Roar vs Adelaide United: Brisbane Fall Short in Perry Park Thriller

A sea of orange filled Perry Park on Sunday evening, buzzing with anticipation for a crucial top-four clash: Roar vs Adelaide United. The stakes were high, with both teams vying for the title in the Ninja A-League. Despite a spirited late comeback, the Roar fell to a 3-2 defeat against a clinical Adelaide side.


Read: Geoffrey Smith Transforms Fortitude Valley with Groundbreaking Inclusion Efforts


The opening goal arrived in the 42nd minute. Adelaide’s Chelsie Dawber, a constant thorn in the Roar’s side, expertly controlled a cross from Emily Condon before unleashing a clinical volley past Olivia Sekany.

Despite the setback, the Roar’s response was swift and emphatic. Just before the halftime whistle, midfielder Alicia Woods etched her name into the history books. The crowd erupted as Woods’ rocket from the edge of the box found the back of the net, a moment of brilliance that ignited Perry Park and marked her first-ever A-League goal.

Second Half Surge from the Reds

Adelaide United emerged from the break with renewed vigour, capitalising on a momentary lapse in the Roar’s defence. Erin Healy, showcasing some fancy footwork, weaved through the Roar’s backline before slotting the ball past Sekany at the near post.

Dawber then extended Adelaide’s lead, heading home from a corner to secure her brace and seemingly put the game beyond reach for the home side.

A Captain’s Fight

However, captain Tameka Yallop rallied her troops, refusing to let the Roar surrender. In the dying minutes, Yallop rose above the Adelaide defence to head home a pinpoint cross from Mariel Hecher, igniting hopes of a dramatic equaliser. The atmosphere at Perry Park was electric as the Roar pressed forward in search of a third goal, but despite their best efforts, Adelaide’s defence held firm.

After a blistering end to 2024, scoring 16 goals in two games, the Roar have now stumbled into a difficult patch with three losses in four matches to start the calendar year.


Read: Plans for Howard Smith Wharves Raise Concerns Over Heritage and Flooding


Brisbane now face a challenging trip to Perth Glory next weekend, where they will be looking to bounce back and secure vital points in their quest for a top-four finish. This upcoming match presents its own set of hurdles, with Perth’s home ground advantage and the Roar’s need to recover quickly from Sunday’s intense encounter.

Published 20-January-2025


Match preview published 15-January-2025

Roar vs Adelaide United: Top-Four Clash with Huge Implications

Roar vs Adelaide United Top-Four Clash with Huge Implications

Brisbane Roar return home on Sunday, 19 January, eager to strengthen their hold on second place as they face a rising Adelaide United in a crucial top-four battle. Roar vs Adelaide United kicks off 4:00 p.m. at Perry Park.


Read: Tribunal Rules in Favour of Woman Banned from Treasury Brisbane


Tale of Two Matches

The past week has been a rollercoaster for Brisbane Roar, showcasing both the heights and challenges of their campaign. Last Wednesday’s home fixture against Melbourne Victory demonstrated the Roar’s clinical attacking play, while Saturday’s clash with Melbourne City exposed the difficulties of a congested schedule.

The midweek victory over Melbourne Victory showcased the Roar’s clinical attacking play and defensive solidity. Grace Kuilamu, back from an ankle injury, marked her return with a well-timed header in the 23rd minute, capitalising on Emily Pringle’s shot off the crossbar.

The dynamic duo continued to terrorise Victory’s defence, with Pringle rattling the woodwork again in the 35th minute. Kuilamu’s predatory instincts were on full display just three minutes later, as she pounced on a deflected Sharn Freier shot to secure her brace and a crucial 2-0 win.

Saturday’s top-of-the-table clash at AAMI Park proved challenging with the quick turnaround, with Leticia McKenna’s quickfire double in the opening nine minutes leaving Brisbane with little chance of recovery. Fatigue from Wednesday’s match may have contributed to the 2-0 defeat.


