Ascot’s St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School boarding students recently traded their usual city surroundings for the dusty plains of Pittsworth, showcasing their equestrian skills at the Ariat High School Percentile Cup.
Held over the long weekend at the Pittsworth Showgrounds, the competition saw 42 high school teams from across Queensland and New South Wales vying for the top spot.
The St Margaret’s team demonstrated impressive horsemanship, securing a place among the top five teams in the competition’s initial round. This unique opportunity for the girls to participate in such a quintessential Australian rural sport is thanks to the initiative of St Margaret’s alumna Emily Curr. Curr, who graduated in 2020, first established the High School Percentile Campdraft 2017 as a boarder.
At the event, the students presented Curr with a St Margaret’s branded saddle pad in recognition of her contribution to the sport.
This year’s competition attracted a strong contingent of 42 high school teams from Queensland and New South Wales, highlighting the growing popularity of camp drafting among young riders. The St Margaret’s team rose to the challenge, earning a place in the top five during the first round of competition.
The event itself owes its existence to the vision of St Margaret’s alumna, Emily Curr, who founded the High School Percentile Campdraft in 2017 while she was a student at the school. The current students acknowledged Curr’s efforts by presenting her with a St Margaret’s branded saddle pad during the competition.
The event was well-supported by the St Margaret’s community, with numerous boarding parents and staff making the journey to Pittsworth to cheer on the girls.
Their support extended beyond the sidelines, with parents and staff assisting with horse transportation, preparation, uniform coordination, and other logistical tasks.
The Eagle Farm Racecourse has taken a significant step towards improving accessibility for all visitors with the installation of a sleek new lift in its top-level hospitality area.
The addition of this state-of-the-art elevator not only enhances the venue’s functionality but also complements its elegant atmosphere.
The two-stop Linea DDA lift, made by Direct Lifts Australia features a sophisticated black finish and framed sliding doors. Its design adds a touch of modern chic to the historic racecourse, demonstrating that accessibility solutions can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Photo credit: Direct Lifts Australia/Facebook
Equipped with cutting-edge hydraulic motor technology, the lift ensures a smooth and whisper-quiet ride for patrons. This feature is particularly valuable in maintaining the refined ambiance of the hospitality area, allowing guests to move between levels without disruption.
The Linea DDA lift is not just about looks and comfort; it’s built for longevity and efficiency. Designed for easy use and maintenance, it promises years of reliable service. Its low power consumption aligns with modern sustainability practices, making it an environmentally conscious choice for the racecourse.
Photo credit: Direct Lifts Australia/Facebook
This upgrade at Eagle Farm Racecourse reflects a growing trend in the events and hospitality industry to prioritise inclusive design. By ensuring that all areas are easily accessible, the venue is opening its doors wider to patrons of all abilities, allowing everyone to enjoy the thrills and excitement of race day.
The installation of this lift is more than just an addition of infrastructure; it’s a statement of Eagle Farm’s commitment to providing a premier experience for all its visitors. As the racecourse continues to blend its rich history with modern amenities, this new lift stands as a symbol of progress, ensuring that the venue remains at the forefront of accessibility and guest comfort in Brisbane’s vibrant sporting and social scene.
Roslyn Curtis, principal at St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Ascot has been recognised as one of Queensland’s most influential teachers at the annual Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) TEACHX Awards. Among the 31 educators honoured this year, Ms Curtis stands out as the sole recipient from Ascot.
Photo credit: St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School/Facebook
Ms Roslyn “Ros” Curtis AM’s journey in education spans decades and multiple prestigious institutions. Beginning her career as a History and Drama teacher, she has held various roles from classroom educator to senior leader across six schools.
Her path has taken her through Shailer Park State High, Moreton Bay College, Brisbane Girls Grammar School, St Hilda’s School, St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School, and finally to St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School, where she was appointed Principal in 2011.
Transformative Leadership at St Margaret’s
Photo credit: St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School/Facebook
In her nearly 14-year tenure as Principal of St Margaret’s, Ms Curtis has orchestrated a remarkable transformation. Under her guidance, the school has seen a staggering 78 percent increase in enrolments.
