Strike Property in Morningside has been recognised nationally after being ranked ninth in SmartCompany’s Smart50 Awards, a program that spotlights fast-growing small and medium businesses across Australia and places a local defence-focused property firm on a national stage.
The Smart50 Awards 2025 were held at Metropolis Events in Southbank, Melbourne, with the ceremony and dinner running from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Thursday, 13 November. SmartCompany’s Smart50 awards recognise the 50 fastest-growing Australian small and medium enterprises over the most recent three financial years, placing the Morningside business among a select group of high-growth firms from across the country.
The profile on Strike Property reports revenue of $3 million, growth of 79 per cent and a six-person team at its head office.
Defence Veterans Behind the Service
Strike Property was founded in 2022 by two defence force veterans, Dan Irwin and Dane Roche, who saw that defence members and their families were missing out on housing entitlements because the system felt confusing and overwhelming. There were few property businesses with deep, defence-specific knowledge, and that Strike Property began as a way to offer property strategies tailored to the realities of service life, including postings, deployments and frequent relocations.
Its mission is to lay the foundations to build financial freedom through property for the Defence community, their family and their friends. The company supported more than 1,000 property transactions, generating a combined portfolio of over $650 million, reflecting the scale of activity the business now manages for clients.
The Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA) listing for Strike Property confirms that both co-founders are Qualified Property Investment Advisers. This professional accreditation means they follow an industry code of conduct and position the Morningside-based team as specialist advisers for the Australian Defence Force community.
How Strike Property Supports Defence Families
The business focuses on defence-specific education and clear guidance, explaining how those entitlements can be used to support better housing and investment decisions.
In the beginning, people needed to overcome a wider lack of trust in the property industry before it could grow. To address this, the company put transparency and education at the centre of its approach, running programs that step defence client through their options in detail. Over time, positive word of mouth and client-first service helped the business stand out from more generic property offerings and contributed to its steady growth.
Why the Smart50 Award Matters to Morningside
The Smart50 program is designed to elevate and celebrate innovation, growth and community impact among Australian small and medium businesses. Winners receive national exposure through SmartCompany’s coverage and are highlighted as examples of strong performance and business resilience.
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On a quiet February morning in 1957, the idyllic suburban life of Cannon Hill was shattered in a storm of violence. By the time the smoke cleared on Narella Street, six people lay dead, and one brave policeman’s quick actions had prevented an even greater catastrophe. It began like any other day on Narella Street, a dusty strip of modest homes in Brisbane’s Cannon Hill. The children were preparing for school, neighbours were brewing morning tea, and the air was filled with the comforting predictability of suburbia. Then, at 7:30 a.m., the sharp cracks of gunfire broke through the stillness. Constable John “Jack” Strickfuss, off-duty and enjoying his breakfast just a few doors away, immediately sprang to his feet. A large man with a commanding presence and a reputation for action, Strickfuss grabbed his garden hose and rushed toward the smoke billowing from the Majka household. What he encountered would haunt the community for years to come. Inside the Majka home, Marian Majka, a Polish immigrant who had survived five years in Nazi labour camps, had snapped. Armed with a .30-calibre American Army carbine, he had stabbed and bludgeoned his wife, Gisela, and their five-year-old daughter, Shirley, before setting the house on fire. But Majka’s rampage wasn’t over. As flames consumed his home, Majka crossed the street to the Irvine household, where Belinda Irvine and her daughters Annie, 12, and Maureen, 9, were having breakfast with 10-year-old neighbour Lynette Karger. In cold blood, Majka opened fire, killing them all before setting the home ablaze. Smoke and screams filled the air as neighbours began to realise the enormity of the situation. Strickfuss, undeterred by the chaos, attempted to force his way into the Majka home but was driven back by flames. Then