Headlined by controversial US media figure Tucker Carlson and Australian businessman Clive Palmer, the event on the 22nd of June 2024, promises to delve into perceived “threats to truth, democracy, and personal freedoms.”
Carlson, known for his outspoken views and dismissal of mainstream narratives, will be joined by filmmaker Dinesh D’Souza and Queensland GP Dr Melissa McCann. The conference is part of a larger tour across Australia, organised by Clive Palmer’s Mineralogy, and aims to spark a national conversation on the state of democracy and personal liberties.
Palmer has voiced his support for Carlson’s scepticism of Western media, echoing the sentiment that news coverage can be a “tool of repression and control.”. He believes that open dialogue and fearless truth-telling are essential for a functioning democracy.
Carlson, on his first visit to Australia, expressed his admiration for the country while also criticizing its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. He views the conference as an opportunity to connect with Australians who share his concerns about government overreach and the erosion of freedoms.
This conference follows a series of sold-out events featuring prominent COVID-19 doctors, also facilitated by Palmer. The businessman has been actively involved in challenging COVID-related mandates, notably funding a successful legal challenge against Queensland’s vaccination requirements for frontline workers.
The Australian Freedom Conference is expected to draw a diverse crowd, including supporters of Carlson and Palmer, as well as critics and curious onlookers. With its focus on controversial topics and high-profile speakers, the event is poised to generate significant debate and media attention.
Brighton foodie Emily Webster has secured the special role of ALDI Australia’s inaugural Chief Frozen Food Reviewer, a position that promises to bring her unique insights to frozen delights across the nation.
ALDI Australia revealed a new role that has food enthusiasts buzzing. Emily, known for her detailed reviews on social media, has been selected as ALDI’s first-ever Chief Frozen Food Reviewer. With this position, Emily will be privileged to taste and review new products before they are available to the public, offering her critiques in ALDI’s nationally circulated catalogue.
Social Media Star to Taste Maker
Emily’s path to this dream job began on social media, where her posts about ALDI’s frozen foods gained significant attention. She has previously reviewed 19 different ALDI ice creams and a variety of pizzas, providing thorough and engaging feedback that caught the eye of ALDI’s marketing team.
“I’m thrilled to be chosen as ALDI Australia’s first-ever Chief Frozen Food Reviewer! I’m so ALDIcore, so this is truly a dream come true,” Emily expressed in a video on Instagram and TikTok, which quickly amassed over 4,000 views.
As Chief Frozen Food Reviewer, Emily’s responsibilities include early product tasting and writing reviews for ALDI’s catalogue. Her insights are expected to guide shoppers through the often daunting task of choosing from ALDI’s extensive frozen section.
“Emily’s candid insights and genuine passion for ALDI’s frozen offerings captured our attention, and we’re really excited to welcome her as our first-ever Chief Frozen Food Reviewer,” An ALDI spokesperson commented on the appointment. “We think Emily’s reviews will be appreciated by other eager shoppers across the nation.”
What’s Next?
Before her column debuts, Emily has shared some of her current favourite freezer finds with the public, including the limited edition Farmwood Chipotle & Lime Chicken Crackles and the Health & Vitality Chinese Style Chicken and Cashew. Her role will officially begin with tasting these and other items, setting the stage for what promises to be a refreshing addition to ALDI’s customer communications.
Emily’s transition from a passionate food reviewer to an official role within ALDI underscores the impact of social media and the community’s role in shaping brand decisions, adding a personal touch to the corporate world of food retail.
Aspley Special School students have shown their boundless generosity and infectious enthusiasm by participating in the Dance for Sick Kids challenge, raising an impressive $1,055 to support young patients across the nation.
The school community came together to groove and move, showcasing their commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
Students and staff alike busted a move to raise money for Dance for Sick Kids, a national initiative supporting children’s hospitals all over Australia. Chesleigh H., a student, was in charge of the fundraising campaign. Chesleigh’s goal was to raise $320, but she exceeded her target by a considerable margin, demonstrating the incredible dedication of the Aspley community.
