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Women Leading the Way in SEQ Catholic School Communities

Communities across South East Queensland are seeing more women step into the top jobs at their local Catholic schools, with a growing number of female educators appointed as principals and heads of college in recent years. As International Women’s Day approaches on 8 March, Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) has highlighted the appointment of 29 women to principalship or head of college or campus roles over the past two years, reflecting a shift toward stronger female representation in school leadership.

From Graceville and Bardon to Mango Hill, Birkdale and Scarborough, these appointments are shaping the future of education in neighbourhoods across the region. For families, students and staff, it means welcoming experienced educators who will guide school communities through the next chapter of learning and growth.

BCE’s People and Culture Executive Cathy Heffernan said the appointments reflect a broader effort to support and prepare more women for leadership roles in schools.

“Since the program commenced, 38 per cent of participants have progressed into Head of College, Principal or BCE office leadership roles,” Ms Heffernan said.

“Beyond appointments, the program builds confidence, capability and connection, qualities that are essential for leadership in today’s educational landscape.”

*Jessica Lusk, Head of College Unity College (Secondary), Caloundra West*
*Photo Credit: Supplied*

Across BCE schools, female principalship has increased from 33 per cent in 2021 to 50 per cent in 2026. In BCE offices, women now make up 64 per cent of leadership roles, up from 48 per cent in 2021.

Many of the recently appointed leaders have participated in BCE’s Women in Leadership program, which was reimagined in 2024 to strengthen leadership pathways and build a pipeline of future-ready female leaders.

For educators like Notre Dame College, Bells Creek Head of College Jasmine Brown, the program has had a lasting impact.

“For me the program highlighted the importance of women actively supporting and advocating for one another,” she said.

“I also found the course an opportunity to connect with other like-minded women who shared the same aspirations for senior leadership.

“The impact of the program has endured well beyond its conclusion, particularly for me through the lasting professional relationships I have built.”

Jasmine Brown, Head of College Notre Dame College, Bells Creek
Photo Credit: Supplied

Since March 2024, a number of schools across South East Queensland have welcomed new female leaders, including appointments at St Mary’s College in Ipswich, St Patrick’s Primary School in Nanango, Unity College in Caloundra West, and St Francis College in Crestmead.

Other appointments span communities including Graceville, Bardon, Mango Hill, Ferny Grove, Birkdale, Zillmere, New Farm, Scarborough and Enoggera, where local school communities are now led by experienced educators committed to supporting students, families and staff.

For BCE, the growing number of women stepping into leadership roles reflects a commitment to creating inclusive leadership pathways and recognising the vital contribution women make to education and their communities.

As schools across the region celebrate International Women’s Day, these appointments highlight the strong role women continue to play in shaping the future of Catholic education across South East Queensland.

Name	Position	School	Suburb
Alison Gilbert	Principal	St Mary’s College	Ipswich
Sarah McCarthy	Principal	St Patrick’s Primary School	Nanango
Jessica Lusk	Head of College (Secondary)	Unity College	Caloundra West
Nicole de Vries	Head of College (Primary)	Unity College	Caloundra West
Andrea Hickey	Head of Campus	St Francis College	Crestmead
Bernadette Wright	Principal	Christ the King School	Graceville
Carol Seagar	Principal	St Joseph’s School	Bardon
Clare Hogan	Principal	Our Lady of Good Counsel School	Gatton
Renay Condon	Principal	St Benedict’s Primary School	Mango Hill
Louise Parry	Principal	St Thomas More Primary School	Sunshine Beach
Amanda Steer	Principal	St Andrew’s Catholic Primary School	Ferny Grove
Nadia Galetto	Head of College	St Bonaventure’s College	Flagstone
Jo-Anne Boyle	Principal	Holy Spirit School	Bray Park
Gabrielle Jansen	Principal	St Mary MacKillop Primary School	Birkdale
Cheryl Bell	Principal	St Flannan’s Primary School	Zillmere
Bianca Murphy	Principal	Holy Spirit School	New Farm
Liesl Profke	Principal	St Clare’s Primary School	Yarrabilba
Tracey-lee Cheesman	Principal	Our Lady of Fatima Primary School	Acacia Ridge
Veronica Wasiak	Principal	St Michael’s College	Merrimac
Gemma Lovell	Principal	Mother Teresa Primary School	Ormeau
Velma Erskine	Principal	St Joseph’s Primary School	North Ipswich
Megan Pidskalny	Head of Campus	FisherONE Online Education	—
Jasmine Brown	Head of College	Notre Dame College	Bells Creek
Melissa Fallarino	Head of Campus	Southern Cross Catholic College	Scarborough
Felicity Pryer	Principal	St Pius X School	Salisbury
Lisa Atholwood	Head of Campus	Emmaus College	Jimboomba
Sharon Collins	Principal	Siena Catholic College	Sippy Downs
Kate MacArthur	Principal	Our Lady of Assumption School	Enoggera
Helen Boyes	Principal	St Paul’s School	Woodridge