he saw the Irvine house, also burning, and sprinted toward it with neighbours Jim Ainsworth and Fred Ganter. As the men approached, Majka fired at them, sending bullets whizzing past their heads. One struck the sole of Strickfuss’s boot, but he pressed forward. Ainsworth retrieved Strickfuss’s service revolver, and the constable charged into the inferno through the back door. What Strickfuss found was devastating. Majka was dead, having turned the gun on himself, but the damage had already been done. In the kitchen, Strickfuss discovered the lifeless bodies of Mrs. Irvine, her daughters, and Lynette, their small forms still smouldering from the fire. Amid the carnage, he heard the faint cries of a baby. Six-month-old Elaine Irvine was found beneath her mother’s body, her tiny foot injured by a bullet and her hair singed by flames. Wrapping her in a blanket, Strickfuss rushed her to safety, yelling for a taxi to take her to the hospital. His decisive actions saved her life. By the end of the morning, six lives had been lost: Gisela and Shirley Majka, Belinda, Annie, and Maureen Irvine, and Lynette Karger. Majka’s motives for the attack were never determined, leaving the community and investigators to speculate on what could drive such violence. The massacre sent shockwaves across Brisbane, shattering the sense of safety and trust that had defined suburban life in the 1950s. Cannon Hill, once a symbol of quiet family living, became synonymous with one of Queensland’s darkest days. Constable Strickfuss’s courage did not go unnoticed. For his bravery under fire and his unflinching resolve to save lives, he was awarded the George Medal, one of the Commonwealth’s highest honours for civilian bravery. Neighbours Jim Ainsworth and Fred Ganter received Queen’s Commendations for Bravery for their roles in assisting Strickfuss. The George Medal is one of the Commonwealth’s highest civilian honours for bravery. Instituted by King George VI during World War II, the medal is granted to individuals who display extraordinary courage in non-combat situations. Constable Strickfuss’s actions that day in 1957 became a defining moment in his career and a symbol of selflessness and duty, reminding the community of the extraordinary sacrifices ordinary people are willing to make in times of crisis. Elaine Irvine, the sole survivor of the Irvine household, recovered from her injuries and later moved to Adelaide with her father, Neil. The Karger family, however, suffered another heartbreak when Lynette’s mother passed away two years later, unable to bear the weight of her loss. More than six decades later, the Cannon Hill massacre remains a grim chapter in Brisbane’s history, remembered both for its senseless violence and for the selflessness of those who risked their lives to protect others. Constable Strickfuss retired as a highly respected sergeant and passed away in 2012, leaving behind a legacy of bravery that continues to inspire. The events of that day are a stark reminder of how quickly lives can be changed forever, but also of the courage that can emerge in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Updated 11-November-2025. Originally published 6-Jan-2024 When a violent storm swept through Murarrie, 30-year-old IT professional Manendra Kopparthi stopped to move a fallen branch from the road. Moments later, he was electrocuted by a live powerline hidden in the debris, prompting renewed community discussion about powerline safety during storms. The incident occurred in December 2023, following a severe thunderstorm that downed trees and powerlines across Brisbane’s east. According to official findings reported in the media, Kopparthi was driving with his wife when he stopped in Murarrie to remove storm debris. Investigators determined that a broken low-voltage line from Energex concealed within the vegetation caused the electrocution. Emergency responders were called, but he could not be revived. Friends and colleagues described Kopparthi as kind and generous, known for helping others. His wife told the media that he once rescued an injured stray dog not long after their marriage — an act she said reflected his character. Lecturer Anil Naidu, who taught him in a professional course, said Kopparthi often assisted classmates and shared home-cooked meals. Queensland’s Electrical Safety Office, which investigated the death, found evidence indicating the fatality resulted from storm impact, rather than vegetation-management issues. Energex said its vegetation checks in the Murarrie area were current and met safety standards at the time. However, images taken by the media the following day appeared to show branches hanging over nearby powerlines. Energex explained that its maintenance guidelines discourage foliage overhanging low-voltage lines, but allow it in some circumstances when the