This impressive growth is attributed to her strategic focus on refining teaching methods, attracting top-tier staff, and fostering a strong sense of community cohesion. These efforts have not only bolstered the school’s reputation but also enabled significant investments in facilities and fundraising initiatives.
Ms Curtis’s impact extends far beyond enrollment numbers. Her leadership has garnered multiple accolades for both herself and the institution. St Margaret’s has earned four Five Star Employer of Choice Awards, highlighting its commitment to staff development and satisfaction. The school’s dedication to reconciliation was also recognised with the Queensland Reconciliation Award, celebrating its positive impact on First Nations students.
Personally, Ms Curtis has been honoured with a Most Influential Educator award, and in 2024, she was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her significant services to education and professional associations. This latest recognition at the TEACHX Awards further cements her status as a pivotal figure in Queensland’s educational landscape.
The TEACHX Awards: Celebrating Educational Excellence
Photo credit: qct.edu.au
The QCT TEACHX Awards, now in their 16th year, have recognised over 120 teachers for their exceptional contributions to education.
This year’s ceremony, to be held in Brisbane on Thursday 24 October on the eve of World Teachers’ Day in Queensland, will officially recognise the 31 educators whose accomplishments range from improving at-risk students’ attendance rates to implementing innovative digital lessons that pair robotics with dance moves.
Emeritus Professor Wendy Patton, QCT Board Chair, praised the award recipients, stating, “This year’s recipients continue a proud tradition of exemplifying the extraordinary work teachers do to improve their students’ education and inspire their colleagues.
“Their enthusiasm, innovation, and unwavering commitment to education have set a remarkable standard for excellence within our community.”
As Ms Curtis joins the ranks of Queensland’s most influential educators, her story serves as an inspiration to teachers across the state and a reminder of the profound impact dedicated educators can have on their students, schools, and communities.
A striking new development featuring twin 20-storey towers is set to redefine Albion’s skyline. Proposed for 60-78 Hudson Road, the mixed-use project will bring 456 new apartments to the suburb, along with a Woolworths supermarket, commercial office space, and an additional retail tenancy at ground and plaza levels.
Designed by Cottee Parker Architects, the development will feature a shared podium level for the towers and an elevated pedestrian link seamlessly integrated with the upgraded Albion train station. This connection aims to enhance accessibility and encourage public transport use.
The proposed development boasts a range of amenities for residents and the wider community. A plaza level will offer green space, landscaping, a swimming pool, a gym, and a wellness centre. Rooftop spaces atop the towers will provide seating and dining areas with impressive views.
To address parking needs, the development will include four basement levels with 463 car spaces—263 allocated for residents and 200 for retail use. Vehicle access will be conveniently located off Albion Road.
The project is underpinned by a Preliminary Approval for Material Change of Use granted in 2015, which allows for various uses on the site, including residential and commercial activities. Planners at Plan A Town Planning have emphasised the development’s alignment with the intent of the District Centre Zone, highlighting its potential to stimulate economic activity and cater to the growing population in the surrounding area.
Sustainability is a key focus, and the design incorporates climate-responsive elements to minimise environmental impact. The development also prioritises pedestrian movement, with a publicly accessible ground plane designed to encourage walkability.
With its significant residential component, retail offerings, and integrated transport connections, the proposed development has the potential to significantly enhance Albion’s urban fabric and provide a vibrant hub for residents and visitors alike.
Many might frequent Oriel Park without knowing its story, instead seeing it as the go-to area for instances where they wish to exercise or walk their dogs, or perhaps to distract their kids for a little while in order to get some much-needed coffee and rest. Though the park has its fair share of facilities, this hasn’t always been the case.
Hamilton Clayfield Girl Guides HQ
In the early 20th century, the park — only recently dubbed as such — served as the headquarters for the Hamilton Clayfield Girl Guide Group, which meant it had strong, long-standing ties with the Girl Guide Association of Queensland. Over the years, facilities would be built into the park to accommodate its visitors and frequent guests, and the halls and huts utilized by guides and scouts are among them.
Photo credit: Heritage Places
Water Reserve
In 1888, before Oriel Park’s facilities were even established, it was dubbed as a Water Reserve by the Surveyor’s General Office. Before its repurposing, the playground that currently stands in Oriel Park was once a bountiful waterhole which was used for road watering purposes in 1912.
