Grammar Giant Goes Global: Brisbane Grammar’s Rocco Zikarsky Takes Flight in the NBA

Former Brisbane Grammar School student and Northside Wizards centre Rocco Zikarsky has made the leap to the NBA, drafted at pick #45 by the Chicago Bulls and immediately traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Schoolyard to Show-court: From Brisbane Grammar to the Global Stage

Rocco attended Brisbane Grammar School in Spring Hill, juggling classrooms and intensive training — a balancing act familiar to student-athletes anywhere. His towering frame and raw timing soon set him apart and laid the groundwork for a professional pathway that his natural-born gifts, talent and hard work would soon make possible.

Elite Genes: Mum “Kozza” & Dad Björn

Mum Kylie “Kozza” Zikarsky (née Neuendorf) was a champion surf-lifesaving ironwoman on Queensland beaches during the 1990s, later becoming an AUSTSWIM-accredited coach and founder of Kozzaquatics on the Sunshine Coast. Her myriad accomplishments include elite surf carnivals, state titles and, more recently, community recognition for her work as a youth swimming coach.

Dad Björn Zikarsky brought Olympic prestige to the family, winning bronze for Germany in the 4 × 100 m freestyle relay at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. One of Europe’s top sprint freestylers of the 1990s, he also competed at multiple World Championships.

Together, the 6′1″ ironwoman and 6′10″ Olympian passed down more than just discipline. They gave their son a powerful athletic foundation. Rocco’s towering frame, agility, and elite mentality are proof of pedigree in motion.

Wizards Roots: Boondall Beginnings

Rocco cut his teeth with the Northside Wizards in Boondall, playing above his age group and anchoring junior teams with shot-blocking and rebounding.

His standout form earned him a place on the Queensland South U16 team and led to a scholarship with the NBA Global Academy—yet he remained committed to his Wizards home and returned each off-season to wear Wizards colours.

His highlight reel on the Wizards’ TikTok account shows glimpses of early versatility and athleticism, reinforcing his development as a local talent.

Watch Rocco’s junior Wizards highlights

NBL Fast-Track: Youngest Next Star in League History

In July 2023, Rocco signed with the Brisbane Bullets through the NBL’s Next Stars program—becoming the youngest player in league history to do so at age 16.

He made his professional debut in January 2024 with six points and four blocks in just 10 minutes against the Sydney Kings. Over two seasons, he played 45 games, averaging 4.6 points, 3.4 rebounds and nearly a block per game, while shooting over 50% from the field. His breakout performance came in November 2024 when, in his first start, he posted 13 points, 8 rebounds and 3 blocks against Perth. https://www.youtube.com/embed/Lrb_BgifCGc

Scouts were drawn to his size—7′3″ in bare feet, 257 lbs, with an impressive 9′7″ standing reach—alongside his mobility and developing skill set.

Draft Night: Bulls Pick, Wolves Future

On 26 June 2025, the Chicago Bulls selected Rocco with pick #45 in the NBA Draft. Minutes later, his rights were traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in a pre-arranged deal. He is expected to sign a two-way contract with Minnesota and their G League affiliate, the Iowa Wolves.

NBA analysts see him as a high-upside project: raw but with elite defensive potential and physical traits that are nearly impossible to teach.

Still Brisbane, Always

Whether he’s suiting up in Minneapolis or back home in the off-season, Rocco Zikarsky remains a Brisbane original. His rise—from Grammar schoolyards and Boondall courts to NBA arenas—reflects the power of local support, elite genes, and relentless effort. For young athletes with big dreams, his story is proof that the world stage isn’t as far away as it seems.

Published 28-06-2025

James St Food and Wine Trail Returns to Fortitude Valley

Fortitude Valley will see the return of the James St Food and Wine Trail, transforming James Street into an open-air dining and entertainment space.



James St Food and Wine Trail Overview

James Street in Fortitude Valley is preparing for the annual James St Food and Wine Trail, a free public event where local restaurants, bars, cafes and providores present their offerings. This year’s event will feature an expanded program, covering a range of food and drink options along with live entertainment and activities for children.

The trail will be held on Sunday 27 July, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., closing the street to traffic to accommodate market stalls, bars, and dining areas.