vegetation is stable and poses no immediate hazard. Former Energex engineer Ken Millers said he believed current vegetation-clearance standards could be improved, especially given Queensland’s exposure to frequent, intense storms. Energex said it reviews audit findings on an ongoing basis and makes changes where required. Some Murarrie residents said they had previously raised concerns about large trees dropping branches near industrial properties. Brisbane City Council confirmed residents had asked for inspections in past years, and arborists found the trees in good condition. Council noted that branches can still shed during extreme weather events, even from trees that appear healthy. Past incidents have drawn similar attention to powerline safety. In 1998, three people died in Ipswich after a storm brought down live electrical wires. Following that tragedy, a coroner recommended exploring options for placing more powerlines underground. It’s a move that remains debated due to significant costs, estimated at more than $50 billion statewide. Energex later replaced the low-voltage lines at the Murarrie location with insulated bundled cables. The company described the work as part of its “routine line replacement program” rather than a specific response to the incident. In a media statement, Energex said its vegetation-management cycle operates on intervals of up to two years in urban areas, with ongoing audits and safety checks. An internal audit indicated several high-risk vegetation incidents across southeast Queensland since mid-2023, including cases where plants had contacted or appeared likely to contact powerlines. Flowers have been tied to the nearby power pole where Kopparthi fell. Residents say they are a reminder of his generosity. Local residents and community leaders have expressed condolences to his family; authorities continue to promote public education on storm-related electrical safety. Published 3-Nov-2025 At the busy corner of Wynnum Road, Ison Street, and Redfern Street in Morningside, a new traffic signal box now stands as more than just street infrastructure—it’s a vibrant tribute to a much-loved local landmark preparing for a major milestone. Read: Morningside School Of Arts Hall Battles Decay As Centenary Nears The artwork, titled “100 Years, 100’s of Stories,” was designed especially for the Morningside School of Arts (MSA), which will mark its centenary in February 2026. Created by local artist and MSA member Olivia Dean Jones, with participation from MSA president Debra Hood, the artwork weaves together the old and new. Drawing inspiration from the original architectural plans of the 1920s, which was recently rediscovered during a building clean-up, Olivia has reimagined the designs in a bold, colourful way. The flowing shape of the Brisbane River wraps around the box, while a stylised image of the Art Deco building takes centre stage, echoing the real-life structure standing proudly nearby. The project serves as a creative homage to a building that has been central to life in Morningside for generations. It acknowledges the hall’s historical importance while also celebrating its ongoing role as a creative and communal hub. The Morningside School of Arts is one of Brisbane’s architectural gems. Designed by Allan Young, the hall was built in 1926 during a time of rapid growth in the area following World War I. Though it no longer operates as a traditional School of Arts, the heritage-listed venue has remained a lively community space, hosting everything from weddings and theatre productions to art shows, dances, and birthday celebrations. To honour its 100th year, the MSA committee is preparing a commemorative “coffee table” book featuring photographs, memories, and untold stories from locals who have passed through its doors. Community members are encouraged to contribute their own stories via the organisation’s website. As part of the countdown to the 2026 centenary, a $250,000 fundraising campaign is also underway to restore and renovate the building. Essential repairs are planned to ensure the hall remains safe, functional, and beautiful for future generations. Read: WWII Echoes in Morningside: Uncovering Air Raid Shelters on Thynne and Wynnum Roads More than a piece of public art, the “100 Years, 100’s of Stories” traffic signal box is a symbol of how a neighbourhood can come together to celebrate its history, embrace creativity, and preserve what matters most. In Morningside, it’s clear that the community spirit is alive and well, just as it has been for the past 99 years. Updated 1-November-2025 Ron Hurley Theatre will host a live musical where the audience helps decide the fate of the characters, including who dies from dysentery. Performances will run from November 29 to 30, with tickets available through Humanitix. The show is presented by