Published 6-March-2026

BotBuilders Robotics Moves Into Geebung Premises Ahead of Houston World Championships

North Brisbane robotics club BotBuilders Robotics has moved into new premises in Geebung, as the team prepares to compete at the FIRST Robotics Competition World Championships in Houston, Texas.

Read: Holy Spirit College Launches STEAM Program to Ease Year 6 to Year 7 Transition for Local Students

BotBuilders Robotics, a not-for-profit community team founded in 2016, holds weekly sessions where students drawn from various schools meet to design, build, and code robots. The club is preparing to travel to the United States for the international competition.

The FIRST Robotics Competition World Championships take place at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston from 16–19 April 2025. Presented by BAE Systems, the four-day event is the pinnacle of the FIRST robotics competition season, bringing together over 40,000 students, mentors, and participants from around the world.

BotBuilders has been working to refine its robot in the lead-up to the trip. To help meet the costs of travelling to the United States, the club has set up a crowdfunding campaign on Chuffed.org.

Cr Adam Allan paid a recent visit to the team at their Geebung base. He reported the club had settled in well after the move. “They moved into new premises in Geebung a little while ago but have not missed a beat and the new location is working well for them,” Cr Allan wrote on his Facebook page.

He also had the opportunity to see the team’s robot in action during the visit. “It will be great experience for the young team as they will be competing against and learning from the best in the world,” he added, encouraging anyone with an interest in robotics, or with children who are interested, to reach out to the club directly.

The club also mentors other community and school teams and runs a Robotics Immersion Program to develop STEM skills and confidence in younger students.

About BotBuilders Robotics

BotBuilders Robotics is a not-for-profit, community-based team established in 2016 in north Brisbane. Members are drawn from various schools and meet each week to design, build, and code robots.

Read: Major Road Upgrade and Community Funding Boost for Aspley in 2025-26 Budget

The club competes in FIRST Lego League, FIRST Tech Challenge, and FIRST Robotics Competition, and actively mentors other community and school teams. It also delivers a Robotics Immersion Program aimed at developing skills and confidence in STEM among younger students.
They are now located at 459 Newman Rd, Geebung. More information is available at BotBuilders’ website.

Published 5-March-2026

Two Train Stops. A 10-Year Life Gap. What It Means for Zillmere and Geebung

University of Queensland

You can board a train at Zillmere and arrive at Geebung in minutes.

But new research from the University of Queensland shows the difference in median age of death between men living near those two stations is 10 years.

The study, published in the Health Promotion Journal of Australia, mapped median age of death across Queensland’s rail network. Using train stations as geographic markers, researchers highlighted how health outcomes can diverge sharply within just a few kilometres.

Along the Redcliffe Peninsula line, men living near Zillmere station recorded a median age of death of 72. Near Geebung station, the figure was 82.

Same rail line. Two stops apart. A decade of difference.

The study measures median age of death — the age at which people in an area have actually died — rather than projected life expectancy. While different from formal life expectancy modelling, it remains a strong indicator of embedded health disadvantage.

How the Research Was Conducted

The research was led by Associate Professor Jonathan Olsen from UQ’s Institute for Social Science Research, alongside Associate Professor Mark Robinson, Professor Lisa McDaid and Professor Jonathan Corcoran.

By overlaying mortality data onto Queensland’s rail map, the team created a clear, place-based framework that residents and policymakers can easily interpret. Stations became reference points for comparing outcomes along shared transport corridors.

Life expectancy gap for Zillmere and Geebung — Photo Credit: University of Queensland

Across Queensland, the median age of death for women ranged between 68 and 88. For men, it ranged from 60 to 83. The Zillmere–Geebung gap sits within that broader statewide variation.