James Street
Photo Credit: James Street

 Event History and Background

The James St Food and Wine Trail began in 2011 as a community initiative to highlight the precinct’s hospitality industry. Since its launch, the event has grown in size and scope, with this year’s edition described as the largest to date.

Food and Drink Line-Up

More than 170 food and beverage choices will be available. Participating venues will include CRU Bar, Bianca, EMME, Jocelyn’s Provisions, Same Same, Sushi Room, Hellenika, and Gelato Messina, among others. Dishes on offer range from sliders, prawn cocktails, and poke bowls to Thai curry, wagyu skewers, fresh oysters, and a limited edition gelato flavour created for the event.

Bars and drink carts across the site will serve beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options.

James St Food and Wine Trail
Photo Credit: James Street

Sustainable Practices

Organisers have implemented environmental measures including composting and recycling stations. All takeaway items such as plates, cups, and cutlery will be compostable. Proceeds from container recycling will be donated to a local charity.

Brisbane events
Photo Credit: James Street

Accessibility and Community Focus

The event will offer accessible toilets and designated children’s areas. Visitors will be able to move freely through the precinct, with seating available to watch live bands and DJs. Accommodation discounts and promotions are available for attendees seeking to extend their stay.

What’s Next



The James St Food and Wine Trail is set to provide a large-scale culinary experience in Fortitude Valley, showcasing local talent and community spirit while promoting sustainable event practices.

Published 28-June-2025

CBD Welcomes New Wave of Dining and Drinks as Hospitality Scene Grows

Brisbane’s CBD is getting a fresh jolt of flavour and flair as a new group of bars and restaurants prepares to open across the city centre and nearby Fortitude Valley. These venues, led by some of Brisbane’s most experienced operators, are adding more colour and character to the streets, drawing attention from locals eager for new places to eat, drink and gather.



Golden Avenue brings Levantine flavours to the city core

Golden Avenue is a Middle Eastern-inspired eatery set to open at 67 Edward Street in Brisbane’s CBD, led by the Anyday group behind Agnes and hôntō. Chefs Ben Williamson and Adam Wolfers will bring their take on modern Levantine food, with mezze, flatbreads, seafood and charcoal-grilled meats. 

Photo Credit: Google Maps

The venue will also feature a garden-style terrace in the middle of the city. After launch, Anyday will shift focus to a second CBD project at the heritage-listed Coal Board Building on Mary Street. Plans include two restaurants and a cocktail bar, though further details are still under wraps.

Winnifred’s on Arthur set to sparkle in Fortitude Valley

Champagne expert Megan Nunn is set to open Winnifred’s on Arthur at 34 Arthur Street in Fortitude Valley, just north of the CBD. The multi-level venue will include a Champagne bar, French bistro, wine shop and private event spaces. A cellar holding more than 15,000 bottles will focus on grower Champagnes from independent producers. 

Chef Antoine Potier, formerly of Restaurant Dan Arnold and e’cco Bistro, will lead a menu built on local produce and French technique. Designed for sustainability, the venue will aim for net-zero energy use with solar panels and battery storage.

Shaman promises bold drinks in a hidden city spot

Shaman is a new underground bar opening soon at 109 Edward Street in Brisbane’s CBD, tucked behind the former Metro Arts building. It’s the latest project from Peter Hollands, known for Frog’s Hollow Saloon and Alice. The space features exposed timber and old brickwork, creating a moody, hidden feel. 

Photo Credit: Evolve

The drinks menu will focus on around 100 rums, 50 tequilas, and a tight selection of classic cocktails like margaritas and daiquiris. Inspired by the music of Carlos Santana, Hollands aims to blend global influences through both drinks and design.

TABOO goes modern Thai on a Fortitude Valley rooftop

Photo Credit: Google Maps

TABOO is a modern Thai restaurant and bar on the rooftop of The Constance Hotel at 18–20 Constance Street in Fortitude Valley. Created by the team behind Mr Vain, it pairs bold Thai flavours with a sleek open-air setting of green tones and dark timber. 



The menu reimagines classic dishes with local ingredients, focusing on shared plates like curries and seafood. The drinks list includes Thai-inspired cocktails, over 100 wines, and a small selection of natural sparkling wines. TABOO is open evenings from Tuesday to Sunday, with bookings available online.

