AFL Queensland has announced that the Morningside Panthers will join the Bond University QAFLW in 2025 alongside Moreton Bay, expanding the competition to ten teams and reinforcing their commitment to growing women’s football in Southeast Queensland.
Morningside Panthers elite performance and pathways
The Panthers entry into the QAFLW follows their impressive recent form, including a grand final appearance in 2023 and a reserves premiership in QFAW Division 1. These achievements are complemented by the pathways the club has established to support women’s football in the region.
Morningside AFC Seniors Vice President – Women Janet Martin views the move to QAFLW as “a natural and very exciting next step in the journey for female football at the Morningside Panthers.”
The Panthers now offer a complete pathway for female footballers, from under 8s through to senior women. With the launch of their female football excellence program, the club is bolstering development opportunities for athletes.
“Since 2018, Morningside has progressed from just one senior women’s team in the QFAW Division 2 competition to the largest female participation club in Queensland.”
Opportunities and challenges ahead
Competing in the QAFLW will expose the Panthers to tougher opponents, requiring them to elevate their training and performance standards. However, it also presents invaluable exposure and a closer opportunity for their top players to progress to the AFLW.
As they gear up for the 2025 season, fans can expect thrilling performances from a team eager to prove themselves at the highest level of women’s football in Queensland.
Hani Watson, a 41-year-old powerlifter from Hemmant, is set to debut for the green and gold in the weightlifting meet of the Paralympic Games in Paris.
Watson will compete in the women’s over 86kg category on 8 September at 10:00 p.m. local time at La Chapelle Arena.
While her immediate goal is to secure a golden finish at Paris 2024, she has aspirations that go beyond a single competition. Looking ahead, she also aims to compete at the home Paralympic Games in Brisbane 2032.
The competition in the women’s over 86kg category will be fierce. Watson will face off against some of the strongest women in the world, including Nigeria’s Folashade Oluwafemiayo, who holds the Elite World Record with a lift of 165kg, and the defending Tokyo gold medallist Xuemei Deng of China.
About Hani Watson
Hani Watson, born with bilateral metaphyseal dysplasia, has faced significant challenges from a young age. This condition caused her leg bones to bow, leading to multiple surgeries throughout her life. Her resilience was deeply influenced by her late mother, who encouraged her with the words, “Don’t give up,” before passing away from metastatic breast cancer. This advice has been a guiding force for Hani, especially as she trained intensely for the Paralympics.
Her training was supported by her high school principal, who provided her with keys to the gym, allowing her to maintain focus and direction during difficult times. Hani, alongside Ben Wright, marks a significant moment as they are the first Australian powerlifters to compete in the Paralympic Games in over a decade.
The journey to Paris has been long and challenging, but Watson’s sights are firmly set on bringing home gold and making her mark in Paralympic powerlifting history.
With the Paralympics in full swing, schedule changes remain possible. For the latest updates and information, check out the official Paralympics website.
A heated dispute has broken out over Black Spot Programme funding distribution. The conflict centres around the fact that only two intersections, known for their high accident rates, were granted funds.
The Morningside intersection, along with five others, was denied funding despite having a record of 53 accidents over five years, half of which led to hospitalisation.
Infrastructure Chair Cr Andrew Wines expressed frustration that all six rejected intersections met the Federal Government’s funding criteria. He highlighted that Brisbane would only receive six per cent of Queensland’s funding, while Logan City Council, with a strong Labour presence, secured 34 per cent.
St Pauls Tce, Gipps and Kennigo streets, Fortitude Valley Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map
State Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish defended the decision, stating that grants were assessed through an independent merit-based process. He criticised the LNP for attacking public officials and suggested that the Brisbane City Council focus on its infrastructure responsibilities.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner voiced disappointment over the lack of support, emphasising the need to improve safety in a rapidly growing city. He vowed to continue fighting for Brisbane’s fair share of funding.
