Roar vs Western United: Missed Chances and Offside Drama as Brisbane Held to a Draw

Roar vs Western United ended in a goalless draw at Perry Park on Sunday evening, as both sides struggled to find a breakthrough in a tightly contested match. The home side started brightly, dominating possession and carving out early opportunities, but Western United’s defence held firm, repelling the early onslaught and growing into the contest.


Read: Pumpkin’s Patch: Transforming Grief into Green Space in Brisbane CBD


Defensive Resilience and Missed Opportunities

Western United’s goalkeeper Olivia Sekany played a pivotal role in keeping the visitors level, producing a stunning save in the 18th minute to deny what seemed like a certain goal from Aimee Medwin. The momentum briefly shifted after this, with Western United gaining a foothold in midfield and disrupting Brisbane’s rhythm. The match became a more evenly contested battle, with possession frequently changing hands as both teams searched for an opening.

The first caution of the match came in the 27th minute when Grace Kuilamu was shown a yellow card for a challenge on Julia Sardo, adding an extra layer of intensity to the already competitive encounter. The Roar continued to press forward, but a resolute Western United defence ensured clear-cut chances remained scarce.

As stoppage time approached, Brisbane appeared to have snatched a dramatic winner when Danelle Tan turned in a pinpoint cross from Alicia Woods. Perry Park erupted in celebration, but the joy was short-lived as the linesman’s flag was swiftly raised for offside, ensuring the match ended in a stalemate.

Looking Ahead to Sydney

With an international break now on the horizon, the Roar have an opportunity to reset before returning to action against Sydney FC on 2 March. The break offers valuable time for the squad to regroup and refine their attacking play as they look to turn promising build-up sequences into goals.


Read: What’s Up Weekly: Brisbane Events


While the result may feel like a missed opportunity, Brisbane’s defensive solidity and early attacking intent provide reasons for optimism. Their competitive position in the league remains intact, and the focus now shifts to ensuring that future performances translate into much-needed victories.

Published 18-February-2025


Match preview published 13-February-2025

Roar vs Western United: Brisbane Aim to Rekindle December Magic Against Melbourne Outfit

Roar vs Western United Brisbane Aim to Rekindle December Magic Against Melbourne Outfit

Fresh off a heartbreaking defeat, Brisbane Roar faces a critical test in their finals push as they welcome Western United to Perry Park this Sunday evening. The match presents a prime opportunity for the home side to reignite their campaign following last weekend’s difficult 2-1 loss to Western Sydney Wanderers. Roar vs Western United kick off 5:00 p.m. at Perry Park.


Read: Spring Hill Hotel Owners Challenge Approval of Nearby 15-Storey Development


A Loss and an Injury Away From Home

The Roar’s coaching staff will need to adjust their strategic approach this weekend, with midfielder Laini Freier unavailable due to concussion protocols after last Sunday’s match. However, the squad receives a significant boost with the return of defender Leia Varley, who has recovered from an ankle injury that kept her sidelined against the Wanderers.

The home side aims to recapture their winning form after a disappointing 2-1 loss to Western Sydney Wanderers last weekend. The defeat saw promising moments, including 18-year-old Zara Kruger notching her first Roar goal, but ultimately ended in heartbreak with a late winner from WSW’s Holly Casper.

Varley, who recently committed her future to the club with a two-year contract extension, expresses unwavering confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back. “I think we’ve got to focus on ourselves. I think we’ve let the focus of our opponents get the best of us and not trust our football style,” she reflects. The defender, who opened her A-League account in the previous meeting with Western United, maintains high ambitions for the upcoming clash. ‘If I can get another one this weekend, it’ll help us get the momentum we need’.

Roar vs Western United

The history between these sides has produced memorable encounters, none more so than December’s remarkable 8-2 victory at Ironbark Fields. That day showcased Brisbane’s attacking prowess, with Laini Freier securing back-to-back hat-tricks and contributions from across the squad demonstrating their potential for devastating forward play.

The Roar’s emphatic victory in their last meeting demonstrates their capability to overcome the fourth-placed visitors. “Western [is a] physical team, obviously they’re pushing for finals as well so I’m expecting a big game,” notes Varley. “I think we’ll come out firing and kickstart something good for the rest of the season.”


Read: Amyl and the Sniffers Condemn Fan Misconduct After Women Groped at Brisbane Show


With passionate home support behind them and determination to revive their season, Brisbane looks to channel the spirit of their previous encounter and secure a crucial three points in their push for finals football. The stage is set for an enthralling contest at Perry Park.

