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Spring Hill’s First2Care Champion: How Aiden Mulvihill is Redefining Inclusion at Work

Aiden Mulvihill has never let circumstance define him. Born with a rare genetic condition and requiring 24-hour care, the 32-year-old has built a life centred on perseverance and purpose. Today, he brings that same determination to his data entry and processing role at First2Care Spring Hill.

Read: Free Community Workshops in Spring Hill Aim to Boost Women’s Leadership and Job Readiness

Born with multiple pterygium (Escobar) syndrome, a condition that affects mobility, Aiden spent his early years in the small country town of Macksville, New South Wales, where everyday experiences presented significant challenges.

He began primary school six months later than his peers because the school building was not equipped for his needs. In high school, he also encountered facilities and environments unprepared for students requiring assistance.

Photo credit: Facebook/First2Care Plan Management

Living in a regional area where both infrastructure and community attitudes can limit accessibility, Aiden nevertheless pursued his goal of learning, contributing and gaining independence.

In his twenties he volunteered extensively, including supporting the Newcastle Knights at one point, and while studying IT he taught himself data analysis, statistics and web design. But he recognised that Macksville offered limited employment opportunities. In 2020 he relocated to Brisbane in search of greater opportunity. Even after moving, finding a job that suited both his skills and accessibility needs remained difficult.

Through a conversation with online friend and now colleague Mark Warren, Aiden was connected to First2Care. More than three and a half years later, he is settled in his role at the Spring Hill office, supporting NDIS plan data processing and contributing to the business.

First2Care reports that around 15 per cent of its staff identify as having a disability, reflecting the company’s commitment to creating inclusive workplaces. Aiden says that the organisation’s approach has helped him build confidence, continue applying his skills and feel part of a team.

From his own experience, Aiden now encourages other people with disability to focus on their strengths, try volunteering, and seek out companies and communities that genuinely value inclusion.

Read: Spring Hill Welcomes Brisbane’s First Ricoh GR Space for Photographers and Art Lovers

His story underlines that true workplace inclusion is not simply about meeting compliance standards; it is about creating environments where people with disability can contribute meaningfully, develop professionally and feel supported to succeed.

Published 24-October-2025

Brisbane’s Overnight Charity Walk ‘All Night Long’ Supports Sick Kids and Families

On 25 October, the All Night Long event precinct will open at the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, with live entertainment and festivities setting the stage for more than 1,600 participants preparing to walk through the night in support of seriously ill children and their families.

Read: Riverstage Upgrade Plans in Brisbane CBD Move Forward

The inaugural event challenges walkers to cover 42 kilometres from dusk to dawn, raising vital funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities South East Queensland (RMHC SEQ) and the Children’s Hospital Foundation (CHF).

For families staying close to hospitals, every kilometre walked translates into critical support. Funds raised provide accommodation, meals, and emotional care for families during challenging times, while also backing essential medical research, equipment, and services for Queensland’s youngest patients. With more than $900,000 already pledged, All Night Long is fast becoming one of Queensland’s largest new charity initiatives.

Walkers will start their journey at Parliament House at dusk, navigating Brisbane’s streets under the stars. Along the way, participants will pass several iconic landmarks, including New Farm Park, the Botanic Gardens, Captain Burke Park, and Old Parliament House. Pit stops offer live music, refreshments, and community activities, creating a supportive and energising atmosphere throughout the night.

The event is about more than speed or stamina. Organisers encourage solo walkers to join the official All Night Long team, while workplaces, community groups, and friends are invited to form teams. Registration is $60 per person, with all proceeds going directly to RMHC SEQ and CHF, ensuring every step contributes to vital support for Queensland families.

The precinct opens at 5:30pm at the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, with festivities and live entertainment setting the tone before walkers set off at 7:00pm. Participants are expected to cross the finish line in the early hours of 26 October 2025, concluding a night of endurance, community spirit, and generosity.

Organisers hope the success of the inaugural event will establish All Night Long as an annual tradition, bringing Brisbane communities together in support of families doing it tough. Every kilometre walked and every dollar raised reinforces the city’s message of solidarity with Queensland’s sick children.