The funds raised will go towards providing vital resources and support for sick children and their families, ensuring they have access to the best possible care during challenging times.
The Dance for Sick Kids challenge not only provided an opportunity for students to have fun and express themselves through dance, but also instilled in them the importance of giving back to the community.
Aspley Special School principal, Mr Chesleigh Hargreaves, expressed immense pride in the students’ efforts, stating that their dedication to helping others was truly inspiring. The principal also highlighted the positive impact that the event had on the school community, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared purpose.
The success of the Dance for Sick Kids challenge at Aspley Special School is a testament to the power of community spirit and the unwavering determination of young people to make a difference in the world. Their efforts serve as a shining example for others to follow, proving that even the smallest actions can have a profound impact on the lives of those in need.
It was a seminal moment in Brisbane’s retail history; the chaotic day that transformed sleepy Aspley into an unlikely shopping battlefield. Nearly four decades later, memories of the unprecedented pandemonium on 7 November 1984, when the city’s first Pick ‘n Pay Hypermarket opened, remain vivid.
On that fateful day, a mammoth crowd of 25,000 frenzied shoppers descended, flooding Australia’s first-ever hypermarket in an unbelievable $1 million spending spree.
Imported from South Africa in a joint venture with JBL Investments, the 25,500 square metre megaplex was a revolutionary one-stop shop. It boasted a staggering 82% occupied by Pick ‘n Pay grocery aisles with 78 checkouts, complemented by 40 specialty stores and parking for 1,800 cars.
Photo Credit: Hypermarket Heroes
Yet despite its wildly successful Aspley debut, the hypermarket remained the only Pick ‘n Pay outpost in Australia. Union opposition to South Africa’s apartheid regime quashed plans for nine additional locations nationwide, including a second store in Melbourne.
To commemorate the opening, Pick ’n Pay annually hosted birthday parties for children born on the 7th of November, 1984, until 1995, when the brand was sold to Coles-Myer.
The property changed hands again in 2001, selling to You Feng for $62.65 million. In 2007, plans to rebrand it as a Coles SuperCentre were delayed due to the pending sale of the Coles Group. However, it ultimately transitioned into a Coles Supermarket and Kmart Discount Department Store by late 2012. An Aldi store also joined the complex around this time.
An Unlikely Retail Powerhouse
The hypermarket’s advent was merely the latest in a series of transformations for unassuming Aspley. From its agricultural roots providing Brisbane’s fresh produce, the suburb blossomed into an elite residential enclave in the 1960s.
Aspley’s evolution from rural hamlet to retail juggernaut was solidified in 2016 with a $50 million revamp. This welcomed Woolworths and Aldi into the now-renamed Aspley Hypermarket shopping center.
Unmatched Opening Day Pandemonium
While the suburban hub has continued its metamorphosis, nothing quite tops the unmatched pandemonium of that pioneering 1984 launch.
Photo Credit: Hypermarket Heroes
Reminiscing about the chaotic opening, longtime residents’ anecdotes paint a vivid picture:
“As kids, we used to sing: ‘Pick ‘n Pay Hypermarket, wipe your boogers on the carpet,'” DannyR from Reddit said.
For many, the hypermarket’s striking architecture is inextricably linked to childhood memories.
“So much of my childhood is wrapped up in that one photo,” Dryopithecinie said. “Was in a minor accident just behind this sign turning right up Maundrell Tce from Albany Creek Rd. Had a bank account at BoQ at Aspley Fountain top left. Still go to Fish On Line that now exists in place of that vacant lot that’s fenced off (right of Maccas sign). Had a few catchups with friends at the Coffee Club in the same lot. So many parties at the Aspley Maccas. Would buy Fags (not Fads!) at George’s which used to be in the shops to the left. Worked in a dodgy sports clothing store in the HyperHole. Went to primary school up the road.”
