Boondall Archives - Aspley News

Paul Kelly Brings ‘Fever Longing Still’ to Brisbane for 2025 Arena Tour

Paul Kelly, one of Australia’s most revered singer-songwriters, is set to perform at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall on August 29.

Read: LeAnn Rimes Returns to Australia for 2025 Tour, Starting in Brisbane Entertainment Centre

This concert is part of his largest arena tour to date, marking his only live shows for the year across Australia and New Zealand. The tour supports his latest album, Fever Longing Still, his first collection of new original material since 2018’s Nature.

A Glimpse into the Setlist

While the official setlist for the Brisbane show hasn’t been confirmed, fans can expect a mix of beloved classics and fresh material from his new album Fever Longing Still. Likely crowd favourites include “Leaps and Bounds”, “Before Too Long”, “To Her Door”, “Dumb Things”, and “How to Make Gravy”—all staples of Kelly’s live repertoire.

He’s also expected to perform “From Little Things Big Things Grow”, his iconic collaboration with Kev Carmody, alongside new tracks like “Taught By Experts” and “Houndstooth Dress” from the upcoming album.

The concert is expected to run for approximately 1 hour and 33 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Kelly’s expansive repertoire.

Paul Kelly: A Storied Career

With a career spanning over four decades, Paul Kelly has become a cornerstone of Australian music. His storytelling prowess shines through in songs like “To Her Door,” “From St Kilda to King’s Cross,” and “How to Make Gravy.” Kelly’s contributions have earned him 17 ARIA Awards, five APRA Awards, and the Order of Australia in 2017.

His music often delves into Australia’s cultural and historical narratives, evident in tracks like “Bradman” and “Our Sunshine.” Collaborations, such as “From Little Things Big Things Grow” with Kev Carmody, highlight his commitment to social commentary and indigenous rights.

Kelly’s songwriting is deeply rooted in Australian life, capturing the essence of its landscapes and people. His ability to weave personal and national stories has resonated with audiences, making his concerts both intimate and grand.

Paul Kelly last performed in Brisbane in 2021 at the Riverstage during his “Making Gravy” tour. His upcoming 2025 tour marks his return to live performances in Australia and New Zealand, promising a memorable experience for fans.

Supporting Acts

Joining Kelly on this tour are esteemed artists:

Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit: This six-time Grammy-winning American roots rock band is known for their compelling storytelling and dynamic performances.
Fanny Lumsden: An acclaimed Australian country artist, Lumsden has garnered multiple ARIA and CMAA Golden Guitar awards, with her album HEY DAWN debuting at #1 on the ARIA Australian Album charts.

Read: Keith Urban Set to Light Up Boondall with ‘High and Alive’ Tour

Tickets and Information

Tickets for the Brisbane concert are available through Ticketek Australia. Given the significance of this tour, fans are encouraged to secure their seats promptly. Experience an evening of rich storytelling and musical excellence as Paul Kelly returns to the stage, celebrating his enduring legacy and new creative ventures.

Published 14-April-2025

Brisbane Bullets Appoint Stu Lash as Head Coach in Boondall

Photo Credit: Brisbane Bullets

Based at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall, the Brisbane Bullets have appointed Stu Lash as their new head coach, marking a strategic shift towards long-term success.

Leadership Change at Brisbane Bullets

The Brisbane Bullets have officially appointed Stu Lash as their new head coach, replacing Justin Schueller. Mr Lash previously served as the Bullets’ Senior Basketball Advisor. He has a strong track record in basketball management, including experience with NBA teams such as the Memphis Grizzlies and Denver Nuggets. His promotion to head coach aims to build on the team’s success in the NBL.

Mal Watts, CEO of the Brisbane Bullets, expressed confidence in Mr Lash’s ability. Mr Lash has developed the team’s basketball culture over the past few seasons, making him an ideal fit for the role.

Expert Endorsement: Strong Support for Lash

Mr Lash’s experience extends beyond the NBL. He has held significant roles in the NBA, including working with George Karl, the former head coach of the Denver Nuggets. Mr Karl, a Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame member, praised Mr Lash for his leadership skills.