Read: Valley Preschoolers Team Up with Police for Community Gardening Project

Whether walking for a loved one, supporting families who have faced unimaginable challenges, or simply making a difference, the night promises a unique and memorable experience for all involved.

For more information and to register, visit
https://www.allnightlong.org.au/home

Published 20-October-2025

4 Voices Global’s Drew Lochrie Honoured as Westfield Local Hero Finalist

Drew Lochrie has been named a 2025 Westfield Local Hero finalist for his volunteer work with 4 Voices Global in Spring Hill, a mobile service supporting women affected by domestic violence.

Read: Free Community Workshops in Spring Hill Aim to Boost Women’s Leadership and Job Readiness

Through his empathetic approach and lived experience, Lochrie helps women rebuild strength and independence, demonstrating the positive role men can play in supporting survivors.

Drew Lochrie and 4 Voices Global

Lochrie’s volunteer work focuses on assisting women affected by domestic violence through 4 Voices Global, a Spring Hill-based mobile service. The organisation provides outreach, guidance, and emotional support, helping women access support and rebuild their lives. Lochrie’s calm, empathetic manner fosters trust with clients, allowing them to feel safe and supported as they regain autonomy.

Through his role, Lochrie demonstrates that men can play an active and positive part in supporting women’s healing. Drawing on his own experiences, he connects with women in ways that are both understanding and empowering. The $5,000 grant he received as a Local Hero finalist will support the ongoing work of 4 Voices Global, enabling the organisation to continue its vital community services.

Pam Wilson, Scentre Group National Community Experience Manager, highlighted the impact of this year’s recipients, noting that their contributions are a reminder of the powerful influence of community involvement. The Westfield Local Heroes program not only recognises these efforts but also provides recognition and support to community-driven initiatives like 4 Voices Global.

Westfield Local Heroes

The Westfield Local Heroes initiative celebrates Australians and New Zealanders who make a meaningful difference in their communities. Now in its eighth year, the program has awarded more than $9.8 million in grants to nearly 1,000 community organisations since 2018.

This year’s Local Hero is Darren Playle from The Tukka Project, while the other finalist aside from Lochrie is Peter Grieve from The Cage Youth Foundation.

This year’s program saw record public participation, with 74,000 votes cast to determine the grant recipients. The initiative highlights the dedication of individuals whose work often goes unseen, providing them with recognition and practical support to continue their community projects.

Volunteers like Lochrie play a key role, offering practical assistance, emotional guidance, and connection to additional resources. For many women, the trust and stability provided by these volunteers mark a crucial step towards regaining independence.

Read: Spring Hill Welcomes Brisbane’s First Ricoh GR Space for Photographers and Art Lovers

The Local Heroes recognition underscores the importance of volunteers who work quietly but tirelessly to strengthen their communities. As the program prepares for its 2026 nominations, organisers hope to see even more individuals stepping forward to make a tangible difference in their local areas.

Published 17-October-2025

Fortitude Valley Duo to Serve Viral Chocolate Croissant at Night Feast 2025

Fortitude Valley’s cocktail bar Nok Nok and boutique bakehouse Honey & Yolko have teamed up to create a multi-sensory dessert for Night Feast 2025 at Brisbane Powerhouse. The collaboration combines Nok Nok’s experimental cocktails with Honey & Yolko’s pastries, offering festival-goers a dish that blends multiple textures and flavours in a single hand-held treat.

Read: The Brightside Brisbane Launches Outdoor Venue to Transform Live Music Experience

At the centre of the collaboration is the Viral Dubai Chocolate Croissant x Chocolate Stout Ice Cream, a dish featuring a chocolate-lined croissant cone filled with pistachio cream and swirled with chocolate stout ice cream. It is finished with kataifi pastry and crushed pistachios. The combination of ingredients creates a mix of creamy, nutty, and crisp textures.

Night Feast

The collaboration is part of Night Feast, Brisbane Powerhouse’s annual after-dark festival, running from October 15 to November 9. Presented by American Express, Night Feast transforms the venue into a three-week event featuring food, art, and live entertainment.