Shortly before the Pick n’ Pay shuttered permanently in late 2012, a modest memory board was put up near the service desk. The former center management graciously provided me with copies of these photographs shortly after the transition to a Coles and Kmart.
Whilst Aspley has emerged as an unlikely retail powerhouse, the pandemonium of that November day remains unmatched in Brisbane’s shopping folklore. It was a watershed moment that heralded a new era, cementing the hypermarket’s place in Australian purchasing patterns.
Carseldine Markets, North Brisbane’s premier farmers and artisan haven, is commemorating a decade of bringing the community together over scrumptious treats and an unparalleled market experience.
This Saturday, the 25th of May 2024, the vibrant market will host a grand birthday celebration, complete with live entertainment, delectable birthday cakes, and an array of festivities guaranteed to delight visitors of all ages.
The festivities will commence at 9:00 a.m. with an official cake-cutting ceremony, setting the stage for a day filled with joy and revelry.
Entertaining Extravaganza
The entertainment lineup promises to be a crowd-pleaser, featuring the infectious energy of the Obisun Band, finalists on “Australia’s Got Talent,” who will have the morning crowd dancing to their uplifting vibes.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Traditional Japanese drummers will add a touch of cultural flair, while jumping castles and competitions will keep the little ones enthralled.
“Roll out those picnic blankets because we are in for a morning of fun in the sun with live birthday entertainment for the whole family,” the organisers excitedly announced.
Photo Credit: Supplied
A Decade of Remarkable Achievements
As the Carseldine Markets commemorates its 10th anniversary, the impressive statistics paint a picture of a community-driven initiative that has flourished over the years. With 500 drool-worthy markets since it began, the venue has supported over 1,000 small businesses and hosted 31 events, including seven years of Barktoberfest and nine years of the Carseldine Christmas Twilight Markets.
The markets have welcomed an astonishing 3,500 furry visitors, over 300,000 customers, and facilitated the sale of 1 million kilos of fresh, local produce. Moreover, their commitment to sustainability has led to the saving of over 5,000 plastic bags and the staging of 700 live performances.
Photo Credit: Supplied
A Commitment to Giving Back
Beyond fostering a vibrant community hub, the Carseldine Markets have consistently dedicated their efforts to supporting various charitable causes. From raising funds for Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, the RSPCA, and the Aspley Care Winter Appeal, to supporting the Mater Chicks in Pink initiative, the market’s impact extends far beyond its physical boundaries.
As the Carseldine Markets celebrates this momentous occasion, visitors are invited to join in the festivities, indulge in farm-fresh produce, gourmet delights, and handmade treasures from over 130 vendors. With free parking, free entry, and an abundance of prizes and giveaways, including complimentary Carseldine Tote Bags for the first 30 visitors, this event is not to be missed.
Escape the ordinary and discover the hidden gem of Shorncliffe, a coastal paradise where natural wonders and culinary delights collide. This idyllic town offers a revitalising retreat for those seeking solace in the embrace of nature and the tantalising flavours of the region.
Shorncliffe’s iconic pier, built in 1882, quickly evolved from a transport hub into a beloved recreational spot. Locals and tourists flocked to the pier for strolls, fishing, and sea baths in segregated swimming areas. In the 1930s, a shark-proof enclosure was added, proving its worth in 1948 when a large shark was caught, captivating onlookers.
By the mid-1950s, the pier became the starting point for the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race, a tradition that continues today. The Shorncliffe Pier remains a popular destination, offering a picturesque setting for walks, fishing, and stunning views of Moreton Bay.
A Dawn Chorus at Shorncliffe Pier
Early birds are rewarded with a spectacular sunrise symphony over the bay, painting the sky in a vibrant tapestry of colours. Wrap your hands around a steaming cuppa from local favourites like The Wired Owl or Cocoa Biscotti, and find your perch on Shorncliffe Pier for an unforgettable morning spectacle.
