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.
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.
The Sandgate Marine Rescue volunteers who’ve been watching over Moreton Bay’s waters for more than half a century have embraced a new identity that actually takes them back to their beginnings.
Volunteer Marine Rescue Brisbane has officially transitioned to Marine Rescue Queensland Sandgate, bringing one of the state’s longest-running marine rescue operations under the MRQ umbrella.
For Unit Commander Neil Sheppard, the change represents something of a homecoming for the service, which first began operating from the historic bayside suburb in 1969 as the Sandgate Yacht Club Search and Rescue Squad.
The connection runs even deeper when you consider that the Sandgate Yacht Club itself was established back in 1912 – making this latest chapter part of a maritime safety story that spans more than a century.
“We’ve been keeping an eye on boaties in these waters for generations, whether they’re under sail or using motor power,” Sheppard explained. The location has always been strategic, with easy access to Moreton Bay and the network of waterways that draw thousands of recreational boaters each year.
While the rebrand brings new uniforms, signage and official designation, the day-to-day reality for local boaters won’t change much. The same experienced volunteers will continue providing round-the-clock emergency response services, with crews maintaining their weekend and public holiday monitoring schedules from the Sandgate base.
The transition brings more than 90 dedicated volunteers into the MRQ network, adding to a statewide service that now encompasses 20 units and over 900 volunteers across Queensland.
MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff emphasised the value these volunteers bring to water safety across the state, from the far north Torres Strait down to the New South Wales border. Beyond their on-water rescue duties, crew members spend considerable time each year training and practising to ensure they’re prepared for any weather conditions or emergency situations.
The integration reflects the Queensland Government’s approach to creating a unified, state-funded volunteer marine rescue service under the Queensland Police Service coordination structure, while maintaining the distinct identity and operational independence that makes these local units effective.
For Sandgate residents and the broader boating community who rely on these services, the change represents continuity rather than disruption. The familiar sight of rescue vessels heading out to assist troubled boaters will remain a reassuring constant, backed by the same local knowledge and experience that has made this unit a trusted presence on Moreton Bay for decades.
The transformation also highlights how community-based emergency services evolve while preserving their essential character – in this case, maintaining an unbroken commitment to water safety that stretches back to the early days of recreational boating in the area.
Brisbane Heat and Queensland Fire cricketer Nicola Hancock has purchased a home in Deagon, as the suburb records strong property growth and increasing demand from buyers.
Nicola Hancock, an allrounder for Queensland Fire and Brisbane Heat, has bought a house in Deagon after selling her Boondall townhouse. She originally purchased the Boondall property for $502,000 and saw its value rise by around $250,000 over three years. This gain enabled her to buy the Deagon home for just under $1 million.
Hancock, who was named Players’ Player in the 2024–25 Women’s National Cricket League, said she was attracted to Deagon’s balance of lifestyle and city access. She noted the suburb’s image had changed in recent years, with more people recognising its appeal.
Deagon was ranked eighth in a SuburbTrends and MCG Quantity Surveyors lifestyle and growth study for Southeast Queensland, the only Brisbane suburb to appear in the top 10.
Property data varies depending on timeframe. Source figures show a median listing price of $650,000 in 2025, while market records for September 2024 to August 2025 indicate a median of $900,050, representing 13.9 per cent annual growth. Over the same period, 68 houses were sold, with a median time on market of 37 days and an average rental yield of 3.5 per cent.
Local agents report that younger families are increasingly buying into Deagon since the Covid-19 pandemic. Previously, the area was more commonly held by older couples and long-term residents. Instead of demolishing existing homes, many new buyers are choosing to renovate, retaining the character of the suburb.
Inspections of Deagon homes often attract 30 to 50 groups during a three-week campaign, reflecting growing competition.
Lifestyle Appeal
Deagon sits about 20 kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD and is valued for its access to the waterfront, shopping hubs, and schools. Hancock said she wanted to secure a property before prices rose further and described the area as peaceful and family-friendly.
Deagon continues to attract younger buyers seeking lifestyle and affordability compared with inner Brisbane. For Hancock, the suburb represents both a personal lifestyle choice and a timely property investment.
The new Sandgate and Districts Ambulance Station has officially opened, delivering a $12 million state-of-the-art facility to boost emergency response across Brisbane’s northern suburbs.
The station will be home to 25 paramedics, three patient transport officers and an Officer-in-Charge, providing support to communities in Sandgate, Bracken Ridge and nearby areas. Purpose-built to meet increasing demand, the station gives frontline staff access to modern infrastructure designed for both care delivery and professional development.
Photo credit: Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)/Facebook
Its features include dedicated office and write-up spaces, charge and breakout areas, locker rooms, a multi-function rest, study and training room, a general meeting room, and a 10-bay plant room to house ambulance vehicles.