More than 20 of Brisbane’s restaurants are participating this year, including both returning and new venues. The Nok Nok x Honey & Yolko dish is one of the offerings available to festival-goers. Attendees can sample cocktails from Nok Nok and pastries from Honey & Yolko in a single, combined experience.

The Collaboration

Nok Nok is a small, independent bar in Fortitude Valley known for experimenting with flavour combinations and presentation. The bar is run by a two-person team and offers an intimate environment for patrons.

Honey & Yolko is a boutique micro-bakehouse located on California Lane. It specialises in pastries and cakes, with a focus on texture, flavour, and presentation.

The two teams collaborated to create a dish that combines their respective areas of expertise. The Viral Dubai Chocolate Croissant x Chocolate Stout Ice Cream incorporates pastry, ice cream, and nuts to produce contrasting textures and flavours. It is served as a hand-held item, allowing festival visitors to experience both Nok Nok’s cocktails and Honey & Yolko’s pastries in one offering.

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This collaboration will be up for grabs for a limited time during Night Feast 2025. Guests can sample the dish alongside other festival offerings, which include a range of foods from participating restaurants across the three-week event.

Published 15-October-2025

Mystery of the Orange Door Solved: SES Turns Heads in Queen Street Mall

Photo Credit: QPS

What looked like a scene from a quirky art installation turned out to be something far more practical when an eye-catching orange door appeared in Queen Street Mall on Friday, 10 October.

Locals shopping or passing through the Uptown end of the mall stopped to snap photos and speculate about the mysterious doorway — until the Queensland State Emergency Service (SES) revealed they were behind the stunt.

SES Chief Officer Dr Mark Armstrong said the bright door was part of a statewide campaign to get Queenslanders thinking about their “Disaster Era” — a playful nod to pop-culture fans but with a serious message about preparing for storms, floods and cyclones as the warmer months approach.

“We’re encouraging everyone to know their risks, make a plan and pack an emergency kit,” Dr Armstrong said. “Weather doesn’t plan, but you can.”

Scanning the QR code on the door took curious onlookers to a webpage filled with tips on how to get ready for severe weather and stay safe during Queensland’s Higher Risk Weather Season.

According to the SES, research shows that households who plan ahead recover faster after disasters than those who rely solely on outside help. Across the state, more than 5,000 volunteers are on standby each year to lend a hand when storms hit.

Queensland Police Service Acting Deputy Commissioner for Disaster and Emergency Management, Chris Stream, said the campaign highlights the close teamwork between the SES, QPS and other emergency partners.

“This year alone, our crews have supported communities through three major weather events, including widespread flooding and the impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred,” Mr Stream said. “It’s a reminder to pack an emergency kit, talk through a plan with your family, and write it down for peace of mind.”

The campaign ties in with Get Ready Queensland Week, encouraging residents to use the online household severe-weather plan template and make sure their families and homes are prepared.

Published 15-Oct-2025

Spring Hill Welcomes Brisbane’s First Ricoh GR Space for Photographers and Art Lovers

Brisbane has joined the ranks of Tokyo, Shanghai, and Beijing with the opening of the southern hemisphere’s first Ricoh GR Space. Located in Spring Hill, the gallery and community hub celebrates Ricoh’s GR series of cameras, which have earned a devoted following among street photographers since their rise in popularity during the mid-2010s.

Read: Spring Hill Apartment Project Aligns with 2032 Olympic Precinct

Housed in the former Federal Police building on Wharf Street, the Spring Hill space is the vision of Sydney-based Clem Kennedy and his family’s company, CR Kennedy & Company. The company has a long-standing connection with Ricoh, having been the Australian Pentax distributor since 1954, and has played a key role in bringing the Japanese restaurant Komeyui to Brisbane.

Kennedy sees the gallery as part of Brisbane’s ongoing cultural growth, describing the region, including Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast, as one of Australia’s fastest-growing areas, particularly in its artistic and cultural development.

Designed to mirror its international counterparts, GR Space Brisbane reflects Ricoh’s exact specifications for layout and materials. Local architects Series Two and builders Iridium brought the concept to life with aggregate concrete floors, grey gallery walls, and timber banquette units that double as shelving for photographic books curated by Booktopia. Every detail was refined through collaboration with Ricoh’s headquarters in Japan to ensure the space felt authentic and aligned with the brand’s identity.