Published 27-June-2025

Be a Local Legend: Crime Stoppers Brings Fun and Safety to King George Square These Holidays

Brisbane’s King George Square will come alive with colour, games, and giveaways from 30 June to 4 July as Crime Stoppers Queensland rolls out a five-day Local Legends event, inviting families to “See Something, Say Something.”



This family-friendly pop-up aims to get parents, carers, and kids talking about safety and community responsibility—without the heavy stuff. With colouring-in stations, puzzles, merch giveaways, and real-life crime-fighting volunteers on hand, the event mixes fun with a powerful message.

“School holidays are the perfect time to connect with families and help young people understand that everyone has a role to play in keeping their community safe,” said Crime Stoppers Queensland CEO David Hansen.

Mr Hansen said engaging children early with simple, hands-on activities helps spark important conversations. “We want kids to grow up knowing that speaking up is a strength… recognising when something’s not right, and knowing where to turn.”

Parents and carers can also find out how anonymous reporting works—no names, no pressure, just the chance to make a real difference.

The King George Square display is the latest instalment in the Local Legends campaign, which launched last year and has already reached thousands through major events like the Ekka, RACQ MotorFest, and the QPS Open Day.

With bouncy balls, stickers, activity books and the chance to meet the team behind the tips, the week-long activation promises a relaxed and engaging way to raise awareness.

“Even the smallest piece of information can be the missing link in an investigation,” Mr Hansen said. “If you see something, say something. They’ll never know it was you—but your tip could stop a crime before it happens.”

📍 EVENT DETAILS
King George Square, Brisbane City
Monday 30 June – Friday 4 July 2025
9.30am – 12pm daily

💡 To report suspicious activity anonymously, contact Crime Stoppers Queensland on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersqld.com.au



Published 27-June-2025

Double the Fun: Fortitude Valley Now Home to Unique Photo Booth and Karaoke Venue

Brisbane has officially welcomed its inaugural high-angle photo booth studio combined with private karaoke rooms, a unique entertainment concept bringing a slice of South Korean culture to Fortitude Valley.



The new venue, Photo Signature, opened its doors to the public, offering a fresh option for social outings. It provides a distinct experience from typical selfie spots, aiming to capture flattering images with its specialised high-angle cameras.

A New Spin on Social Snaps

Photo Signature stands out with its dedicated photo booths featuring soft lighting and built-in beauty filters, designed to ensure everyone looks their best. 

Guests can also access a glam touch-up station for last-minute adjustments and choose from a wide array of props, including playful and quirky options, to enhance their photos. The studio is set up to cater for various groups, from friends looking for lively group pictures to couples wanting cute shots, and individuals aiming for confident solo portraits.

Belt Out Your Favourite Tunes

Adding to the interactive experience, Photo Signature also houses fourteen private coin karaoke rooms. These rooms provide an intimate setting for visitors to sing their hearts out, whether they aspire to be K-Pop idols for an evening or simply want to have fun with friends. The karaoke rooms are available for hire starting from $17.

Community Excitement

The opening has generated significant buzz within the local community. Many people have expressed their excitement online, calling the new establishment “cute” and “fun.” Several individuals noted that it would be an excellent spot for a night out, particularly after dinner. 

Others highlighted their appreciation for the Korean cultural aspect that the venue brings to Brisbane. The sentiment across social media suggests a strong positive reception for the unique entertainment offering.



Location Details

Photo Signature is located at 179 Elizabeth Street, Brisbane City, providing an accessible central location for residents and visitors alike to experience this innovative entertainment hub.

Published Date 26-Jun-2025

City Botanic Gardens to Light Up with Fire and Magic for Afterglow Experience

Brisbane’s City Botanic Gardens will transform into a glowing night-time trail of flickering fire, light sculptures and gentle soundscapes when Afterglow premieres this September as part of Brisbane Festival. 



A New Way to Experience the Gardens

Afterglow is a self-guided night-time trail through Brisbane’s City Botanic Gardens, featuring fire sculptures, candlelight and immersive lighting displays. Designed for a slower pace, the 1.4-kilometre experience lets visitors move at their own rhythm. 

