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Can The Broncos End the 18-year Drought and Win the NRL Telstra Premiership?

It was 1992 when the Brisbane Broncos won their first Premiership, led by Alfie Langer who had taken over as skipper when Gene Miles retired. Going back-to-back in 1993 and winning the Super League in 1997. Following up again with a Premiership in 1998 and another at the turn of the millenium in 2000 and again in 2006.

That’s 18 seasons ago. Time flies. Let’s not forget Kevvie put together the majority of the current Broncos side including bringing Reece Walsh from the Warriors, and Walters led them to a Grand Final in 2023.

Then he passed the baton to Madge.

Madge, aka “enemy numero uno” having led the Blues in a massive comeback win against the Maroons, in the 2024 Origin Series. Plenty of locals could not forget that and surely Madge kept his head down for that very reason.

The decision to appoint Maguire was brilliant! A masterclass move by the Broncos Board.

So now after quite a rollercoaster season, where at times the Broncos looked dire yet have far more often looked unbeatable. It’s only in recent weeks though that we have fully understood the resilience and sheer determination of this group.

The Broncos beat the Storm in the final game of the regular season to make the 4, 30-14, at Suncorp and after the game, skipper Paddy Carrigan spoke about the deluge of goal-line defence they had practiced in training.

That’s where their backbone has been developed, the layers of determination, and now the belief that no matter how high the mountain, it can always be climbed.

The “Mission Impossible” of coming back from 14-0 against the 4 time Premiers, now seems a walk in the park compared to the hole the Broncos were in against the Minor Premiers, but in reality both comebacks were miracles of belief and determination.

How much was Paddy Carrigan missed last week (and Billy Walters), and how much fresher will he be as a result? At the same time Payne Haas desperately needs a week off, but give us one more big one, Payne!

King & Loiero vs Carrigan & Haas – Broncos win.

In that final regular season game at Suncorp, Jahrome Hughes was coming off an injury break, and it would be fair to assume he’s now back to full capacity.

Munster & Hughes vs Hunt & Reynolds – Tough call.

Papenhuyzen + Howarth + Meaney vs Walsh + Staggs + Shibabsaki – Broncos win

Warbrick + Coates vs Karapani + Mariner – Broncos win

Grant Atkins did a great job of the Broncos-Panthers last week and is given the honours in the middle for the Grand Final.

18 seasons is a long time. It’s time to put that to bed, boys!

The Grand Final of the NRL Telstra Premiership kicks off at 6.30pm Brisbane Time, this Sunday, October 5. BE VERY CAREFUL AS DAYLIGHT SAVING STARTS ON SUNDAY!
The game will be broadcast live on Nine, Foxtel and Kayo.

Published 2-October-2025

Morningside Panthers Reach QAFLW Grand Final In Debut Season

Photo Credit: Morningside Panthers

Morningside secured a place in the 2025 QAFLW grand final after defeating Coorparoo in a preliminary final at Jack Esplen Oval.

Background And Context

Women’s football at Morningside first appeared in 2003 when the Morningside Wildcats entered competition and won the premiership in their debut season. The Wildcats went on to claim further premierships in 2005 and 2011 before disbanding.

In 2018 the program was reformed under the Morningside Panthers banner, winning the QFAW Division 2 premiership in their return year. Progress through the divisions followed, with finals appearances across Seniors and Reserves teams and premiership success in Reserves in 2022 and 2023. In 2024 the club was granted a licence to enter the QAFLW, leading to their debut at the highest level in 2025.

2025 Season Performance

Morningside’s inaugural QAFLW campaign began strongly, with wins in their opening nine matches including a 130-point victory over Yeronga South Brisbane in Round 7. Across the season, they recorded several dominant results, including a 123-point win over Maroochydore in Round 12 and a 100-point margin over Moreton Bay in Round 13.

Losses came late in the home-and-away rounds, including against Aspley in Round 10 and Southport in Round 16. Despite this, the Panthers finished high enough on the ladder to qualify for finals.

Preliminary Final In Morningside

On Saturday, 30 August 2025, Morningside hosted Coorparoo in the preliminary final at Jack Esplen Oval. The Panthers secured a 5.3 (33) to 1.5 (11) win, advancing to the grand final in their first QAFLW season.

Key performers included Laura Roy with 30 disposals, a goal and strong midfield impact, supported by Gracie Roy, Isabella Levine and Greta Liell-Cock. Young talents such as Annabel Peacock, who sealed the match with a late goal, Harlee McIlwain and Zoe Petrides also contributed.

Coorparoo’s best included Ayla Fetahagic with 19 disposals and eight tackles, and ruck Renee Teys with 23 hitouts and 12 tackles.