Stu Lash — *Photo Credit: Brisbane Bullets/Facebook*

Additionally, former NBA star and Bullets co-owner Kevin Martin supported the decision. He emphasised Mr Lash’s basketball acumen and character.

High-Performance Strategy: Strengthening Player Development

Alongside Stu Lash’s appointment, the Bullets announced Professor Stephen Bird as the new high-performance director. Prof Bird brings extensive expertise in performance science and strength and conditioning. Through Prof Bird’s strategic input, the club aims to enhance player health, preparation, and performance.

Mr Watts highlighted that the combination of Mr Lash’s leadership and Prof Bird’s performance strategies positions the Bullets for improved outcomes both on and off the court.

Birsbane Bullets new head coach — *Photo Credit: Brisbane Bullets/Facebook*

Lash’s Vision: Building on a Strong Foundation

Stu Lash expressed enthusiasm about stepping into the head coach role, acknowledging the solid groundwork already established at the Bullets. He noted his commitment to building on the team’s progress. Mr Lash aims to elevate the Bullets’ performance in the upcoming NBL26 season. He will leverage the club’s top-tier facilities and strong community support in Boondall.

Looking Ahead

With Stu Lash at the helm and Stephen Bird directing high-performance strategies, the Brisbane Bullets are poised to capitalise on their recent progress. The club aims to strengthen its presence on and off the court as it prepares for the next NBL season.

Published 9-Apr-2025

Katy Perry Returns to Australia this 2025, Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Tour Schedule

Photo Credit: Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Boondall will become the epicentre of pop music in June 2025, when global sensation Katy Perry, with her record of over 115 billion streams, performs at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

TEG Dainty’s announcement confirms Perry’s “The Lifetimes Tour” will bring her celebrated catalogue to Australian audiences, including a stop in Brisbane. The tour follows the release of her sixth studio album, “143,” and marks her first Australian show in nearly seven years.

Artist’s Journey to Stardom

Born Katheryn Elizabeth Hudson in California, Perry’s musical journey began in gospel music within a deeply religious family. She transitioned to mainstream pop, adopting her mother’s maiden name to avoid confusion with another actress.

Her initial attempts to break into the music industry faced setbacks, including being dropped by record labels. However, her 2008 single, “I Kissed a Girl,” and the subsequent album, “One of the Boys,” propelled her to international fame. The 2010 “Teenage Dream” album further solidified her status as a pop icon.

Perry’s Australian History

Perry last performed in Australia during her “Witness: The Tour” in July and August 2018. Australian fans, who have waited for her return, are highly anticipating this upcoming tour in 2025. The singer is known for her vibrant stage presence and catchy pop anthems, which have earned her a place among the best-selling musical artists ever.

Community Anticipation

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Local Brisbane residents and fans across the region are expected to flock to Boondall for the event. The concert is projected to draw significant attention to the area, boost local businesses, and create a memorable experience for the community. Those planning to attend are advised to monitor official ticketing outlets for sales dates and information.

Katy Perry will perform at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Tuesday, 17 and Wednesday, 18 June 2025.

Published Date 24-March-2025

Keith Urban Set to Light Up Boondall with ‘High and Alive’ Tour

Photo Credit: Keith Urban/Instagram

Boondall is set to host one of the most anticipated live music events of 2025 as country music superstar Keith Urban returns to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in August. This concert marks his first Brisbane concerts since December 2022, bringing fans the live debut of tracks from his latest album, “High.”

A Superstar’s Return to Australia

Keith Urban, a five-time ARIA and four-time Grammy Award winner, has solidified his reputation as one of country music’s biggest global stars. With a career spanning over three decades, Mr Urban has released 13 studio albums, earning 18 No. 1 hits on the U.S. country charts. His accolades include 15 Academy of Country Music Awards, 13 CMA Awards, and six ARIA Awards.

His upcoming “High and Alive World Tour” will be his first in Australia since concluding “The Speed of Now World Tour” in December 2022 at Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne. The 2025 tour will see Mr Urban perform nine arena shows across Australia, including stops in Newcastle, Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide.