Photo Credit: Brisbane Festival

The event runs nightly from 5 to 27 September 2025, with sessions every 15 minutes from 5:45 p.m. until late. Tickets went on sale Wednesday, 11 June and are available through the Brisbane Festival website and afterglowau.com. The trail is suitable for all ages and is fully accessible for wheelchairs and prams.

Focus on Art, Fire and Reflection

Event organisers say Afterglow blends creativity with natural elements, focusing on the emotional connection people have to fire across different cultures. While it features stunning fire displays and ambient music, the tone of the event is calm rather than high-energy.

Photo Credit: Brisbane Festival

Brisbane Festival’s artistic director Louise Bezzina said the trail encourages a quiet, mindful experience that respects the power of fire. Sony Music Entertainment, who helped produce Afterglow, called it a unique event that combines artistry, creativity and the outdoors in a way Brisbane hasn’t seen before.

Community and Safety at the Core

Local and international fire artists have shaped the Afterglow trail, designing each installation to blend with the natural beauty of the City Botanic Gardens. The event was planned with input from fire and wildlife experts to ensure it’s safe and environmentally responsible. 

Photo Credit: Brisbane Festival

Brisbane Festival is also running an Afterglow Experience Giveaway to help more people take part. Four winners will each get two Anytime Passes and a $200 dining voucher to Naldham House.

Entry is open via the festival’s website to Australian residents aged 18 and over. The event is produced by Sony Music’s live entertainment arm and UK-based Culture Creative, known for similar trails worldwide.

Tickets, Passes and Festival Connection

Tickets are now available via the Brisbane Festival website and afterglowau.com, with prices ranging from $20 to $32 for standard entry and flexible passes between $38 and $65. Families can also take advantage of special bundles.

The experience is one of several key features of the 2025 Brisbane Festival program, which runs citywide across September.



The festival is supported by Brisbane City Council and the Queensland Government, but the focus remains firmly on community access to the arts. Afterglow’s format makes it suitable for everyone, from couples on a night out to families looking for something special after sunset.

Published 25-June-2025

Champagne-Dedicated Bar and Bistro Launching in Fortitude Valley

A new hospitality venue is set to open in Fortitude Valley, introducing Brisbane’s first Champagne-focused bar and bistro with a strong emphasis on grower-producer wines.



Purpose-Built Venue Brings Champagne Culture to Brisbane

A multi-level Champagne bar and bistro is preparing to launch on Arthur Street in Fortitude Valley. Called Winnifred’s, the venue will feature a curated selection of more than 360 Champagne cuvées from 63 grower-producers and established houses, stored across a collection of approximately 14,000 bottles.

The venue marks a first for Brisbane, focusing solely on Champagne across multiple hospitality zones that vary in tone and purpose.

Fortitude Valley Champagne bar
Photo Credit: Winnifred’s/Facebook

Long-Term Vision and Planning

The concept originated more than a decade ago with founder Megan Nunn’s visits to the Champagne region in France. After years spent building connections with small-scale producers and importing their wines to Australia, Ms Nunn began the process of bringing a physical venue to life.

The chosen site in Fortitude Valley underwent a two-and-a-half-year transformation, led by Tim Stewart Architects in partnership with Bespoke Constructions. The resulting venue is divided into five Champagne-themed areas, including a bistro, a walk-in garden bar, a concierge and boutique retail space, a cellar bar, and a dedicated area for dining and tastings.

Collaboration and Interior Detail

Winnifred’s design was shaped through collaboration with Australian creatives and suppliers. Architect Tim Stewart worked with furniture designer Tom Fereday to produce chairs and tables that emphasise durability and tactile comfort, while integrating seamlessly with the space. Staff uniforms were created by Shilo Engelbrecht and Lydia Pearson, using reinterpreted traditional garments.

The interior also features ceramics from Luna Ceramics, as well as bespoke items from local and international makers, supporting a handcrafted approach across the venue.

Ethical Wine Focus

The wine program centres on ethically produced Champagne made through biodynamic and certified organic practices. The intent is to highlight wines that reflect their place of origin and the methods behind their production.

Guests can expect an evolving by-the-glass offering, with 150ml pours designed to allow more expressive tasting without compromise. The venue’s “W” pour line reflects this generous approach.