Adventure Awaits: Kayak, Kitesurf and Canine Capers
As daylight floods the landscape, embrace the call of adventure. Glide across the glistening waters on a kayak or harness the wind’s power with a kitesurfing lesson from the experts at Surf Connect. Even furry friends can join in the fun, with a dedicated off-leash dog beach ensuring everyone has a tail-wagging good time.
Neighbours Sites Around Shornecliffe
Hop on a bicycle and embark on a scenic journey along the scenic boardwalk that connects Shorncliffe with neighbouring Brighton and Sandgate. Along the way, a plethora of culinary delights tempt the taste buds.
Baaia: Indulge in a locally-sourced brunch feast, with seasonal dishes like harissa sweet potato hash cakes and pork belly eggs benedict.
From thrilling water sports to delectable dining experiences, Shorncliffe offers a delightful coastal escape that caters to every taste and temperament. Whether you’re chasing the sunrise, conquering the waves, or simply savouring the flavours of the region, Shorncliffe promises an unforgettable day trip filled with sunshine, smiles, and satisfying sensations.
Aspley residents may remember a time when the hum of engines and the crackling of speakers filled the night air on Albany Creek Road. That era belonged to the Starlight Drive-In Theatre, a beloved entertainment hub that merged cinema and community across the suburb’s nightscape for over four decades.
Opened in 1957 by the Sourris Brothers in Aspley, the Starlight Drive-In originally accommodated 359 cars, offering moviegoers a unique under-the-stars cinematic experience. Under the subsequent ownership of Birch Carroll & Coyle, a prominent Australian cinema chain, the drive-in flourished, adding a second screen in 1969 to become the Starlight Twin Drive-In and expanding its capacity to 650 cars by 1981.
For years, the Starlight Twin Drive-In served as a social gathering spot, a family outing destination, and a cherished part of Aspley’s cultural landscape. It was known for its double features, playground for children, and a popular snack bar that offered classic drive-in fare.
However, the curtain fell abruptly on the Starlight Twin Drive-In in 2001 under circumstances that remain unclear. While reasons such as declining attendance due to the rise of multiplex cinemas and video rentals were speculated, the sudden closure sparked public outcry and even made headlines, highlighting the community’s attachment to this iconic landmark.
Today, the site of the former drive-in is home to residential housing. While the drive-in’s physical presence is gone, its memory lives on in the hearts of those who experienced the magic of outdoor cinema under the Aspley night sky, and it remains a nostalgic symbol of a bygone era in Brisbane’s entertainment history.
The Starlight Drive-In may have vanished from the physical landscape of Aspley, but its legacy as a community landmark and cultural icon will not be forgotten. As new residents make their homes on the former drive-in site, they become part of a story that intertwines cinema, community, and the ever-evolving nature of urban development.
The Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) in Carseldine has dismantled a significant drug operation in northern Brisbane, seizing illicit substances worth over $2.5 million and arresting five individuals.
Key drug trafficking organisations for methylamphetamine, GHB, and firearms were the focus of Operation Victor Ludacris, a seven-month investigation by Carseldine CIB with assistance from the Synthetic Drug Operations Unit and the Australian Border Force (ABF).
The operation involved 14 search warrants across the North Brisbane region, uncovering a large-scale drug laboratory and resulting in the seizure of a vast array of illegal drugs, including 450 kilogrammes of GHB, 168 litres of 1-4 butanediol, 84 litres of hypophosphorous acid, 2.75 kilogrammes of MDMA, and 300 grammes of methylamphetamine.
The police also confiscated $100,000 in cash, commercial-grade drug manufacturing equipment, and precursor chemicals with the potential to yield over 70 kilogrammes of methylamphetamine.
Additionally, three firearms, three remote improvised explosive devices, and 30 kilogrammes of assorted ammunition were recovered during the raids.
Since December 2023, five individuals have been apprehended and face a total of 74 charges. These charges include trafficking in dangerous drugs, unlawful possession of weapons, unlawful dealing with explosives, conspiracy to commit crime, and receiving property obtained from trafficking. All five individuals are currently in custody, awaiting court appearances.
