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Two Iconic Queensland Pubs, the Aspley Hotel and The Grove Hotel, Sold for $28 Million

In a significant move within the Australian hospitality industry, privately owned pub and liquor operator Star Group has reportedly acquired two iconic Queensland pubs, Brisbane’s Aspley Hotel and The Grove Hotel in Mackay, from the ASX-listed MA Financial-managed Redcape Hotel Group for a total sum of $28 million.

Industry insiders identified Star Group as the buyer with the sale process for both properties handled by pub specialist HTL Property and JLL.

Thirty-eight licensed establishments, more than 90 retail liquor stores, and six lodging facilities, all form part of the Star Group portfolio. The Brisbane-based business is led, managed, and primarily owned by Harvard-educated Steven Shoobridge and has over 1,200 workers.

The acquisition of the Grove Hotel purchased for $17.5 million, and the Aspley Hotel, acquired for $10.5 million, complements Star Group’s existing array of establishments.

The Aspley Hotel, with roots dating back to 1934, features 40 gaming machines, multiple function rooms, and a convenient drive-through bottle shop. These assets will be valuable additions to Star Group’s portfolio which includes Brisbane’s The Beaudesert Hotel and Richlands Hotel and other venues across regional Queensland.

Following the announcement that redemptions for Redcape would be suspended until the end of the year, the transaction is a part of MA Financial’s strategic measures to improve its balance sheet.

MA Financial recently announced a 12 per cent decline in underlying revenue but welcomed $1.26 billion in record-breaking inflows. Hospitality assets make up $1.8 billion, or 21 per cent, of the $8.6 billion in total assets managed by MA Financial as of June 30. These assets include Redcape’s $1.4 billion portfolio and pubs owned in other unlisted funds, such as the Beach Hotel at Byron Bay.

Mackay’s The Shamrock, the last Redcape hotel available for purchase, is currently listed by JLL and HTL. This 1.14-hectare venue offers restaurants, drinks, and gaming along with retail liquor, and a sizable lodging segment. Industry experts say that Mackay’s The Shamrock could sell for more than $30 million.

The expressions of interest process will conclude on 13 September 2023.

Published 4-September-2023

Raise the Woof at Barktoberfest 2023 in Carseldine!

Carseldine Markets is getting ready to raise the woof for the seventh year in a row with Barktoberfest 2023!

On Saturday, 14 Oct 2023, Carseldine Markets will pay homage to our furry friends with animal-focused market stalls, arts ‘n’ crafts, gourmet food (for pets and their paw-rents), workshops, demonstrations, and fun entertainment for everyone.

Get tails wagging and witness the best in four-legged fasssshun on the canine catwalk in Strike-a-Paws Dog Parade or watch your pooch strut down the catwalk in the Pawparazzi contest.

With loads of trophies and awesome prizes up for grabs, it’s the paw-fect chance to put your pup in the spotlight!

Watch the ulti-mutt race with Flyball Demonstrations. Learn all about Deaf Dog Training from Hear No Evil.

Animal Welfare League Queensland will also be hosting a Puppy Cool Down Station to keep your pups happy and hydrated.

With doggo pools, a rehydration station, and information about their incredible work, participants will learn all about their rescue and adoptions while the pups have a paw-ty.

🐾 Competitions and heaps of prizes, trophies and ribbons to be won

🐕 Doggo demos – flyball, fashion, and more!

🐩 Dog Fashion Parade

🐕‍🦺 Puppy Cool Down Station from Animal Welfare League Queensland

🐶 Hundreds of stalls, with specialty businesses tailored for doggo’s

🍔 SEQ’s best gourmet eats

🎨 Over 200 unique artisan stalls and farm fresh produce

🎵 Live music and kids’ entertainment

So, if you’re mutts and love to get behind a good cause, bring the pack down to Carseldine Markets on Saturday 14th of October for Barktoberfest! The festivities will be pup and running from 6:00 a.m. until noon.

This year’s event is supported by Watt Realty.

Click to Know More

Facebook Event
Register for free tickets here to go in the draw to WIN a Lucky Door Hamper worth $250
Fashion Parade Entry Form
Pawparazzi Photo Competition Entry Form

About Carseldine Markets and Goodwill Projects:

The Carseldine Markets are North Brisbane’s premiere farmers and artisan Markets, with over 5,000 customers every Saturday morning and an exciting calendar of Twilight Markets and themed pop-ups.

