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Boondall Ice Rink Launches Brisbane Dads on Curling Olympic Path

They call themselves The Curlews, named after the oddball bird with a call you can’t ignore — and this group of dads-turned-curling-athletes is making unexpected noise. Boyd Kildey, Andrew Swain, Matthew Waterhouse, Cormac te Kloot and Nick Stamatiou come from worlds as different as real estate, car sales, corporate farming, and sports commentating, but that hasn’t stopped them from chasing a bold shared dream: repping Australia at the 2030 Winter Olympics in France.

Starting Out at Boondall Iceworld

The Curlews, as the team is known, formed after a group of mates attended a “Come and Try Curling” session at Boondall Iceworld. The venue, used mainly for ice hockey and skating, provided their first opportunity to experience the sport. With no dedicated curling rink in Australia, Boondall Iceworld’s multi-use surface became their training base. Despite the limitations of the ice, the facility has remained vital for their ongoing development.

Team Background and Early Progress

The team is made up of Boyd Kildey, Andrew Swain, Matthew Waterhouse, Cormac te Kloot and Nick Stamatiou. They work in fields including commercial leasing, media, logistics, physiotherapy and automotive management. Despite limited experience on ice, they quickly took to curling and began competing locally.

The Curlews participated in the Queensland Curling Association’s President’s Cup, where they drew level in the grand final after trailing by six points, forcing a replay. Although they did not claim the state title, their performance earned them the chance to represent Queensland at the 2025 Australian National Curling Championships in Naseby, New Zealand. Their journey has highlighted the dedication required to compete at national and international levels.

curling Brisbane — Photo Credit: The Curlews/Instagram

Training Challenges and National Competition

Training on repurposed hockey ice presents difficulties. Unlike specialist curling ice, hockey rinks provide less consistent conditions. Their first experience of purpose-built curling ice came in Naseby, where the only dedicated curling facility in the Southern Hemisphere is located. Access to quality ice is seen as essential for improving their skills.

Olympic Ambitions

Supported by grassroots sponsorship, including proceeds from cattle sales by Maynard Cattle Co., the team remains committed to its long-term goal of Olympic qualification. Boondall Iceworld continues to play a key role in their journey as they look ahead to future competitions and Olympic trials.

Published 5-July-2025

Three Hornets in Maroon: Aspley Players Key to QLD’s Showdown with Tassie

Aspley footy fans have reason to cheer, with three local talents named in Queensland’s final men’s squad to face Tasmania in this weekend’s state clash at Latrobe.

Ryan Banks‑Smith, Jordon Arnold, and Coen Harker will all don the maroon jumper, representing not only the State but also the strength of the Hornets’ QAFL program.

Hornets in QAFL line-up vs TAS — Photo Credit: Supplied

Queensland coach Steve Daniel has confirmed the 23-man team that will take the field at 2:15 pm on Saturday 5 July, following the women’s match at 12 pm. Both games will be livestreamed on AFL Queensland’s YouTube channel.

This is Daniel’s first time back at the helm of the Queensland side in over a decade, and he’s determined to shift momentum after back-to-back losses to Tasmania.

“2025 brings an exciting new challenge against Tasmania who over the last two years have been too good for us,” Daniel said. “So with that comes optimism and excitement to try and turn the tables. We have been able to establish a very combative team that is ready to put their best foot forward to contribute and help guide Queensland to victory.”

Aspley’s representation in the final team is a point of pride for the northside club. Banks‑Smith, a Grogan Medal winner in 2022 and one of QAFL’s most reliable midfielders, returns to the state line-up after a strong 2024 season. Stackelberg, known for his goal-kicking prowess, adds serious firepower up front. Harker brings further depth to the forward line with his agility and attack.

Their inclusion underscores Aspley’s continuing influence in Queensland football. The Hornets were crowned back-to-back QAFL premiers in 2022 and 2023 and have consistently developed players who transition into state and higher-level roles.

The Queensland line-up also features high-profile AFL alumni: Clay Cameron (ex-Gold Coast SUNS), Kyle Dunkley (Melbourne), Jarrod Cameron (West Coast Eagles), Matt Hammelmann (Brisbane Lions), and Cam Ellis-Yolmen (Brisbane and Adelaide). Their experience is expected to steady the side and guide the younger talents through the high-stakes encounter.

Eight players from last year’s squad return for redemption after a tough loss to Tasmania on the Gold Coast in 2024.