Keith Urban new album — *Photo Credit: Keith Urban/Instagram*

Boondall Shows Sell Out as Third Date Added

Originally scheduled for two nights at Brisbane Entertainment Centre on 15 and 16 August 2025, both shows quickly sold out. Due to overwhelming demand, a third and final Brisbane show was announced for 17 August, confirming Mr Urban’s enduring popularity among Australian fans.

Mr Urban’s high-energy performances are known for their electrifying showmanship, powerful vocals, and crowd engagement. The upcoming concerts will feature a mix of classic hits and new material from “High,” including “Wildside,” “Straight Line,” “Go Home W U” featuring Lainey Wilson, and “Messed Up as Me.”

Fans can also expect to hear chart-topping favourites such as “One Too Many” (featuring P!nk), “Parallel Line,” “Wasted Time,” “Somebody Like You,” and more.

Keith Urban concert — *Photo Credit: Keith Urban/Instagram*

A Legacy of Hit Performances

Mr Urban’s last performance in Brisbane was part of “The Speed of Now World Tour,” which ran from April 2022 through December 2022 and covered Europe, North America, and Australia. His concerts have been described as “not to be missed,” and over half a million tickets have been sold nationwide in the last decade.

Mr Urban’s ability to blend country, rock, and pop influences has made him one of Australia’s most sought-after live performers. His concerts typically run for over two hours and are filled with energetic guitar solos and heartfelt ballads.

What to Expect at the Boondall Concerts

Chase Matthew, an emerging voice in country music, joins Mr Urban on the “High and Alive” tour. Known for his bold style, Mr Matthew will open each night, setting the stage for Mr Urban’s highly anticipated return.

Fans are advised to purchase tickets only through Ticketek. Unauthorised resale websites may sell invalid or fraudulent tickets. The concerts are open to all ages. However, attendees under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

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With sold-out shows in Boondall, Keith Urban’s 2025 tour is shaping to be one of the year’s biggest live music events. He is again proving why he remains a dominant force in the industry.

Published 14-Mar-2025

Billie Eilish Dedicates Song to Charlize Zmuda at Boondall Concert

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

International pop star Billie Eilish delivered a heartfelt tribute to 17-year-old Charlize Zmuda, the victim of a recent fatal shark attack, during her sold-out performance at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Boondall.

Billie Eilish Boondall tribute — *Photo Credit: kiyaa98/TikTok*

An Emotional Dedication to Charlize Zmuda

In her final Brisbane show on 22 February 2025, Ms Eilish took a moment to acknowledge the tragedy, dedicating her song “Everything I Wanted” to Ms Zmuda, who tragically lost her life after a shark attack at Woorim Beach, Bribie Island, on 4 February 2025. Before performing the song, Ms Eilish addressed the crowd, saying she wanted to dedicate the next song to Ms Zmuda and her family.

The emotional tribute resonated deeply, as Ms Zmuda was known for her love of music and often shared her performances online. Clips of the dedication quickly circulated on social media, with fans praising Ms Eilish for honouring Ms Zmuda’s memory.

The Campaign for a Tribute

Ms Zmuda’s friends and family spearheaded an online campaign using the hashtag #LLCZ, encouraging Ms Eilish to dedicate a song to her. The movement gained traction, leading to the moment on stage that left the audience in Boondall visibly moved.

Billie Eilish sings for Charlize Zmuda — *Photo Credit: kiyaa98/TikTok*

Social media comments expressed gratitude for Ms Eilish’s gesture, with one fan writing that Ms Zmuda would’ve been over the moon; her friends made this happen in an incredible way. Others commended Ms Eilish for taking the time to acknowledge the loss.

Bribie Island Community Mourns

The tribute came just a day before the Bribie Island community held an emotional paddle-out ceremony in Ms Zmuda’s honour. Hundreds gathered at Woorim Beach, where her father, Steve Zmuda, and sister led a procession into the ocean. A Surf Life Saving Queensland boat carrying the club flag led the tribute, and the Westpac helicopter dropped a wreath into the water.