Goodwill Projects is one of Queensland’s most dynamic markets, events and venues companies. Curating flawless events and memorable experiences.

Published 1-Sept-2023

Embracing Life’s Moments: Aspley Dad with Brain Cancer Makes Every Second Count

Aspley dad Simon Harrington, 48, is defying the odds and savouring every precious moment with his wife, Adele, and their young son, Novak. Diagnosed with a grade four glioblastoma, the fastest growing and most aggressive form of brain tumour, Simon’s journey is marked by his commitment to creating memories and raising awareness about this little-known cancer.

Glioblastoma is a complex disease, often challenging to diagnose and characterized by its rapid growth and aggressiveness. It is known for presenting with few early symptoms or risk factors, making early detection difficult. Sam’s story sheds light on the struggles faced by patients dealing with this condition.

The Diagnosis and Determination

Simon’s journey began in October 2021 when he started experiencing subtle symptoms, such as difficulty with speech and memory, and eventually seizures. Concerned, he sought medical attention, which led to an MRI and a referral to specialists at Briz Brain and Spine.

In December of the same year, he received the official diagnosis of grade four glioblastoma. Simon’s determination to make the most of his time led him to immediately undergo surgery to remove the tumour.

Cherishing Every Moment & Raising Awareness

For this Aspley dad, every interaction with his family holds immense significance. From simple pleasures like nights out at the pub to engaging in home renovation projects like painting the fence, each experience is treasured. Despite the challenges posed by his illness, Simon’s spirit remains unbroken, as he and his family focus on creating meaningful memories.

The Harringtons are not only dedicated to cherishing their own moments together but also to raising awareness about glioblastoma. This relatively unfamiliar illness demands greater attention, and Simon’s openness about his experience aims to provide information and support to other patients and their families.

The family’s journey has been bolstered by the medical care they have received, particularly from Wesley Hospital, where Simon’s treatment plan, including surgery and subsequent radiation and chemotherapy, has been diligently managed.

In the midst of their challenging journey, the Harringtons have found support in unexpected places. Vivien Briggs, a neurosurgical nurse practitioner at Wesley Hospital, has been source of strength for the family. Her dedication and compassion have been pivotal in helping them navigate the complexities of treatment and its emotional toll.

Fundraising for a Challenging Road Ahead

While Simon and his family have shown remarkable resilience, the financial burden of medical bills and the challenges of daily life have been significant. A GoFundMe page has been set up by Kirsten Reilly to support the Harrington family during these trying times. The fundraiser aims to provide them with the financial support needed to manage medical expenses and maintain their quality of life.

Simon’s story is one of courage, determination, and the power of embracing every moment. As he battles glioblastoma with unwavering resolve, his journey serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. Through raising awareness and rallying support, Simon and his family are not only creating lasting memories but also contributing to a greater understanding of glioblastoma and the importance of supporting those affected by it.

Published 29-Aug-2023

Deagon Market Square Undergoes $4-M Transformation Under New Ownership

Deagon Market Square, once regarded a fading retail hub, is set to undergo a remarkable $4-million transformation that includes new tenants like Cofficition Cafe, Price Busters, a gym, child care centre, and a new sushi restaurant.

Formerly a quiet and neglected spot, Deagon Market Square has now come under the ownership of Ganellen Property, a Sydney-based asset management company known for its commitment to revitalizing commercial spaces.

The acquisition marks another step in Ganellen’s portfolio expansion, following their successful repositioning of the Woolworths-anchored Kallangur Fair Shopping Centre in August 2021.

With a comprehensive vision to create a convenient and dynamic shopping destination, Ganellen Property has partnered with the existing tenants and together, they are investing over $4 million in rejuvenating Deagon Market Square. This concerted effort involves introducing novel stores and reimagining the layout and services offered.

The endeavour aims to revamp the centre, located nine kilometres northeast of Aspley, into a vibrant and diverse community space.

Among the exciting additions to the centre is the trendy Cofficition Cafe, which promises to be a stylish and inviting coffee shop serving as a focal point for shoppers to gather, relax, and socialise.