The match is more than just a game; it’s a chance for Queensland to reassert its strength and showcase the best of local talent—including a strong Aspley core that continues to rise.

Match Info:
📍 Latrobe Recreation Ground, Tasmania
🕑 Saturday 5 July – Men’s match: 2:15 pm (Women’s match: 12 pm)
📺 Watch live on AFL Queensland’s YouTube channel

Published-July-2025

Grammy Winners RÜFÜS DU SOL Announce 2025 Boondall Concerts

Photo Credit: Rufus Du Sol/ Facebook

Australian electronic music sensations and Grammy Award winners RÜFÜS DU SOL will bring their internationally acclaimed live show to Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall as part of their upcoming national tour.

Homecoming Shows Detailed

The globally recognised electronic trio will perform on Tuesday, 25 November, and Wednesday, 26 November, 2025. These Australian performances, presented by Live Nation, Untitled, and Rose Ave, are part of the promotion for their fifth album, “Inhale / Exhale,” which was released on 11 October.

The information provided states that the shows will offer audiences a blend of new music and established fan favourites, enhanced by the group’s well-known immersive lighting and stage production.

*Photo Credit:* *Rufus Du Sol/ Facebook*

Recent appearances, including a headline live set at San Francisco’s Portola Festival and a performance on Sydney Harbour, gave fans an early taste of their latest material. DJ sets at Coachella and Burning Man showcased the group’s musical curation.

A full world tour announcement is anticipated soon, following headline slots at Lollapalooza festivals in South America earlier in 2025. Organisers advise that the Boondall event is strictly for adults aged 18 and over. Valid identification will be necessary for entry, and no refunds will be provided for patrons unable to show ID.

BUY TICKETS

The Story of RÜFÜS DU SOL

Originally formed in Sydney in November 2010, the group consists of Tyrone Lindqvist on vocals and guitar, Jon George on keyboards, and James Hunt on drums. They first gained attention in Australia under the name RÜFÜS.

Their sound is often described as alternative dance or indie electronic music, recognised for its atmospheric quality, driving rhythms, and thoughtful vocals, incorporating live instruments into their electronic setup.

After releasing early EPs, their debut album Atlas topped the Australian charts in 2013. Their second album, Bloom (2016), achieved similar success in Australia, featuring popular tracks like “You Were Right” and the extended piece “Innerbloom.”

Due to a name similarity with another band, they began using RÜFÜS DU SOL internationally around 2014 and formally adopted it worldwide by 2018. The band later moved to Los Angeles before releasing their third album, Solace (2018), which explored deeper themes and gained wider international notice. Their fourth album, Surrender, came out in 2021.

Global Success and Acclaim

RÜFÜS DU SOL’s international profile grew significantly, highlighted by winning the Grammy Award for Best Dance/Electronic Recording in 2022 for their track “Alive” from the Surrender album. The group has received several other Grammy nominations throughout their career.

In Australia, they have collected numerous ARIA Music Awards, including honours for Best Group and Best Dance Release. They are highly regarded for their powerful live performances, which combine electronic production with live musicianship and impressive visuals. This has led them to headline major music festivals around the globe.

Published Date 18-June-2025

Major Intersection Upgrade and Safety Boost in Carseldine

Photo Credit: BCC

Carseldine is set to receive a major intersection upgrade and benefit from nearby policing enhancements as part of Queensland’s 2025–26 Budget allocations.

Road Network Overhaul to Ease Traffic in Carseldine

A key feature of the 2025–26 State Budget is a significant upgrade to the intersection of Gympie Road and Beams Road in Carseldine. This intersection carries more than 80,000 vehicles daily and is a critical junction in Brisbane’s northern corridor.

In addition to the Budget announcement, BCC is progressing with a broader Beams Road upgrade between Carseldine, Fitzgibbon, Taigum and Zillmere. The corridor currently accommodates over 20,000 vehicles each day, and traffic volumes are expected to increase due to forecast population growth in the area.

The upgrade is being delivered in two stages:

Stage 1A (Lacey Road to Balcara Avenue) was completed in January 2025 and included new traffic signals at Dorville Road, road widening between Cowie Road and Balcara Avenue, a shared path from Lacey Road, and service upgrades by Energex and Telstra.
Stage 1B (Carselgrove Avenue to Handford Road) is now underway and involves widening the road to a four-lane median-separated carriageway, building a pedestrian underpass near Cabbage Tree Creek, upgrading shared paths, and improving two bus stops.