Ms Zmuda, a dedicated surf lifesaver and talented musician, was remembered by her peers as a bright, compassionate young woman.

Charlize Zmuda — *Photo Credit: AndrewWallaceMP/Facebook*

A Lasting Legacy

Ms Zmuda’s tragic passing has left a lasting impact on the Bribie Island community. While her family grieves, they have urged people to continue enjoying the beach she loved. Her school has also created a prayer garden with a plaque in her memory.

Ms Eilish’s tribute served as a decisive moment of connection. It brought attention to Ms Zmuda’s life and her legacy. As fans filed out of the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, the emotion in Boondall was palpable—a testament to how music can unite people in times of sorrow.

Published 24-Feb-2025

Hans Zimmer to Bring Cinematic Soundscapes to Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Photo Credit: Hans Zimmer Live/ Facebook

Boondall will experience the magic of Hans Zimmer‘s iconic film scores live when the acclaimed composer brings his “Hans Zimmer Live” tour to the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in April 2025.

A Sonic Journey Through Film History

Hans Zimmer to Bring Cinematic Soundscapes to Brisbane Entertainment Centre — *Photo Credit:* *Hans Zimmer Live/ Facebook*

Hans Zimmer, the mastermind behind the music of countless blockbuster films, will return to Australia for the first time since 2019. His “Hans Zimmer Live” tour promises a spectacular audio-visual experience, showcasing newly arranged concert suites from some of cinema’s most beloved scores.

Audiences can expect to hear music from films like Dune. Zimmer won his second Academy Award, Gladiator, Interstellar, The Dark Knight, The Lion King, The Last Samurai, and Pirates of the Caribbean. The composer’s work has resonated with generations of filmgoers, and this tour offers a unique opportunity to experience these scores in a dynamic live setting.

A Collaboration of Musical Talents

Australian singer Lisa Gerrard, known for her captivating vocals, will join Zimmer on stage. Gerrard will perform songs she co-wrote with Zimmer, including music from Mission: Impossible, King Arthur, Black Hawk Down, Tears of the Sun, and Gladiator.

The tour will feature a 19-piece live band and a full orchestra, creating a rich, immersive soundscape. Zimmer has expressed his excitement about returning to Australia and sharing the show with audiences, highlighting the connection between the musicians and the audience.

A Career of Cinematic Excellence

Zimmer’s career spans decades and includes work on over 500 projects across various media. His scores have contributed to the success of films such as James Bond—No Time to Die, Inception, Dunkirk, Man of Steel, The Dark Knight trilogy, Wonder Woman, Kung Fu Panda, 12 Years a Slave, Top Gun: Maverick, and 1 Dune: Part Two.

His contributions to the film industry have earned him numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards, three Golden Globes, five Grammys, an American Music Award, and a Tony Award. His work has grossed over $28 billion at the global box office.

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Event Details

The “Hans Zimmer Live” tour will visit Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne in April 2025. The Brisbane performance will be held at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall. Frontier Touring, Semmel Concerts & RCI Global present the tour.

Published Date 20-Feb-2025

Bullets vs United: Adams Shines, But Bullets Need Miracles to Salvage Season

The Brisbane Bullets’ playoff hopes suffered a devastating setback in their Bullets vs United clash on Australia Day, collapsing under Melbourne’s relentless onslaught in a 115-88 defeat at a sold-out Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

Already reeling from a crippling injury crisis, the Bullets lost import Keandre Cook to chest pains—hospitalised mid-game—and forward Josh Bannan to a pre-game concussion, compounding a nightmare season that now hinges on a series of improbable outcomes.

Read: Iremia Recovery Centre Offers Rest and Restoration in Sandgate

United’s Second-Quarter Surge Seals Fate

Melbourne (17-10) flexed their title credentials with a merciless 35-14 second-quarter blitz, turning a competitive first term into a rout. Matthew Dellavedova (14 points, six assists) orchestrated the carnage, while Ian Clark (24 points) rediscovered his scoring touch and Chris Goulding (16 points) electrified the crowd with a rare dunk-and-flex combo.