Footlights Theatrical Inc, a Brisbane-based community company. The production is called The Trail to Oregon! and is based on the popular 1990s computer game The Oregon Trail. The story follows one American family heading west in search of a better future. The theatre confirms that audience members name the characters, choose supplies for the journey and influence the final outcome. Every session plays out differently, and one character will always die before the end of the show. The musical was originally created by Team Starkid, the same group behind A Very Potter Musical. It features original music, fast pacing and parody-style humour. The creative team for this Brisbane staging includes director Jason Nash, vocal director Rhea Basha and choreographer Meg Bennett. The cast includes Isaac Tibbs, Sarah Ashby, Emilia Povey, Andrew Engelsmann, Connie Acevado Burckhardt and Bailey Sprecak. Footlights Theatrical Inc has said the show aims to involve performers who may not always find space in traditional productions, offering them a chance to perform in new and bold formats. Footlights Theatrical Inc said the show is not meant to be taken seriously. It is designed to bring people together through humour, shared decision-making and an unpredictable outcome every night. The company says the show is fast, chaotic and meant to reflect both the risks and ridiculousness of old frontier travel. Published 23-October-2025 Residents of Murrarie were treated to a rare glimpse of Hollywood action as Australian actor Chris Hemsworth was spotted along the Brisbane River, filming scenes for the highly anticipated movie Subversion. The international blockbuster has turned this quiet riverside suburb into a hive of filming activity, drawing crowds of curious locals eager to witness a major production unfolding right on their doorstep. Filming for Subversion began in mid-September on the Gold Coast, but this month the production shifted to Brisbane, with Murrarie becoming a central location for key scenes. Cameras rolled at the Rivergate Marina, where Hemsworth, dressed in a floral-print shirt and aviator sunglasses, was seen stepping aboard a vessel as part of a high-stakes action sequence. The film is expected to bring significant attention to the local area, turning familiar riverside spots into dramatic cinematic settings. Subversion is described as a tense, big-budget thriller centred on a naval commander who is forced into a dangerous mission aboard a submarine. The project has attracted an impressive cast, including Lily James, Michael Peña, Simone Kessell and Joe Cole. The story follows Hemsworth’s character as he becomes entangled in a covert plot involving high-risk cargo and international stakes. The production’s presence is not just a cinematic spectacle — it’s also an economic boost for Queensland. Officials estimate that Subversion will inject more than AUD $63 million into the state’s economy, supporting more than 400 local cast and crew members. Local businesses are also feeling the ripple effects. Brisbane City Council has supported filming efforts, seeing projects like Subversion as an opportunity to promote the region as a prime destination for future productions. The project brings Hemsworth back to Australian soil for another major Hollywood production. Known for blockbuster roles in the Thor and Extraction franchises, the actor has maintained a strong connection to his home country, frequently choosing local locations for filming. His presence in Murrarie has generated excitement among fans and residents, many of whom gathered near the marina to catch a glimpse of the star. Published 21-Oct-2025 Seafood lovers in Brisbane’s east won’t need to travel far to join in this year’s National Barramundi Day celebrations, with The Fish Factory Bistro in Morningside hosting a special three-day event. From 17 to 19 October, the local favourite is serving up a taste of one of Australia’s most iconic fish with “Barra for Days”, a celebration featuring barramundi meal specials, grilled barra tastings, and exclusive deals designed to showcase the flavour, freshness, and versatility of sustainably farmed Australian barramundi. The event coincides with National Barramundi Day on Friday, 17 October, an annual celebration that highlights the cultural and culinary significance of the native fish. This year’s ambassadors, MasterChef contestants and real-life couple Sarah Todd and Declan Cleary, have created three new recipes — from zesty tacos to delicate en papillote — to help Australians discover just how simple and delicious cooking with barramundi can be at home. “Barramundi is more than a fish — it’s a national icon,” says Declan Cleary. “I grew up fishing with my grandfather, and it’s a fish that’s always been part of my life — and part of Australia too.” For locals, though, there’s no need