Additionally, a new sushi restaurant will cater to culinary enthusiasts seeking diverse dining experiences.

Price Busters, the well-known Queensland-based discount variety chain, will occupy the space formerly held by the Reject Shop.

Deagon Shopping Centre — The old Deagon Market Square
Photo Credit: Ganellen Property

Ganellen Property acquired the shopping centre for $20 million in 2022 and has become an integral part of the company’s strategic vision to foster engaging and thriving community hubs. Anchored by Fresh & Save Food Warehouse on a 15-year lease until 2031, Deagon Market Square also boasts other key tenants such as Guppy’s Early Learning, Rackley Swimming, and Club Lime Gym.

But the overhaul doesn’t stop with these additions. Ganellen Property’s General Manager, Jason Zagni, expressed his excitement about breathing new life into the shopping centre, reiterating the company’s commitment to continuous improvement and community engagement within the Deagon shopping centre.

On its official site, the company laid out its plans for the shopping centre to include a re-mix of its specialty tenants, including introducing key missing food and service tenant uses and improved income through the introduction of new GLA and improved operational management.

Published 23-Aug-2023

Discount Retailer The Reject Shop Exits Deagon Market Square After 15-Year Run

After over 15 years of serving the Deagon community, The Reject Shop has permanently closed its doors at the Deagon Market Square shopping centre.

Read: Aspley’s Beloved Apollo’s Barbershop Forced to Close Doors Due to Soaring Rent

The discount retailer, known for its wide selection of affordable everyday items, was unable to renew its lease at Deagon Market Square, which was recently sold for $20 million and is under new management.

A spokesperson for The Reject Shop confirmed that the store closed on 3 August 2023, and all team members will be relocated to nearby stores.

The closure is considered a major loss for Deagon, as The Reject Shop had strived to help local shoppers save money since first opening at Deagon Market Square in the early 2000s.

Founded in 1981 in Melbourne by Ron Hall and John Shuster, The Reject Shop has grown to around 356 stores Australia-wide. The discount retailer got its name from its business model of selling “seconds” and discontinued lines at affordable prices. Today however, they are focused on working closely with their suppliers to give their customers the lowest prices on essential items and general merchandise.

The Deagon location offered a vast array of products including toys, food, cleaning supplies, stationery, pet supplies, and more at budget-friendly prices.

Whilst disappointed customers will no longer be able to shop at the Deagon Market Square store, the discount retailer encourages patrons to visit its nearby store at Taigum Square located at Beams Road.

Read: Public Warned Of Rental Scam Following Incident In Aspley

Deagon Market Square, located at 55-75 Braun Street, is anchored by a Fresh & Save Food Warehouse, which holds a long-term lease until 2031. The centre also houses several other national retailers including Guppy’s Early Learning, Rackley Swimming, and Club Lime gym.

Published 11-August-2023

Terry Weller of the Aspley Hornets To Be Inducted Into the 2023 Queensland Football Hall of Fame

With a remarkable career spanning over two decades and almost 500 senior games, Terry Weller of the Aspley Hornets will soon be inducted into the Queensland Football Hall of Fame.

Recognised for his outstanding career in the senior game, Weller was one of three inaugural recipients of the club’s Football Life Members initiative of the Aspley Hornets. The initiative honoured players who have made 200 or more senior appearances at the highest level of the game.

Terry Weller, An Impressive Legacy

Weller began his football career in 1965 at the age of 12 with the now-defunct Zillmere Foxes. Over the course of his career, he played 249 senior QAFL games with Windsor-Zillmere from 1965 to 1977 and 222 senior games with Aspley in the SQAFA from 1978 to 1989.

In addition to club games, Weller’s tally includes numerous representative games for Queensland and the SQAFA. Though only 185cm tall, he played at 115kg-plus in later years, earning a reputation as the “big man with a big personality and a big heart.”

Weller’s honours and awards are testament to his talent and dedication to the game:
– Shared Grogan Medal (QAFL best player)
– Two Duncanson Medals (SQAFA best player)
– Two QAFL premierships
– Five SQAFA premierships

Weller completes a family double alongside his younger brother Neville, an inaugural inductee in the 2008 Hall of Fame. The Weller family’s passion for football extends across generations.