Wynnum Rd/Southgate Ave intersection at Cannon Hill Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map
Cr Wines underscored the unprecedented nature of this year’s rejections, stating that Brisbane had been denied submissions for the first time in the Black Spot Programme’s history.
A Department of Transport and Main Roads spokesperson clarified that the Black Spot Programme was reserved for local government roads and that committees assessed submissions with representation from various stakeholders. Only two of Brisbane City Council’s eight nominations met the benefit-cost ratio cut-off.
Calling all dog lovers and beer aficionados! Brewdog Dogtap Brisbane is about to become the ultimate doggy destination for Pups and Pints Winter Edition.
Prepare for an epic afternoon overflowing with furry cuddles, ice-cold brews, and heartwarming camaraderie, all supporting the incredible work of Safe Haven Animal Rescue Inc (SHARI).
The event on Sunday, 28 July will run from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., and promises an afternoon of furry fun and fundraising in the dog-friendly patio area. While entry is free, attendees are encouraged to book a table to secure a spot for their pack.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
The canine companions are in for a treat with a special menu from L’Barkery featuring doggie beers and a Barkuterie Board. Brewdog’s full food menu will be available for humans, and a Karma Keg will be on tap. Proceeds will go towards SHARI’s ongoing vet bills.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
Adding to the excitement, professional pet photographer Hairypaints Photography will be on hand to capture memorable moments, and a Puppy Cuddle Pen will feature a mix of adoptable dogs and SHARI ambassadors.
SHARI, established in 2014, has rescued and rehomed over 2,500 cats and dogs. All animals are fostered in carers’ homes rather than a traditional shelter. This event presents a unique opportunity for the community to support SHARI’s mission while enjoying an afternoon of good food, great beer, and even better company.
A Morningside family cowered inside a locked bedroom in terror when a group of teens broke into their home, in the latest of a series of home invasions that police say have seen homes in up to eight Brisbane suburbs targeted in quick succession within the past few days.
Robyn Sinclair and her family experienced sheer terror early Wednesday morning, 10 July 2024, when a group of teenagers forcibly entered their home. Sinclair, along with her husband Doug Newnham and their two young children, barricaded themselves in a bedroom.
Amid the chaos, the parents tried to protect their children and themselves whilst continuously informing the invaders that the police had been called. Unfortunately, their warnings seemed to provoke the teenagers further. The offenders, described as hooded youths, then attempted to force their way into the family’s barricaded bedroom, damaging the door and door frame significantly, whilst demanding car keys.
The terrifying experience has left the family deeply shaken, fearing for the long-term psychological effects on their young children. Queensland Police are investigating the incident, which occurred shortly after 1:30 a.m. They have confirmed that while the offenders left without stealing any property, they left behind a trail of psychological and physical damage.
Photo Credit: QPS
Widespread Crime Spree
The assault on their home is believed to be part of a larger string of burglaries and car thefts that have plagued Brisbane during the week. Teenagers allegedly forcing entry to homes in MacGregor and Sunnybank, and climbing a fence to enter property in Paddington, are among the appalling scenes captured on CCTV footage by terrified homeowners.
In response to this and similar incidents across the Brisbane area, police have intensified their search for the group. They are reviewing CCTV footage from affected areas and conducting patrols in high-risk suburbs to deter further incidents.
Queensland Police spokesperson urged the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The police also highlight the importance of community collaboration in these efforts, encouraging the public to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 with any information that could lead to the apprehension of the suspects.
In light of these events, Ms Sinclair, a healthcare worker, stressed the importance of securing homes and being vigilant. She remarked on the broader social issues contributing to such crimes, including mental health issues and socio-economic pressures. The family, though safe, remains on high alert.
In line with this Morningside incident, a proposal to apply adult sentences to juveniles for serious crimes has ignited a complex discussion on the most effective approach to juvenile justice. During the recent convention of the LNP, David Crisafulli, the party’s leader, suggested that juveniles found guilty of serious offenses such as murder should receive adult sentences. He believes that this change would ensure that the consequences align with the severity of the crimes committed.