Health and Ambulance Services Minister Tim Nicholls MP joined QAS Assistant Commissioner Tony Armstrong at the official opening on Saturday, September 6, alongside local paramedics who will now call the new Sandgate and Districts Ambulance Station their base.
Photo credit: Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)/Facebook
QAS Assistant Commissioner Tony Armstrong said the completion of the new station represented a significant step forward for staff and the community.
“Metro North is one of the busiest regions for ambulance demand in our state, and to provide our paramedics and patient transport officers with a purpose-built replacement ambulance station here at Sandgate and districts means so much for our hard-working team,” Mr Armstrong said.
“Our highly skilled team of paramedics and patient transport officers can operate from a well-functioning structure with future opportunities for growth.”
With its modern design and expanded facilities, the Sandgate and Districts Ambulance Station ensures local residents can rely on faster response times while paramedics benefit from a workplace built to support their vital roles well into the future.
Featured image credit: Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)/Facebook
A concerning discovery at a beloved Brighton football ground has prompted a Queensland Police investigation after multiple firearms were found concealed in bushland at the popular community sporting venue.
The weapons were discovered at Brighton District Football Club on Wickham Street last Sunday evening, with police called to the scene around 6pm following the alarming find.
The firearms were located hidden inside an esky amongst grassland at the club’s Wakefield Park grounds, a venue that regularly hosts junior football matches and training sessions for local children and families.
Queensland Police have confirmed the weapons were reported as stolen from a property in Buderim, approximately an hour’s drive south of the Brisbane suburb where they were recovered.
A Queensland Police spokesperson said investigations remain ongoing but provided limited details about the discovery.
“Investigations in relation to the firearms are ongoing, however it appears the weapons were reported stolen from a Buderim property,” the spokesperson confirmed.
“There is no further information able to be provided at this stage.”
The incident has raised concerns for the local Brighton community, given the club’s role as a popular family destination where children regularly train and play football.
Brighton District Football Club, also known as the Brighton Bulldogs, serves as a cornerstone of the local sporting community. The club operates from Wakefield Park on Wickham Street and describes itself as “a strong club with a proud history of being a friendly footballing community”.
Both Football Queensland and Brighton Football Club have been approached for comment regarding the incident.
The discovery highlights ongoing concerns about illegal firearms in the community, particularly when found near venues frequented by families and children.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding how the weapons came to be at the football ground and are working to determine any connections between the original theft in Buderim and the Brighton location.
Nathan Street Bakery in Brighton has closed after the sudden death of its owner, leaving the bayside community mourning the man whose pies, pastries and kindness shaped daily life.
“Dear loyal customers, The bakery is permanently closed…” Customers first learned of his condition through a handwritten sign on the bakery door Saturday, and after subsequently learning of his passing on Sunday, tributes in the form of notes and flowers began appearing outside the bakery. Beloved community baker Kiet Ta, 52, died Sunday from a brain haemorrhage, as confirmed by his family.
For more than 15 years, Nathan Street Bakery had been part of daily life for Brighton and Sandgate locals, many bypassing other bakeries just to visit. Residents remembered Ta for greeting everyone with a smile and recalling their regular orders.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
The shop earned praise for its pies, pastries and bread, with favourites including potato top pies, cream doughnuts, banh mi, lamingtons and vegemite scrolls. Locals said Ta often worked through the night to prepare food for the community he loved serving.
A Family’s Loss
Ta is survived by his wife, Huy Nguyen, and their sons Theo and Sebastian. Nguyen said her husband often shared stories about customers and felt fortunate to serve them. Despite long hours, he found joy in meeting people each day.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Their son Theo said his father rarely rested, working from midnight until late afternoon, and never gave up on the bakery despite challenges.
From Refugee to Baker
Born in Vietnam in 1972, Ta fled with his family as a child, spending a year in refugee camps in Malaysia before resettling in Australia. He first trained as a mechanic before turning to baking, opening Khai’s Bakery in Sandgate in the early 2000s and later running shops at Woody Point and Redcliffe.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Ta eventually established Nathan Street Bakery in Brighton with his wife, Huy Nguyen, where they built a loyal following. The family said they were thankful for the support of customers and their landlord, with Nguyen contributing pies and lamingtons from home during her own health struggles.
Outpouring of Tributes
News of Ta’s death prompted a wave of condolences on social media, with customers remembering him as kind and deeply missed. Some said Nathan Street Bakery was the best in Brighton, while others recalled his care and customer service.
Flowers, notes and messages were left outside the shop as locals mourned his passing. The family asked for privacy and confirmed funeral arrangements would be private.
Brighton’s popular foreshore is set for a significant refresh, with a final concept plan released outlining upgrades to key recreation areas between 9th and 19th Avenues.
