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Aspley Hornets Buzzing with Optimism Ahead of 2024 QAFLW Season

The Aspley Hornets are riding a wave of momentum as they prepare for the 2024 QAFLW season. The club’s remarkable transformation from winless in 2020 to grand finalists in 2023 has left the entire Aspley community buzzing with excitement and optimism.

Read: SZA Brings Her Chart-Topping Hits to Brisbane’s Stage

Raising the bar

Head coach Luke Glacken is not resting on the laurels of the team’s impressive 2023 campaign. “We’re not happy with just making it to the grand final,” Glacken states firmly. “It was a great achievement to look back on, but it’s definitely not where the story stops.”

The preseason has been intense, with Glacken and his staff setting higher standards for the playing group. The 65-strong squad, all hungry to make their mark on the competition, embraced the pressure to perform.

Squad revamp ahead of the 2024 QAFLW Season

While the Hornets have lost key players during the offseason, they have bolstered their ranks with an influx of 24 new faces.

Headlining the recruits is QFAW Div 1 superstar Jessica Davy, fresh off a premiership-winning campaign with Moreton Bay Lions. Former AFLW players Tiarna Ernst and Kitara Whap-Farrar add experience to the defensive and forward lines, respectively. Jasmine Kawa’s return to her former club provides maturity in the midfield, while Isabella McDonough is another exciting young talent expected to make an impact.

The Hornets have also undergone a change in leadership, with Courtney Daniec stepping into the Vice-Captain role and Emma Pittman taking over as Captain.

Read: Riverdance Marks 25 Years with Breathtaking Production in Brisbane

While external noise surrounds the Hornets’ chances of making another grand final appearance, the team is focused on blocking out distractions and concentrating on continuous improvement throughout the program.

Published 23-March-2024

SZA Brings Her Chart-Topping Hits to the Stage at Brisbane Entertainment Centre

SZA is set to dazzle fans at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall, marking a highly anticipated Australian stop on her global SOS world tour.

Read: Riverdance Marks 25 Years with Breathtaking Production in Brisbane

Following her triumphant win at the 2024 GRAMMYs, where she secured three awards including Best Urban Contemporary Album and Best R&B Song, SZA is bringing the momentum of her critically acclaimed sophomore album, SOS, to Australia. The success of SOS not only cements her status as a music icon but also sets the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable live performance in Brisbane this April, as part of her electrifying world tour.

Having already captivated audiences across North America earlier this year, SZA’s SOS tour stops in Brisbane are sure to be must-see events. The trailblazing artist has been delivering unforgettable performances night after night, treating fans to a stellar setlist spanning her illustrious catalogue.

Fans can expect to be serenaded by SZA’s iconic hits like “Love Galore,” “The Weekend,” and the inescapable “Kill Bill,” as well as songs from her record-breaking SOS album. The album made history as the album with the largest streaming week ever for an R&B release in the US and spent an impressive 10 non-consecutive weeks atop the Billboard 200 chart.

SZA first made her mark on the Billboard charts in 2014 when her EP ‘Z’ peaked at No. 39 on the Billboard 200 album chart. Her debut full-length studio album ‘Ctrl’ arrived in 2017 and performed even better, reaching No. 3.

The single “Love Galore” featuring Travis Scott became her first song to chart on the Hot 100, peaking at No. 32. Her sophomore album ‘SOS’ was a massive success, spending an impressive 10 weeks atop the Billboard 200 chart. It spawned multiple No. 1 hit songs like “Kill Bill” and “Used” with Don Toliver. SZA has collaborated with artists across various genres, including Justin Timberlake, Drake, Phoebe Bridgers, Lizzo, and Maroon 5.

She has received numerous Grammy nominations for categories like Best New Artist, Best Urban Contemporary Album for ‘Ctrl’, and Record and Song of the Year for “All the Stars”.

She took home the Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance alongside Doja Cat for “Kiss Me More”. In recognition of her achievements, SZA was named Billboard’s Woman of the Year in 2023.

With a string of surprise guest appearances from the likes of Phoebe Bridgers, Cardi B, and Lizzo on the first leg, Brisbane audiences will be eagerly anticipating who might join SZA on stage for these very special homecoming shows.

Having marked her debut arena tour, the SOS tour has firmly cemented SZA’s ascension to music’s biggest stages. Don’t miss your chance to witness this generational talent when she brings her tour de force to Brisbane on April 19-20.

Read: Monster Truck Mania Live Rolls Into Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Visit Live Nation Australia to buy tickets for the SOS tour.