The $50 million project is under the Better Roads for Brisbane Program. Works include culvert extensions, vegetation clearing, and night construction. During this period, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction and temporary detours will be in place for pedestrians. Environmental improvements, such as new tree plantings and upgraded creek infrastructure, are also included in the project scope.

Nearby Policing Upgrades to Support Local Safety

While not located within Carseldine, the Boondall Police Station—which services Brisbane North including Carseldine—is set to undergo a $52 million upgrade. The nearby Ferny Grove station will also be improved. These projects are backed by $147.9 million in statewide investments into police resources, including new tasers, radios and body-worn cameras. A recruitment target of 1,600 new officers by 2028 has also been set.

The upgrades are part of a broader $5.2 billion commitment aimed at improving community safety through early intervention, stronger laws, and investment in police facilities.

Carseldine upgrade — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Health Services Access for Northern Suburbs

Though Carseldine is not the direct site of a health facility upgrade, the suburb is positioned near the Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside. The hospital is included in the Hospital Rescue Plan, which outlines upgrades for emergency departments, paediatrics and operating theatres. Statewide, the $18.5 billion plan will deliver more than 2,600 additional hospital beds and 4,500 new health workers.

Public Transport and Cost Relief Measures

The Wave Project—a public transport corridor from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast Airport—may enhance connectivity for Carseldine commuters. Additionally, residents will benefit from the State’s new 50-cent flat fare across all Translink public transport services, aimed at reducing household costs.

Broader Housing and Education Initiatives

While no new social housing developments or school infrastructure projects were specifically named for Carseldine, the suburb may benefit from statewide programs including the $5.6 billion investment in social and community housing and a $2 billion Residential Activation Fund to unlock housing supply.

First-home buyers across Queensland will receive deposit assistance under the $165 million Boost to Buy scheme, and stamp duty will be abolished on new home purchases. In education, Carseldine families are expected to benefit from statewide initiatives such as a $100 school supply voucher and a $200 sports voucher for eligible students.

Carseldine infrastructure upgrade — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Economic Outlook and Broader Context

Queensland’s Gross State Product is forecast to grow by 2.75 per cent in 2025–26, supported by strong public investment and stabilising employment. While the Budget projects an operating deficit of $8.6 billion, it outlines a path towards fiscal repair while maintaining commitments in infrastructure, housing, safety, and health.

What’s Next for Carseldine

The intersection upgrade and nearby police station improvements are part of broader statewide infrastructure and safety plans. Construction timelines and detailed project schedules are expected in the coming months as the Budget commitments transition into delivery phases.

Published 27-June-2025

Boondall Basketball Talent Rocco Zikarsky Joins NBA After Draft-Day Deal

Photo Credit: Screen capture from ESPN video

A local kid with a 7-foot frame and a sky-high dream — former Northside Wizards centre Rocco Zikarsky is headed to the NBA, drafted by the Chicago Bulls 45th overall and traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Where It All Started: Boondall’s Own Giant

Before NBA lights and international headlines, Rocco Zikarsky was simply the tall teen training on the hardwood at Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Born in 2006 on the Sunshine Coast, Zikarsky’s rise began on Brisbane’s northside, where he wore the blue and white of the Northside Wizards. Even as a junior, his shot-blocking and size drew crowds. With an Olympic swimmer for a father and a decorated ironwoman for a mum, elite sport ran in his blood—but basketball was where he made his name.

He played representative basketball for Queensland South and trained with the NBA Global Academy in Canberra before returning to Boondall to continue with the Wizards. There, his presence in the paint became a familiar (and feared) sight on local courts. Watch Rocco’s junior Wizards highlights on TikTok.

From NBL Prospect to NBA Potential

In 2023, the Brisbane Bullets signed Rocco as part of the NBL’s Next Stars program. At just 17, he made his professional debut with six points and four blocks in only 10 minutes. By his second season, he’d earned a starting role and delivered a standout performance in November 2024 with 13 points, eight rebounds and three blocks against Perth.

Over two seasons, he played 45 games for Brisbane, averaging 4.6 points and 3.4 rebounds per game while shooting efficiently from the field. More importantly, he showed flashes of elite rim protection and mobility that caught the attention of NBA scouts.

Scouting reports consistently noted his size (7′3″ barefoot, 7′4″ with shoes), 257 lb frame, and a 9′7″ standing reach—traits that made him one of the tallest and longest prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Draft Night: A New Chapter

Rocco was officially selected by the Chicago Bulls with the 45th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, but his rights were quickly traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a pre-arranged deal. He is expected to sign a two-way contract, splitting his time between the Timberwolves and their G League affiliate, the Iowa Wolves.