Pre-1969
The houses that surrounded the area were resumed between 1959 and 1968 to form the park’s current boundaries, however it was once significantly larger. The site once contained open spaces that stretched to Alexandra Road, which also harbored the local tramline up until 1969. Oriel Park once had tennis courts all the way to Wren Street; and facing that was a series of private residences.
In modern times, the water reserve was repurposed and reinvented into becoming a recreational park for public use, where people are free to relax and interact with one another through sports, picnics, and leisurely strolls through the area. It was officially dubbed a recreational reserve in 1937, and has become a community hub ever since.
Originally published as “The Bountiful History Of Ascot’s Famous Oriel Park”
Residents of Hendra and surrounding suburbs are being urged to remain vigilant following a series of break-ins targeting secure carparks in unit complexes across Brisbane’s north. The string of incidents, occurring in late September, has prompted local police to issue a warning and safety recommendations to the community.
While the most recent reported incidents took place in neighbouring Ascot and Hamilton, Hendra residents are not immune to this trend. The proximity of these crimes to Hendra has raised concerns among local apartment dwellers and property managers.
On the night of September 24-25, thieves targeted a unit complex on Racecourse Road in Ascot, forcing open a resident’s storage cage and making off with valuable items including a toolbox, paintings, and sports memorabilia. The same night, another incident occurred in Hamilton, where perpetrators broke into a vehicle parked in a unit complex on Hercules Street, stealing a wallet after smashing the car’s window.
These events follow an earlier theft on August 30, where an electric mobility scooter was stolen from an aged care facility in Hamilton after intruders accessed the secure carpark.
North Brisbane police are actively investigating these cases and have released images of persons of interest related to the Ascot break-in. Authorities are calling on the public to assist with any information that could lead to identifying these individuals.
In response to these incidents, law enforcement officials are emphasising the importance of community vigilance and proper security measures. Hendra residents, particularly those living in apartment complexes with secure carparks, are advised to:
Remain alert and report any suspicious activity in communal areas.
Ensure all shared doors and access points are securely closed.
Avoid storing valuable items in garage areas or storage cages when possible.
Implement additional security measures for bicycles and motorcycles.
Remove all valuables from vehicles or keep them out of sight.
Double-check that garage doors close completely when entering or exiting.
Local police stress that maintaining and monitoring building rules around parking, storage, and common areas can significantly reduce the risk of these crimes.
Cirque du Soleil’s critically acclaimed production “LUZIA” is set to premiere under the Big Top at Eagle Farm, offering Brisbane audiences a visually stunning journey through an imaginary Mexico.
Premiering on Thursday, 26 September 2024, the show will feature a red carpet event at 6:00 pm, with the performance starting at 8:00 pm. This latest production marks 25 years since Cirque du Soleil first brought its performances to Australia.
Photo Credit: Supplied
What Audiences Can Expect
Brisbane audiences can look forward to a mesmerising combination of acrobatics, visual art, and a celebration of Mexican culture when “LUZIA” opens at Eagle Farm. The show, which blends reality with imagination, features awe-inspiring stunts and a unique artistic style that will captivate all ages.
One of the most exciting aspects of “LUZIA” is the incorporation of real rain into several of its acrobatic and artistic scenes, something never before seen in a Cirque du Soleil touring production. This, combined with dazzling costumes and set designs, promises spectators a unique experience.
Photo Credit: Cirque de Soleil
Fun Facts Behind the Show
The production of “LUZIA” involves some truly remarkable details that add to its spectacle. Over 4.5 million people around the world have witnessed the show since its debut in 2016. Travelling with a team of 120 people, including 47 artists from 26 different countries, the show is a global effort. On stage, the cast members wear over 1,000 different costume pieces, adding colour and variety to each performance.
Setting up the “LUZIA” Big Top is no small feat, either. The massive tent, standing 19 metres high and 52 metres in diameter, takes a full eight days to erect. It is supported by four steel masts standing 25 metres each and secured by 550 pegs, making sure it can withstand winds of up to 75 mph. The white canvas of the tent is designed to reduce energy consumption, demonstrating Cirque du Soleil’s commitment to minimising its environmental impact.