Reviving Queen Street Mall: Will Proposed Upgrades Ever Happen?

Over the years, numerous proposals and discussions have taken place to upgrade Brisbane’s Queen Street Mall, but the long-awaited revamp has yet to materialise. While city planners and business leaders have put forward ideas for revitalisation, little tangible progress has been made, leaving many questioning the future of this iconic retail precinct.


Read: After 35 Years, Myer to Leave Queen St Mall and Look For New Location


Among the proposed upgrades is the transformation of Wintergarden, a prominent retail hub in the heart of the mall. However, instead of progress, the past year has seen a steady exodus of tenants. 

Photo credit: Porex Porex/Google Maps

The announcement of plans for landscaped city lanes and enhanced connectivity between Elizabeth and Queen Streets, including the removal of Elizabeth Street’s car park ramps, coincided with a wave of retail departures from Wintergarden last year.

Retail Struggles and Decline

Photo credit: Moises Vasquez/Google Maps

Since its opening in 1982, Queen Street Mall has undergone multiple changes, with the removal of several buildings and retail spaces over the years. However, in recent times, the decline has been more evident. 

The closure of beloved establishments such as Pig ‘N’ Whistle pub and Milano Italian restaurant in 2023 has further dampened the mall’s vibrancy. The end of lockdowns, coupled with increasing living costs, has placed significant pressure on retailers, contributing to the precinct’s struggle.

Proposed Revitalisation Strategies

Queen Street Mall
Photo credit: Michael Lindenboy/Google Maps

To breathe new life into the mall, Brisbane City architect Lucas Christopher has proposed several revitalisation strategies:

  • Reintroducing Permanent Pods – To create a more engaging environment, Christopher suggests adding architecturally distinctive pods for retail, food, and drink. These should go beyond basic transactions to offer immersive and memorable experiences.
  • Curating the Retail Mix – A carefully selected mix of tenants could boost the mall’s appeal. Christopher proposes prioritising experiential businesses over banks and telcos and encouraging late-night trading to attract a more diverse crowd.
  • Developing Unique Retail Concepts – A council-private sector partnership could introduce creative retail and entertainment options. Ideas include a jacaranda-themed café, a breakfast pod, a public seating staircase, and a 24-hour restaurant and bar to foster a vibrant, community-driven atmosphere.

“By reintroducing versatile 24-hour focused spaces like those suggested above, the mall could once again become a vibrant destination that blends retail with a sense of community and culture.” Christopher said. 

Queen Street Mall
Photo credit: Vu Dang/Google Maps

Rather than vacant concrete slabs replacing once-thriving areas, Christopher suggested that the mall could be transformed into a space that fosters engagement and celebrates the diversity of Brisbane.


Read: Honouring Graham Pampling, Beloved Busker of the Queen Street Mall


As the retail landscape continues to evolve, the challenge remains for city planners and business leaders to turn these ideas into reality. Whether the Queen Street Mall revamp finally materialises or remains an unfulfilled promise is yet to be seen.

Published 14-February-2025

Night-Life Commissioner Eyes Changes to Revive Fortitude Valley

Live music once defined the vibrant night life in Fortitude Valley, but today, its venues face rising costs and empty dance floors. With fewer people heading out, venue owners fear for the future of Brisbane’s entertainment hub.



Brisbane Night-Life Economy Commissioner, John “J.C.” Collins, has been meeting with stakeholders to discuss solutions, including potential subsidies, extended trading hours, and reduced licensing fees for live music venues. Drawing inspiration from New South Wales’ recent night-life reforms, Collins hopes to convince the Queensland officials that intervention is needed.

Why Fortitude Valley Is Struggling

Over the years, Fortitude Valley has been synonymous with live music, late-night venues, and bustling crowds, but venue operators say attendance has dropped significantly. Rising costs, post-pandemic lifestyle shifts, and an increase in home drinking have kept people away, leaving venues to struggle with reduced revenue and increased operating expenses.

Collins, who co-owns The Fortitude Music Hall and The Triffid, told a parliamentary committee that many festival organisers and venue owners are hesitant to invest due to financial uncertainty. The issue isn’t just limited to Brisbane—live music venues across Townsville, Mount Isa, and the Gold Coast have echoed similar concerns.