The Pattern Repeats Across Brisbane

The Redcliffe Peninsula line is not an isolated example.

Life expectancy gap for Murarrie and Cannon Hill — Photo Credit: University of Queensland

On the Cleveland line, women near Murarrie station recorded a median age of death 15 years lower than women near Cannon Hill, despite being just 1.6 kilometres apart.

Life expectancy gap for Darra-Sumner and Inala-Richards — Photo Credit: University of Queensland

South of the CBD, men in the Inala–Richlands area recorded a median age of death of 70 — 11 years below men in Darra–Sumner. For women in those same areas, the gap reached 12 years.

Researchers link these differences to a mix of income levels, housing security, education access, employment opportunity, family structure and access to services and green space.

What the Findings Are Meant to Do

The authors stress the data is not designed to stigmatise suburbs. Instead, it provides an evidence base for targeted, place-based investment — from park upgrades and active travel infrastructure to community health initiatives.

Similar transport-mapped studies have been conducted in Glasgow, London and New York, allowing governments to track whether investment narrows gaps over time.

The full research paper is available here. UQ’s Institute for Social Science Research can be contacted through issr.uq.edu.au. Maps and media resources from the study are available through the UQ newsroom at news.uq.edu.au.

For Zillmere and Geebung residents, the takeaway is simple but confronting: postcode can shape health outcomes.

Two stations. Ten years.

Published 2-March-2026.

Three-Bedroom Zillmere Cottage Fetches $1.12M At Auction

Photo Credit: Ray White Nundah

A modest three-bedroom cottage in Zillmere that hadn’t changed hands in more than 50 years drew a crowd of nearly 30 bidders last week, selling at auction for $1.12 million — a result that surprised even the selling agent.

The home at 65 Coxen Street was a deceased estate listed as a charity auction. Its late owner, known to have been passionate about animals, left instructions for the proceeds to be split evenly between the RSPCA and the Cancer Council. The property had been in the same family since 1974.

Fourteen buyers registered the evening before the auction, with a further 14 walking in on the day. Bidding opened at $600,000 and climbed in $100,000 jumps to reach $1 million, with barely half the field active at that point. The property was called on the market at $1,050,000, and four buyers remained in contention. From there, the competition tightened to $5,000 increments before the hammer came down just 13 minutes after the auction began.

A developer from South Australia ultimately secured the property, edging out a field that included first-home buyers and investors.

Angela Duncan of Ray White Nundah, who handled the sale, said the turnout had exceeded expectations. She described the buyer mix as unusually varied, noting that many had come in thinking the property would sell cheaply given its condition and age. The result, she said, was consistent with what she has been seeing across the local market more broadly — prices continuing to climb month on month, in a way that echoes the frantic conditions of the COVID property boom.

The Zillmere result is part of a wider pattern of older, unrenovated homes in Brisbane’s northern suburbs punching well above what many buyers anticipate. The suburb’s median house price currently sits at $930,000.

Published 26-February-2026

Aspley Families Welcomed to Guardian Childcare for February Tour Month

Guardian Childcare and Education

Guardian Childcare and Education is inviting Aspley families to explore the centre at 1239 Gympie Road during its February 2026 Tour Month, showcasing the To BE Me learning program and highlighting the centre’s recent upgrades, enhanced safety measures and Nutrition for Life food initiative.

Tour Month, now underway across Guardian Childcare’s network of approximately 180 centres in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Canberra, offers families a chance to step inside a day in the life of a child at Guardian and see first-hand how the centres support children to learn, play and grow. The Aspley centre has operated since 2005 and holds an Exceeding rating under the National Quality Standard. It is one of more than 15 Guardian centres across Queensland taking part in the initiative.

Guardian Childcare Chief Network Officer Sharon Whiteman said centre teams were proud of their services and enjoyed showing them to children and families. She said the organisation aimed to provide safe, inspiring spaces where children felt comfortable and confident, could be themselves and grow at their own pace. She said the team focused on delivering a premium, fun and engaging experience for children and families in everything they did.