Though still raw, analysts agree that his upside is undeniable. With elite defensive tools and the discipline to keep developing, he may soon earn minutes in one of the world’s toughest leagues.

Local Legacy: A Star Born in Boondall

In Boondall and Aspley, Rocco is more than a draft pick—he’s a hometown hero. His journey from local courts to global stages is inspiring a new generation of young players at the Northside Wizards and beyond. The same courts where he first learned to pivot and block are now filled with kids hoping to follow in his giant footsteps.

His story reminds us all that big dreams can grow from small communities—and that even the tallest journeys can start right here at home.

Published 27-06-2025

Carseldine-Area Beams Road Upgrade Addresses Daily Traffic Snarls and Future Demands

Photo Credit: BCC/ Youtube

With over 20,000 vehicles currently navigating it daily and a significant population growth forecast for areas like Carseldine, Beams Road is undergoing a major upgrade to ease congestion and improve safety for Brisbane’s northern communities.

The next stage of this vital infrastructure project is now underway, focusing on the stretch between Carselgrove Avenue and Handford Road.

Major Upgrade Underway

This current phase follows the successful completion of the section from Lacey Road to Balcara Avenue. The expanded project aims to deliver a range of significant improvements, including the construction of a brand new underpass designed for pedestrians and cyclists, offering safer and easier access to the Cabbage Tree Creek cycleway. The road itself will be transformed into a wider, safer four-lane carriageway with a consistent median separation, promising faster trips and reduced traffic congestion for local commuters.

The Beams Road corridor plays a crucial role in connecting northern Brisbane communities and provides a key route to major arterial roads such as Gympie Road. With substantial population growth predicted in the Carseldine, Fitzgibbon, Taigum, and Zillmere areas, Council is proactively upgrading the road to manage current congestion and prepare for future demands.

This upgrade is jointly funded by the Australian Government, contributing $50 million, and Council under the Better Roads for Brisbane Program. Beyond road widening, the project also involves extending culverts across Cabbage Tree Creek, upgrading sections of the shared path along Beams Road, and improving two bus stops.

What to Expect During Construction

Initial works for this stage will involve establishing the site compound, setting up necessary traffic management, conducting survey works around the area, undertaking initial demolition, and clearing vegetation and trees within the project footprint. During construction, motorists should expect traffic to be reduced to one lane in each direction between Carselgrove Avenue and Handford Road.

Residents and motorists may notice temporary traffic disruptions, an increase in construction activity including noise, dust, and vibrations, and temporary bus stops as works progress. Night works will also be required at times. Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the construction period, though there will be occasions where detours to the other side of the road may be necessary, with clear traffic control and signage present on site.

Community Perspectives and Ongoing Concerns

While the upgrade is welcomed by many, some community members have raised concerns about related traffic matters in the wider area and offered feedback on previously completed stages. Residents have inquired about the status of traffic lights at the Cowie Road intersection, suggesting they would help deter “rat-running” through local streets and improve safety.

There have also been calls for upgrades to Linkfield Road to ease congestion in that area, particularly the need for the road over the wetland/river to be two lanes. Questions have also been posed regarding whether the Beams Road project encompasses a level crossing removal.

Reflecting on earlier works, some residents expressed dissatisfaction with the previous upgrade of the Lacey Road to Balcara Avenue section, noting the replacement of a roundabout with traffic lights and a perceived lack of improvement at the Lacey Road congestion point.

The Beams Road and Lacey Road intersection, in particular, has been described by some as poorly designed, contributing to significant bottlenecks. Council aims for this current stage of the Beams Road upgrade to build upon previous efforts and deliver substantial, lasting improvements for all road users.

Published Date 12-Jun-2025

North Brisbane Area Sports Results – June 13 to 15

Sat, June 14, 2025 – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11
• Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 59 | Aspley QAFL Seniors 79
• Sherwood QAFL Seniors 70 | Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 102

Sun, June 15, 2025 – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9
• Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 20 | Southport QAFLW Seniors 87
• University of Queensland QAFLW Seniors 24 | Aspley QAFLW Seniors 36

Sat, June 14, 2025 – QRL – BMD Premiership – Women
• Norths Devils 24 | Sunshine Coast Falcons 14

Sat, June 14, 2025 – QRU Store Local Hospital Cup – Men
• UQ 1st Grade 59 | Norths 1st Grade 33

