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Fourteen Goals in Two Matches: Brisbane Roar Women Signal Premiership Intent

The attacking arsenal of Brisbane Roar Women has exploded into life, thundering 14 goals in two away fixtures as they cement their position as genuine title contenders in the 2024/25 A-League Women’s season.

Read: Fortitude Valley Shop Firebombed in Suspected Arson Attack

Road warriors demolish opposition

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The Queensland outfit has transformed their road trips into goal-scoring exhibitions, demolishing Newcastle Jets 6-1 before matching their club-record winning margin in an 8-2 triumph over Western United. These commanding performances have lifted the Roar to an impressive 6-2-0 record, highlighting their championship credentials.

Freier sisters orchestrate attack

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At the heart of Brisbane’s offensive renaissance stands the dynamic Freier duo. Laini Freier has etched her name into A-League Women’s history by becoming the first player to net hat-tricks in consecutive matches. The younger Freier’s clinical finishing has been masterfully complemented by sister Sharn’s playmaking prowess, with the siblings combining to orchestrate several of the team’s devastating attacks.

Set-piece excellence

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Brisbane’s tactical evolution shines brightest in their set-piece execution. Japanese midfielder Momo Hayashi has emerged as a free-kick specialist, thundering home spectacular goals in both away victories. Chelsea Blissett’s precise corner deliveries have proven equally decisive, creating multiple scoring opportunities, including skipper Tameka Yallop’s powerful header against Western United.

Youth movement in Brisbane Roar Women

The emergence of young talent has added another dimension to Brisbane’s ruthless attack. Seventeen-year-old Grace Kuilamu announced herself with an electric strike against Newcastle, while Young Matildas striker Tanaye Morris made an immediate impact on debut, providing a crucial assist off the bench.

Read: Queensland Country Bank Secures Prime Location in Brisbane CBD’s ‘Golden Triangle’

The Roar’s return to Perry Park for their upcoming clash against Canberra United on Saturday, 4 January, presents an opportunity to extend their remarkable run. With six wins from eight matches and a newfound attacking confidence, Brisbane has established themselves as serious championship contenders approaching the season’s middle third.

The blend of experienced leadership, emerging talent, and tactical diversity suggests that Brisbane Roar’s recent goal-scoring explosion marks the beginning of a potentially historic campaign.

Published 30-December-2024

Fortitude Valley Shop Firebombed in Suspected Arson Attack

Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

A tobacconist shop in Fortitude Valley was set on fire causing serious damage to the new business.

The firebombing happened around 3:30 am of 26 December 2024. CCTV footage showed a masked man entering the business on Wickham Street – next to Prohibition nightclub – with a jerry can and assaulted the owner. After a brief scuffle with the shop owner, the attacker lit the shop on fire and ran off, possibly with burns from the blaze.

Fortitude Valley Shop Firebombed — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

Brisbane Regional Duty Officer (RDO), Inspector Jane Healy said the owner, who was in the store at the time, ran out, and then the male person as they believe has set the place on fire.

Police are searching for a male suspect in connection with the incident, who is believed to have been wearing a disguise or covering his face. However, there is no evidence that the suspect was armed. A piece of burnt shoe has been seized from the scene as evidence.

Wickham Street, between Gipps and Brunswick Streets, was closed until about 7:30 am as emergency services worked to secure the area. The fire was reported under control by 3:55 am and fully extinguished by about 4:40 am. The crime scene remained under the management of the Queensland Fire Department as of 11:30 am.

The shop, which had only been open a few weeks, was gutted by the fire. This attack is the latest in a string of similar incidents across the region, sparking fears of organised crime involvement and links to the illegal tobacco trade.

Police Investigation and Community Concerns

Queensland Police Service (QPS) are investigating the Fortitude Valley incident, looking into potential connections to organised crime. Officers are analysing CCTV and urging anyone with information to come forward.