What Aspley Families Can See on Tour

The Aspley centre at the corner of Gympie Road and Riordan Street caters to children aged six weeks to six years and is licensed for 150 children. The purpose-built outdoor space, accessible from every classroom, features vegetable gardens, a sandpit, mud pit and pet budgies, along with resident bees and a native Australian garden. The interior features learning spaces equipped with age-appropriate resources inside.

Photo Credit: Guardian Childcare and Education

Tour Month is an opportunity for families to understand how the To BE Me program works. Launched in 2025, To BE Me is an individualised learning program designed around each child’s age, stage and interests. The centre records every milestone and shares it with families, creating a keepsake for the future. The program also demystifies the link between play-based activities and learning to read, write and understand numbers, helping families see and understand their child’s progress at every step.

Aspley families attending the tour can learn how the centre implements the Safety Plus program, which sets child safety standards above regulatory requirements, and how Nutrition for Life supports families who want healthy, engaging meals that build lifelong habits. An on-site cook prepares five nutritious meals each day, serving them in the centre’s piazza to encourage multi-age interaction.

Free Kindergarten and All-Inclusive Fees

The Aspley centre offers the Queensland Government funded kindergarten program, providing families up to 15 hours of free kindergarten a week for 40 weeks per year. This funding, for children who turn four years old by 30 June in the year before they attend primary school, is in addition to the Child Care Subsidy and helps lower out-of-pocket fees.

Guardian Childcare centres have everything included in the fees, including meals, nappies, hat, wet bag and all learning programs, helping to make daily life simpler for families. The Aspley centre trades Monday to Friday from 6.30am to 6.30pm.

Whiteman says many Guardian centres still have vacancies for 2026 and most centres still have available slots for family tours. To check out the Aspley centre and book a tour, visit guardian.edu.au/book-a-tour.

Published 19-February-2026.

Holy Spirit College Launches STEAM Program to Ease Year 6 to Year 7 Transition for Local Students

Holy Spirit College Fitzgibbon is bridging the gap between primary and secondary education with a cutting-edge STEAM program designed to prepare Year 6 students for the challenges of high school, including students from St Dympna’s Parish School in Aspley.

Read: Holy Spirit College Fitzgibbon, New Secondary Catholic School in 56 Years, Officially Opens

The Primary School Transition Program focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths (STEAM), giving students hands-on experience with secondary school learning before they officially begin Year 7.

“It’s a launchpad to success in secondary school,” said Holy Spirit College Acting Principal Andrew McEwan.

The initiative comes as the college seeks to create meaningful connections with surrounding primary schools while supporting Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) students through what can be an intimidating transition period.

Future-Focused Education

Holy Spirit College — Photo credit: Google Street View

Mr McEwan said the program was developed with future graduates in mind.

“When developing our College’s Primary School Transition Program for Year 6 students we had to consider, ‘what does a graduate of 2027 and beyond look like, what future skills will they need?’,” he said.

“For us, it was a no-brainer to develop a STEAM transition program. Not only will students need STEAM knowledge and skills for their futures, but it’s also the foundation for many secondary subjects as students, especially as students near Year 11 and 12.”

The program offers multiple benefits beyond subject knowledge. Students build connections and familiarity with the college environment, develop their identity within the school community, and gain context for what lies ahead in secondary education.

“The program also allows our educators to see what knowledge students already have in STEAM, so when their first day of secondary school comes around both staff and students feel prepared,” Mr McEwan said.

The Primary School Transition Program

Five BCE primary schools are currently participating in the Primary School Transition Program:

St Flannan’s School, Zillmere
St Kevin’s School, Geebung
St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Bracken Ridge
St Dympna’s Parish School, Aspley
Sacred Heart Primary School, Sandgate

The program operates as a reciprocal partnership between schools, with benefits extending to primary school educators as well as students.

“The program is also an opportunity for BCE’s primary educators to shadow our educators, see our teaching practices in person, and pick up techniques that can build independence in Year 6 learners as they prepare them for secondary school,” Mr McEwan said.

“Primary educators can then take these practices in their own Year 6 classrooms helping learners build critical thinking, skills they will need in secondary school.”

Student-Led Learning Initiatives

A highlight of the program has been the involvement of Holy Spirit College students selected for the University of Queensland Science Ambassador program, who mentor primary students in STEAM subjects.

“The Science Exchange with St Dympna’s Primary School allowed our students to lead and engage Year 6 students as a part of this Transition Program,” Mr McEwan said.