For Brisbane, late-season signing Josh Adams (23 points, seven rebounds) delivered his best performance in Bullets colours, and Tohi Smith-Milner (16 points, eight rebounds) battled tirelessly, but the absence of seven rotation players proved insurmountable.

Tied 26-26 after a scrappy opening quarter, the Bullets’ thin rotation unravelled under Melbourne’s precision led by Dellavedova. The former NBA guard’s aggressive drives ignited a 16-2 run in the second quarter, and a Jack White alley-oop off Dellavedova’s assist in the fourth quarter—epitomising United’s dominance—punctuated a 30-point lead.

Playoff Pulse: A Mirage of Hope

At 11-16, the Bullets remain mathematically alive for sixth place, but their path demands near-perfect alignment. To clinch a play-in berth, Brisbane must win their final two road games against the Adelaide 36ers (12-13, sixth) and last-placed Cairns Taipans while relying on the 36ers to lose all three remaining matches—including clashes with South East Melbourne and Perth—and Tasmania (12-13, seventh) to drop two of three games against title contenders Illawarra Hawks and Melbourne.

Even then, they must dominate their final outings to overtake Adelaide and Tasmania on points percentage (points scored divided by points conceded), the NBL’s tiebreaker.

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Amid the bleak outlook, coach Justin Schueller’s resolve echoed the team’s fighting spirit. “We haven’t allowed an excuse all year,” he said, referencing a cursed season marked by “black cats, ladders, and broken windows” at their facility. “We’ve got two games now we have to win.”

Read: Brisbane Entertainment Centre Defended Amid Calls for Demolition

The Bullets’ campaign—a story of grit overshadowed by misfortune—now rests on a Friday night showdown in Adelaide. For a team stripped to its bones, victory alone may not suffice—but it’s a start. In a league where top seeds Illawarra and Melbourne still jostle for position, Brisbane’s faint heartbeat persists. As their fans know all too well: miracles can happen—but time is running out.

Published 26-January-2025

Match preview published 25-January-2025

Bullets vs United: Brisbane’s Postseason Hinge on Australia Day Showdown

The Brisbane Bullets revived their NBL playoff hopes with a gritty 93-87 road win over the New Zealand Breakers on Friday—and now face a season-defining test against Melbourne United on Australia Day, 26 January. Bullets vs United tip off 1:30 p.m. at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

Read: First Stage of Beams Road Upgrade Delivers New Signalised Intersection and Shared Paths

Bullets Rally in Christchurch

Brisbane’s resilience shone in New Zealand, where they overcame a 12-2 deficit early and held firm amid a late Breakers surge. Sharpshooters Casey Prather (24 points, 8 rebounds, 5/11 3PT) and Keandre Cook (26 points, 6 assists, 5/12 3PT) combined for 10 three-pointers, while Josh Bannan (17 points, 7 rebounds) delivered clutch baskets down the stretch.

After trailing early, the Bullets exploded with a 19-7 first-quarter run, fuelled by Prather and Cook’s hot hands. They led the rest of the way, weathering a late Breakers charge that cut the deficit to two with 1:30 remaining. A poised floater from Tohi Smith-Milner (10 points, 7 rebounds) with 18 seconds left iced the game, capping a gutsy team effort.

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Brisbane sank 14/37 (37%) from deep, outscoring New Zealand 42-18 beyond the arc, and stifled Breakers star Parker Jackson-Cartwright to 19 points on 6/16 shooting. Despite missing Tyrell Harrison, Rocco Zikarsky, and Emmett Naar, replacement big Callum Dalton contributed crucial minutes.

“I also felt we got our swagger and vibe back,” said coach Justin Schueller. “What’s exciting to me is … the understanding of what we need to go and get done.”

Bullets vs United

With momentum secured in New Zealand, the Bullets now face a stiffer test: a sold-out Australia Day clash against second-place Melbourne United (16-10). A loss almost surely ends their season. A win keeps hope alive.

Brisbane stunned Melbourne 89-83 earlier this month to snap a 12-game losing streak in the rivalry. To topple United again, they must stifle Melbourne’s league-leading three-point efficiency, neutralise All-NBL guard Chris Goulding, and harness energy from a home crowd amplified by Australia Day festivities.