The plan covers Brighton Park, Decker Park, Brighton Health Campus and Sandgate Foreshores Park, with works designed to make the foreshore more accessible and enjoyable for both residents and visitors.
Among the proposed improvements are widened promenade pathways, new picnic areas, additional shade and seating, coastal protection features, and better access to tidal flats. Interpretive information about the environment will also be added to help visitors connect with the area’s natural heritage.
Brighton Foreshore Parklands – final concept plan (Photo credit: BCC)
Community feedback has shaped the plan, with 81 per cent of respondents supporting the overall vision. Retaining existing trees, planting more for shade and habitat, and rebuilding the 12th Avenue boat ramp for non-motorised watercraft access were among the most popular suggestions.
Photo credit: BCC
Initial works will focus on upgrades to the 12th and 19th Avenue recreation areas and new park furniture between 9th and 18th Avenues. These will include enhanced pathways, an accessible beach ramp, upgraded disabled parking, and new facilities to support families and people with mobility needs.
The project is scheduled to begin with detailed planning and design in 2025, with construction expected to follow in 2026, subject to approvals and weather conditions.
Once complete, the improvements will provide more opportunities for recreation, relaxation and socialising, while protecting the foreshore’s environmental and cultural values.
Four teenagers have been arrested following an alleged robbery at a boutique located on Beaconsfield Terrace in Brighton, a northern suburb of Brisbane. Police allege the group entered the clothing store shortly before 2 p.m., where they made threats towards a staff member and stole several items.
Security footage obtained by media showed a staff member trying to prevent the group from leaving with the items. During the confrontation, the worker was pushed to the ground. The following day, the same group of teenagers allegedly returned to the store and demanded money but fled on foot empty-handed.
Youth Justice Process
Queensland Police located the group shortly after the second incident. A 13-year-old boy and a 15-year-old boy were among those apprehended and have since been dealt with under the Youth Justice Act 1992. This legislation provides a framework for police and courts to respond to youth offending and includes diversionary measures, court proceedings, and sentencing options.
The Act recognises a range of offending behaviour—from minor one-time offences to more serious, repeated actions. It allows for responses that hold young people accountable while also supporting rehabilitation and reintegration into the community.
Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook
Impact on Staff and Community
The store owner told media that staff members were left shaken by the events. The incidents have raised concerns over workplace safety and the emotional toll on retail employees. The business is reportedly considering adjustments to its security procedures following the back-to-back encounters.
Queensland Police have confirmed that investigations into both incidents are ongoing. No further details have been released regarding the other two individuals involved in the alleged offences.
We’ve combed Bracken Ridge, Brighton, Brighton Eventide, Brighton Nathan Street, Deagon, Sandgate, Sandgate DC, and Shorncliffe for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!
kat Von Jayne ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ First visit – fantastic atmosphere, decor, staff and food. Steak cooked perfect medium rare, parmigiana was one of the best schnitzels I’ve had in a long time. The dough for the garlic cheese bread was amazing, will definitely be back to try the pizzas! Great cocktail menu.
Donna Sharp ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I have eaten here 3 times now and loved it every time. Great gluten-free options. Food is delicious and the service is fast and friendly. I can’t wait to go back.
Katherine Miller ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great local place to meet for lunch. Tasty food, good variety & great prices. Outstanding job by Callum who didn’t stop working the entire time we sat and ate our lunch. I noticed his ease and friendly demeanour with customer interactions, menu suggestions, through to the restaurant reset after a busy lunch period. Great to see his awesome work ethic.
Rita ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Busy cafe with great reviews. Staff are amazing. Coffee is bellisimo which I love but my almond latte was bubbly and not smooth. If you’re a coffee drinker I don’t think this cafe cuts it but everything else looks great! Thank you
Nancy Chen ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Lovely local cafe with alfresco dining area, delicious food and friendly service. We come here regularly for brunch on Sundays and all the dishes we’ve tried are delicious. Sometimes they run daily specials which are pleasant surprises for customers. Their coffees are decent too. Get here early on weekends as their kitchen may close a bit earlier than their closing time.
Ngato-Zharnaye Livingstone ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ After having a rough night I decided to treat myself to breakfast at Greenfield. I ordered the Katsu Chicken Avo, Macadamia Crepes and Sunrise Juice – each one left me feeling satisfied and I felt my mood lift after every bite. I’ve been to Greenfield a few times over the years and I’m constantly being introduced to new flavours each time. If you plan to visit, I would highly recommend to try something different from what you’d normally order. You won’t be disappointed!
Tara McAteer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great food, great coffee, and great cakes. Ran by a lovely women named Robyn (the owner) who provided her preferences on what to order. Fabulous selection to choose from with the menu and all the sweets. Lovely and friendly staff who made the dinning in experience delightful. Will be coming back again, must visit!! Good job team!!