Read: Queensland Brides to Host Boutique Wedding Expo at Brisbane City Hall


Roar vs Adelaide United

These contrasting results have tightened the league standings, with Brisbane now level on points with Melbourne Victory and under pressure from Adelaide United, who sit just two points behind after winning three and drawing one of their last four matches.

Sunday’s clash at Perry Park offers Brisbane a chance to regain momentum and solidify their title credentials. With twelve games to go and the league table tightening, this first encounter with Adelaide could play a decisive role in the final standings.

The Roar will be eager to channel the attacking flair shown against Melbourne Victory while demonstrating the resilience needed to bounce back from the City setback.

Geoffrey Smith Transforms Fortitude Valley with Groundbreaking Inclusion Efforts

Australian of the Year, Geoffrey Smith, is transforming the professional landscape for over 150 neurodivergent Australians through his groundbreaking work in Fortitude Valley. 



As the co-founder of Australian Spatial Analytics, Mr Smith is driving a workplace diversity revolution, setting a new standard for inclusion and empowerment in the technology industry.

From Data to Diversity: Mr Smith’s Early Career

Mr Smith began his career as a data analyst at Shell Queensland Gas Company (QGC), where he worked in Central Business Services and later in the Health, Safety, Security, and Environment departments. During this time, he developed a deep understanding of operational challenges, setting the stage for his future focus on inclusion and social impact. 

His transition into social entrepreneurship gained momentum at BUSY At Work, where he managed disability employment and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) programs, laying the groundwork for his later achievements.

Building Australian Spatial Analytics in Fortitude Valley

In 2020, Mr Smith co-founded Australian Spatial Analytics (ASA), headquartered in Fortitude Valley. ASA’s mission is to create professional roles for neurodivergent individuals, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Under Mr Smith’s leadership, the organisation employs a workforce that is more than 80% neurodivergent and has provided over 150 career opportunities since its inception. 

ASA has expanded its reach beyond Fortitude Valley, opening additional offices in Melbourne and Cairns. The organisation also contributes over $7 million annually to the Australian economy, showcasing its dual focus on social impact and economic growth.

Recognising a Leader in Inclusion

Mr Smith’s dedication to fostering inclusivity has earned him numerous accolades, including the Social Impact Leadership Australia (SILA) award, Westpac Social Change Fellowship, Snow Foundation Social Entrepreneur Fellow, and the 2022 AMP Tomorrow Maker recognition. 

These awards underline his ongoing efforts to redefine diversity in the tech industry.

Empowerment Through Tailored Support

At ASA, the focus extends beyond employment to empowerment. The organisation provides tailored workplace supports for executive functioning, social interactions, and sensory sensitivities, addressing the unique needs of its neurodivergent staff. 

This approach has set a benchmark for inclusive practices in professional environments.

The Community’s Response to Smith’s Achievements

The announcement of Mr Smith as Australian of the Year 2025 has been met with widespread support in Fortitude Valley. Local leaders and industry peers have praised his efforts, noting how ASA’s model promotes both innovation and diversity within the tech sector.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Mr Smith hopes to grow the ASA’s impact by hiring 1,000 neurodivergent people by 2030. This ambitious goal addresses the tech industry’s skills gap while also advocating for a more inclusive and diverse workforce. 



The recognition of Mr Smith as Australian of the Year highlights the importance of his work and Fortitude Valley’s role as a hub for innovation and social progress. His efforts promise continued advancements in workplace diversity, with far-reaching implications for communities across Australia.

Published 10-Jan-2025

Roar vs Melbourne Victory: Brisbane’s Golden Boot Leader Leads Title Charge

Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory clash in a pivotal midweek encounter on Wednesday, 8 January with both teams locked on 18 points in their A-League Women campaign. Roar vs Melbourne Victory kicks off 4:00 p.m. at Perry Park.


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


Roar stumbles against Canberra

The match takes on heightened significance following Brisbane’s dramatic 2-1 defeat to Canberra United, where late goals from Emma Robers and Michelle Heyman denied the Queensland side a chance to claim top spot on the ladder.