Photo Credit: Cirque de Soleil
The production scale is enormous, with nearly 2,000 tons of equipment transported for each tour stop. The Big Top itself seats more than 2,500 people, ensuring that large audiences can experience the magic of “LUZIA” at every show.
LUZIA’s Legacy in Australia
“LUZIA” comes to Australia as part of a celebration of Cirque du Soleil’s 25-year history in the country, having first toured with “Saltimbanco” in 1999. Over the years, Cirque du Soleil has brought ten Big Top shows to Australia, with “LUZIA” being the latest in this tradition. The show’s combination of cutting-edge performance techniques and cultural storytelling has cemented Cirque du Soleil’s reputation as one of the world’s leading entertainment companies.
This premiere at Eagle Farm continues that legacy, offering Brisbane locals a chance to see the latest Cirque du Soleil production in their own backyard.
The “LUZIA” premiere in Brisbane will take place at Eagle Farm on Thursday, 26 September 2024. Red carpet arrivals will begin at 6:00 p.m., and the show is scheduled to start at 8:00 p.m. It promises to be an exciting night for both attendees and those looking to witness Cirque du Soleil’s return to Australia after 25 years of memorable performances.
Ascot, get ready for a tasty new addition to your neighbourhood! Sarni, a versatile eatery offering sandwiches by day and small plates by night, is preparing to open its doors this month at Racecourse Road.
The minds behind this exciting new venture are no strangers to the Brisbane food scene. Sarni comes from the same talented team that brought us Ach in Hamilton last year. Now, they are turning their attention to Ascot, promising to bring their culinary expertise to the area.
Ach in Hamilton (Photo credit: Ach Wine Bar & Bistro/Facebook)
What’s on the Menu?
Sarni is set to cater to various tastes throughout the day. During daytime hours, expect a range of mouthwatering deli-style sandwiches featuring cured meats and other gourmet ingredients. Once their liquor licence is approved, Sarni will open for dinner service, offering small plates and share platters perfect for a night out with friends or a casual date.
Image shown for illustration purposes only (Photo credit: Rajesh TP/Pexels)
While the final menu is still being perfected, some tempting test dishes have included charcoal-chicken sandwiches, bresaola sandwiches with guindilla peppers and pickles; and beef belly bacon sambos.
For those looking forward to evening visits, Sarni plans to offer a carefully curated wine list. Expect around 20 bottles at any given time, with the selection rotating frequently to keep things interesting for regular patrons.
A New Local Hangout
Sarni aims to become a neighbourhood favourite, providing Ascot residents with a versatile space that transitions seamlessly from day to night. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, meeting friends for after-work drinks, or enjoying a relaxed dinner, Sarni promises to be your new go-to spot.
Keep an eye out for Sarni’s grand opening this month at 143 Racecourse Road, and get ready to welcome this exciting new addition to the local food scene. With its prime location and promising menu, Sarni is set to become an instant hit with Ascot locals and visitors alike. Follow them on Instagram for updates on the grand opening.
Sheryl Fitzgerald, a dedicated volunteer with The Pyjama Foundation in Albion, has been named Brisbane’s Pyjama Angel of the Year at a ceremony held at Parliament House.
The Queensland Government has been a long-standing supporter of The Pyjama Foundation’s Love of Learning Programme, investing over $690,000 annually to facilitate the work of Pyjama Angels with children in care. Currently, two-thirds of Pyjama Angels nationwide are located in Queensland, mentoring 843 children residing in foster, residential, and kinship care across the state.
Pyjama Angels play a vital role in children’s and young people’s lives by reading books, engaging in games, and assisting with homework. Studies have indicated that children and young people in care may face educational disadvantages and may be less likely to meet national literacy and numeracy standards than their peers. Research highlights that reading to children can significantly enhance their reading abilities, language skills, and overall development.
Child Safety Minister Charis Mullen expressed her utmost respect for the generous gift of time and undivided attention these special volunteers provide to children and young people in care.
She reaffirmed the unwavering support for The Pyjama Foundation and commended them for their extraordinary work. Mullen also acknowledged the remarkable results of The Pyjama Foundation’s Love of Learning Programme for children in out-of-home care.