The opening of GR Space Brisbane coincided with the launch of the GR IV, the latest iteration of Ricoh’s digital GR camera, first introduced as an analogue model in 1996. To mark the occasion, the gallery launched with an exhibition titled IV, showcasing the work of four Australian photographers using the GR IV.

Beyond exhibitions, the gallery is intended as a dynamic hub for photographers, artists and enthusiasts. Kennedy emphasises that GR Space Brisbane is not just a gallery but a community and cultural meeting point. Visitors can meet like-minded creatives and discuss photography as an art form.

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

GR Space Brisbane features international-style design, curated photographic content, and a focus on community. Its presence reflects the city’s growing artistic landscape and provides a space where both emerging and experienced photographers can connect, learn, and showcase their work.

The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, at 203 Wharf Street, Spring Hill. It offers an accessible entry point for anyone interested in photography and the creative arts.

Published 13-October-2025

The Calile Hotel in Fortitude Valley Receives Michelin Key Recognition

Photo Credit: The Calile Hotel

The Calile Hotel in Fortitude Valley has been recognised with a One Key distinction at the inaugural MICHELIN Global Key Award Ceremony in Paris, placing it among five Queensland hotels honoured in the 2025 guide.

Queensland Hotels Shine on the Global Stage

Five Queensland properties were recognised in the first MICHELIN Global Key Awards held in Paris in October 2025. The Calile Hotel in Fortitude Valley joined Lizard Island Resort, Spicers Peak Lodge, Silky Oaks Lodge, and Hamilton Island’s Qualia among the state’s awarded destinations.

The Calile Hotel received One Key, the hotel equivalent of a MICHELIN Star, marking it as a standout accommodation in Brisbane. Lizard Island Resort achieved Three Keys, the only Australian property to receive the top rating. Spicers Peak Lodge and Silky Oaks Lodge were awarded Two Keys, while Qualia and The Calile each earned One Key recognition.

Queensland hotels — *Photo Credit: The Calile Hotel*

Michelin’s Expansion and Evaluation

The MICHELIN Guide, globally known for its restaurant rankings, expanded its scope in 2024 to evaluate hotels. The 2025 edition included Australia for the first time, with 35 hotels nationwide recognised.

MICHELIN Keys are awarded using five universal criteria: design and architecture, service consistency, distinctive character, value for money, and contribution to the local area. A One Key rating identifies a hotel that delivers a memorable and high-quality stay.

MICHELIN Key Awards — *Photo Credit: The Calile Hotel*

Recognition for Design and Service

Located on James Street, The Calile Hotel was recognised for combining modern design with subtropical influences that reflect Brisbane’s climate and lifestyle. Its inclusion marks another major milestone for the venue following its placement at number 25 in The World’s 50 Best Hotels list, the highest rank achieved by an Australian property.

Australia’s Place in the Global List

Nationally, New South Wales led the Australian tally with 14 hotels awarded Keys, followed by Victoria with six, Queensland with five, and Tasmania with three. The 2025 awards evaluated over 7,000 hotels globally, recognising 2,457 with Keys.

Australia’s presence in the guide underscores the nation’s growing profile in the global luxury accommodation market, aligning local hospitality with international standards.

Published 12-Oct-2025

Valley Preschoolers Team Up with Police for Community Gardening Project

Photo Credit: myPolice Brisbane Central

Fortitude Valley Police Station welcomed some of its youngest visitors last week when preschoolers from Brookes Street Early Education rolled up their sleeves for a community gardening initiative.

The event, held on 9 October in the station’s entry way garden, saw police officers working alongside preschool-aged children to plant seeds that will grow into colourful flowers in the coming weeks.

Sergeant Sue Walsh described the station as “buzzing with excitement” during the collaboration, which aims to build positive connections between police and young community members from an early age.

The children from the local early education centre made the short journey to the Brunswick Street station, where they participated in hands-on gardening activities with officers. The initiative transforms a practical gardening project into an opportunity for relationship-building between Queensland Police Service members and Fortitude Valley’s youngest residents.