Fortitude Valley night life
Photo Credit: The Fortitude Music Hall/Facebook

During a recent visit to Airlie Beach, Collins observed that it was busier than Fortitude Valley on a weeknight, despite the town having a much smaller population. This raised questions about whether current regulations and operating costs in Brisbane are stifling the city’s night-life.

Potential Solutions: What Queensland Can Learn from NSW

To revive the industry, Collins is considering ideas similar to those implemented in New South Wales, such as an 80 per cent reduction in licensing fees for music venues and extended trading hours. While he has not committed to proposing an exact replica of these reforms, he believes Queensland needs to explore ways to ease financial pressure on venue owners.

One idea that has been raised is the creation of a Minister for Music, a role that could oversee policies affecting live entertainment venues. Collins has not confirmed whether this will be a formal recommendation but pointed to it as an example of how NSW is treating live music as a key economic and cultural asset.

Additionally, many venue owners have expressed frustration over bureaucratic hurdles such as outdated ID scanning laws and noise restrictions, which they believe discourage patrons from heading out.

Fortitude Valley night life
Photo Credit: The Fortitude Music Hall

Live Music’s Role in Community and Culture

Beyond economics, Collins stressed that live music plays a crucial role in social connection and community culture. He noted that after COVID-19 lockdowns, people realised the importance of shared experiences—whether at concerts, restaurants, or theatres. With Queensland’s live music industry at a crossroads, he believes the right changes could bring confidence back to festival organisers, venue operators, and artists alike.

While government officials have acknowledged the concerns, some MPs have emphasised the need to balance night-life growth with public safety. Others have called for a stronger focus on supporting festivals, which have long been a stepping stone for emerging Australian musicians.



The state’s night-life economy remains in uncertain territory, but with the right reforms, Fortitude Valley—and Queensland as a whole—could regain its status as a live music powerhouse.

Published 14-February-2025

Spring Hill Hotel Owners Challenge Approval of Nearby 15-Storey Development

The owners of the Soho Brisbane hotel in Spring Hill have filed legal action in response to the approval of a proposed 15-storey hotel development at Wickham Terrace, citing concerns about its potential impact on the surrounding area, including Roma Street Parkland and their business.


Read: Multi-Level Dining Precinct to Transform Heritage Site in Brisbane City


Soho Corporation and Starville have lodged a notice of appeal with the Planning and Environment Court, opposing the Council’s decision to greenlight the development (A006326383) in December.

Spring Hill
Artist’s impression of proposed development (Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online)

The proposed hotel, set to be built at 309 Wickham Terrace in Spring Hill, is planned to feature 92 guest rooms. Additionally, the development includes a rooftop bar, a dedicated function facility, and a dining venue that could operate as either a restaurant or a café.

Prior to the approval, there were 18 submissions made regarding the development, all of which objected to the proposal. Concerns were raised over the scale of the project and its potential effects on the surrounding community.

Concerns have also been raised regarding the proposed rooftop terrace and its potential impact on nearby properties. The appeal contends that the approved development may not meet community expectations and does not fully integrate with the surrounding urban context.

According to the appeal, the owners of the existing hotel believe the new development’s height and scale do not align with the character of Spring Hill and could lead to disruptions during construction. They argue that the proposed design does not adequately incorporate subtropical architectural elements or sufficient green spaces.

Spring Hill
Artist’s impression of proposed development (Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online)

The developer asserts that the design respects the heritage identity of Wickham Terrace, drawing inspiration from structures such as Athol Place, Craigston, and the Spring Hill Reservoir. 

In the planning documents, the developer also stated that the building would incorporate a combination of screening and obscured glazing to protect the privacy of neighbouring properties and patrons. Additionally, they argued that the proposed boundary setbacks were appropriate for the site context and would not hinder future development on adjoining properties.


Read: Plans Submitted for Country Road Store in Queen Street Heritage Building


The site designated for the new hotel is located approximately 200 metres west of the historic Spring Hill windmill and is currently occupied by a four-storey, 12-unit apartment building. The matter is now before the Planning and Environment Court for further consideration.

Published 12-February-2025

Amyl and the Sniffers Condemn Fan Misconduct After Women Groped at Brisbane Show

Aussie rock band Amyl and the Sniffers have spoken out against disturbing fan behaviour after multiple women reported being groped at their Brisbane concert. 



The band played The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley on 31 January as part of their Cartoon Darkness World Tour, but for some fans, the night turned sour.