Other collaborative projects have seen Year 8 and 9 students work with Sacred Heart Primary School Year 2 students to create a mural focusing on environmental sustainability and Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ encyclical promoting care for our common home.

Senior phase students also supported St Kevin’s Primary School ‘Spotlight on STEM’ event, highlighting knowledge and skills learned from the college’s innovative curriculum while developing a passion for STEM in primary school students.

Beyond Year 6

Mr McEwan emphasised that the college’s transition support extends well beyond the traditional Year 6 to Year 7 pathway.

“We engage with our parent community from Year 3 onwards, touching base with families throughout the year and engaging students in a variety of activities that get them interested in secondary education,” he said.

The college also supports students who commence in later years, recognising that every transition is unique.

Read: Speed Awareness Monitors Installed At St Dympna’s Primary School

“Every transition is unique and our College will continue to work with families to ensure the transition to our College is as seamless as possible for our students,” Mr McEwan said.

Holy Spirit College will continue to expand its transition programs in 2026.

Published 13-February-2026

Choose-Your-Own Valentine’s: A Vibe-Based Guide to February 14 in Brisbane

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to follow one script. In 2026, plenty of locals are treating February 14 as a choose-your-own night out, whether that’s a proper date, a Galentine’s catch-up with an activity built in, a mixed-group dinner that can turn into a singalong, or a full-send party where singles can actually have fun.

To keep it simple, pick the vibe first and then pick the venue that matches it.

Vibe 1: Low-key romance with a view

If your ideal Valentine’s involves good food, a little scenery, and minimal effort (the best kind), go for a waterside setting or a backdrop that does the heavy lifting.

The Boatshed at the Regatta (Toowong)

A cosy choice for couples who want a relaxed lunch or dinner overlooking the river — intimate without being overly formal, and perfect for a proper chat that isn’t competing with a dancefloor.

Riverland (Brisbane City)

If you’re after “special occasion” energy, this one leans into the setting, with the Brisbane River and Story Bridge as your backdrop. Expect cocktails, shared chef’s specials, and live music from 6:00 p.m. — ideal for a date night that feels like a night out, not just a booking.

Best for: couples, first dates, and anyone who wants something classic without feeling locked into clichés.

Vibe 2: Galentine’s with an activity built in

If your group chat loves a plan that’s more than “we should catch up soon,” choose something hands-on. An activity gives the night momentum, keeps conversation flowing, and (bonus) you leave with a memento.

Everton Park Hotel (Everton Park)

A friendship-forward session with candle-making, bubbly and charcuterie. It’s equal parts wholesome and fun — the kind of afternoon that feels like a treat without requiring anyone to dress up like it’s a formal.

Bonny View Hotel (Bald Hills)

Paint-and-sip is a proven recipe: wine, laughs, and an art result that’s either surprisingly good or proudly chaotic. This one’s a great pick for friends, low-pressure dates, or anyone who wants a social plan that isn’t “sit and stare at each other across a table.” Dinner-only bookings are also available if you’d rather keep it simple.

Best for: besties, workmates, small groups, and people who prefer doing something over “just going out.”

Vibe 3: Dates or mates — the flexible night out

This is the category for mixed groups (couples plus singles), double dates, or anyone who wants a night that can shift gears as it goes — from dinner to entertainment without having to relocate three times.

Cannon Hill Tavern (Cannon Hill)

A full-night format that starts with shared plates, rolls into live jazz from 5:30 p.m., then turns playful with Valentine’s karaoke from 8:00 p.m. It’s the easiest option if you want something that can be romantic, friendly, or both — depending on who turns up and how the night unfolds.

Best for: mixed crews, “let’s keep it open-ended” plans, and anyone who wants dinner and a story afterwards.

Vibe 4: Singles and after-dark energy

If you’re not doing dinner-and-dessert, lean into venues that are unapologetically built for meeting people, dancing, and staying out late. Themes help. Loud music helps. A crowd that’s in on it helps most.

Fridays (Brisbane City)

A Traffic Light Party (plus DJs and glow sticks) makes the whole night feel more social and less awkward — especially if you’re heading out with single friends and want an excuse to talk to strangers without pretending it’s accidental.