Jodie A ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ What a lovely little cafe, with beautiful food, good prices, stunning views and delightful staff and owners. We had the avocado on toast with bacon, rocket, tomatoes, smoked feta whip and balsamic glaze. I have to say this was one of the most delightful things I’ve ever tasted. We also had the house made waffles, with house made meringue nest, banana, strawberries and a lovely house made caramel ice cream. It was sensational. I would highly recommend Baaia to anyone wanting a yummy feed, nice atmosphere and fantastic service. Just went back for the second time and I can highly recommend the sweet potato, harrisa hash with labna. We also asked for extras and they were so accommodating.
Subtropical Exotics Oh my goodness, the menu had an incredible selection! And Heather, our waitress, was absolutely fantastic. So professional and friendly, it made our meal even more enjoyable. Plus, the colourful artwork on the walls added a lovely touch to the atmosphere.
Jodie A ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The food was very nice, I had the banana bread French toast. Nice size serving. Other person had the big breakfast and it was a very generous serving. Everything tasted good. Price was on par with most other coffee shop/ cafes in this area.
Daniel Campbell ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Incredible food. We ordered a big breakfast and the eggs Benedict. Both were amazing. The eggs here are the super large ones! (I love that.) The big brekkie was too big (that’s always amazing 🤩). Fantastic chorizo, lots of bacon. The eggs Benedict can’t out on a pan-fried croissant 🥐, sooo good!
Donna Welch ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Seriously the best service and food is amazing! The girls are so lovely, everything is home made and desserts are to die for! Mum had been telling me how great it is and did not disappoint. I am the fussiest foodie on the planet and hard to impress and the coffee shop next door will bring your coffee over to the cafe for you and it’s divine! Try the Sweet Potato Feta and Caramelised Onion Frittata! It’s next level! 🥰 wish I took some pics! Don’t believe anyone that gives a low review they are obviously lying and not nice humans
Craig Glover ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Attended the Full Moon Hotel for my birthday dinner with my sons and daughter in law and wasn’t disappointed. The service was great, with friendly bar staff where nothing was a problem. We even got to play music bingo which was fun and made for a cruisy and fun vibe. The meals were amazing, I highly recommend the 6hr steak-it melts in your mouth!
Carol Woods ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Had lunch today with friends for my 49 year Wedding Anniversary. Best experience I have had in years. All meals were exceptional and on an extremely busy day came out in a timely manner. Bar and wait staff were friendly and efficient. Wish I had asked the manager his name as he was amazing. If I could give more than 5 stars I would.❤️
Mozzykat ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The food was great and large meals. I loved the outside doggy area, they even had water for the dogs. The staff were so friendly and helpful and the view was amazing. Best place I have been
Sandgate Aquatic Centre draws swimmers from across Brisbane with its mix of heated indoor pools, outdoor lanes and a splash-filled play area designed just for kids.
Sandgate Aquatic Centre offers more than just summer swimming, with a heated 25-metre indoor pool open year-round for lap swimmers and learners. It also features an eight-lane, 50-metre outdoor pool used during the warmer months for training and recreation.
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council
Surrounded by parks and walking tracks with views of the bay, the centre’s location adds to its appeal. While the outdoor and leisure pools close in winter, the indoor pool and gym stay open. Attendance remains strong in cooler months, helped by family-focused programs and seasonal promotions.
Splash Zone and Leisure Play Area
The leisure pool is a major attraction at Sandgate Aquatic Centre, designed especially for families and young children. It features a beach-style entry, colourful slides, water cannons and a tipping bucket that kids love. Though currently closed for winter, it’s set to reopen in September and is a favourite during the warmer months.
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council
The pool includes shaded areas and safe, open spaces that support active water play. When in use, it’s often the busiest spot, especially on weekends and school holidays.
Added Amenities for Families and Fitness
Beyond swimming, Sandgate Aquatic Centre blends convenience with activity for all ages. Families can grab a snack from the kiosk, relax by shaded BBQs, or stretch out in nearby parklands. Entry fees range from $4.90 for children to $6.60 for adults, with multi-visit passes and concessions available, including free entry for Companion Card holders and children under two.
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council
Parents should note supervision rules: kids aged 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult, and those under five must be within arm’s reach in the water. Inside, the gym overlooks the pools and offers everything from solo workouts to group classes like Pilates and water aerobics.
Easy Access and Community Feel
Sandgate Aquatic Centre is easy to reach, with plenty of parking and a short walk from the train station. Locals appreciate the friendly staff, relaxed vibe and strong focus on safety, especially for young children.
Trained lifeguards are always on duty, and clear supervision rules are in place. It’s a space where early lap swimmers, busy parents and casual fitness-goers all feel at home. With the full facility, including the kids’ play area, set to reopen in September, spring is shaping up to be even more inviting.