Fan Share Their Experiences

Ameya Jaurigue, 20, was one of several women who said they were harassed by male concertgoers. What started as an exciting night quickly became an uncomfortable and distressing experience.

Jaurigue explained that attending a concert by an artist she deeply admired—one known for championing strong values and empowering lyrics—should have been a positive experience. Instead, she felt powerless when some men in the crowd disregarded everything the band stood for. 

She described feeling “extremely humiliated and vulnerable,” adding that the experience made her realise “just how misogynistic the world is.”

Amyl and the Sniffers’ Lead Singer’s Response

Lead singer Amy Taylor didn’t hold back when addressing the issue. She reached out to Jaurigue privately and took to Instagram to call out the behaviour. 

Amyl and the Sniffers
Photo Credit: Mlac Photography/Instagram

Taylor described the incident as “so f***ed up” and praised the victims for their bravery.

She reiterated that no one should touch others without consent and made it clear that their concerts are not a place for harassment or assault. Taylor also urged on male fans to support women in the crowd and hold others accountable. 

The Tivoli Responds

The Tivoli’s Creative Director, Dave Sleswick, said he was devastated by the reports.

Sleswick said this kind of behaviour completely goes against the venue’s values, both as a business and as individuals. He assured that they are working closely with the victims to handle the situation with care and responsibility.



Women Speak Out

Since sharing her story, Jaurigue has received countless messages from other women who have had similar experiences at concerts.

Amyl and the Sniffers have made it clear that harassment has no place at their gigs. As conversations around safety at live music events continue, their message is simple—respect others or don’t come.

Published 11-Feb-2025

Detour Takes a Temporary Home in Fortitude Valley—Here’s What’s on the Menu

Brisbane’s dining scene was left reeling when news broke that Woolloongabba’s beloved progressive restaurant, Detour, would be closing its doors just before Christmas 2024. However, the shock quickly turned to excitement when it was revealed that Detour wasn’t gone for good. 


Read: Crowbar Brisbane Returns: A New Era for the Iconic Venue


Instead, the forward-thinking eatery is taking a short detour—literally—before finding a new permanent home. For now, Detour fans and curious food lovers can look forward to a three-month pop-up in Fortitude Valley, offering a taste of the past, present, and future of the restaurant.

A Limited-Time Culinary Experience

East St, Fortitude Valley (Photo credit: Google Street View)

Starting February 14, Detour will occupy the former Kid Curry space (next to to Happy Boy) on East Street for three months. The pop-up will be open for dinner from Wednesday to Saturday and for lunch on Saturdays, offering a five-course set menu with omnivore and herbivore options that will change each month.

Photo credit: Detour Restaurant/Facebook

Diners can expect a mix of nostalgia and innovation. The first menu will highlight Detour’s most popular dishes, such as the famous KFD (Kentucky Fried Duck) and gunpowder wagyu brisket, providing an opportunity for those who missed out on a final meal at the original Woolloongabba venue. As the pop-up progresses, the menu will shift towards more experimental dishes, offering a preview of what’s to come in Detour’s next chapter.

In addition to the food, the beverage selection will reflect the restaurant’s commitment to quality and sustainability. A condensed version of Detour’s Australian natural wine list will be available, featuring a curated selection of reds, whites, sparkling, rosé, and orange wines by the glass.

Looking Ahead: Detour’s Permanent Return

Photo credit: Detour Restaurant/Facebook

While details about Detour’s future location remain undisclosed, its core principles will remain unchanged. The restaurant will continue to prioritise sustainability, inclusivity, and progressive dining.

The owners have confirmed that the focus will still be on sustainably sourced produce, inclusive dining, and maintaining a casual atmosphere. The Australian wine list will also remain a key feature.


Read: Hellenika Slashes Bills in a Big Way for Hospitality Staff


For now, Brisbane diners have a rare chance to experience Detour in an intimate and evolving format before it transitions to its next home. Whether a long-time fan or a newcomer eager to explore its offerings, the Detour pop-up in Fortitude Valley is set to be one of the city’s must-visit dining experiences of the season.

Published 11-February-2025

What’s Up Weekly: Brisbane Events [Feb 12 – 18]

Brisbane’s Inner City is alive with spectacular concerts, world-class orchestras, and thrilling cultural experiences this week! Whether you’re a music lover, theatre enthusiast, or history buff, there’s something happening that you won’t want to miss. Check out what’s on in the heart of the city!