United arrive in Brisbane after a gruelling seven-game road stretch, including a 48-hour turnaround from Perth. “We want to make sure we put on a deserving show to get that opportunity to keep our season alive,” said Schueller.

Read: 2025 Billie Eilish Tour Brings Sustainability to Brisbane Entertainment Centre

The Bullets have defied odds all season—from injury chaos to late-game collapses—but Sunday demands their best. For a team built on resilience, Australia Day could be their defining moment.

Brisbane Entertainment Centre Defended Amid Calls for Demolition

Queensland entertainment mogul Harvey Lister has responded to recent calls to demolish the Brisbane Entertainment Centre (BEC) in Boondall, defending the venue’s place in the city’s cultural and entertainment landscape.

Read: Kylie Minogue to Celebrate Decades of Hits on the ‘Tension Tour’ at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre

The BEC, built on swampland in 1986, has been a key part of Brisbane’s identity for nearly four decades. However, it has faced criticism due to logistical challenges over the years.

Last week, Hutchinson Builders chairman Scott Hutchinson stirred controversy by offering to demolish the venue for free, arguing that a fresh approach to Brisbane’s entertainment infrastructure is needed.

Hutchinson has also shared his vision for improving Brisbane’s music infrastructure, including his proposal for Riverstage. Hutchinson argues that Riverstage, currently an outdoor venue, requires significant upgrades, including a roof over the band area to improve weather protection, along with better sound infrastructure to prevent noise spillover into nearby areas like Kangaroo Point.

Lister, whose Legends ASM events company manages several Brisbane venues, including the BEC, called the proposal to demolish the 13,000-capacity venue “reckless.” He emphasised the venue’s ongoing success, which has been bolstered by a recent report from Billboard magazine, ranking the BEC among the most successful mid-sized indoor venues in the world.

Lister further pointed to the venue’s upcoming year, with over 750,000 people expected to attend in 2025.

The BEC earned global recognition in Billboard’s 2024 rankings, placing 15th worldwide for concert gross revenue among mid-sized venues and 9th for hosting 76 concerts that year. Venue general manager Patricia McNamara echoed Lister’s sentiments, describing the venue as “going from strength to strength.”

Despite criticisms, McNamara highlighted improvements to issues such as access and transport connectivity over the years, noting that patrons continue to enjoy the venue.

Read: 2025 Billie Eilish Tour Brings Sustainability to Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Upcoming events at the BEC include major performances by Billie Eilish, Drake, Kylie Minogue, and Chris Stapleton, alongside family-friendly shows like Disney on Ice and The Wiggles. The Brisbane Bullets have also seen a 31 percent increase in crowd numbers since returning to the venue this season. Other events this year include Frozen, monster trucks, indoor motocross, and Les Miserables.

Originally conceived as part of Brisbane’s bid for the 1996 Olympics, the BEC will also host handball competitions during the 2032 Olympic Games.

Lister’s stance reaffirms the BEC’s status as one of Queensland’s most successful and beloved entertainment venues, ensuring its place in the city’s future.

Published 24-January-2025

Bullets vs Taipans: Bottom-Seeded Cairns Leave Brisbane Reeling with Blowout

The Bullets vs Taipans showdown at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Friday night dealt a major blow to Brisbane’s playoff aspirations, as bottom-barrel Cairns delivered a commanding 111-80 victory.

Read: Deagon, Zillmere and Bracken Ridge Among Cheapest Fuel Spots Amid Record Prices

Facing their third game in six days, the depleted Bullets struggled against a red-hot Taipans offence that sank 16 three-pointers at an impressive 59 percent shooting clip. Missing key players Tyrell Harrison, Deng Adel, and Rocco Zikarsky, Brisbane showed resilience on the offensive glass with 20 offensive rebounds, but their poor shooting—just 36 percent from the field—proved costly.

Early Momentum Shift In Bullets vs Taipans

From the outset, Cairns seized control, racing to an early 14-5 lead. Brisbane mounted a brief comeback led by Casey Prather, who overcame a first-quarter scare when he appeared to injure his right knee. Prather returned to action and delivered an outstanding performance, leading the team with 22 points and 10 rebounds.