Authorities believe organised crime groups are behind these attacks, driven by profits from untaxed, unregulated tobacco sales. Violent disputes over territory are becoming a troubling trend.

Similar incidents have been reported in Victoria and South Australia, where specialised units have been established to combat the issue. City authorities are considering a focused response to address the rising threat.

Fortitude Valley tobacconist shop set on fire. — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

What Happens Next

Police are continuing their investigation and are urging anyone with information or video footage of the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Local businesses are being encouraged to ramp up security and stay alert for any suspicious activity.

Published 27-Dec-2024

Queensland Country Bank Secures Prime Location in Brisbane CBD’s ‘Golden Triangle’

Queensland Country Bank is set to strengthen its presence in Southeast Queensland by acquiring a $19 million commercial building at 247 Adelaide Street in Brisbane.

Read: Fortitude Valley’s Hotel X Joins Brookfield’s Asia-Pacific Real Estate Holdings

The 3,044 sqm property is located in the heart of Brisbane’s vibrant “Golden Triangle” commercial precinct, adjacent to the Post Office Square.

Photo credit: Queensland Country Bank/Google Maps

The newly acquired building will serve as the future home of the bank’s Brisbane-based administrative teams and a planned CBD branch. Colliers Queensland, which negotiated the sale, confirmed that the property will complement Queensland Country Bank’s Townsville head office. The building’s remaining space will be leased to existing tenants, generating a steady income stream for the bank.

CEO Aaron Newman expressed the strategic importance of this acquisition:
“The building acquisition was necessary to support the Bank’s strong growth across Queensland, particularly in the South East corner, as it pursues its vision to be Queensland’s best regional bank.”

About the Queensland Country Bank

Queensland Country Bank, originally established in 1971 as Isa Mine Employee’s Credit Union Limited in Mount Isa, has a rich history of supporting Queenslanders. By the late 1970s, its member-owned model had gained traction, expanding to serve employees of Pioneer Sugar in North Queensland. Over the decades, the bank broadened its membership eligibility, services, and branch locations, transforming into a state-wide member-owned bank.

Read: Valley Entrepreneurs Shine at Brisbane’s Multicultural Business Awards

This latest expansion marks another milestone in Queensland Country Bank’s mission to serve communities across the state. With the new Adelaide Street location, the bank is well-positioned to continue its legacy of growth while offering convenient and accessible services to its members in Brisbane’s CBD.

Published 27-December-2024

Parking App Chaos Leaves Brisbane Drivers Confused

Photo Credit: CellOPark Australia/ Facebook

Brisbane residents who use the CellOPark app to pay for parking face major disruptions and uncertainty following a botched attempt to switch to a new system.

The trouble began when CellOPark users received text messages announcing that their accounts would be moved to a new platform called OPark. This sparked concerns about a potential data breach, especially since some “test” locations like “Gotham City” and “Bat Cave” were accidentally left on the system during the transition.

CellOPark, the company behind the app, assured users that no private information was compromised, but they would notify the Information Commissioner as a precaution.

Conflicting Information Adds to Confusion

Adding to the confusion, users received a second email telling them to disregard the first message about the switch to OPark. This email claimed that OPark was not connected to CellOPark and that the first email had been sent without authorisation. However, just hours later, CellOPark posted on Facebook that the transition to OPark would go ahead, apologising for the conflicting information.

Legal Battle Halts Transition

Amid this chaos, CellOPark announced they sought a temporary injunction to halt the transition to OPark. This legal action against their overseas supplier has put the entire process on hold, leaving Brisbane residents unsure about how they will pay for parking in the future. The Brisbane City Council, which promotes the CellOPark app on its website, has expressed frustration and disappointment with the situation. They are now reviewing their options to ensure the best outcome for ratepayers.

Council Under Scrutiny

Questions remain about the Council’s role in this debacle. It is unclear how much oversight they had over the transition process and whether they knew the potential problems. The Council has not yet provided a clear response to these concerns, leaving residents in the dark about who is responsible for this mess.