Brisbane City

Feb 16 – The Prodigy @ Riverstage, Gardens Point Road

The Prodigy
Photo Credit: BCC


Feb 16 – Australian Youth Orchestra: Striking and Beautiful @ Brisbane City Hall

Australia Youth Orchestra
Photo Credit: EventBrite


Ongoing – Titanic. The Human Story @ Uptown, Level Q, 91 Queen St

Titanic
Photo Credit: Titanic Exhibition

South Brisbane

Feb 16 – Singapore Symphony Orchestra @ Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC)

Singapore Symphony Orchestra
Photo Credit: Singapore Symphony Orchestra/Facebook

From massive international acts to breathtaking orchestras, Brisbane’s Inner City has an incredible lineup of events this week! Whether you’re looking for a high-energy concert, a refined classical experience, or a deep dive into history, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out—plan your week now!

Brisbane’s Kimaritec Takes Gold with Innovative Cancer Treatment at Global Healthcare Event

Brisbane-based Kimaritec has taken top honours at the world’s leading healthcare conference, showcasing its innovative cancer treatment technology to a global audience.



The company secured Gold at the RESI Innovator’s Pitch Challenge during J.P. Morgan Healthcare Week in San Francisco, USA.

A Breakthrough in Cancer Treatment

Kimaritec is developing groundbreaking therapies that target and dismantle specific proteins that fuel cancer growth. This approach aims to create more effective cancer treatments with fewer side effects. Their winning pitch focused on their unique method of targeted protein degradation, which involves blocking specific SUMOylation events in cancer cells.

SUMOylation is a process that stabilises proteins within cells, and cancer cells often rely on this process more than healthy cells. Kimaritec’s research has identified proteins that cancer cells specifically need to SUMOylate, and by stopping this modification, they can trigger cancer cell death. This innovative approach distinguishes Kimaritec from other companies working on targeted protein degradation.

Brisbane’s MedTech Sector Shines on the World Stage

Kimaritec
Photo Credit: Translational Research Institute

Kimaritec’s success marks the third consecutive year that a Brisbane company has won the top prize at the RESI Innovator’s Pitch Challenge, solidifying Brisbane’s status as a global MedTech hub. The company was selected by the Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) as one of 11 MedTech companies to represent Brisbane through its global accelerator program.

This program supports Brisbane’s burgeoning health technology sector by helping local businesses gain a foothold in the lucrative US life sciences market. BEDA’s CEO, Anthony Ryan, emphasised the importance of this win for Brisbane, stating that it places the city’s MedTech sector firmly in the global spotlight and attracts the attention of the world’s leading investors.  

He added that this accolade demonstrates why Brisbane is a city buzzing with opportunity and cements its position as Australia’s leading MedTech hub.

A Pivotal Moment for Kimaritec

Kimaritec’s co-founder, Associate Professor Sally-Anne Stephenson, expressed excitement about the award, describing it as a major milestone in their product innovation journey. She acknowledged that the company had been operating somewhat under the radar until now and that this recognition is precisely what they need to attract the attention of the right partners to propel them forward.  

She also noted the value of the support received from BEDA and Life Science Nation, particularly in refining their investor pitch. Dr. Stephenson’s personal experience with melanoma has been a driving force in her work. She explained that the company’s approach to targeted protein degradation, by targeting cancer cell-specific SUMOylation events, is new and different.

Looking to the Future

Kimaritec has demonstrated that their molecules can effectively block SUMOylation and kill cancer cells in laboratory settings. Their immediate goal is to refine these molecules to make them more suitable for drug development. 

Winning the RESI JPM challenge has significantly impacted their fundraising efforts, providing them valuable connections to potential investors. The company hopes they will secure the necessary investment to move to the next stage of development.



BEDA’s Role in Fostering Innovation

BEDA’s MedTech Initiative has been crucial in supporting Brisbane’s MedTech sector. Since 2023, the initiative has supported 30 companies, generated over 180 new jobs, and helped businesses secure almost $100 million in funding.

Brisbane companies’ success at the RESI Innovator’s Pitch Challenge for three consecutive years underscores the effectiveness of BEDA’s programs and the strength of Brisbane’s MedTech ecosystem. BEDA’s State of the City Report projects significant growth for Brisbane’s health sector by 2031, with health exports already experiencing rapid expansion.