Fri, June 13, 2025 – FQPL 1 – Women – Round 10
• Peninsula Power U23 0 | Grange Thistle U23 1
• Peninsula Power 3 | Grange Thistle 0

Sat, June 14, 2025 – FQPL 1 – Women – Round 10
• Moreton City Excelsior U23 3 | North Brisbane FC U23 2
• Moreton City Excelsior 4 | North Brisbane FC 3
• Virginia United U23 2 | Logan Lightning U23 0
• Virginia United 3 | Logan Lightning 4

Sat, June 14, 2025 – NPL Men – Round 14
• Gold Coast United 2 | Brisbane City 0

Sat, June 14, 2025 – NPL Women – Round 18
• Gold Coast United U23 1 | Brisbane City U23 2
• Gold Coast United 0 | Brisbane City 4
• Lions FC U23 4 | Mitchelton FC U23 0
• Lions FC 0 | Mitchelton FC 0

Sat, June 14, 2025 – NBL 1 – Women – Round 7
• Northside Wizards 56 | Sunshine Coast Phoenix 73

Sat, June 14, 2025 – NBL 1 – Men – Round 7
• Northside Wizards 68 | Sunshine Coast Phoenix 85

Petition Launched To Save Bridgeman Downs Wildlife Corridor

A patch of bushland in Bridgeman Downs, home to koalas and other native wildlife, is under threat after plans emerged to divide the property into residential lots, prompting a growing call from residents for Brisbane City Council to step in and protect the land.

Community Pushes Back On Housing Plans

In 2023, a developer proposed dividing a 9613-square-metre site at 440 Beckett Road, Bridgeman Downs, into 14 residential lots. Each lot would range from 368 to 474 square metres. An ecological report identified the land as core koala habitat, with mature trees and native vegetation supporting local wildlife.

However, due to local zoning, the area is not protected under current state laws. This has frustrated residents and environmental groups, who say inaction could permanently damage vital habitat in a rapidly growing suburb.

Petition Aims To Stop Further Development

Residents have launched a petition urging Brisbane City Council to buy the Bridgeman Downs site through its bushland acquisition program. They say the land is a vital wildlife corridor that allows native animals, including koalas, to move safely. The petition is still gathering signatures and has become a focal point for community concern.

Support has grown amid news that no bushland was purchased by the council last year, the first time in 35 years. This has raised wider questions about how environmental priorities are being handled as development pressures increase.

Council Under Community Pressure

Council representatives have requested a revised submission from the developer to address environmental concerns more thoroughly. While this may slow the process, residents say it still falls short of what’s needed to protect the land.

sign petition here

Many in the community believe the council should take stronger, proactive steps now rather than wait for planning decisions to play out. So far, there has been no commitment from the council to purchase the land. Locals worry that delays increase the risk of losing green space that supports native wildlife and cannot be easily restored.

Bigger Picture: Growth Vs. Green Space

The Bridgeman Downs proposal highlights a broader issue across south-east Queensland, where housing developments are spreading into semi-rural and bushland areas. Residents see this as part of a wider trend that threatens wildlife and reduces green space. With koala populations declining, many are calling for stronger protections and faster action from local councils.

Petition supporters say the council should use its bushland acquisition fund to buy and protect important habitat. They believe doing so would show that preserving natural areas is still a priority as urban growth continues.

Published 12-June-2025

Village Heart Retail and Apartments Progress in Carseldine

Photo Credit: Village Heart

A major retail and residential development in Carseldine is progressing, with the Village Heart precinct now partially pre-leased and Stage 2 approved for construction.

Retail Hub Gains Momentum in Carseldine

The Village Heart project in Carseldine is advancing, with its first stage under construction and 75 per cent of retail space now pre-leased. The development, led by Deluca Corporation, is located on the site of the former QUT campus at 502 Beams Road.

Confirmed tenants for the retail centre include a supermarket, fitness centre, swim school, medical services, and liquor retail. These include IGA, Bottlemart, Jetts Fitness, Aquatic Achievers, Carseldine Medical Centre, and Dental on Beams. Once complete, the centre is expected to support 140 ongoing jobs.

Construction began in late 2024, with completion of Stage 1 scheduled for 2026. The centre has been designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating energy-efficient features such as LED lighting, passive solar orientation, landscaped communal areas, and is targeting a 5-Star Green Star rating.