Detective Inspector Ken Rogers emphasised the operation’s success in disrupting drug distribution networks and removing dangerous substances from the community.
He stated that illicit drugs have a devastating impact on lives and their removal contributes to reducing drug-related violence and overdoses. Rogers assured the public that the police remain committed to targeting criminal syndicates and ensuring the safety of the community.
Investigations are ongoing, with further arrests anticipated. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact Policelink or Crime Stoppers.
Did you know Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall will host the Professional Bull Riders PBR Monster Energy Tour – Origin I, featuring a thrilling head-to-head showdown between the Maroons and Blues, a highlight of Australia’s sporting calendar?
The Brisbane Entertainment Centre, located at Melaleuca Drive in Boondall, will open its doors for the event with a special “VIP On The Dirt” session on the 8th of June 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 5:45 p.m., exclusively for VIP ticket holders.
The main event will kick off at 7:00 p.m. and is expected to conclude around 10:00 p.m.
VIP Experience and Prohibited Items
VIP ticket holders will enjoy a unique “Dirt Experience,” including an exclusive meet-and-greet with champion riders and protection athletes, a Q&A session, and opportunities for autographs and photos with the PBR’s all-star bulls.
Attendees are reminded that DSLR cameras, outside food and beverages, umbrellas, alcohol, chairs, and large coolers (YETIs/Eskies) are prohibited at the venue.
Background of PBR Australia
Founded in 2005, PBR Australia has developed bull riding as a stand-alone sport. Led by 1998 PBR World Champion Troy Dunn and his wife Jackie, the organisation runs about 20 sanctioned events annually across the country.
The bull rider who earns the most money throughout the season will be crowned the PBR Australia National Champion. Moreover, the top-ranked rider qualifies to represent Australia at the PBR Built Ford Tough World Finals.
Photo Credit: PBR Australa
Since its inception in 1992 by 20 bull riders, PBR has expanded globally, opening offices in Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and Australia, and launching major events in these regions. With over 1,200 members worldwide, PBR offers a lucrative career pathway for bull riders, with annual competitions including the prestigious PBR World Finals in Las Vegas.
In a heartwarming celebration of faith and community, the parishioners of the Church of Our Lady and St Dympna in Aspley recently marked a significant milestone – the golden jubilee of their beloved church.
The occasion was graced by the presence of Brisbane Archbishop Mark Coleridge, who joined the festivities and blessed the newly unveiled Golden Jubilee Prayer Garden.
The church, which has stood as a beacon of hope and spiritual nourishment for the Aspley community for the past 50 years, was dedicated in the same year that Archbishop Coleridge was ordained. This serendipitous coincidence added an extra layer of significance to the celebrations, as Archbishop Coleridge himself celebrated his own 50-year anniversary of ordination on May 18.
Photo credit: K Vau/Google Maps
During the Mass, Archbishop Coleridge reflected on the profound journey of the Church of Our Lady and St Dympna, emphasising that a church is much more than just a physical structure.
“We’re not just celebrating a building, bricks and mortar,” he said. “It is a spiritual space where God chooses to take flesh, in a most mysterious and wonderful way.”
After the Mass, Archbishop Coleridge and parish priest Fr Biju Thomas unveiled the Golden Jubilee Prayer Garden, a serene sanctuary designed by the parishioners as a place of peace and a symbol of their gratitude and dedication. The garden’s blessing by the Archbishop was a poignant moment, further consecrating the space as a haven for spiritual reflection and communion.
Photo credit: Judeji/Google Maps
The Aspley church’s golden jubilee celebration is just one of many milestones being observed by the Brisbane Archdiocese this year. In addition to Archbishop Coleridge’s own golden jubilee, the archdiocese is also commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Cathedral of St Stephen, a landmark that has stood at the heart of Brisbane’s CBD for over a century and a half.
As the Aspley community basks in the glow of this momentous occasion, the Church of Our Lady and St Dympna stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith, the strength of community, and the resilience of a spiritual refuge that has welcomed generations of worshippers through its doors.