Grand Final Result

Morningside faced Southport in the 2025 QAFLW grand final on Sunday, 7 September at Brighton Homes Arena. Southport won the decider with a score of 15.9 (99) to 3.2 (20), with Morningside finishing runners-up in their debut season at state league level.

Outlook

Morningside’s debut QAFLW season marked a significant milestone for the club, advancing from past successes in community competitions to reaching the grand final in the state’s top women’s league. Their progression reflects the strength of their female pathway program and sets a foundation for future seasons.

Published 15-Sep-2025

Property Demand Surges in Morningside as a New Blue-Chip Suburb

Photo Credit: Pexels

Morningside has been identified as one of Brisbane’s emerging blue-chip suburbs, with rising property values and strong buyer demand placing it among the city’s prestige markets.

Morningside’s Market Shift

On 20 August 2025, industry data revealed Morningside as one of five Brisbane suburbs moving into blue-chip territory, alongside Wavell Heights, Holland Park, Kedron and Mitchelton. Once considered a mid-tier area, Morningside is now rivalling established prestige suburbs in terms of lifestyle appeal and buyer interest.

Property Growth and Demand

Morningside has recorded solid growth across both houses and units. Over the past 12 months, house values increased by 7.9 per cent to reach a median price of $1.28 million. Units rose by 14.1 per cent, with the median price at $750,000. In the past three months alone, 40 houses and 26 units changed hands. Homes are selling quickly, with houses spending a median of 18 days on the market and units just 11 days.

Brisbane blue-chip suburbs — Photo Credit: Pexels

Lifestyle and Location Advantages

Located 5 km east of Brisbane’s CBD, Morningside offers suburban living with strong connectivity through bus and train services. The suburb combines character homes with modern apartments and provides access to shopping centres, cafes, and parks. Its position near the Brisbane River and nearby lifestyle precincts continues to enhance its appeal for families, professionals, and investors.

Emerging Blue-Chip Factors

Property experts point to demand for larger, modern homes with multiple bedrooms, updated finishes, and flexible living spaces. Knockdown-rebuild projects are also popular, allowing buyers to customise homes in sought-after locations. Two key buyer groups are driving the trend: families moving out of traditional blue-chip suburbs for more value, and those upsizing into what they consider their long-term homes.

Morningside property market — Photo Credit: Pexels

Rental Market Trends

The rental market in Morningside has strengthened over the past year. Average weekly rents now sit at $700 for houses, up 4.5 per cent, and $650 for units, up 10.2 per cent. The high proportion of rental properties, which accounts for nearly half of the housing stock, reflects the suburb’s attractiveness to both tenants and investors.

Infrastructure and Development

Morningside continues to benefit from surrounding investment and upgrades. The $1 billion redevelopment of Cannon Hill Shopping Centre, expected to finish in 2025, is set to improve retail and dining options nearby. Upgrades to Morningside train station and new cycling connections will enhance accessibility. Lifestyle benefits are further supported by the revitalisation of Oxford Street in neighbouring Bulimba.

Outlook

With its rising property values, strategic location close to the Brisbane CBD, and continued infrastructure investment, Morningside has firmly positioned itself as a strong contender in Brisbane’s next generation of blue-chip suburbs.

Published 6-Sep-2025

Hemmant Facility Expanded Brown and Hurley Network

Photo Credit: Brown and Hurley Network

Brown and Hurley expanded its operations with a new full-service facility in Hemmant, supporting transport operators working near the Port of Brisbane.

Facility Opened

The dealership group opened a new branch at 21 Inghams Place, Hemmant, on Monday, 1 September 2025. The site became a complete destination for truck sales, servicing, and parts. Brown and Hurley described the move as a step that would make its services more accessible to freight operators moving goods through the Port of Brisbane precinct.

Strategic Location

The Hemmant site is positioned just off the Port of Brisbane Motorway (M4) and only three minutes from Junction 102. This location provided straightforward access for heavy vehicles travelling to and from the port, one of Australia’s busiest gateways for freight and logistics. The positioning was highlighted as a key factor in reducing travel time for operators who rely on efficient turnaround to meet delivery schedules.

*Photo Credit: Brown and Hurley/Facebook*

Facility Features

The facility was established to include a stocked parts department with genuine components, a service centre staffed by experienced technicians, and truck sales with full aftersales support. By offering these services under one roof, the Hemmant branch was set up to provide what the dealership described as a “one-stop destination” for transport businesses.