Brisbane residents are advised to continue using the CellOPark app while the situation is sorted out. However, with legal battles and conflicting information swirling around, it remains to be seen when and how this parking app saga will finally be resolved.

Published Date 24-December-2024

Peter Flanders Retires, Leaving Decades Worth of Road Legacy

Photo Credit: myPolice QPN

Superintendent Peter Flanders has officially retired after over 41 years of dedicated service to the police force.

Peter Flanders Road Legacy — *Photo Credit: myPolice QPN*

Known across the community for his tireless work in making roads safer and reducing crime, Mr Flanders leaves behind a legacy that has shaped how road safety is approached today.

A Career Built on Dedication

Road Policing Group's Acting Superintendent Retires — *Photo Credit: myPolice QPN*

Mr Flanders’ career began in 1983 January, taking on roles in different parts of the state and tackling the unique challenges faced by each community. By 2013, he had taken up the role of Inspector of State Traffic Operations at the Queensland Police Services (QPS), managing 35 units to reduce road trauma and combat crime effectively.

In 2022 October, he became Acting Superintendent of the Road Policing Group, where he further cemented his road legacy. His dedication to protecting road users started early, inspired by a motorcycle safety day he attended, which set the course for his lifelong passion for road safety.

Champion for Road Users

Mr Flanders’ advocacy for motorcyclist safety became one of the defining aspects of his career. With over 70% of motorcycle crashes caused by rider error, he consistently called on riders to develop their skills and stay vigilant.

Peter Flanders Road Safety Advocacy — *Photo Credit: myPolice QPN*

“Identify risks, create safe distances, and always have a reason to come home safely,” he advised, emphasising the importance of personal responsibility on the road.

His commitment extended beyond words. Mr Flanders rode 1,000 kilometres each week, allowing him to experience the challenges faced by motorcyclists and strengthen his connection with the community.

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

As Inspector of State Traffic Operations, Mr Flanders helped introduce measures still seen on our roads today, including Random Breath Testing (RBT). While these tests have caught many drink drivers, he focused on their preventive value, often stating, “RBTs aren’t just about catching people—they’re about preventing tragedies.”

His work has left a mark not only on the roads but also on the community. Mr Flanders’ hands-on approach and focus on collaboration earned widespread respect from colleagues and locals alike.

Moving Forward

As Mr Flanders retires, his advice to younger officers is simple: “You are your integrity. Guard it with everything you have.” For the community, his message remains clear—road safety is a shared responsibility.

Peter Flanders Road Safety Advice — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

The policing team plans to build on Mr Flanders’ road legacy by addressing the ‘Fatal Five’: speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction. Thanks to his efforts, the groundwork is set for safer roads and a continued focus on protecting lives.

Mr Flanders’ retirement marks the end of a significant chapter, but his contributions have left a lasting legacy. His work in road safety, respect for others, and dedication to the community will continue to inspire for years to come.

Published 22-Dec-2024

Fortitude Valley’s Ludo Studio Celebrates As Bluey Heads to the Big Screen

In an exciting development for Queenslanders and animation fans worldwide, Brisbane-based Ludo Studio is set to bring Bluey, the Emmy and BAFTA award-winning blue heeler, to cinemas in 2027.

Read: Fortitude Valley Hotel Makes a Splash with World’s Largest Ice Bath

The announcement, made last week by BBC Studios and the Walt Disney Company, marks a significant milestone for the beloved children’s series and the local creative industry.

Ludo Studio, based in Fortitude Valley, has been the driving force behind Bluey’s global success since its debut on the ABC in 2018. With its authentic storytelling and relatable characters, Bluey has captured the hearts of audiences in over 140 countries.

This full-length animated feature film will continue Bluey’s adventures alongside her family—Mum Chilli, Dad Bandit, and little sister Bingo—and promises to deliver the same charm and humor that fans adore.

