises the significance of research funding in uncovering new treatment avenues and saving lives.
Queenslanders Rally Behind the Cause
Mater Foundation has expanded the event’s capacity to accommodate the unprecedented demand for the International Women’s Day fun run, increasing from 20,000 to 23,000 runners. Despite the additional 3,000 places, the iconic 5km fun run sold out in 25 days.
With less than a week left, Horn urges Queenslanders to join or create “virtual” fun runs in their communities, allowing participants to walk, jog, or run 5km at their convenience between 3 to 10 March 2024.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Horn, a father of three daughters, expresses his solidarity with women facing breast cancer, emphasising the importance of raising awareness and funds for the cause. Funds from the event will support breast cancer research, services, and patient care across Mater hospitals in Queensland.
Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas commends the overwhelming support for the virtual challenge, with thousands of Queenslanders already participating.
As anticipation builds for the largest Women’s Day Fun Run, Thomas encourages individuals across Queensland to register online for a fun run in their local community.
Teams are forming, ranging from families and friends to work colleagues and even pets, embracing diverse settings for their runs, whether in local parks, along coastlines or on treadmills. The spirit of unity and determination underscores Queensland’s commitment to combating breast cancer.
After captivating audiences for over four decades with their glorious tenor voices, José Carreras and Plácido Domingo are reuniting once more for a special Australian tour this March.
Two of The Three Tenors will take to the stage at Brisbane Entertainment Centre on March 13, treating fans to a night of iconic arias, Broadway hits, and Neapolitan classics.
Carreras and Domingo’s storied careers have cemented them as opera royalty. Whilst both have shone brightly in solo endeavours since their days in The Three Tenors, this joint concert tour marks a long-awaited reunion for the Spanish vocalists.
Photo credit: José Carreras/Instagram
Audiences can expect emotional intensity and vocal brilliance as the operatic giants perform beloved duets and soaring solo numbers backed by a 55-piece orchestra.
Under the masterful baton of Maestro David Giménez, the tenors will be joined by a renowned Australian soprano. Together, these world-class voices will fill the concert hall with passion, artistry, and some of the most quintessential pieces in the opera canon.
Photo credit: Plácido Domingo/Instagram
From the drama of “Nessun Dorma” to the romance of “O Sole Mio,” fans are sure to be moved by the Musical Legends as they weave operatic magic.
Nearly four decades since they first shared the stage, the return of José Carreras and Plácido Domingo promises an evening of exhilaration.
The pair expressed excitement for the chance to perform together again after so many years. Domingo conveyed great happiness to be returning to Australia, whilst Carreras stated confidence that their joint concerts across Australian cities will be thoroughly enjoyable.
Their timeless talent and peerless showmanship will sweep audiences away on a musical journey to be cherished long after the final curtains fall. Don’t miss these living legends when they bring their unmatched artistry at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre this March.
Through Officeworks Aspley and Virginia, the Aspley community has raised over $19,800 to aid 29 children grappling with the repercussions of poverty, significantly contributing to the educational assistance provided by the charitable organisation, The Smith Family.
From 26 December 2023 to 11 February 2024, Officeworks Aspley emerged as a leading force, generating over $10,000 in donations, with Officeworks Virginia closely following suit with over $9,800.
The funds amassed through the fundraising endeavour will be channelled into The Smith Family’s Learning for Life sponsorship program to support 2,000 children and families impacted by poverty. The money will cover crucial school expenses such as uniforms, books, and excursions whilst also offering vital personal support and additional educational programs to foster sustained student engagement and connectivity to learning.
Photo Credit: The Smith Family/Facebook
In a statement expressing gratitude, The Smith Family CEO Doug Taylor commended the support from Officeworks, its dedicated customers, and team members, emphasising the collective effort in empowering young Australians with educational opportunities.
“We are so grateful for the ongoing support of Officeworks, their generous customers and passionate team members, who have come together to support young Australians with their education,” Mr Taylor said.
“When young people start school without the essentials they need to keep up with their peers, they risk falling behind and disengaging from their learning. With this long term, wrap-around support, even more students will be able to stay engaged at school and make the very most of their education.”
David Matthias, Officeworks Aspley Store Business Manager, conveyed immense pride in the community’s generosity.