Published 19-March-2024

Riverdance Marks 25 Years with Breathtaking Production in Brisbane

After dazzling audiences around the globe for 25 years, the iconic Riverdance phenomenon is making a triumphant return to Brisbane in a spectacular reinvented form.

Read: Marvel Universe LIVE! Lands in Brisbane with Legendary Superhero Battle

Presented by TEG DAINTY and TEG Van Egmond, the 25th Anniversary production of Riverdance will grace the stage of the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on April 10 and 11, promising an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages.

Riverdance has captivated audiences worldwide with its electrifying fusion of Irish and international dance, music, and breathtaking visuals. This latest iteration promises to take that magic to new heights, with a powerful and stirring reimagining by producer Moya Doherty and director John McColgan.

Prepare to be swept away by innovative and spectacular lighting, video, stage, and costume designs that will elevate the show’s already iconic elements.

At the heart of this reinvention lies the mesmerising soundtrack, which has been re-recorded by composer Bill Whelan, the Grammy Award-winning genius behind Riverdance’s original score. His spellbinding melodies and rhythms will undoubtedly transport audiences on a journey through the rich tapestry of Irish culture and beyond.

Riverdance’s connection with Australian audiences runs deep. In 1997, the spectacle first swept across the nation, leaving an indelible mark on its cultural landscape. The explosive energy and unparalleled precision of the dancers and musicians left audiences in awe, establishing Riverdance as a cultural sensation.

Over the course of five tours between 1997 and 2012, the show achieved extraordinary success, selling a phenomenal 830,000 tickets in Australia alone.

This critically acclaimed 25th Anniversary production has already been touring the world since 2020, with sold-out seasons in the US, UK, Dubai, and record-breaking runs in Dublin, Ireland, in 2022 and 2023. Now, it’s Brisbane’s turn to experience the magic of Riverdance as you’ve never seen it before.

Immerse yourself in the extraordinary power and grace of its music and dance, and fall in love with the magic of Riverdance all over again. With a staggering 15,000 performances under its belt, seen live by over 28.5 million people worldwide, and a global television audience of more than 3.5 billion, Riverdance’s enduring appeal is undeniable.

Read: How Australia Set the Stage for Jonas Brothers’ Reunion and ‘The Tour’

Don’t miss your chance to witness this iconic spectacle in its most breathtaking form yet. Visit TEG Dainty’s website for event tickets and information.

Published 18-March-2024

Monster Truck Mania Live Rolls Into Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Brace yourselves, Brisbane! After smashing attendance records across Australia in 2023, the biggest stars of the monster truck world are roaring back into the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on May 18 and 19 for two days of turbo-charged family fun.

Read: Marvel Universe LIVE! Lands in Brisbane with Legendary Superhero Battle

This is no ordinary monster truck show – it’s an adrenaline-packed spectacle that leaves other exhibitions in the dust. With gigantic screens and brilliant floodlights surrounding the all-weather arena, there’s not a bad seat in the house for this high-octane weekend of havoc and horsepower.

The unmistakable roar of behemoth trucks like Raptor’s Rampage, Wicked, Buddy, and the appropriately-named Miss Mayhem will shake the venue to its core.

Photo credit: Monster Truck Mania Live/Instagram

These motorised mammoths are the biggest stars in Australian monster trucking, ready to crush anything underfoot in pursuit of mud-slingin’ supremacy.

But the fun doesn’t end there! This supercharged extravaganza also features jaw-dropping performances from a flame-throwing jet car and crazy, high-flying freestyle motocross riders. It’s non-stop action from start to finish with something for the whole family.

Don’t miss your chance to upgrade to VIP Pit Party tickets for the ultimate monster truck experience. Get exclusive pre-event access to meet the drivers, snap selfies with the trucks, and soak up the behind-the-scenes madness before watching the mayhem unfold from the best seats in the house.

After demolishing attendance records in 2023, this vehicular invasion is poised to sell out arenas across the 2024 Australian tour. Mark your calendars and get your tickets now for the biggest, loudest, most spectacular motor-powered entertainment Down Under!

Read: How Australia Set the Stage for Jonas Brothers’ Reunion and ‘The Tour’

Visit https://monstertruckmanialive.com.au/ for more details, including getting your tickets.

Published 14-March-2024

Marvel Universe LIVE! Lands in Brisbane with Legendary Superhero Battle

Brisbane, get ready to witness an extraordinary spectacle as Marvel Universe LIVE! arrives at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre from April 4-7.

Read: Niall Horan Returning to Boondall for ‘The Show’ World Tour

This action-packed live show promises to transport audiences into the thrilling world of Marvel’s iconic superheroes and villains.