The Pyjama Foundation’s CEO, Bronwyn Sheehan, emphasised the vital role of volunteers, stating that their kindness, compassion, and dedication are the driving force behind the foundation’s accomplishments.
She praised Fitzgerald as the embodiment of all they hope for in a volunteer, highlighting her commitment, reliability, resilience, and persistence.
Fitzgerald expressed her gratitude for the award, stating that it is a great privilege to be recognised for something she loves. She described her role as a Pyjama Angel, meeting children where they are in their learning journey and cheering them on to do their best. Fitzgerald also shared her joy in witnessing the positive impact of a reading buddy’s presence in a child’s life.
She expressed her gratitude for the award, stating that it is a great privilege to be recognised for something she loves. She described her role as a Pyjama Angel, meeting children where they are in their learning journey and cheering them on to do their best.
Fitzgerald also expressed her joy at witnessing the positive impact of a reading buddy’s presence on a child’s life.
Robbie Wilson, a Brisbane-born acrobatic rigger, is one of the key figures behind Cirque du Soleil’s latest show, LUZIA, which opens next to the Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm.
Robbie, who has worked with Cirque du Soleil for over 20 years, won’t be on stage in the elaborate costumes typical of the company’s performers. Instead, he’ll be high above the action, rigging the acrobatic equipment for the “fly” acts that are a hallmark of LUZIA, which will start its run on 25 September.
This show is exceptional for Robbie as it marks the first time he’s returned to his hometown with the globally renowned circus. Cirque du Soleil has always been a part of Robbie’s life, and bringing this show home is a dream come true.
Robbie’s colleague, Denise Wal, also plays a pivotal role in the production. A former performer in Cirque du Soleil’s Quidam, she now works alongside Robbie as an acrobatic rigger.
While the spotlight often shines on the performers, the effort behind the scenes is just as impressive. Robbie and his team are responsible for ensuring the safety and seamless execution of the acrobatic acts that define LUZIA. This includes rigging over two tonnes of equipment and maintaining the Big Top, which takes eight days to set up. With four steel masts standing 25 metres tall and a white canvas designed to reduce energy consumption, the Big Top is as much a marvel as the performance itself.
“An acrobatic rigger is concerned mainly with anything that’s suspended from the roof, whether it be people or props. So we look after the maintenance of their equipment, some of the building of their equipment, and then during the show we’ll assist the artists with their apparatus and keep an eye on them for their safety,” Robbie said.
The Big Top, located beside the famous Gateway Bridge and the Royal Queensland Golf Club, stands 19 metres high and seats over 2,500 spectators. It’s a familiar sight for locals, but the show’s blend of cutting-edge design and spectacular artistry promises something entirely new.
“I don’t think I can find words to describe it and now I feel like the way people appreciate life entertainment has changed as well. We really see it of how the audience react to the show that we put on.”
Photo Credit: Supplied
LUZIA: A Celebration of 25 Years in Queensland
This year, Cirque du Soleil celebrates 25 years of performances in Queensland, with LUZIA being the 10th show to visit Brisbane since 1999. The show, directed by Daniele Finzi Pasca, takes audiences on a surreal journey through an imaginary version of Mexico, blending light, rain, and stunning acrobatics in a visually captivating performance. LUZIA is the first touring production to incorporate rain into its scenes, creating an awe-inspiring visual experience for the audience.
This year also marks a milestone for Cirque du Soleil’s relationship with Queensland, which began in 1999 with the show “Saltimbanco.” Over the years, productions such as “Quidam,” “Alegría,” and “Kurios: Cabinet of Curiosities” have captivated Brisbane audiences.
LUZIA has already been seen by over 4.5 million people worldwide and continues to resonate with audiences due to its vibrant portrayal of Mexican culture, blending tradition and modernity. The show features 47 artists from 26 different countries, making it a truly international spectacle.
The show runs from 25 September to 10 November at the Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm. Tickets are available online, and demand is high as fans eagerly anticipate this unique production, which combines the magic of Cirque du Soleil with the energy of Brisbane’s cultural landscape.
Cirque du Soleil’s connection with Brisbane is stronger than ever, and with local talents like Robbie Wilson playing key roles, LUZIA promises to be a highlight of the city’s arts calendar.