A Queensland-Made Masterpiece

The film, written and directed by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, will be 100 percent made in Queensland, further highlighting the state’s reputation as a hub for world-class animation. Supported by Screen Queensland’s Post, Digital and Visual Effects (PDV) Incentive, the production will create over 130 local jobs and inject an estimated $35 million into the state’s economy.

“Bluey illustrates the enormous capacity for our local screen stories to capture hearts and minds as well as lure visitors to Queensland to explore ‘Bluey’s world, for real life,” said Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney. “We couldn’t be prouder to now be supporting this first feature-length iteration.”

A Stellar Creative Team

The movie will feature the vocal talents of Melanie Zanetti and David McCormack as Bluey’s mum and dad, Chilli and Bandit Heeler. Bluey’s signature music will once again be composed by Joff Bush, ensuring the film stays true to its roots.

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Amber Naismith, known for her work on Happy Feet and The Lego Movie, will produce, while Richard Jeffery co-directs alongside Brumm. Charlie Aspinwall and Daley Pearson from Ludo Studio will serve as executive producers, alongside Justine Flynn for BBC Studios.

Ludo Studio’s dedication to high-quality storytelling and animation has earned them numerous accolades, including AACTA, BAFTA, and Emmy awards. Their headquarters in Fortitude Valley is a vibrant creative hub, contributing to the growth of Queensland’s film and television industry.

Local and Global Impact

The Bluey feature film represents more than just a creative triumph; it’s an economic and cultural win for Queensland. By leveraging the state’s talent pool and production facilities, the movie highlights the region’s capacity to deliver world-class content.

Disney will distribute the film globally, with a theatrical release followed by streaming on Disney+. In Australia, the movie will also air on ABC iView and ABC Kids post-release, ensuring that local audiences can enjoy this milestone event.

A Celebration for Fortitude Valley

Ludo Studio’s success is a point of pride. The studio’s commitment to creating stories that resonate globally while staying rooted in Queensland culture is a testament to the power of local talent. As anticipation builds for Bluey’s big-screen debut, it’s clear that Ludo Studio is not just making a movie—they’re crafting a legacy.

Read: Local Students Score Big on Shark Tank with Retro Camera

Mark your calendars for 2027 and get ready to join Bluey and her family on their next big adventure. It’s a journey that starts right here in Fortitude Valley and will delight audiences around the world.

Published 21-December-2024

Fortitude Valley Welcomes Dark Blue Wine Bar by Popular Cocktail Bar Owner Hannah Wagner

Photo Credits: Hannah Wagner/Instagram

Hannah Wagner, the mastermind behind the popular Dark Red and 2.0 Cocktail Bar, is set to open Dark Blue, a Mediterranean and Portuguese wine bar in Fortitude Valley’s vibrant Winn Lane, bringing a polished new destination for wine aficionados and cocktail lovers to explore.

Following the success of Dark Red, which has quickly become a local favorite since opening in 2022, Wagner’s latest venture promises a more polished and sophisticated atmosphere.

With Dark Blue, she aims to expand her presence in one of Brisbane’s most dynamic cultural hubs, providing a refined yet welcoming space for patrons to enjoy quality wines and inventive cocktails.

Fortitude Valley Wine Bar — *Photo Credits: Dark Red Wine Bar/Instagram*

A Refined Concept with a Welcoming Atmosphere

Dark Blue will offer a carefully curated selection of Mediterranean and Portuguese wines, complemented by an inventive cocktail menu. Drawing from her success at Dark Red, Wagner aims to create a space that balances sophistication with warmth, offering a relaxed environment for both casual visits and special occasions.

The venue will also continue the dog-friendly vibe that made Dark Red so popular, with Wagner’s own dog Daisy expected to have a prominent presence at Dark Blue.

A New Space in the Creative Heart of Fortitude Valley

Located in the space previously occupied by Outpost and Gemini Brow Studio, Dark Blue will merge these two buildings into one expansive venue. The design will feature a minimalist aesthetic, creating an elegant yet casual atmosphere perfect for sipping wines and enjoying crafted cocktails.