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Josh Bannan provided valuable support with a double-double of 16 points and 12 rebounds, while Keandre Cook added 13 points in extended minutes. Despite these efforts, the Bullets couldn’t keep pace with Cairns’ efficient offence.

Cairns’ Sharp-Shooting Showcase

Cairns guard Rob Edwards stole the show, pouring in 35 points, including seven three-pointers, in a shooting clinic. Taran Armstrong added 19 points, while Tanner Groves contributed 17 points, rounding out a dominant offensive display by the visitors.

“I’ve felt a couple of times in these last few games it’s physically gotten that hard,” said Bullets head coach Justin Schueller. “That’s the challenge I’ve got right now: how do we turn this around quickly?”

Read: Achieving 10,000 Steps at Shorncliffe Walk: Explore the Best Walking Routes

Brisbane’s grueling schedule continues with a crucial away clash against the Illawarra Hawks on Monday night in Wollongong. As the playoff race tightens, the Bullets will need to address their defensive struggles, having conceded significant margins in their last three defeats.

The loss marks Brisbane’s third straight defeat in six days, underscoring the importance of recovery and adjustments as they navigate a challenging end to the season.

Published 19-January-2025

Match preview published 16-January-2025

Bullets vs Taipans: Brisbane Aim to Keep Finals Dream Alive

Brisbane Bullets face a must-win encounter against the Cairns Taipans at Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Friday, 17 January as their NBL finals aspirations hang by a thread. Bullets vs Taipans tip off 6:30 p.m. at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

Read: Bryan Adams Rocks Boondall on 2025 Australian Tour with James Arthur

Finals Race Tightens

The Bullets find themselves in a precarious position following a crushing 112–85 defeat to the Perth Wildcats, sitting eighth on the ladder with a 10-13 record. With six games left in the regular season and only two at home, the Bullets have no room for error. The upcoming clash against the bottom-placed Taipans represents a golden opportunity to stay within reach of the top six.

Next Man Up

Despite a recent resurgence that saw them win six of eight games, the Bullets have hit a challenging stretch, dropping five of their last six encounters. Injuries have sidelined key players, including Rocco Zikarsky, Emmett Naar, Deng Adel, and Tyrell Harrison, further complicating their campaign.

In spite of recent setbacks, the dynamic duo of Casey Prather and Josh Bannan has emerged as a formidable combination. Bannan’s resilience was on full display against Perth, contributing a double-double despite knee concerns. Prather’s explosive 32-point performance showcases the team’s scoring capability even with a depleted roster.

Bullets vs Taipans

The Bullets’ small-ball strategy, anchored by Prather and Bannan, showed early promise against the Wildcats and could serve as a tactical blueprint for the Taipans clash. Their ability to build early leads, as demonstrated in the Perth game, offers a foundation to build upon.

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With the finals cut-off line sitting two wins away, every game becomes a virtual elimination match. The home court advantage against Cairns provides Brisbane with a prime opportunity to reignite their campaign and build momentum for the season’s final stretch.

Read: Bryan Adams Rocks Boondall on 2025 Australian Tour with James Arthur

With five must-win games ahead and only one at home, the Bullets’ playoff hopes hinge on starting their resurgence against the Taipans.

Bullets vs Wildcats: Perth Surge Past Depleted Brisbane

The Brisbane Bullets’ finals hopes dimmed after a 112-85 loss to the Perth Wildcats at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Wednesday night. Despite a strong start in the Bullets vs Wildcats match, Bryce Cotton’s 36-point masterclass, particularly during a dominant second-quarter surge, proved too much for the injury-hit Bullets to handle.

Read: Kylie Minogue to Celebrate Decades of Hits on the ‘Tension Tour’ at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Bullets vs Wildcats

The undermanned Bullets, missing key players Rocco Zikarsky, Emmett Naar, Deng Adel, and Tyrell Harrison, opened the game with remarkable intensity. Josh Bannan and Casey Prather led the charge, combining for Brisbane’s first 18 points. Bannan, who overcame a knee concern from Saturday’s game, impressed with 20 points and 11 rebounds, showing no signs of discomfort.