Brisbane logistics — *Photo Credit: Brown and Hurley/Facebook*

Business Context

Brown and Hurley has maintained a strong presence across Queensland for decades, and the Hemmant branch added to this network. The group said the expansion showed its focus on investing in areas with high demand, particularly logistics corridors that play a central role in the state’s freight movement.

Future Outlook

According to Brown and Hurley, the new Hemmant facility was more than just an additional branch. The company said it reflected a longer-term commitment to transport operators by improving access to parts and services where they were most needed. By opening in the Port of Brisbane precinct, the dealership aimed to build stronger ties with customers and provide reliability and convenience for businesses operating in one of the state’s busiest freight hubs.

Published 4-Sep-2025

Meet the Porchetta Focaccia Redefining Lunch in Morningside

Photo Credit: Corbetta’s Kitchen/ Instagram

A humble porchetta focaccia, crafted with the precision of a fine-dining expert, is quickly becoming the talk of the town in Morningside, drawing locals to a simple kitchen for an unforgettable taste of Italy.

A New Local Favourite

It begins with the bread. The house-made focaccia is baked fresh each morning, achieving a perfect balance: a crisp exterior that gives way to a soft, airy interior. Inside, generous layers of succulent roasted pork, made supple through a long cooking process, are complemented by a vibrant, savoury salsa verde. A handful of peppery broad leaf rocket adds a fresh crunch, while a light touch of mayonnaise brings all the elements together.

It’s a sandwich that is both comforting and complex, and it’s being served from the unassuming counter at Corbetta’s Kitchen, a warehouse-style spot on Lytton Road. Neighbours like The Fish Factory and The Morningside Meat Market contribute to the location’s simple, industrial feel, a world away from white tablecloths and ocean views.

The Hands Behind the Focaccia

The reason this sandwich stands apart is the chef behind it, Jacopo Corbetta. Before moving to Brisbane, Corbetta was a chef at one of Sydney’s most iconic and glamorous restaurants, Icebergs Dining Room and Bar at Bondi Beach. He also spent time at Matteo Downtown in the Sydney CBD.

He has brought the meticulous techniques and commitment to quality learned in those high-pressure kitchens to this simple sanger. The pork, for example, is sourced from a local supplier before being marinated in herbs, garlic, and lemon. It is then cooked sous vide overnight to ensure it is perfectly tender before being roasted in the morning for a crisp finish. It’s this application of a chef’s discipline to a beloved classic that makes every bite memorable.

From Fine Dining to a Simpler Life

Corbetta’s journey from Sydney to Brisbane was driven by a desire for a change of pace. He explained that the relentless schedule of a top-tier restaurant, with services running for 12 hours straight from brunch through dinner, eventually led him to seek a better work-life balance.

After navigating border closures during the pandemic and a stint at The Stores in West End, he started his own business. The move to Morningside represents a shift from the intensity of the elite restaurant world to a more grounded, community-focused life where he can share his passion for food in a relaxed setting.

A Taste of Italy for Brisbane

For Corbetta, this style of food is deeply personal. He said the porchetta focaccia reminds him of the food trucks he would visit back in his native Italy after a football game or a concert. While his version is slightly more elevated, its soul is rooted in that simple, satisfying experience. By opening his kitchen in Morningside, he is not just selling sandwiches; he is sharing a piece of his heritage with his new community. For locals, it’s a delicious discovery—a chance to be transported to Italy, right from a quiet street in Brisbane’s suburbs.

Published Date 31-August-2025

State Funeral Confirmed as Murarrie Bridges Carry Sir Leo’s Name

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

Sir Leo Hielscher, the long-serving public servant whose name is carried by the bridges at Murarrie, will be honoured at a state funeral in Brisbane.

Sir Leo’s Public Service Career

Sir Leo Arthur Hielscher AC was born in Eumundi in 1926. He joined the Queensland Public Service in 1942 and went on to serve as Deputy Under Treasurer for a decade before becoming Under Treasurer for 14 years between 1974 and 1988.

From 1988, he was appointed Chairman of the Queensland Treasury Corporation Advisory Board, which later became the Queensland Treasury Corporation Board. He held the role until his retirement in June 2010. Over almost seven decades, his work was recognised as shaping Queensland’s modern financial structures.

Sir Leo Hielscher — *Photo Credit: Wikipedia*

Recognition and Awards

Sir Leo’s contribution to public administration was acknowledged through several honours. He received an Eisenhower Fellowship in 1973, was knighted in 1987, and awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia in 2004. He also held an Honorary Doctorate from Griffith University and a Fellowship from the Finance & Treasury Association.