The Village Heart — *Photo Credit: Village Heart*

Residential Stage Approved

Stage 2 of the project has received development approval, allowing for the construction of a new eight-storey apartment building on the corner of Beams Road and Plaza Parade. The building will include 70 two-bedroom apartments and ground-floor retail.

The project design by Architectus and Conrad Gargett includes larger balconies and a communal rooftop area. Recent changes to the plans have increased the number of build-to-sell apartments while reducing the share of affordable housing.

Background to the Carseldine Village

The Village Heart forms part of Economic Development Queensland’s 15-hectare Carseldine Village precinct. Planning for the broader community began in 2009.

The precinct is set to deliver 606 net-zero homes, an aged care facility, childcare services, bushland, playgrounds, and sporting fields. The former university buildings have been retained on-site.

Deluca Corporation was appointed to lead the project based on its track record in commercial and sustainable development.

Next Phase in Planning

A third stage, involving further residential construction, is anticipated to proceed in the coming year. Meanwhile, the retail hub remains on track for its expected opening in early 2026.

Published 12-June-2025

Grit, Growth, and Gumption: Live Scenes From Mahalia Robinson’s Playbook

Before she was helping investors grow their portfolios at LJ Hooker Aspley & Chermside, Mahalia Robinson was performing with Hugh Jackman in “The Boy From Oz.” That’s not a metaphor. She really did share the stage with the Wolverine himself.

It’s just one chapter in a life that’s seen Mahalia move from musical theatre and makeup artistry into property management, bringing with her a flair for people, performance, and purpose.

Now 30 years old, Mahalia serves as the New Business Manager for Investments and Growth at LJ Hooker Aspley & Chermside. Her path to real estate had not exactly been linear.

“I had someone telling me for years I’d be good at it,” she laughs. “When COVID hit, I was in a call centre job I couldn’t stand. I saw a receptionist role at a real estate agency, applied that morning, interviewed that afternoon, and three days later, I was in.”

It turned out to be a perfect fit. With a background in full-time dance, vocal lessons, and a natural ability to connect with people, Mahalia found that her performing arts skills translated seamlessly into the relationship-driven world of real estate.

Though her early real estate days were in Brisbane’s inner city, the pull of home eventually brought her back to the 4034 postcode, specifically Boondall, where she has lived since she was eight.

“I loved the inner city,” she says, “but I wanted to return to my roots. This is where I grew up.”

Those roots run deep. Her family were long-time foster carers, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Hers was a home full of diversity, compassion, and community—values that continue to shape her professional and personal life.

“We were really involved with the Department of Child Safety growing up,” Mahalia recalls. “Coming back into this area now, I want to reconnect with that side of the community again.”

That human-first approach is something that she believes is rare in the often task-driven world of property management. “You don’t often find a BDM who carves out time for community involvement,” she says. “But LJ Hooker has always been about relationships, and that’s what drew me to them.”

Outside of work, Mahalia still finds time for the arts, often attending or participating in community theatre, and maintaining her long-standing love of movement through Pilates. “Pilates connects me back to my dance days,” she explains. “But it’s also about wellbeing. If I’m not okay, I can’t give my best to others.”

Her passions extend beyond performance. A self-professed “avid shopper,” Mahalia also collects high-end perfumes and quality wines.

“I’ve got a bottle of Penfolds St Henri I’m saving for my wedding day,” she says. She’s partial to Pinot Noir and rosé, especially from boutique, family-run vineyards. In fact, she has added a visit to Stanthorpe’s wine region to her bucket list.

*Photo Credit: Creative Commons/ Helena Lopes*

Among her quieter causes is an issue close to her heart: menstrual product accessibility for homeless women. “We can’t always house everyone,” she says, “but at the very least, we can offer dignity. I’d love for people to know they can … pick up a pack. No questions asked.”

*Photo Credit: Facebook/Share the Dignity*

A rom-com enthusiast (with “Anyone But You” and “Crazy Rich Asians” topping her list), Mahalia also makes time for rewatching “The Office,” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” or “Gilmore Girls.”

Amongst her varied interests, the real joy in her life comes from the friendships she’s built in adulthood.

“Most of my close friends came into my life after I turned 21,” she shares. “We chose each other based on values—how we communicate, how we show up. Your energy is so valuable as a human being. You need to use it well.”

And that’s exactly what Mahalia Robinson seems to do — whether it’s helping investors grow their portfolios, reconnecting with her community roots, or simply offering a safe space to someone in need. With heart, hustle, and a touch of theatrical sparkle, she’s turning every role she plays in her life into a starring one.

Published 10-June-2025