Retro’s (Fortitude Valley)

For anyone chasing late-night, dress-up, “main character” energy, Cupid’s Playground is the kind of party where committing to the bit is half the fun. Think bold outfits, big beats, and a dancefloor-first plan.

Best for: singles, party crews, and anyone whose Valentine’s vibe is “no small talk, just music.”

A quick way to choose

Want calm + scenic? Pick Vibe 1.
Want something cute + social? Pick Vibe 2.
Want flexibility for a mixed crew? Pick Vibe 3.
Want loud + late? Pick Vibe 4.

Whatever you’re celebrating on February 14 — romance, friendship, or simply having a great night — the best plan is the one that matches your mood (and your group chat’s energy).

Major Road Upgrade and Community Funding Boost for Aspley in 2025-26 Budget

Aspley residents will benefit from significant infrastructure and community investments following the 2025–26 Budget announcement, with nearly $2 million allocated for local sporting facilities and a major upgrade planned for one of the area’s busiest intersections.

Read: Zillmere Included in Plan to Expand Brisbane’s Housing Supply

The Aspley Hornets Football Club will receive $1.8 million under the Games On! program to upgrade its clubhouse facilities. The funding forms part of a broader commitment to grassroots sport across Queensland, with all Games On! commitments fully funded in the Budget.

Games On! for the Hornets

Photo credit: Facebook/Aspley Hornets Football Club

The $1.8 million investment will support clubhouse improvements at the Aspley Hornets Football Club. Member for Everton Tim Mander confirmed all Games On! commitments for the electorate are fully funded in the Budget, including support for the Aspley Hornets.

The Games On! program represents a $250 million investment in community sporting facilities across Queensland.

Supporting young people in Aspley

In addition to the sporting infrastructure investment, Aspley State High School will receive $27,000 to fund mentoring programs for students. The funding comes under the Supporting Our Local Communities initiative.

The $27,000 will support mentoring activities for students at the school.

Major intersection upgrade on the way

The 2025–26 Budget also delivers an upgrade for the Gympie Road and Beams Road intersection in Carseldine.

The intersection currently carries more than 80,000 vehicles daily. The upgrade aims to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion.

Part of a bigger picture

These Aspley-focused investments form part of broader Budget commitments across Brisbane’s northern suburbs. The Budget includes $52 million for the Boondall police facility upgrade, $7 million for Ferny Grove police station improvements, and various school and community facility upgrades across the region.

The Hospital Rescue Plan will also benefit northern suburbs residents, with major expansions planned at Prince Charles Hospital including at least 93 new beds, a new emergency department, paediatrics and operating theatre.

Read: Bald Hills School Puts People First in New Junior School Blessing

For local residents, the Budget delivers tangible improvements to everyday life. The Hornets clubhouse upgrade will enhance local sporting facilities. The mentoring program investment supports young people at a crucial stage of their development. And the intersection upgrade addresses congestion affecting thousands of daily commuters.

As implementation plans are developed and construction timelines confirmed, Aspley residents can expect to see these Budget commitments take shape over the coming months and years, contributing to a stronger, more connected community.

Published 28-January-2026

Big Fight Energy Close to Home: Tszyu–Zerafa Set for Boondall Showdown

Photo Credit: BEC/Facebook

Aspley boxing fans won’t need to head far to catch one of the biggest Australian fight nights of the year, with a long-brewing rivalry set to reach breaking point at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall.

On Friday, January 16, the much-anticipated clash between undefeated rising talent Nikita Tszyu and seasoned contender Michael Zerafa will happen, a bout that has been years in the making and now lands on Brisbane’s northside.

Promoted by No Limit Boxing, the fight has generated national attention thanks to a long-running feud and genuine animosity between the two fighters. For Aspley locals, it brings elite Australian boxing within easy reach, without the need for interstate travel or city-centre crowds.

Fight Night Details

The event takes place on Friday, January 16, with the fight card scheduled to begin at 6pm AEST. With a full main card on offer, the headline bout is expected later in the evening, likely between 9pm and 10pm, depending on how the earlier fights progress.

The Brisbane Entertainment Centre, a familiar venue for major concerts and sporting events, is expected to be buzzing as fight fans from across Brisbane and the bayside arrive for the showdown.

What’s on the Line

The main event is set for 10 rounds at a catchweight between super welterweight and middleweight, ensuring neither fighter holds a clear physical advantage.