“Alongside Officeworks Virginia, we are so proud to have raised more than $19,800 for The Smith Family thanks to the support and generosity of our community. We would like to thank each and every customer and team member who contributed to this year’s appeal and supported The Smith Family’s Learning for Life sponsorship program and the vital work it does in enabling all Aussie children to have fair access to education.”
The Back to School Appeal mirrors Officeworks’ People and Planet Positive commitment to support 30,000 students by 2025. With a track record exceeding expectations, Officeworks has revised its goal to support 60,000 students by 2025.
Who would have thought that Australia, a country the Jonas Brothers have never even performed in, once played an important role in the band getting back together, after their abrupt split in 2013? The stage is now set for ‘The Tour,’ beginning with a much-awaited show at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
The Jonas Brothers—Nick Jonas, Joe Jonas, and Kevin Jonas— are one of the 21st century’s commercial successes. Having sold well over 20 million albums so far, they have received two Grammy Award nominations, delivered 26 Billboard Hot 100 hit songs and three consecutive #1 debuts on the Billboard 200, and dominated the ether with billions of streams.
In a 2019 interview, the beloved 2000s boy band revealed there connection with Australia, when they revealed that it was Joe Jonas’ stint living Down Under that helped them get back together.
Whilst in Australia in 2018, Joe Jonas was living in Sydney and soaking up the Bondi Beach lifestyle whilst being a coach on The Voice Australia.
Photo credit: Joe Jonas/Facebook
During this transitional time in his life, he reconnected with oldest brother Kevin to have a heart-to-heart about the state of their relationship and the possibility of reviving the Jonas Brothers.
As Joe revealed in one interview, they had a conversation, as brothers, to start doing it again. Though the brothers had grown apart for around six years and wanted to pursue solo careers, they realised what they could accomplish together.
Photo credit: Joe Jonas/Facebook
The country holds a special place in the Jonas Brothers’ journey, since it was the backdrop for the fateful brotherly conversation that led the group to announce their long-awaited reunion that same year.
The Jonas Brothers formed in 2005 and became an international sensation in just a couple of years. But the stresses of fame, creative differences, and a demanding schedule led them to suddenly cancel their 2013 tour and announce the band’s breakup.
However, Australia brought them back together at just the right time. Joe’s stint on The Voice allowed him to take a break and gain perspective. A simple brotherly chat made them realise what they had missed over the past years.
Now, over ten years since they stunned fans by calling it quits then reuniting years later, the Jonas Brothers have shown that their bond is an unbreakable force. They embarked on an exciting new chapter in 2023 with the release of The Album, their sixth studio album as a trio.
Photo credit: Joe Jonas/Facebook
To celebrate this latest music and their renewed brotherhood, the Jonas Brothers have now embarked on “The Tour” in support of the album.
With upcoming stops across North America, Europe, and their first ever concerts in Australia and New Zealand, the brothers are proving that this comeback is no short-lived nostalgia act, they are here to stay this time.
The band’s highly-anticipated fifth studio album “Where The Light Goes” dropped last May, giving fans 11 years worth of pent-up Matchbox melodies and lead singer Rob Thomas’ signature vocals.
To celebrate the new album, Matchbox Twenty is embarking on a 10-date sold-out Australian tour in 2024. Brisbane is a lucky stop, with the band returning to rock out the Brisbane Entertainment Centre 12 years after their last visit.
Back in 2012, the band performed in Brisbane as part of their massive North Tour. The American pop rock band visited the city on October 27 and 28 during the tour’s fifth leg, which spanned four continents over 60 shows and raked in $4.9 million from just 40 of those performances. Matchbox Twenty’s 2012 North Tour marked a triumphant journey across Australia, the Americas, Europe and Asia over the course of a year.
Now, more than a decade later, the band is eager to return to the familiar Brisbane Entertainment Centre stage and reconnect with fans.
Fans can expect to hear fresh tracks off “Where The Light Goes” mixed in with classics like “3AM” and “Back 2 Good.”
The setlist will also include “Bent,” the breakout first single from Matchbox Twenty’s multi-platinum album Mad Season. This powerful rock ballad became Matchbox Twenty’s biggest hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
In an interview, Thomas noted that “Bent” was his first intentional love song, centering on two flawed individuals who can’t fix each other’s problems but find a way to make the relationship work. Though their issues remain challenging, they get through it together.