to fire up the oven. The Fish Factory Bistro is one of more than 150 restaurants, cafés and pubs across Australia taking part in the nationwide celebration, giving Morningside residents a chance to enjoy the freshest barramundi prepared by professionals, right on their doorstep. Sarah Todd says the day is about more than food — it’s about connection. “National Barramundi Day is about celebrating food, culture and connection,” she says. “Barramundi is fresh, healthy and so simple to cook. It’s the kind of ingredient every Aussie can fall in love with.” The Australian Barramundi Farmers Association (ABFA), which represents leading producers from Queensland, the Northern Territory and beyond, says the day is about more than food — it’s about connection, sustainability and celebrating a uniquely Australian product. Whether you’re a long-time barra enthusiast or trying it for the first time, “Barra for Days” at The Fish Factory Bistro is the perfect opportunity to celebrate a beloved local fish in the heart of Morningside. 📍 The Fish Factory Bistro Published 14-Oct-2025 The sale of the Kookaburra Queen I for $550,000 at a Murarrie auction presents a unique opportunity for businesses looking to invest in Brisbane’s tourism and event sectors. The Kookaburra Queen I, a historic paddleboat once known for its Brisbane River cruises, has found a new owner. It sold for $550,000 at an auction in Murarrie, Queensland, on September 30, 2025. The vessel, built for the 1988 World Expo, had been a staple of Brisbane’s river cruises, offering dining and event services for decades. After years of inactivity, it was listed for sale by Grays Auctioneers, attracting significant interest from potential buyers. Built in 1987 by Millkraft Thompson Boatyard, the Kookaburra Queen I stretches 30.5 metres along the water. Its timber hull and fibreglass decks reflect solid local workmanship. Licensed to carry 378 passengers, the vessel includes two lively dance floors, a full commercial kitchen with cold storage, and an open observation deck for 30 guests. The vessel operated as a popular venue for weddings, dinners, and sightseeing cruises until its last commercial operator ceased operations in 2022. The Kookaburra Queen I had been moored at Colmslie Beach Reserve in Murarrie, Brisbane, for several years. The vessel experienced some water damage during the 2022 Brisbane floods and required relocation due to impending construction works in the area. Despite these challenges, the boat was described as “ready to operate” and “fully capable of commercial operation” by the seller. The sale of the Kookaburra Queen I offers a new chance for tourism, event, or hospitality groups to own a piece of Australian maritime history. With its rich heritage and potential for restoration, the vessel could once again become a prominent feature on the Brisbane River, offering unique experiences to locals and visitors alike. Published 3-October-2025 Rosies Friends on the Street is celebrating a milestone, with Head of Fundraising Lacee recognised in the “40 Under 40 Awards for 2025.” The honour highlights not just her creativity and bold storytelling in reimagining fundraising, but also the impact Rosies continues to have across the state in offering friendship and hope to Queenslanders doing it tough. From its street vans serving hot drinks and warm conversations in Murarrie to its newly established South Brisbane hub, Rosies has built a reputation for turning compassion into action. Volunteers and supporters rally around the organisation’s mission: making sure no one feels unseen or alone, whether they’re experiencing homelessness, social isolation, or unexpected hardship. Murarrie is one of several Brisbane suburbs where Rosies is active, with street vans bringing hospitality and companionship directly to those in need. The outreach model is simple but powerful: offer a drink, a snack, and a genuine chat. Many who visit Rosies describe the sense of being seen and heard as life-changing. While the spotlight has recently been on Rosies’ new South Brisbane hub, the Murarrie branch continues to play an equally important role. Volunteers here know the faces and stories of their community, building relationships that extend beyond one night of service. The South Brisbane hub has already started to strengthen Rosies’ work across the city. By providing a base for supplies and coordination, the hub ensures Murarrie teams are well-supported when they head out on their shifts. The mural by artist Jake Moss, unveiled at the opening, serves as a reminder that many volunteers and participants alike share lived experiences of hardship — making Rosies’ work deeply personal. Like in South Brisbane, demand in Murarrie has grown sharply in the past year. Volunteers report more new visitors to their sessions, including people who never expected