Wine and Dine in Fortitude Valley — *Photo Credits: Winn Lane/Instagram*

In addition to its drink offerings, the bar will offer a small, focused food menu, likely featuring a signature main dish to pair with the wines. A mezzanine kitchen will be dedicated to cocktail preparation, providing guests with an elevated drinking experience.

Dark Blue to Bring a Sophisticated Wine and Cocktail Experience

Winn Lane has long been a vibrant hub for local artisans, food vendors, and independent businesses, earning a reputation as a cultural hotspot in Brisbane. Building on this eclectic mix of creative entrepreneurs, Dark Blue is set to enhance the area’s atmosphere with a stylish new venue catering to wine enthusiasts and cocktail lovers.

*Photo Credits: Dark Red Wine Bar/Instagram*

With an opening scheduled for March 2025, Dark Blue aims to become a key addition to the flourishing hospitality scene in the laneway.

Published 17-Dec-2024

Triffid Takes Legal Action vs Newstead Development Over Noise Concerns

Hutchinson Builders, co-owners of the iconic Fortitude Valley music venue The Triffid, have launched a legal action against a proposed $1.5-billion development in Newstead, citing concerns over potential noise complaints from future residents.

The development, known as Little Italy or Oro Newstead, received approval on October 30 and includes three towers with over 1,000 apartments, retail outlets, and a restaurant precinct. The Triffid, co-owned by former Powderfinger bassist John Collins, is adjacent to the proposed development site on Stratton Street.

Noise Assessment Concerns

In an appeal filed with the Planning and Environment Court, Hutchinson Builders and The Triffid argue that the noise assessment conducted for the development application was inadequate.

They claim the assessment needed to properly consider the impact of amplified music from The Triffid and other existing and future venues in the area. The appeal states that the development does not ensure bedrooms and living rooms are designed to protect occupants from amplified music noise. They are concerned that this could increase noise complaints from residents unaware of or potentially bothered by the existing live music scene.

A Test for Brisbane’s Entertainment Precinct

This legal challenge highlights the tension between Brisbane’s growing residential developments and its vibrant live music scene. The Triffid is located within the Fortitude Valley Entertainment Precinct, which has specific noise and planning regulations to support the city’s nightlife. However, expanding residential areas near the precinct have increased noise concerns.

Griffith University music industry researcher Ben Green believes this case is a test for Brisbane’s live music and entertainment laws. He points out that as live music venues move further into suburban areas, the existing place-based model of live music planning may need to be re-evaluated. Dr Green suggests that Brisbane may need to consider city-wide responses similar to those implemented in Victoria and New South Wales.

Council Response

Brisbane City Council stated that the approval conditions for the Little Italy development require prospective tenants to be informed about the noise levels from the Special Entertainment Area, including The Triffid. Councillor Ryan Murphy emphasised that live music has a strong future in Brisbane and that the venue is protected through rules and conditions. He encouraged those who do not like live music to consider living elsewhere.

Published Date 14-December-2024

Cross River Rail Debate Intensifies Amid Cost and Timeline Dispute

Initially promised to open in 2026 with a $5.4 billion budget, the Cross River Rail project now faces allegations of cost blowouts to $17 billion and a delayed operational date (2029), causing heated debates and conflicting explanations.

Conflicting Timelines and Costs

Current officials have stated that the Cross River Rail will not be ready for passengers until 2029 due to delays in construction, equipment installation, and an extensive certification process by the National Rail Safety Regulator. However, the regulator disputed this claim, clarifying that project managers are responsible for certification timelines and are limited to assessing submitted safety evidence.

Officials further attributed part of the delay to construction issues, including stalled work on fire and signalling systems and delays in building new trains. However, the previous administration has countered these claims, maintaining that the project remains on track for a 2026 opening.

Opposition spokesman Bart Mellish stated that assertions of a 2029 completion date are misleading and that the government should provide evidence for its revised timeline.