Champagne bar Brisbane
Photo Credit: Winnifred’s/Facebook

Food Offering by Experienced Chef

Chef Antoine Potier will lead the kitchen, bringing experience from e’cco Bistro and Restaurant Dan Arnold. His menu draws on culinary traditions from the Champagne region, with an emphasis on light, seasonal plates meant to accompany and enhance Champagne service.

Concept and Cultural Origins

The venue’s name and philosophy were shaped by personal experiences. Inspired by the welcoming nature of Ms Nunn’s grandmother and the growers she met in Champagne, Winnifred’s was created as a place of generous hospitality and connection — aiming to offer the same warmth found in the homes of French winemakers.

Opening Schedule



Winnifred’s is set to open in August, with reservations for the bistro opening two weeks prior to launch. The team has positioned the venue as a space for both casual drop-ins and longer meals, blending European design cues with Brisbane’s relaxed character.

Published 25-June-2025

Immersive Light Show Opens at St Stephen’s Cathedral in Brisbane CBD

A large-scale light and sound installation has launched at Saint Stephen’s Cathedral in Brisbane CBD, offering a 30-minute immersive audiovisual experience themed around Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons.



Light and Sound Experience Arrives in Brisbane CBD

Following successful runs across Europe, a 30-minute immersive show titled “Enlightenment” has opened at Saint Stephen’s Cathedral on Elizabeth Street. The installation features synchronised visual projections and music, using Vivaldi’s reorchestrated The Four Seasons as its core soundtrack.

Presented by Eonarium, the experience uses video-mapping technology to project animations directly onto the cathedral’s interior. Visitors are taken through spring, summer, autumn, and winter via 3D visuals that align with the Gothic Revival architecture of the heritage-listed cathedral.

Historic Cathedral Transformed into Visual Canvas

The venue, Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, is a Roman Catholic church and the principal place of worship for the Archdiocese of Brisbane. Located within the Brisbane CBD, the cathedral was selected for its historic character and internal scale, both of which support precise visual projection.

According to organisers, every surface of the venue has been digitally measured to allow seamless alignment of animated content. The production is entirely held indoors, with a runtime of 30 minutes per session. No food or drinks are allowed inside, and there is no on-site parking, though several public transport options connect nearby.

Eonarium
Photo Credit: Eonarium

Audience Engagement and Feedback

The experience has been described by past European audiences as highly immersive and visually captivating, with some international attendees returning to see the show multiple times. While no official Brisbane-specific feedback is yet available, the show’s reception overseas has averaged over 4.5 out of 5 in viewer satisfaction.

Visitors in Brisbane are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes early. The show is accessible to all ages and wheelchair users, but it is described as a sensory experience and may not be suitable for all individuals.

 Enlightenment light show
Photo Credit: Eonarium

Ticketing and Group Bookings

Bookings for “Enlightenment” are open through the official ticketing platform, with options available for standard entry, school excursions, and corporate events. Group bookings are supported for parties of more than 15 individuals, with tailored experiences available on request.

The show runs from 5 July to 27 September 2025, with varying schedules throughout the week. No merchandise is available on-site, and there is no virtual reality component included in the experience.

Saint Stephen’s Cathedral
Photo Credit: Eonarium

What’s Next



“Enlightenment” is set to remain open at Saint Stephen’s Cathedral until late September, bringing a fusion of classical music and modern digital artistry into Brisbane CBD. The production continues to draw visitors seeking an immersive and contemplative cultural experience within the city’s central district.

Published 24-June-2025

BIGSOUND 2025: Fortitude Valley Prepares for Southern Hemisphere’s Largest Music Showcase

Over 120 rising music acts will transform Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley into the southern hemisphere’s largest music discovery hub, BIGSOUND 2025, offering a glimpse into the future of Australian and international music.



This major music industry event, known as BIGSOUND, will take over 18 vibrant venues across the Valley for three jam-packed nights, running from Tuesday, 2 September to Friday, 5 September 2025. A single wristband will grant music enthusiasts access to all the performances.