Lasting Contributions On and Off the Field

In addition to his illustrious playing career, Weller took on coaching roles as an active player. He appeared in seven SQAFA Grand Finals and won five consecutive premierships between 1985 and 1989.

Even after retiring as a player, Weller stayed involved with the clubs he loved. In 1997, he played a key role in rescuing the Zillmere Football Club from financial troubles, helping bring the club back as the Northern Eagles. He served as president of the Northern Eagles until 2006 when the club was rebranded as the Zillmere Eagles once again.

From left to right: Keith Hill, Michael Walters, Dale Sherwood (Club President) , Terry Weller and Luke Howarth (Federal Member for Petrie)
Photo Credit: Aspley Hornets

Decades of service and passion for football make Terry Weller a worthy inductee into the Queensland Football Hall of Fame, an honour he will receive in a ceremony to be held on 4 November 2023 alongside Keith Hill and Michael Walters.

Published 08 August 2023

Steve’s Fish and Chips in Bald Hills Under New Ownership After Over a Decade

After over 11 years in the business, Steve Moss, the man and the name behind Steve’s Fish and Chips on Rothbury Street in Bald Hills, has officially hung up his apron and handed over ownership of the popular shop to new owners Devin and Ella.

Read: Oldest Bike Shop In Australia Hoffy Cycles Looking For New Owner

Known for its friendly service and fresh fish-and-chips cooked in front of customers, Steve’s Fish and Chips has developed a dedicated following under the Moss family’s decade of ownership.

According to locals, Mr Moss knew customers’ names and favourite orders simply by the sound of their voice when they walked in.

After buying the existing fish and chips shop 10 years ago, Mr Moss and his wife Debbie worked hard to transform it into the popular community spot it is today. With around 80 percent returning customers, Mr Moss came to know many regulars very well over the years.

Photo credit: Steve’s Fish and Chips/Facebook

Now, after over 11 years owning and operating Steve’s, Mr Moss is ready for a new chapter. He plans to take a few months off before starting a new job as a patient transport officer.

Read: Carseldine Fast Food Outlet Proposes Drive-Through and Renovations

“We would like to thank all our amazing, loyal customers over this time and introduce the new owners, Devin and Ella,” the shop wrote in a Facebook post announcing the 58-year-old owner’s decision.

Steve’s Fish and Chips reassured customers that the current staff will remain and Mr Moss will assist Devin and Ella with the transition over the next month.

“They are committed to maintaining the high quality standards that Steve has upheld,” the store assured its customers.

“We hope that you will all make Devin and Ella feel welcome, be patient while they learn the ropes, and support them in the future,” the post continued.

Published 7-August-2023

Coming Soon: New Shared Path at Bill Brown Reserve in Fitzgibbon

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / brisbane.qld.gov.au

Bill Brown Reserve in Fitzgibbon will soon have an 850-metre-long shared route that will connect Telegraph Road and Roghan Road and key points in the area.

“This new shared path will improve connectivity between key recreational hubs on Telegraph Road and Roghan Road, including the Bill Brown Sports Reserve Netball Courts, Emily Seebohm Aquatic Centre, Bracken Ridge Skate Plaza and BMX facility and Hidden World Playground and dog park,” Brisbane City Council’s website said.

Six carefully located culverts will be installed as part of the project, allowing for effective drainage and preventing any water-related problems along the trail. Additionally, a dedicated bridge crossing will traverse the nearby river over Telegraph Road, giving bikes and pedestrians a convenient and safe route.

The project aims to make the area more accessible and enjoyable for both locals and visitors.

Underway: New Shared Path Project at Bill Brown Reserve in Fitzgibbon — Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / brisbane.qld.gov.au

The project’s execution places a priority on environmental preservation. Whilst some trees along the path will be cut down, this choice is balanced by a careful effort to transplant native trees in the neighbourhood.

By nurturing the native flora and animals, this dedication guarantees the preservation of the area’s natural beauty.

The design of the shared walkway also places a high priority on convenience and safety. The entire route will have LED path lighting installed, providing users with a well-lit and secure environment at night.

The addition of navigational signage and distinct line markings will make it easier for bicycles and pedestrians to navigate the path, reducing any confusion that might develop.