Breakdown of Costs

According to the LNP, the tunnel is expected to cost $10.5 billion, including 25 years of maintenance. An additional $5 billion has been attributed to integration works, signalling upgrades, stabling yards, and replacement bus services, while $1.5 billion is linked to contractor claims and cost overruns. This brings the total to $17 billion, a figure far exceeding the original budget of $5.4 billion set by the previous administration.

Labor has condemned this accounting approach, claiming that factoring in long-term maintenance costs and irrelevant expenditures, like buses for South East Queensland, exaggerates the project’s overall cost. Mr Mellish suggested that no government or business includes the full lifecycle costs of an asset in its construction budget.

The discussion around the project has centred on differing interpretations of the costs and timeline. Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg indicated that $5 billion in additional costs, including integration works, maintenance equipment, and buses, were identified after the change in government. The opposition has questioned the inclusion of these expenses in the project’s total cost and has expressed concern over the revised 2029 timeline, asserting that a 2026 opening is still feasible.

Impact on Infrastructure and Public Services

Cross River Rail project delays have broader implications for Brisbane’s transport network. Experts have warned that pushing back the opening could exacerbate congestion, particularly at choke points such as the Inner City Bypass. Plans to improve the Beenleigh and Cleveland rail lines may also be delayed.

Despite the controversies, once operational, the project is expected to provide significant benefits, including faster travel times for commuters and university students.

The Cross River Rail Authority, tasked with managing the project, referred all queries about costs and timelines to the Transport Minister’s office.

Published 12-Dec-2024

Fortitude Valley’s Hotel X Joins Brookfield’s Asia-Pacific Real Estate Holdings

In a major move that underscores Brisbane’s growing appeal as a luxury hospitality destination, Brookfield Asset Management has announced plans to acquire Hotel X in Fortitude Valley for approximately $90 million. This acquisition reflects the city’s ambitious growth trajectory ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

Read: Triffid Takes Legal Action vs Newstead Development Over Noise Concerns

Strategic acquisition amid Brisbane’s growing demand

The deal comes at a pivotal time, with Brisbane facing a projected 4,000-room shortfall in the luxury segment within the next decade. Brookfield’s Co-Head of Australia Real Estate, Ruban Kaneshamoorthy, cites strong market fundamentals driving the decision. “With the highest tourism expenditure nationally and its population forecast to grow 40 per cent during the next 25 years, there is a long runway for growth,” he said.

Fortitude Valley’s Hotel X

The 146-key hotel, completed in 2021 by Pointcorp Development Group, is a distinctive white tower with a geometric facade at 458 Brunswick Street. The property features premium amenities, including a rooftop bar and pool, ground-floor restaurant, fitness centre, and conferencing facilities. Additionally, the building includes 1,438 square metres of leased office space, positioning it as a mixed-use asset in the vibrant Fortitude Valley precinct.

CBRE Hotels National Director Wayne Bunz, who brokered the off-market sale with Hayley Manvell, describes the transaction as a milestone for Brisbane’s hotel market. “This transaction is not only a testament to the quality of the asset but also to the strength of Brisbane’s hospitality sector, which is underpinned by rising tourism numbers and a strong economic trajectory,” Bunz explained.

Read: Fortitude Valley Hotel Makes a Splash with World’s Largest Ice Bath

This acquisition aligns with Brookfield’s broader strategy in the Asia-Pacific region, where hospitality has become a growing focus due to reduced supply stemming from increased borrowing and construction costs. The Canadian-based multinational, which manages approximately $31 billion in assets globally, worked with Ark Capital Partners to facilitate the transaction.

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Hotel X has already established itself as a community hub, recently hosting the world’s largest hotel ice bath event on its rooftop. The wellness activation, which transformed the rooftop pool using four tonnes of ice, demonstrated the property’s commitment to innovative guest experiences while raising funds for mental health organisation LIVIN.

Published 11-December-2024