However, this proposal has met with skepticism from various advocacy groups, who question its efficacy in deterring crime. Katherine Hayes, CEO of the Youth Advocacy Centre, pointed out a lack of evidence supporting the idea that longer sentences curb reoffending. She emphasised that current measures already impose significant penalties on young offenders, with Queensland recording the highest youth incarceration rates in the country.
Photo Credit: Youth Advocacy Centre
The Queensland Council for Civil Liberties has also weighed in, suggesting that the focus should perhaps shift towards addressing findings from the auditor-general’s report on juvenile justice. This report highlighted a need for better rehabilitation and educational opportunities for juveniles to decrease future offences genuinely.
The Justice Reform Initiative has voiced worries that harsher penalties could lead to deeper entrenchment of youths in the criminal justice system, ultimately increasing their likelihood of reoffending as adults.
Whilst the debate continues, experts agree that a balanced approach focusing on rehabilitation alongside appropriate penalties might offer a more effective solution to reducing juvenile crime.
A Morningside home once owned by Australian cricket fast-bowling legend Jeff Thomson fetches $4,965,000, more than quadrupling the suburb’s median house price. The historic Queenslander home is located at 28 Algoori Street.
The median house price in Morningside currently stands at $1.15 million, having surged an impressive 66.4% over the past five years. This latest high-profile sale is likely to further boost property values in the area.
Known as “Toronto,” the five-bedroom, four-bathroom Queenslander sits on a generous 4,047 square meter lot, a rarity in this increasingly sought-after suburb. The property’s size and historic significance make it a standout in Morningside’s real estate landscape.
Sarah Hackett from Place Estate Agents Bulimba, who handled the sale, noted the broad appeal of the property. “The campaign for this property resonated widely, attracting a diverse array of interested buyers from locals seeking more space to expats and interstate buyers,” Hackett stated. This interest reflects Morningside’s growing attraction to a variety of homebuyers and investors.
The property’s amenities, including a pool, outdoor kitchen, and even Thomson’s original cricket pitch, showcase the potential for luxury living in Morningside. Such features are likely to set new standards for high-end properties in the area.
This site, now transformed into Keralgerie Park, played a significant role in shaping the local infrastructure and community of Brisbane’s growing suburbs.
Initially, the quarry was integral in providing the much-needed bluestone for road construction, which was crucial for the expanding suburbs during the early 20th century. However, the quarry’s operations were fraught with danger. In 1933, Victor Kelsey tragically lost his life after a fall, and in 1936, C. Callaghan perished in an explosion. These incidents underscored the perilous nature of the quarry’s working conditions.
By the 1940s, the quarry had ceased its industrial use and had transformed into a community swimming spot. The quarry’s waters, reaching depths of 5 to 20 metres, became popular for swimming and diving, even hosting the 1948 Australian diving championships. However, the allure of the deep waters came with a dark side. The locals ominously dubbed it ‘The Devil’s Pool,’ a name that proved prophetic.
The tragic deaths of several individuals marred the quarry’s reputation. In 1952, Edith Zeiner, aged 38, drowned in the quarry. The following year, two youths, William McKinnon and Victor Miller, also met their untimely deaths in the same waters.
These repeated tragedies prompted the Brisbane City Council to take decisive action. The council erected fences around the pool and imposed a swimming ban. Subsequent testing revealed traces of typhoid in the water, leading to the decision to drain and fill the quarry.
Today, the once-dangerous site of the Morningside quarry has been transformed into Keralgerie Park, a serene community space that belies its tumultuous past. The park serves as a sombre reminder of the region’s history, which has seen both the highs of neighbourhood gatherings and the lows of tragic losses. This transformation highlights the resilience and evolution of Morningside, from a vital industrial site to a place of recreation and remembrance.