As the seeds take root and begin to grow, the children will have the opportunity to observe their gardening efforts flourish into a display of flowers in various shapes and colours at the police station’s entrance.

The community-focused event represents ongoing efforts by Fortitude Valley Police Station to strengthen ties with local families and organisations in the inner-city Brisbane suburb.

Community members with information for police can contact Policelink through the online suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting, available 24 hours a day.

Anonymous crime information can be reported via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 10-October-2025

St James College Scores Major Win With Liverpool FC Partnership

Photo Credit: St James College

Brisbane’s St James College has become the first school in the city to host Liverpool FC International Academy‘s “first foray into Brisbane,” as part of a partnership which will give local students direct access to the same world-class football methods used by one of England’s most successful clubs.

A Community-First Partnership

The program officially launched on 16 September 2025 at the Spring Hill campus. It blends Liverpool’s football philosophy with St James College’s values of inclusivity, justice and community.

Liverpool FC International Academy will be training the teachers at St James College on “the Liverpool way.”

Teachers trained under Liverpool’s global academy program will lead sessions that focus on discipline, teamwork and resilience.

The school plans to make the academy available to students from Years 5 to 12, with weekly training, classroom learning and community clinics forming part of the structure.

The collaboration aims to give young people more than athletic training, with other programs also on offer for the students and the wider community.

Shaping Students On And Off The Field

Principal Andrée Rice said the partnership reflects shared goals between the club and the school, both centred on giving young people opportunities to grow. She said Liverpool’s four values of ambition, commitment, dignity and unity align closely with St James College’s approach to developing character through education.

The program is expected to create long-term benefits, helping students apply lessons in leadership, focus and cooperation across all areas of life, not only sport.

Global Standards, Local Impact

Rob Davey, general manager of Liverpool FC International Academy Australia, said the initiative represents the club’s first direct presence in Brisbane. He noted that Liverpool’s youth training model is designed to develop confident and responsible young people through football.

The program’s launch brought together students, teachers, families, and members of the Official Liverpool Supporters Club Queensland, marking the start of a new era for school sport in the city.

Pathways For Young Players

The academy gives Brisbane students a pathway to professional development while remaining part of a local school community. While some may pursue football careers, the program also builds transferable skills useful across other sports and studies.

St James College’s involvement adds to a growing network of Queensland schools linked with major Premier League clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City, highlighting a wider interest in global partnerships that enrich student learning.

Published 6-October-2025

The Brightside Brisbane Launches Outdoor Venue to Transform Live Music Experience

Photo Credit: The Brightside Brisbane

Brisbane’s live music scene gets a boost as The Brightside unveils The Next Stage, an outdoor venue ready to host local and touring acts in comfort.

The Brightside Brisbane Expands with The Next Stage

The Brightside Brisbane is expanding its footprint in Fortitude Valley with a purpose-built outdoor venue, set to change how locals experience live music.

The development, named The Next Stage, promises world-class sound, improved artist facilities, and a versatile space for festivals, community events, and touring acts, making the venue a central hub for Brisbane’s music community.

Phase One: 2025 Upgrades

Phase One of the project, launching in 2025, will feature a permanently installed L-Acoustics sound system to streamline show setups and reduce production costs.

Artists will have access to a dedicated green room with toilet facilities and direct stage entry, while a flexible mezzanine will accommodate VIPs, friends, and family for an elevated view of performances.

Upgraded bars, cold storage, and additional facilities will improve service and comfort for guests.

Phase Two: 2026 Enhancements

By 2026, Phase Two will introduce a retractable roof, allowing shows to continue regardless of weather. New toilet facilities will improve accessibility and capacity, and a rooftop bar overlooking the outdoor area will offer a unique space for private functions.

The upgrades aim to ensure every event, from intimate gigs to large festivals, can be hosted safely and comfortably.

Community and Artist Impact

The Brightside Brisbane has built a reputation for diversity and energy, hosting over 350 acts in the past year alone, including King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, IDLES, Ocean Alley, and Amy Shark.

Community feedback guided the design of the new outdoor space, reflecting the needs of performers, promoters, and fans. The venue continues to prioritise the Fortitude Valley community while providing a platform for rising local talent and touring artists.

Published 3-October-2025