A Launchpad for Future Stars

BIGSOUND has a long history of being a crucial launching pad for artists who go on to achieve widespread fame, with past attendees including successful acts like Flume, Lime Cordiale, The Jungle Giants, and Vera Blue. This year’s lineup continues that tradition, featuring a diverse range of genres from punk to pop, indie-rock, folk, country, electronic, and hip hop.

Among the highly anticipated acts are WAFIA, known for her soulful electronic and R&B blend, and neo-soul favourite KAIIT, who returns with exciting new material. The program also includes Perth’s 12-year-old hip-hop sensation Inkabee, indie-pop breakout Azure Ryder, beloved Brisbane artist Hatchie, and high-energy rockers The Southern River Band. 

Festival Programmers Casey O’Shaugnessy and Katie Rynne expressed immense pride in the selected artists, highlighting the incredible depth and creativity present in Australia’s music scene. They stated that the artists chosen reflect truly exciting things happening with music.

Community and Industry Collaboration

The event is a significant draw for both music fans and industry experts looking for the next big thing. Minister for the Arts John-Paul Langbroek recognised BIGSOUND 2025 as a key event that brings together musicians, industry managers, and visitors to Queensland, reinforcing the state’s reputation as a lively cultural destination. 

He said the government supports BIGSOUND to back local artists, venues, and businesses, helping to create a flourishing live music environment, especially leading up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.



The festival encourages attendees to enjoy a “choose-your-own-adventure” experience, moving between different venues that offer everything from open-air stages to intimate spaces. 

The unique opportunity for artists to perform for both a keen audience of music lovers and industry delegates makes BIGSOUND a standout event in this part of the world. Programmers O’Shaugnessy and Rynne extended their gratitude to all artists who applied, noting the high quality, creativity, and variety of submissions received this year.

Published Date 24-Jun-2025

National Police Legacy Day Honoured in Brisbane CBD

National Police Legacy Day has been formally recognised and observed in Brisbane CBD, acknowledging the long-standing support provided to the families of fallen or terminally ill police officers.



Queensland Leads National Recognition

The first National Police Legacy Day has been established as an annual occasion to acknowledge the services of Police Legacy organisations. Brisbane CBD marked the event on 17 June, recognising its historical ties to the program.

Queensland Police Legacy was the first such organisation in Australia. It was established on 17 June 1971 to provide assistance to families of Queensland police officers who had died or were suffering terminal illness.

Origins and Early Support in Brisbane CBD

Queensland Police Legacy began with an initiative to formalise the informal practice of assisting grieving police families. Since its inception, the organisation has assisted 285 families and supported 507 dependent children.

The first initiative came when Queensland officers recognised the need for structured support beyond the tradition of “passing the hat around.” The result was the creation of a charity that has since expanded nationally, with eight Police Legacy organisations now operating across Australia.

Legacy in Action

The organisation provides financial assistance and practical support to the families of officers, primarily focusing on the educational needs of dependent children. This includes long-term programs and a continuing relationship with families in need.

One example is the Lees family from Toowoomba, supported after the 2014 passing of Detective Sergeant Darren Lees, who served in the Queensland Police for over two decades. His widow, Kathy, and their children received support that ranged from financial aid to emotional guidance and ongoing community connection.

A National Symbol

National Police Legacy Day
Photo Credit: Queensland Police Legacy /Facebook

The newly launched National Police Legacy Day is symbolised by the Police Legacy Daisy, modelled after the Michaelmas Daisy—associated with St Michael, the patron saint of police.

Supporters are encouraged to wear the daisy pin annually on 17 June to recognise serving officers and remember those who have died. The pins are available for purchase through the Queensland Police Legacy office on North Quay or by email order.

Broader Community Impact

In addition to Queensland Police Legacy, the national observance is supported by organisations such as AFP Legacy and NSW Police Legacy. Families including Legatees Emma and Chris have also shared their experiences to mark the occasion, highlighting the shared mission of providing hope and resilience.

The national website, offers further information about Police Legacy organisations and how individuals can contribute or access support.

What’s Next



National Police Legacy Day will be commemorated annually on 17 June, reinforcing Brisbane CBD’s key role in the origin and ongoing efforts of Queensland Police Legacy. The event aims to raise awareness and sustain community support for policing families now and into the future.

Published 20-June-2025