Bridges Bearing His Name in Murarrie

The most prominent landmark associated with Sir Leo is the pair of bridges at Murarrie. Formerly known as the Gateway Bridge, the original crossing opened on 11 January 1986 at a cost of $92 million, with a duplicate span added in May 2010 for $350 million. Both were renamed the Sir Leo Hielscher Bridges in 2010.

Together they form one of Brisbane’s key motorway links, carrying the Gateway Motorway over the Brisbane River. They remain the most eastern Brisbane River crossing and connect Murarrie with Eagle Farm.

Sir Leo Hielscher Bridges — *Photo Credit: Wikipedia*

State Funeral and Farewell

Sir Leo Hielscher died on 4 August 2025, aged 98. His family accepted the offer of a state funeral, which will be held at 2 p.m. on 28 August 2025 at Brisbane City Hall.

An online condolence book has been opened for members of the public to leave messages.

Published 27-Aug-2025

Community Appeal Launched for Return of Missing Murarrie Statue

Photo Credit: myPolice South Brisbane

Police are calling on the Murarrie community to help solve the mystery of a missing bronze statue that disappeared from the local recreation reserve more than four months ago.

The sculpture, which depicts a skateboarder performing a handplant manoeuvre, was taken from Murarrie Recreation Reserve on Wynnum Road around 1 April this year. The distinctive bronze artwork shows a skater balanced on one hand while gripping their skateboard with the other—a classic skateboarding trick that would be familiar to many users of the park’s popular skate facilities.

Murarrie Recreation Reserve, located on Wynnum Road approximately 6 kilometres east of Brisbane’s city centre, is home to a well-used skate park that serves the local skateboarding and cycling community. The facility includes skate park features alongside cycling tracks, basketball courts, and other recreational amenities, making it a hub for active recreation in the area.

The skate park has undergone recent improvements, with an extension approved in 2022 that added approximately 732 square metres of additional skating area and features. The broader recreation reserve is also set to house Brisbane’s new international-standard cycling facility as part of preparations for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The theft has left a noticeable gap in the park’s landscape, removing what was likely an important piece of community art celebrating the skateboarding culture that thrives at the venue. Bronze sculptures are particularly vulnerable to theft due to their material value, but this piece also held cultural significance for the skating community.

Queensland Police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the theft or has information about the statue’s whereabouts to come forward. They are particularly interested in hearing from people who may have relevant CCTV footage or dashcam recordings from around the time of the incident.

Detective investigations are continuing under reference number QP2500729645. The delay between the theft and the public appeal suggests police have been pursuing other investigative leads before reaching out to the broader community for assistance.

Community members with information can contact Policelink through the online suspicious activity form available 24 hours a day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting, or by calling 131 444.

For those who prefer to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers can be contacted on 1800 333 000 or through their online reporting system at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 12-August-2025

Financial Relief Available for Kids’ Swimming Lessons in Cannon Hill

Photo Credit: Holland Swim School

With swimming being a core part of the Queensland lifestyle, a timely program offers Cannon Hill families a $150 voucher to ensure their youngest children learn critical water safety skills.

A Lifelong Tradition of Water Safety

For over half a century, Hollands Swim School has been a cornerstone of the Cannon Hill community. The private, family-run centre was established by Roy Holland, one of Brisbane’s early professional swimming teachers, who dedicated his career to teaching the vital skill. His daughter, Cathy Holland, now continues that legacy, managing the school with over 25 years of teaching experience herself.

The school specialises in aquatic survival programs, building water confidence in children from just six months old and guiding them right through to competitive squad levels. Its approach, built on a structure developed by Cathy, ensures that every instructor is certified and extensively trained to help children progress safely.

New Support for the Next Generation

This deep-rooted community focus on water safety is receiving a significant boost. The Queensland Government’s SwimStart program recently began accepting applications for its third round, providing financial relief for families with young children.

Eligible families with children aged zero to four can apply for a voucher valued at up to $150 to help cover the cost of swimming lessons. The application period commenced on 28 July 2025, and parents will have until June 2026 to redeem the vouchers at participating swim schools.

Strengthening Community Through Skills

The initiative is designed to improve safety outcomes and support the introduction of physical activity from an early age. Minister for Sport Tim Mander stated that the SwimStart program provides the state’s youngest residents with the opportunity to learn essential skills and become confident in the water. He noted that swimming is a major part of the Queensland lifestyle, making early education in water safety crucial. By helping with lesson costs, the program supports both local families and the dedicated swim schools that have served their communities for decades.

Published Date 04-August-2025

Morningside Ranks Among Queensland’s Top Pet-Loving Suburbs

Morningside has been named one of Queensland’s most pet-obsessed suburbs, ranking equal fourth across the state for dog and cat ownership, according to new national data released by pet insurer Petsy.