Fencing will be erected along the shared path to maintain safety within the reserve, safeguarding users and enhancing the entire experience.

Work on this groundbreaking shared route project began in May 2023 with a target completion date of late 2023, subject to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Like any major project, there can be some temporary difficulties for nearby homeowners and onlookers. During this time, more vehicle movements, dust, and noise are to be expected.

During the development of the new connecting pathway, there may be brief lane restrictions on some sections of Telegraph Road. To help pedestrians, bikers, and automobiles navigate the area safely, the project management will put in place the necessary signage and traffic controllers.

Published 31-July-2023

Carseldine Fast Food Outlet Proposes Drive-Through and Renovations

A development application has been submitted by Ampol to modify an existing fast food outlet at 1760 Gympie Road in Carseldine.

Read: Nationwide AmpCharge Rollout Includes Ampol Foodary Carseldine

The proposed changes include consolidating four current food and retail tenancies into three larger spaces, adding a drive-through lane, and making minor updates to the building facade and parking lot.

The site is already home to a fast food outlet and under the new proposal, the four existing food, drink and shop spaces would be consolidated into a 298 sqm Fast Food Outlet 1 with outdoor dining, a 98.5 sqm Fast Food Outlet 2, and a 98.5 sqm Tenancy 3 for food, drink or retail use.

New signage, mesh screening and subtle changes to the upper exterior of the building are proposed. The total number of parking spaces would also be reduced by approximately 17 spots.

Fast food outlet — Photo credit: Nearmap

“Due to the nature of the Food & Drink Outlet being a drive-through, the parking demands associated with this use are expected to be lower. It is expected that a significant proportion of customers will use the drive through instead of parking on-site and walking into the tenancy,” planners noted regarding the reduction in number of parking spaces.

According to plans prepared by TFA Project Group on behalf of Ampol, the intent is to make minor modifications to allow for updated and expanded food and drink choices at the site. The addition of a drive-through lane aims to improve convenience and accessibility.

Read: $35-M Budget Allocated for Kedron to Carseldine Toll Tunnel Investment Proposal

The proposed changes are relatively minor but would bring new dining and shopping options to the area. The application will need approval from Brisbane City Council before the Carseldine fast food outlet can be updated.

Published 26-July-2023

NRL Schoolboy Signings: Penrith Panthers Secure St. Joseph’s Nudgee College Sensation Prestyn Laine-Sietu

St. Joseph’s Nudgee College product Prestyn Laine-Sietu has emerged as one of Queensland’s most sought-after young rugby league stars. With NRL clubs jostling for talent that has shown its mettle at the ASSRL Nationals, Laine-Sietu stood out on the Penrith Panthers’ radar.

Prestyn Laine-Sietu: A Force to Be Reckoned With

An outstanding athlete, Prestyn Laine-Sietu dominated his age group in rugby union while representing Nudgee College. The versatile back-rower caught the eye of scouts during his time with the Queensland Reds U16 team. His exceptional performances in the Meninga Cup with Redcliffe further cemented his status as a rising star.

St. Joseph’s Nudgee College: Nurturing Exceptional Talent

NRL Schoolboy Signings: Penrith Panthers Secure St. Joseph's Nudgee College Sensation Prestyn Laine-Sietu — Photo Credit: Facebook/Coffs Harbour Snappers Rugby Union Football Club

St. Joseph’s Nudgee College boasts a long-standing reputation for producing top-tier talent. The College has produced 25 Wallabies and has the highest number of Premierships in the GPS Association. This success is a testament to the program’s meticulous preparation and quality coaching. Their home games during the GPS season attract around 10,000 community members and create an electric atmosphere – an excellent opportunity for fans to witness the development of future stars firsthand.

2023 Penrith Panthers Season

The Penrith Panthers began the year as back-to-back Premiership winners. Led by head coach Ivan Cleary and co-captains Nathan Clearly and Isaah Yeo, the Panthers currently sit top of the ladder and are bidding to become the first team in forty years to complete a three-peat.

With Laine-Sietu donning a Penrith jersey, the future looks bright for this burgeoning talent. His dedication, skill and versatility will make him a valuable asset to the club.

Published 14 July 2023