Thomas teased that the new album captures the band’s upbeat, optimistic sound, avoiding any cynical or depressive tunes, given that they had just come out of a period of uncertainty over the last three years prior.
Joining them are special guests Goo Goo Dolls, who kicked off the shows with Matchbox Twenty earlier this month in Perth.
If the Perth show is any indication, Brisbane is in for an incredible night of rocking new tunes and matchbox classics. Thomas expressed his excitement to see fans’ faces again, saying it had been too long since their last Australian tour.
With a veteran band back in town and a venue full of eager fans ready to sing along, Matchbox Twenty’s 2024 Brisbane show is poised for a triumphant return.
Residents of a retirement village on Albany Creek Road in Aspley were shocked to discover that intruders had unlawfully entered their premises, making off with a vehicle that also contained a crucial mobility aid.
On the evening of 20 February 2024, the perpetrators allegedly pilfered keys and a wallet before leaving with a significant haul: a 2023 white Renault Koleos vehicle, bearing Queensland registration plate 031IC7.
Adding to the distressing ordeal, the stolen vehicle had a wheelchair valued at approximately $3,500. The callous theft had not only deprived the residents of their means of transportation but also compromised the mobility and independence of an individual reliant on a wheelchair.
Theft Incident and Allegations
The incident, occurring under the veil of night, brought unwelcome disruption and anxiety to the peaceful retirement community of Aspley. The stolen properties represented material losses and profound impacts on the victims’ daily lives.
In the early hours of the following morning, the stolen Renault Koleos was spotted in troubling company – alongside another stolen vehicle, a white 2016 Hyundai Accent (registered as QLD: 792WXW). It appears that the stolen vehicles are linked to a brazen Enter with Intent offence at a service station in Murrumba Downs.
Photo Credit: QPS
Appeal for Assistance
Faced with this breach of security and welfare, law enforcement authorities urgently appealed to the community for assistance. The public’s cooperation in locating the stolen vehicles and the missing wheelchairs has been instrumental in restoring the affected residents’ sense of safety and normalcy.
Call 131 444 or 1800 333 000 to report suspicious activities or have seen the stolen cars. When reporting to the police, provide these references QP2400301042, QP2400301126, QP2400301205.
The police also issued practical advice to mitigate the risk of future incidents:
If you have off-street parking, use it. If possible, park behind locked gates or in a locked garage. Parking on the street greatly increases the risk of theft.
Remove temptation – always lock doors and close windows when your vehicle is unattended.
If you must leave valuables in your motor vehicle keep them out of sight.
For maximum protection, an engine immobiliser that meets Australian Standard 4601:1999 provides the most effective deterrent to opportunistic vehicle theft. However, it offers no protection if a thief has easy access to your car keys.
The reigning premier Aspley Hornets will seek to claim their third consecutive flag as the 2024 Queensland Australian Football League (QAFL) season takes off. Aspley will open their title defence campaign by hosting Broadbeach in the opening round on April 6.
Aspley Hornets early title rematch against the Sharks
After the opening round, the Hornets will then face the Redland-Victoria Point Sharks at home ground on April 13 in a rematch of last year’s Grand Final.
Other key dates on Aspley’s calendar include the trip to the Powenyenna Oval to take on the Magpies on April 27 for the ANZAC Round, an early mid-season bye to accommodate Queensland’s state game against Tasmania on June 22, and the away leg against Broadbeach on July 13 for Pride Round celebrating LGBTQI+ inclusion.
Hornets seeking further glory
The Hornets will be hunting back-to-back-to-back premierships in 2024 on the back of an outstanding title defence last year.
According to QAFL Competition Manager Mitchell Simpson, the league is shaping up for an even more competitive year thanks to high-profile recruitment like ex-Brisbane Lions Rhys Mathieson (Wilston Grange) and Daniel Rich (Noosa), as well as former AFL talents Nakia Cockatoo, Aaron Hall and Tom Hickey also entering the competition.
While the QAFL’s offseason arms race has improved the competition across the board, the steady Aspley Hornets remain well poised to contend again in 2024 after finding the right balance to break through for their repeat last season. Between seasoned veterans and exciting youth, Aspley’s chemistry and cohesion make them the team to beat yet again.