Laini Freier’s scoring touch remains a bright spot for the Roar, with her goal against Canberra vaulting her to the top of the Golden Boot standings. Her seventh goal in three games underlines the attacking prowess that has made Brisbane the league’s most feared offensive unit.

Roar vs Melbourne Victory

The Roar enters this contest as the league’s most potent attacking force, having netted an impressive 28 goals in just nine matches. While these attacking statistics highlight Brisbane’s explosive potential, their recent form reveals both promise and vulnerability. Their last three matches tell contrasting tales—after demolishing opponents with score lines of 6-1 and 8-2 to close out 2024, they stumbled against Canberra in a narrow defeat.

While Brisbane’s campaign has been characterised by high-scoring affairs and no draws in their 6-0-3 record, Victory poses a more measured challenge. The Melbourne side’s 5-3-1 record reflects a team that has found consistency, with their sole defeat coming against city rivals and table-toppers Melbourne City FC.


Read: Plans for Howard Smith Wharves Raise Concerns Over Heritage and Flooding


The mid-week fixture presents an immediate opportunity for redemption, with coach Alex Smith’s side looking to convert their league-leading goal difference of +17 into three valuable points.

Published 06-January-2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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. 



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

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.

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

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

Could Fortitude Valley be the last place you’d expect to find the world’s largest hotel ice bath?  Think again! Hotel X is turning up the chill with a unique wellness initiative.



To champion physical and mental wellbeing, the hotel is partnering with Bells Pure Ice to transform its 15-metre rooftop pool into a giant icy plunge pool on Thursday, 5 December.

Braving the Freeze for a Cause

From 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., locals and hotel guests alike are invited to take the plunge and experience the stimulating effects of an icy dip. But this is no ordinary cold water challenge. This ambitious undertaking will pour four tonnes of ice into the pool, creating a truly chilling experience. Pastries from Iris, beverages from Tea Tonic, and Allpress coffee will be offered to help participants warm up afterwards.

The event is also charitable, with all funds donated to Livin, a non-profit mental health organisation. Livin Founder Casey Lyons expressed gratitude for the hotel’s support, emphasising the importance of raising funds for mental health education in schools. He also noted the numerous health benefits of ice baths, including immune system boosts, stress reduction, improved circulation, and enhanced exercise recovery.

A Hub of Community Collaboration

This ice bath initiative is just the latest in a series of community-focused collaborations by Hotel X.  The hotel has actively engaged with local businesses and organisations throughout the year, showcasing everything from pop-up activations and in-room offerings with breweries and wellness brands to partnerships with yoga studios, tattoo parlours, sustainability leaders, music studios, and promoters.



Hotel X General Manager Jeremy Colahan underscored the hotel’s commitment to embracing the vibrant Fortitude Valley community. He highlighted the diverse range of partnerships forged this year, reflecting the hotel’s dedication to celebrating the area’s unique character.  

Colahan emphasised that Hotel X aims to provide guests with an immersive experience that captures the essence of the Fortitude Valley neighbourhood.

Published Date 09-December-2024

Fortitude Valley Flavours: Lunar Pies Serves Up a Slice of Filipino History

Fortitude Valley’s vibrant culinary scene has a delicious new addition: Lunar Pies. This isn’t your average bakery; it’s a window into Filipino culture, serving up mouth-watering empanadas that tell a story of history, family, and flavour.



Owner Ginger Mendoza is on a mission to share her love for this iconic dish and bring a taste of the Philippines to Brisbane.

Empanadas are special in Filipino cuisine, representing a fusion of Spanish colonial influence and local ingenuity. For Ms Mendoza, they’re much more than just a tasty treat. They evoke a sense of connection to her heritage and family traditions.  She believes many people are surprised to discover the significant role of empanadas in Filipino food culture.  Adopted from the Spanish, the empanada has been embraced and adapted, becoming a beloved staple that reflects the diverse flavours of the archipelago.