Published Date 07-Feb-2025

Family Fun Alert: Broncos Fan Fest Hits The Star at Queen’s Wharf

Broncos faithful, get ready! Brisbane Broncos excitement is heading your way this February as the club gears up for the 2025 NRL season with a series of engaging fan events, all culminating in the unmissable Fan Fest—right in your backyard at The Star Brisbane!


Read: Hellenika Slashes Bills in a Big Way for Hospitality Staff


The Brisbane Broncos have announced a comprehensive schedule designed to connect with supporters across South East Queensland, acknowledging the vital role fans play in the club’s success. Before this major event lands at Queen’s Wharf, the Broncos will be spreading the pre-season excitement with ‘mini fan-days’ in both the Gold Coast and Toowoomba regions.

Broncos Roadshow Heads to Gold Coast and Toowoomba

For Gold Coast supporters, the action kicks off this Saturday, 8 February, at UAA Park in Burleigh. Fans can look forward to player signings and witness trial games featuring future and current Broncos stars. Following this, the entire NRL squad will journey to Toowoomba to engage with regional fans. This Toowoomba trip lets regional fans meet their Broncos heroes before the pre-season heats up, culminating in the NRL Pre-Season Challenge against the Titans at the Toowoomba Sports Ground.

Fan Fest Fever at The Star Brisbane

The highlight for Queen’s Wharf residents will undoubtedly be the 2025 Brisbane Broncos Fan Fest, set to take over The Star Brisbane on Sunday, 23 February, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. The Leisure Deck and The Landing at The Star will transform into a Broncos fan haven. This event promises to be an incredibly convenient and exciting opportunity for local residents, especially families, to immerse themselves in Broncos spirit, right in their neighbourhood. Expect member exclusive signing sessions, live DJs, face painting for the kids, game development clinics, and appearances from your favourite mascots and cheerleaders.

For those eager to dive into the fan frenzy, the Gold Coast mini fan-day on 8 February at Burleigh will feature a ‘Buck To Bronco Clinic’ in the morning, followed by an afternoon packed with membership and merchandise opportunities, outdoor games, face painting, and cheerleader performances, building up to NRL Trial games into the evening. Toowoomba’s events, spanning 14 to 16 February, include a fundraising dinner, a fan signing session with the entire NRL squad on Saturday, and a junior clinic, leading up to the NRL Pre-Season Challenge match on Sunday.


Read: Super Bowl LIX: The Ultimate Watch Party at the Port Office Hotel


As February approaches, residents of Queen’s Wharf and surrounds can anticipate a surge of Broncos energy right on their doorstep. The Fan Fest at The Star offers a unique chance for the community to celebrate their team, meet the players, and embrace the electrifying excitement building towards the 2025 NRL season.

Published 06-February-2025

Brisbane Cybersecurity Startup Acquired for Over $100 Million

Brisbane-based cybersecurity startup Assetnote has been acquired by British firm Searchlight Cyber in a deal valued at more than $100 million, according to the Australian Financial Review.



Michael Gianarakis, Chief Executive Officer of Assetnote
Photo Credit: Assetnote

The company, founded in 2018 by Michael Gianarakis and Shubham Shah, specialises in Attack Surface Management (ASM), providing businesses with tools to identify vulnerabilities in their cybersecurity infrastructure. Since its founding, Assetnote has maintained profitability while serving major clients including Atlassian, Qantas, Canva, Linktree, and Afterpay.

Shubham Shah, Chief Technology Officer of Assetnote
Photo Credit: Assetnote

Gianarakis explained to AFR that Assetnote’s software emerged after companies expressed interest in a tool for uncovering code flaws. The founders chose to grow without external venture capital funding, with Gianarakis noting to AFR that they “never really met a VC that we trusted enough.”

The acquisition, announced on January 29, 2025, marks Searchlight Cyber’s first acquisition. The British company plans to integrate Assetnote’s ASM solution with its dark web intelligence and monitoring capabilities to create a comprehensive Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) platform.

Photo Credit: Searchlight Cyber

As part of the agreement, both founders will remain with the company. The entire Assetnote team will join Searchlight, with Gianarakis and Shah leading the ASM division and managing engineering and research teams from Brisbane.

The transaction was supported by AGC Partners as exclusive financial advisor to Assetnote, while Mintz and Corrs Chambers Westgarth served as legal advisors to Searchlight.



The deal follows Searchlight’s strategic growth investment from Charlesbank Capital Partners announced in January 2024. Charlesbank Capital Partners currently manages approximately $19 billion in assets as of September 30, 2024.

Published 5-February-2025