Suburban Life Still a Drawcard for Pet Owners

Released in July 2025, the report from Canstar-awarded pet insurer Petsy identified Australia’s top suburbs for pet ownership based on pet insurance uptake. In Queensland, coastal and outer-metro areas like Pimpama and Southport ranked highest, with Morningside joining several others in equal fourth place.

*Photo Credit: Canva / For Illustration Purpose Only*

Just five kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD, Morningside stands out for its pet-friendly housing mix and green spaces. Local amenities like dog parks and vet access make it an appealing choice for animal lovers.

Apartment Living Isn’t Slowing Pet Growth

According to Petsy, the broader data revealed a surprising trend: inner-city and strata-dense areas in other states are also leading the way in pet ownership. In Victoria, Melbourne CBD topped the charts alongside Berwick, while in New South Wales, Rosebery and Maroubra came out ahead.

Petsy noted that limited space wasn’t discouraging people from keeping animals. Across the board, households in both apartments and family homes were prioritising pet care. Morningside’s presence in the Queensland rankings suggests this trend also extends to Brisbane’s inner suburbs, where residents are finding ways to raise pets without needing a quarter-acre block.

Pet Insurance Signals Changing Attitudes

The suburb rankings were based on internal policy data from Petsy, highlighting where owners are most likely to invest in pet insurance. While not a full measure of ownership, it reflects where people prioritise their pets’ health and wellbeing.

Petsy noted that insurance helps households manage unexpected vet costs, reinforcing the growing view of pets as family. Morningside’s strong showing aligns with this trend, signalling a local commitment to pet care and security.

Community Connection Through Pets

In Morningside, pet ownership is woven into the fabric of daily life, with locals often spotted walking dogs and visiting pet-friendly cafés. The suburb offers grooming salons, vet clinics, and regular pet-focused events, making it a welcoming hub for animal lovers.

Petsy’s data highlights not just insurance uptake but the deeper role pets play in certain communities. Morningside’s ranking reflects its reputation as a place where animals are genuinely valued and cared for.

Published 24-July-2025

Road Safety Enforcement in Morningside & Murarrie Targets Holiday Drivers

Photo Credit: QPS

Morningside and Murarrie were among several Brisbane suburbs targeted in a recent large-scale road safety operation conducted during the school holidays.

Large-Scale Traffic Enforcement Across Brisbane

Police carried out one of Brisbane’s largest simultaneous traffic operations during the June–July school holidays, deploying more than 200 officers across multiple suburbs including Morningside and Murarrie. The operation involved both highway patrol and general duties units and aimed to deter dangerous driving behaviours.

Brisbane road safety — Photo Credit: QPS

Focus on High-Risk Driver Behaviour

Authorities conducted 6,731 random breath tests and 454 roadside drug tests across the city. Eighteen drivers were found over the alcohol limit, while twenty-one returned positive drug readings. Enforcement sites were set up across key locations, including Morningside and Murarrie, as part of the broader effort to improve road safety.

The operation specifically targeted behaviours known as the “Fatal Five”: speeding, drink and drug driving, distraction, fatigue, and not wearing seatbelts.

Enforcement Results and Charges

In addition to impaired driving detections, officers issued 116 traffic infringement notices. Several individuals were also charged with offences including driving while disqualified, unlicensed, or in unregistered vehicles. A total of 33 notices to appear were issued, resulting in 62 charges.

Three notable incidents highlighted during the campaign involved high-range drink driving, including a 0.152% blood alcohol reading at Kangaroo Point, a crash at Mount Ommaney where a driver returned 0.141%, and a single-vehicle crash at Mount Coot-tha involving a driver with a 0.156% reading and an unregistered vehicle.

school holiday enforcement — Photo Credit: QPS

Morningside & Murarrie Part of Safety Push

Morningside and Murarrie were specifically included in the list of suburbs where targeted enforcement occurred. These locations formed part of the wider strategy to monitor traffic behaviour in both inner and outer suburbs, reinforcing the visibility of road policing across the region.

Reduced Road Fatalities

As of 10 July, Queensland recorded 142 lives lost on roads, compared to 149 at the same time in 2024. In Brisbane alone, 21 fatalities were recorded in 2025, down from 29 the previous year. Brisbane’s north saw a significant reduction from 18 to 6, while the south recorded a rise from 11 to 15.

Ongoing Enforcement Expected

Authorities say the operation reflects an ongoing commitment to reducing road trauma. Officers from both Brisbane’s north and south districts stated that enforcement efforts will continue as part of efforts to hold drivers accountable and prevent further incidents on local roads.

Published 14-July-2025