Chilling security footage shows a car pulling up to Windermere Ave around 1 am on June 12. Four people wearing hoodies and carrying flashlights can be seen exiting the vehicle and splitting up, with two heading in one direction while the other two check door handles on parked cars.
Moments later, a home security alarm is triggered, startling the alleged thieves, who immediately flee back to their getaway vehicle and speed off.
Resident Jeff Wilson’s family was awoken by the commotion around 1:10 am. “My daughter was woken at about 1:10 am from our camera, which has a built-in alarm that sends out a message saying you’re in an area you shouldn’t be in, basically, and please leave,” Wilson told reporters.
He believes the group had tried breaking into homes on his street as well as across the road before being scared off by the noise from the security system. “None of these people seemed to like noise. Noise seems to be the distracting thing. You can have cameras, they don’t really care about the cameras. It’s the noise that upsets them, because it awakes everyone in the area.”
Wilson says this isn’t the first time his home has been targeted, recounting a similar incident a couple of months prior where his security cameras deterred would-be intruders. “It’s happened more than once, but it’s happened pretty much the same way, with the system we’ve got actually startling them, and they’re like cockroaches.”
Thankfully, no one was harmed, and no property was taken or damaged during the brazen early morning crime spree. However, the incident has left the Morningside community on edge. Police are investigating the matter and reviewing security footage from the area. Residents are being warned to keep their homes and vehicles secure at all times.
The Morningside Panthers enjoyed a hugely successful day out against the Sherwood Magpies in the Downtown Toyota Premiership Reunion Round. In the marquee QAFL senior match, Morningside defeated Sherwood convincingly by 107 points. Panthers vs Magpies finished 24.12 (156) to 7.7 (49) at the Jack Esplen Oval.
Across the other grades, Morningside won 4 out of the 5 matches against the Magpies. The only loss came in the QFAW Division 1 Seniors contest where Sherwood edged out Morningside.
Panthers vs Magpies in QAFL
In the QAFL Seniors competition, Cockatoo and Downie led the way with five goals each, with Dadds also contributing four. Other goal kickers for the Panthers included Egan (2), Waters (2), Castle, Hodge, Horne, Lloyd, Lohmann, and Pinchen.
For the Magpies, Austin, Fletcher, and Hude kicked two goals each with a single to Gillett.
The big win sees Morningside’s senior QAFL team maintain their undefeated record after 9 rounds. They sit atop their respective tables with an impressive percentage of 181.48%.
Morningside fans will have to wait until July 13th for the club’s next home QAFL match. However, the QFAW Division 1 team will play at home against Coorparoo on June 15, Saturday.
Did you know that hidden beneath the suburban streets of Morningside, near the historic School of Arts, lie remnants of World War II? The unearthed air raid shelters on Thynne and Wynnum Roads reveal a glimpse into the community’s wartime resilience and the shared experiences of those who sought safety during air raids.
The unearthing of these shelters has sparked a wave of interest in Morningside’s wartime past. While the shelters themselves are not new to local knowledge, their existence serves as a tangible reminder of the challenges faced by residents during a tumultuous period in history.
During World War II, as the threat of air raids loomed over Brisbane, communities like Morningside took proactive measures to protect their residents. Air raid shelters, often constructed with reinforced concrete or brick, were built in strategic locations throughout the suburb. These shelters provided a vital haven for families and individuals seeking safety from the dangers of aerial attacks.
The rediscovery of these air raid shelters serves as a poignant reminder of the wartime resilience of Morningside and the shared experiences of those who sought refuge within their walls. While the passage of time may have obscured some details, the shelters remain a testament to the community’s determination to protect its own.
As local historians and residents delve deeper into the stories behind these shelters, efforts are underway to preserve them as historical landmarks. These structures not only provide insight into the wartime past of Morningside but also serve as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and community solidarity in times of crisis.