to need help. Some are holding down multiple jobs yet cannot keep up with rent or grocery costs. Others are older residents struggling with isolation. For each, Rosies provides not just assistance but also dignity. The Murarrie team is also backed by Rosies’ community sponsors, who help fund essentials like coffee, tea, milk, and the fuel to keep vans running. These partnerships remind locals that Rosies’ mission is shared — it takes both volunteers and supporters to keep the service alive. Individual volunteer stories continue to highlight the impact of Rosies’ work. One feature on Rosies’ social media captured a volunteer’s reflections on how giving a few hours each week not only helps others, but also brings meaning and perspective to their own life. As Rosies celebrates its 35 years of service across Queensland, Murarrie stands as an example of what community-driven compassion looks like. The volunteers here are proof that even the smallest gesture — a smile, a shared story, or a cup of tea — can change the course of someone’s day. In Murarrie, as across Brisbane, Rosies’ message is clear: no one should feel left out or disconnected. Through conversation, connection, and compassion, the Murarrie branch continues to bring that promise to life. Published 19-Sept-2025 In a move that prioritises quality of life over increased density, a Cannon Hill apartment project is adding a suite of luxury rooftop amenities, including a pool and wellness centre, without adding a single new dwelling or increasing its approved height. The proposed changes for the five-storey building at 2–10 Andrews Street centre on creating a better living experience for its future community. The developer has submitted a minor change application that dramatically enhances the building’s communal spaces. The most significant update is a complete redesign of the rooftop area, which will now feature a swimming pool and deck, a sauna, plunge pools, and barbecue areas surrounded by landscaped gardens. This expanded recreational space, growing from 272 to 337 square metres, is designed to provide a high-quality, resort-style environment right at home. While the lifestyle features are getting a major boost, the project’s overall scale remains unchanged, ensuring it continues to fit within the local area. The building, designed by Prospect Architecture, will still contain the originally approved 44 apartments. The updated plans focus on internal and design refinements rather than expansion. These improvements include a more efficient car parking layout, with ground-level parking now enclosed, a redesigned pedestrian entry and lobby, and extended balconies for several apartments on the second floor. A few individual apartment layouts have also been updated to improve their functionality. The project’s planners, DTS, have noted that the changes are minor and maintain the development’s approved scale and intent. In their assessment, they stated that the enhancements to the rooftop and landscaping will deliver significant benefits to future residents. Crucially, they concluded that these improvements would be achieved without causing any negative impacts on the surrounding properties, framing the proposal as a positive adjustment for the neighbourhood. Published 6-October-2025Bravery Amid Chaos: How a Policeman Saved Lives in Cannon Hill
A Morning That Turned to Horror
A Deadly Spree
Bravery in the Face of Chaos
The Aftermath of Tragedy
Heroism Recognised
A Lasting Legacy
Murarrie Electrocution Case Renews Discussion on Storm Safety
Investigation and safety findings
Community and council perspectives
Photo Credit: Energex/FacebookEnergex response and ongoing measures
A community honours its good neighbour
Traffic Signal Box Pays Tribute to Morningside School of Arts Ahead of 100-Year Milestone
About the Morningside School of Arts
The Trail to Oregon Brings Chaos and Comedy to Ron Hurley Theatre
Interactive Format with Real Stakes
Created by a Cult Musical Team
Local Cast Brings Energy to the Stage
Community-Focused and Built for Laughter
Murrarie Transformed as Hollywood Arrives for Chris Hemsworth’s New Thriller
A Blockbuster Lands in Brisbane’s Backyard
Boost for the Local Film Industry
A Star Close to Home
‘Barra for Days’ Brings National Barramundi Day Celebrations Home to Morningside
363 Lytton Road, Morningside
🗓️ 17–19 October 2025
🔗 Fish Factory on Facebook
Historic Kookaburra Queen I Paddleboat Sells for $550,000 at Murarrie Auction
Historic Brisbane Paddleboat Sold
A Glimpse into Brisbane’s Maritime History
Decline and Auction Details
Future Prospects
Recognition and Reach: Rosies’ Lacee Honoured as Group Expands South Brisbane Hub
Better, Not Bigger: Cannon Hill Project Adds Luxury Perks Without Expanding
A New Focus on Resident Wellbeing
Smarter Design, Same Footprint
A Positive Change for the Community