Plans have been approved for the redevelopment of an existing commercial building in Aspley, which will incorporate a new fast food outlet with a drive-thru and outdoor dining area.
The development application was lodged in late 2023 and the decision to approve the plans was handed down in January 2024. The proposal will reconfigure the current building layout to integrate a fast food restaurant and retail store at 1289 Gympie Road.
The building design by architecture firm V Architecture includes additional wood finish cladding and elements to promote a high-quality customer experience, according to the application.
Artist’s impression of the approved drive-thru (Photo credit: V Architecture)
Whilst some neighbouring locals raised concerns about potential increases in noise and pollution from a 24/7 fast food drive-thru, the application was ultimately given the green light.
Plans (Photo credit: V Architecture)
The layout facilitates an improved drive-thru area, indoor dining space and 44 parking spots. Part of the existing building will be demolished to allow for the changes.
In total, there will be 117 sqm of retail space and 245 sqm for the fast food outlet. New signage, landscaping, and pedestrian access from Gympie Rd were also included in the plans.
Photo credit: V Architecture
Planners stated that “the development adopts a human scale with the pedestrian access accented by low level landscaping with an awning extended over the shop fronts”. It said the venue “will continue to deliver a layout that accommodates both a fast-food restaurant and a retail/shop establishment.”
The operating hours for the recently approved fast food outlet along Gympie Rd, Aspley are set at 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Construction is expected to begin soon.
The world of magic is about to get even more spellbinding as Bridgeman Downs’ magician extraordinaire, Josh Norbido, known for his awe-inspiring card mastery and mesmerising performances, headlines the cast of Brisbane’s Theatre of Magic in their new home in the city.
Mr Norbido, affectionately referred to as “Hot Magic Josh” by Nicole Scherzinger during his remarkable run as a semi-finalist on “Australia’s Got Talent,” is set to bring his unparalleled talents to Theatre of Magic. His technical finesse with a deck of cards has left audiences and industry veterans alike in awe, earning him accolades and opportunities beyond the stage.
In this exciting venture, Mr Norbido joins the ranks of master magician Christopher Wayne and the exceptional entertainer Kerry “Nigel” Domann. This trio of magical talent is poised to take Brisbane by storm, promising an unforgettable theatrical experience that will captivate hearts and minds.
The Magic Unveiled
The Theatre of Magic, the brainchild of Mr Wayne, has secured a stunning permanent home in The Map Room at The Treasury Hotel. This historic venue will serve as the backdrop for their world-class performances, delivering an elegant evening of magic that is both intimate and mesmerizing.
Photo Credit: Josh Norbido/YouTube
“What started as a 12-week experiment turned into four months of sold-out shows, every single weekend! And now we have a stunning permanent home in The Map Room at The Treasury Hotel; it’s perfect given its heritage and history,” Mr Wayne said.
“Brisbane has nothing like this. It has never had anything like this. We have found a way to bring magic to audiences in an intimate setting, in one of the most beautiful and aged buildings in the entire city.”
Top 10 with Christopher Wayne
Comedy Magician and producer Christopher Wayne is the co-creator and co-star of the biggest Australian magic show in history, The Naked Magicians, as well as creator of the family magic spectacular Showmen. He’s performed on Broadway, in Vegas and London’s West End, and, well, over 300 cities around the world! His passion is creating original, commercial entertainment for families that contains no deep messages or themes, just pure entertainment at a time when we all need it. Brisbane, this one’s for you!
Name and suburb: Christopher Wayne, Newstead
What’s your first memory of Magic? My first memory is so stereotypical, but it was my Grandfather showing me the cheesiest, most “Grandad” Magic tricks ever. It changed my life.
What’s your go-to Magic moment/trick/illusion? Any moment that makes people forget about the “now”.
Who’s your Magic inspiration? David Copperfield is my biggest inspiration. He was the person that showed the world that magic was more than just “tricks”, and that you can illicit emotions in people through the artform.
Why do think people love Magic? We live in a world where the answers to literally everything are in our hands, in our phones. Magic is one of the few things that comes without logic or explanation. It’s fantasy, but it’s fantasy happening right in front of your own eyes.