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However, the game’s complexion shifted dramatically in the second quarter. The Wildcats unleashed a shooting clinic, sinking their first eight three-point attempts. Their blistering 38-15 run in the period built a 23-point halftime lead, leaving the Bullets reeling.

Brisbane fought back admirably in the second half, trimming the deficit to 11 points at one stage. However, a missed opportunity on a three-on-one fast break stalled their momentum. Cotton responded with a signature floater, steadying the Wildcats and extinguishing Brisbane’s hopes of a comeback.

Postseason picture

The loss sees Brisbane (10-13) slip to seventh place on percentage, now two wins outside the finals positions with six games remaining in the regular season. The pressure mounts with only two home games left, including a crucial clash against the Cairns Taipans on 17 January.

For Perth (14-9), the victory keeps them within striking distance of second-placed Melbourne United (15-9), as they push for home-court advantage in the finals. Alongside Cotton’s brilliance, Keanu Pinder (19 points, 6 rebounds) and Dylan Windler (16 points, 6 rebounds) made valuable contributions, showcasing Perth’s depth.

Read: Achieving 10,000 Steps at Shorncliffe Walk: Explore the Best Walking Routes

Despite the setback, Prather’s stellar performance (32 points, 11 rebounds) and Bannan’s gutsy display provide some encouragement for Bullets fans. With their finals aspirations hanging by a thread, Brisbane’s resilience will be tested in the defining moments of the season.

Published 15-January-2025

Match preview published 12-January-2025

Bullets vs Wildcats: Injury-Hit Brisbane Aim to Tame Perth

Still reeling from a gut-wrenching loss and a growing injury list, the Brisbane Bullets are desperate for a win against the Perth Wildcats at home on 15 January, Wednesday. Bullets vs Wildcats tip off 6:30 p.m. at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

Read: Bryan Adams Rocks Boondall on 2025 Australian Tour with James Arthur

A gutsy performance marred by injury

The Bullets showed incredible resilience in Traralgon, battling through a mounting injury toll before ultimately falling to the Phoenix 105-86. Despite the final score, Brisbane proved they can go toe-to-toe with the best, even when facing adversity.

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The Bullets entered the game already missing center Tyrell Harrison. Then, in a cruel twist of fate, they lost Deng Adel and Emmett Naar to injuries in the first half. Despite this, Brisbane, led by a dominant Josh Bannan (23 points, 9 rebounds) and the ever-reliable Casey Prather (21 points, 11 rebounds), held a lead for much of the game. However, disaster struck again when Bannan slipped on the court and injured his knee in the fourth quarter. With a depleted roster, the Bullets couldn’t withstand the Phoenix’s final surge.

Bullets vs Wildcats

Now, the Bullets face a crucial matchup against the Perth Wildcats. Both teams are vying for playoff positioning, making this a must-win game for Brisbane. The Wildcats, currently sitting above the Bullets on the ladder, present a formidable challenge. But if Brisbane can replicate the grit and determination they displayed against the Phoenix, they have a real chance of securing a vital victory.

Postseason hopes hang in the balance

The Bullets’ postseason hopes are hanging in the balance. With seven games remaining in the regular season, they sit two wins behind the fifth-placed South East Melbourne Phoenix and sixth-placed Tasmania JackJumpers. However, their destiny is now largely out of their own hands, as they don’t have any remaining games against their direct competition for the play-in spots.

The upcoming schedule presents a mixed bag for the Bullets. They face a challenging stretch with three games in six days, starting with this clash against the Wildcats and culminating in an away game against the league-leading Illawarra Hawks. However, they also have two games against bottom-of-the-league Cairns Taipans, offering opportunities to gain crucial wins.

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With a difficult road ahead and a depleted roster, the Bullets will need to dig deep. But if their performance against the Phoenix is anything to go by, they won’t go down without a fight. The home crowd at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre will be crucial in providing the support they need to overcome the odds and keep their playoff dreams alive.