A Culinary Journey Through Time

Lunar Pies
Photo Credit: Lunar Pies/ Facebook

The Philippines’ 300-year Spanish colonial period left an indelible mark on the nation, influencing its language, culture, and food. The empanada is a prime example of this culinary legacy. While sharing similarities with its Spanish ancestor, the Filipino empanada has evolved into something unique, boasting distinct flavours and preparation methods.

Ms Mendoza explains that Filipino empanadas are incredibly diverse, with each region adding its distinctive twist.  The classic filling features minced pork, aromatic vegetables like onion and garlic, and a surprising sweetness with raisins.

Photo Credit: Lunar Pies/ Facebook

In the northern province of Ilocos, empanadas are typically made with rice flour and deep-fried, filled with grated papaya and garlicky sausages.  Ms Mendoza’s empanada heritage comes from Bulacan, her grandmother’s province. These “Kaliskis” empanadas are made with a laminated dough, folded repeatedly to achieve a flaky, almost puff pastry-like consistency.

For Ms Mendoza, empanadas are a powerful trigger for childhood memories. She fondly recalls sharing warm, flaky empanadas with her grandmother outside their home; these cherished moments continue to resonate with her today.

From Craving to Culinary Creation

Lunar Pies
Photo Credit: Lunar Pies/ Facebook

Ms Mendoza’s love for empanadas led to her relocation to Brisbane in 2016 to work as a private chef. A craving during her first pregnancy sparked the idea for Lunar Pies. Unable to find the flavours she longed for in Brisbane, she decided to take matters into her own hands. With her culinary background and entrepreneurial spirit, she recognised a gap in the market and launched Lunar Pies in 2022.



A Global Empanada Experience

Lunar Pies
Photo Credit: Lunar Pies/ Facebook

Lunar Pies offers more than just Filipino flavours; it celebrates the empanada’s global appeal.  Each represented by a distinct colour, six different flavours grace the menu.  Naturally, Ms Mendoza’s signature Filipino pork empanada takes pride, featuring a traditional blend of pork, carrots, potatoes, and raisins.  But the menu also ventures further afield, with two chicken variations, classic beef, a vegetarian option, and even a spicy Jamaican beef empanada.

Ms Mendoza, a self-proclaimed empanada aficionado, draws inspiration from Argentina, Ecuador, and Colombia, recognising the incredible versatility of this dish across different cultures, particularly those with Spanish colonial histories.  Lunar Pies, nestled in the heart of Fortitude Valley, invites you to experience a world of flavour, one empanada at a time.

Published Date 03-December-2024

Fortitude Valley Redevelopment: A New Era for the Iconic Precinct

With the approval of a major development application, Fortitude Valley is set to undergo a significant transformation. Two residential towers, rising to 30 and 31 storeys, will soon dominate the skyline, reshaping the urban landscape of this vibrant precinct.



Fortitude Valley precinct
Photo Credit: DEV2024/1507

The development, designed by renowned architecture firm Woods Bagot, will introduce 477 new dwellings comprising apartments and short-term accommodation. The ground floor will feature a public plaza, retail outlets, dining options, and office spaces, further activating the area.

The project will also include extensive communal open space, including a rooftop area, offering residents a serene retreat amidst the bustling city. Additionally, the development will provide ample parking for residents and visitors, accommodating 407 vehicles and 199 bicycles.

Fortitude Valley precinct
Photo Credit: DEV2024/1507

The planners at Property Projects Australia have emphasised the development’s alignment of the precinct with the neighbourhood plan and mixed-use zone requirements. The proposed building height is considered appropriate for the local context, while careful design considerations have been implemented to mitigate potential amenity impacts.

The architectural design pays homage to Fortitude Valley’s industrial heritage, blending contemporary aesthetics with traditional elements. The project aims to create a unique and visually striking landmark that complements the area’s character.



Fortitude Valley precinct
Photo Credit: DEV2024/1507

As construction commences, Fortitude Valley is poised to enter a new era of growth and development, solidifying its position as a thriving and dynamic urban destination.

Published Date 01-December-2024