Fave animal, food, drink? Monkeys, Thai food. Smokey Whiskey. (Not at the same time, ever.)
Most embarrassing moment? Dislocating my knee on stage in The Naked Magicians. Nightmare fuel.
What would you be doing if you weren’t a world famous magician? I would be a theatre producer. It’s close to what I do now, but I am driven by the experience of strangers in a room enjoying live theatre.
In three words, what can audiences expect in Theatre of Magic: Cocktails. Magic. Memories.
What makes you excited about Theatre of Magic in Brisbane: Brisbane hasn’t got anything like this. It has never had anything like this. We have found a way to bring magic to you in an intimate setting, in one of the most beautiful and aged buildings in the entire city!
Top 10 With Josh Norbido
There’s the Nicole Scherzinger comment, and Chef Manu Feildel agreed, saying, ‘what you do is impossible and it’s the best magic I have ever seen!’ There’s more…. his technical skill with a deck of cards landed him as a consultant for Australian Academy Award winner Kate Blanchett in lead up to her role in Oceans 8, and as the lead Card Shuffling consultant on Russel Crowe’s 2022 movie “Poker Face.”
Name and suburb: Joshua Norbido, Bridgeman Downs
What’s your first memory of Magic? My first ever memory of Magic was witnessing a thumb being pulled off at the age of six. It was mind blowing.
What’s your go-to Magic Moment? It’s always the Magic that happens in the spectator’s very own hands.
Who’s your Magic inspiration? David Blaine, Asi Wind, Steve Cohen and David Stone from France.
Why do think people love Magic? I think the older we get, the less Magical the world becomes. Magic is one of the few things left that can still give people the true feeling of wonder.
Most embarrassing moment? Being on stage and having a raw egg break in my jacket pocket with 40 minutes of the show still to go.
What would you be doing if you weren’t a world famous magician? I have a love for fitness so I feel like I would have become a very quirky personal trainer haha.
In three words, what can audiences expect in Theatre of Magic: Surprise, Happiness, Laughter.
What makes you excited about Theatre of Magic: This format of Magic does not exist anywhere else in Queensland, so being able to bring this to the city I have grown up in is a dream come true!
Top 10 with Kerry “Nigel” Domann
He’s an exceptional entertainer who has captivated audiences around the world with his unique blend of magic, comedy, charm and memory. His natural talent for making people laugh and his love for magic make him perfect for the Theatre of Magic. Nigel’s ability to engage and connect with his audience is unparalleled, but what sets him apart is his ability to remember everyone’s name in the room, a feat that is not only incredibly difficult to achieve, but mind blowing and unforgettable to witness.
Name, and suburb you live: Nigel, Birkdale
What’s your first memory of Magic? Watching Paul Daniel (British magician) on TV.
What’s your go-to Magic moment? Names, I go around and memorise everyone’s name in the audience.
Who’s your Magic inspiration? Tommy Copper and Harry Andersen.
Why do think people love Magic? It’s simple – for the wonder.
Fave animal, food, drink? Staffy dog named Leroy. Chocolate. Gin & Tonic.
Most embarrassing moment? There’s so many. On my first night ever doing standup at a crazy comedy magic restaurant many years ago nobody applauded or laughed for a solid 10 minutes. I walked off the stage totally gutted only to do it all over again in the next night, and the next, and the next….
What would you be doing if you weren’t a world famous Magician? Qualitative Analyst, I’m a Math and I actually have three degrees!
In three words, what can audiences expect in Theatre of Magic: An unforgettable experience.
What makes you excited about Theatre of Magic in Brisbane? There’s a seamless combination of stunning magic, mind-bending tricks, and sheer amazement that immerses the audience into a world of wonder and excitement. We’ve built anticipation throughout the whole show, we want audiences on the audience on the edges of their seats.
The Theatre of Magic promises Brisbane an evening filled with elegance, wonder, and laughter. Audiences can anticipate a cocktail of surprise, happiness, and laughter, all seamlessly woven into a night they won’t soon forget. With its blend of history, heritage, and the mystique of magic, this new venture offers patrons a truly magical night out.
For those eager to experience this enchanting journey, tickets and more information are available on the official website: Brisbane’s Theatre of Magic.