In a race against time, Spider-Man, the Avengers, the Guardians of the Galaxy, and Doctor Strange must unite to stop the nefarious Loki from gaining control of the powerful Wand of Watoomb. Should this ancient artefact fall into Loki’s hands, he would achieve his eternal quest to crown himself ruler of the universe.

Brace yourselves for an unforgettable adventure that will leave you on the edge of your seats. Marvel Universe LIVE! takes the live show experience to a whole new level with an original story that brings together over 25 of Marvel’s most beloved characters in one epic production.

Prepare to be dazzled by cutting-edge special effects, immersive video projections, and jaw-dropping stunts performed by world-class athletes and stunt performers. From high-energy motorcycle tricks to monumental aerial manoeuvres, this show will leave you in awe.

The show’s producer expressed enthusiasm about bringing the incredible live experience to Brisbane, noting that Marvel fans of all ages would have the opportunity to witness their favourite superheroes and villains come to life right before their eyes.

But be warned, this legendary adventure is not for the faint of heart. With brief periods of blackouts, safe use of pyrotechnics, and loud special effects, Marvel Universe LIVE! promises to deliver an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

Read: Rebel with a Cello: HAUSER Brings Solo Tour to Brisbane

Don’t miss your chance to witness this epic battle to defend the universe from evil. Grab your tickets now and join the Marvel Universe LIVE! in Brisbane, where the fate of the world rests in the hands of your favourite superheroes.

Visit Brisbane Entertainment Centre’s website for details on how to book your tickets.

Published 12-March-2024

Rebel with a Cello: HAUSER Brings Solo Tour to Brisbane

Founding member of the wildly popular classical/pop crossover duo 2Cellos, Stjepan Hauser, known professionally as HAUSER, is bringing his much-anticipated, first-ever worldwide solo tour Rebel with a Cello to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on April 12.

Read: Niall Horan Returning to Boondall for ‘The Show’ World Tour

Armed with the momentum from his final sold-out 2Cellos tour, the superstar Croatian cellist and visual artist is launching the ultimate musical showcase; bringing his signature performance pyrotechnics alongside his romantic and soulful playing sound and style.

Following viral hits like his Beach Party video and musical dreamscapes such as Alone Together, the “Rebel with a Cello” tour features a third act of rocking and rhythmic retro and modern globally-influenced dance tracks from his new solo album The Player, available worldwide.

The success of HAUSER himself extends far beyond his millions of YouTube, Facebook and Instagram followers with a devoted international fanbase.

The Croatian cellist is a phenomenon – one part virtuoso and the other part sheer, animal magnetism. His ability to unify generations of music lovers across genres may be his true superpower.

From classical purists to pop fans, metalheads to dance music aficionados, HAUSER’s live shows are a multi-sensory experience, thrilling audiences with his intensely passionate performance style.

Flanked by a phenomenal rock band, HAUSER shreds on the cello, utilising it as both a rhythm section and lead instrument, incorporating elements of rock, old school funk, dance beats, and more.

Read: Iconic Tenors José Carreras and Plácido Domingo Bring Magic to Brisbane Reunion Concert

With a setlist drawing from his solo work, 2Cellos catalogue and ingenious pop/rock covers, HAUSER’s Rebel with a Cello promises to be a true musical rebellion – smashing genres and defying expectations of what can be done with a cello. Don’t miss this electric performance when it hits the Brisbane Entertainment Centre stage. Buy your tickets via Ticketek.

Published 8-March-2024

Niall Horan Returning to Boondall for ‘The Show’ World Tour

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?

Read: Iconic Tenors José Carreras and Plácido Domingo Bring Magic to Brisbane Reunion Concert

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.

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.

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.

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.

Read: How Australia Set the Stage for Jonas Brothers’ Reunion and ‘The Tour’

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!

Buy tickets

Published 7-March-2024

Strathpine Doctor Leads the Charge Against Breast Cancer

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.

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.

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.

Published 5-March-2024

Iconic Tenors José Carreras and Plácido Domingo Bring Magic to Brisbane Reunion Concert

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.

Read: How Australia Set the Stage for Jonas Brothers’ Reunion and ‘The Tour’

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.

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.

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.

Read: Matchbox Twenty Set to Rock Brisbane Again After 12 Years

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.

Buy tickets

Published 27-February-2024

Aspley Community Raises $10,000 for Students Impacted by Poverty

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.

Aspley The Smith Family — 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.

For further details, consult Officeworks’ latest People and Planet Positive Report.

Published 27-February 2024