For Tszyu, 27, the fight represents the toughest test of his unbeaten professional career. Fighting out of a southpaw stance, he is known for constant pressure and a willingness to turn bouts into physical contests. Carrying one of the most recognisable surnames in Australian boxing, a win here would mark a major step forward at domestic level.

Zerafa, 33, brings far more ring experience. With more than 40 professional bouts behind him, he has faced former world champions and top-tier contenders both in Australia and overseas. While he has fallen short of a world title, his experience in high-pressure fights is widely seen as a key factor heading into this matchup.

Styles That Promise Fireworks

From a boxing standpoint, this is a classic clash of approaches. Tszyu’s aggressive, forward-driving style has produced knockouts, but it has also seen him tested when caught cleanly.

Zerafa, an orthodox fighter, tends to be more measured and tactical. He has shown the ability to weather pressure, stay composed and capitalise when opponents overcommit. Combined with the southpaw-orthodox matchup, it shapes as a contest unlikely to remain cautious for long.

A Full Night of Action

The night offers more than just the main event. One of the key undercard highlights is the professional boxing debut of former Melbourne Storm forward Nelson Asofa-Solomona, adding crossover appeal for rugby league fans.

Heavyweight and domestic bouts round out the program, ensuring the crowd remains engaged from the opening bell rather than simply building toward the headline fight.

Local Excitement

For Aspley residents, major boxing events of this scale rarely take place so close to home. With the Brisbane Entertainment Centre only a short drive away, locals have a convenient chance to see a nationally significant bout live.

Whether the night ends with Tszyu extending his unbeaten run or Zerafa delivering a statement win, the atmosphere promises to be intense. Those unable to attend can watch live via Main Event on Kayo Sports, but for locals heading to Boondall, it’s an opportunity to witness a pivotal moment in Australian boxing in person.

Published 13-Jan-2026

Boondall Driver Faces Court After Speed Cameras Detect 11 Violations in 17 Minutes

A Boondall man is facing serious charges after police allege speed cameras caught him exceeding the limit 11 times within just 17 minutes on Zillmere Road last December 30.

Read: Zillmere Arrest After Police Find Allegedly Stolen Vehicle on Victory Street

Queensland Police intercepted the 57-year-old driver around 5.10pm following the alleged speeding spree in his black Alfa Romeo. According to police, six of the recorded speeds in the 60km/h zone allegedly exceeded 100km/h, with the highest speed reaching 110km/h.

The situation escalated when the driver allegedly returned a positive result to a roadside breath test. He was transported to Boondall Police Station for secondary testing, where he allegedly recorded a blood alcohol concentration of 0.092 per cent – just under the mid-range drink driving threshold.

The Boondall resident has been charged with driving over the general alcohol limit and dangerous operation of a vehicle whilst adversely affected by an intoxicating substance (speeding). He is expected to appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court on 22 January 2026.

Queensland’s Tough Stance on Speeding

Queensland maintains some of Australia’s strictest penalties for speeding offences, with fines recently increased by 3.5 per cent in the 2025-26 financial year. Drivers caught exceeding the speed limit by less than 11km/h now face a $333 fine and one demerit point, while those speeding more than 40km/h over the limit can be hit with fines approaching $1,919.

The state also operates a year-round double demerit points system for repeat offenders. Drivers caught speeding more than 20km/h over the limit who commit another speeding offence within 12 months will receive double demerit points for the second offence. Queensland Revenue Office officials have emphasised there are no provisions for leniency based on a good driving record, as speeding is considered a life-endangering offence.

Fatal Five Claims Record Road Toll

The Boondall incident comes during what road safety advocates have described as Queensland’s worst year on the roads in more than a decade. The state recorded 308 lives lost in 2025 – the highest road toll in 16 years.

The combination of alleged excessive speeding and drink driving in this case represents two of Queensland’s “Fatal Five” behaviours – speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction. Police data shows that serious crashes can be significantly reduced when drivers avoid these behaviours.

Read: Operation Xray Nightfury: Zillmere Chase Among Key Arrests in North Brisbane Crackdown

For local residents in Aspley, Boondall, and surrounding suburbs, the incident serves as a stark reminder that reckless driving isn’t confined to highways or rural roads – it’s happening on familiar streets where families travel daily.

Published 9-January-2026