Flashback to 1984: Remember the Fine Cotton Affair that rocked Aussie racing? It all went down at Eagle Farm Racecourse when a sneaky switcheroo saw a slowpoke named Fine Cotton replaced with a speed demon called Bold Personality.
This audacious plot to fleece the bookies became a legendary tale of racing shenanigans, forever stamping Eagle Farm’s place in Aussie turf history.
In 1984, a racehorse named Fine Cotton was secretly replaced with a faster horse, Bold Personality, in an attempt to defraud bookmakers at Eagle Farm Racecourse in Brisbane.
The elaborate scheme was orchestrated by John Gillespie, who hatched the plan while serving time in Boggo Road Gaol. Gillespie had previously attempted a similar scam in 1982 but avoided prosecution. This time, he involved horse trainer Hayden Haitana and others in a plot to switch Fine Cotton with a horse named Dashing Solitaire. However, when Dashing Solitaire was injured, they were forced to use Bold Personality instead.
The conspirators tried to disguise Bold Personality with hair dye and paint to resemble Fine Cotton. However, the disguise was poorly done, and the horse’s true identity was quickly suspected. Despite this, Bold Personality, disguised as Fine Cotton, won the race. However, stewards noticed the suspicious betting activity on the horse and the obvious disguise. The horse was disqualified, and an inquiry was launched.
As it became known, this tarnished Eagle Farm Racecourse’s reputation. The incident exposed the racing industry’s vulnerabilities and raised questions about security and integrity. The racecourse, a popular venue for Brisbane residents, became synonymous with one of the most audacious scams in Australian sporting history.
As it became known, the said affair resulted in several people, including Gillespie and Haitana, being banned from racecourses for life. Even high-profile figures like bookmakers Bill and Robbie Waterhouse were implicated in the scandal. The incident remains one of the most infamous scandals in Australian horse racing history.
Pring Street in Hendra stands as a testament to Brisbane’s enduring residential appeal, with its rich history dating back to 1936 when it was already a developed thoroughfare terminating at Brock Street.
The street’s strong sense of community is evident in its impressive 80% owner-occupier rate, with residents calling Pring Street home for an average of nearly 13 years. Historical property transactions, such as the 1978 sale of 110 Pring Street for $20,100, provide fascinating insights into the area’s property evolution. Today, with 175 properties and 44% of residents maintaining residency beyond a decade, Pring Street continues to exemplify Hendra’s reputation as one of Brisbane’s most stable and sought-after neighbourhoods. Below, you will find an aerial image taken in 1936, capturing the street’s early development when it featured established properties interspersed with vacant lots awaiting future homes.
Pring St, Hendra Residents
NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 175 % OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 80% AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 12 years and 8 months % OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 44%
Pring St, Hendra – As It Looked in 1936
Pring St, Hendra in 1936
SOME RECENT SALES ON PRING ST, HENDRA
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
120 Pring Street, Hendra
NA
Nov 2024
36 Pring Street, Hendra
NA
Oct 2024
15 Pring Street, Hendra
$2,450,000
Jun 2024
42/139 Pring Street, Hendra
$821,500
May 2024
63/139 Pring Street, Hendra
$840,000
Apr 2024
21/139 Pring Street, Hendra
$840,000
Mar 2024
50/139 Pring Street, Hendra
$775,000
Feb 2024
SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON PRING ST FROM YESTERYEAR
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
110 Pring Street, Hendra
$20,100
Dec 1978
51 Pring Street, Hendra
$92,750
Apr 1985
99 Pring Street, Hendra
$68,000
Dec 1985
SUBURB PROFILE
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Hendra in 2024 was $1,275,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Hendra in 2020 was $848,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN HENDRA SINCE 2020 : $427,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Hendra in 2024 was $1,920,000 The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Hendra in 2020 was $1,138,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN HENDRA SINCE 2020 : $782,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Hendra in 2024 was $2,400,000 The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Hendra in 2020 was $1,465,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN HENDRA SINCE 2020 : $935,000
The fire started just after midnight on 15 December 2024, and was quickly put out by the QFD emergency personnel.
About Amore Events & Functions
Located in a former warehouse in Albion, the shop is well-known for its high ceilings, colourful artwork, and unique spaces like the Turkish Lounge and Courtyard. The venue, which offers free rental for fully catered events, has been the site of weddings, parties, and other celebrations. It has gained popularity as a venue for community events because of its close proximity to the central business district.
Photo Credit: Amore Events & Functions
The fire, which apparently spread swiftly over the building’s two stories, was put out by the QFD emergency services during the early morning hours. As investigators investigate the cause of the fire, drones are being used to assess the extent of structural damage.
Impact on Local Businesses
Apero Label, a retailer of maternity clothes, is among the nearby companies that have experienced water and smoke damage. Concerns have been raised about how this might affect local business during the hectic holiday season. The closure of the Albion store has also caused uncertainty regarding future event reservations.
The precise cause of the fire has not yet been identified by authorities. Amore Events & Functions is still closed while plans for restoration and safety evaluations are being made. To address the damages incurred, local business owners are collaborating closely with insurance providers.
The Albion venue’s temporary closure has spurred community conversations about emergency preparedness and fire safety. Local groups are pushing for more assistance so that impacted companies can quickly recover.
The community’s strong support for the venue highlights its significance as a local landmark, even as Amore Events & Functions embarks on its road to recovery. In the upcoming weeks, there will likely be updates on restoration efforts and reopening schedules.
Police have reported a worrying surge in number plate thefts in Ascot, alongside neighbouring areas of Hamilton and Hendra. The theft of registration plates is believed to be a calculated move by offenders aiming to evade detection during unlawful activities.
By attaching stolen plates to their vehicles, offenders can obscure their identities and delay law enforcement efforts. Police describe these thefts, which took place from 8 to 13 December, as largely opportunistic. They warn that unsecured plates present an easy target.
Residents are being urged to take preventative measures, including parking in locked garages or behind secure gates, to reduce their risk. Authorities have emphasised the importance of vigilance in these high-risk areas.
Community Initiative: Free Anti-Theft Screws
In response to the spike in thefts, the Gateway District Crime Prevention Unit has introduced an initiative offering free anti-theft screw packs to residents in affected areas, including Ascot. These screws are designed to make it nearly impossible for thieves to remove number plates without a specialised tool used exclusively by police.
The packs also include information on vehicle security, aiming to empower locals with practical tips to protect their property. Community members can order the screws online and install them to bolster their vehicles’ security.
Photo Credit: QPS
How to Report Suspicious Activity
Police are encouraging residents to report any suspicious behaviour immediately. Information can be provided online through the Queensland Police Service’s suspicious activity form, which operates 24 hours a day.
For those wishing to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers offers a confidential reporting option through their hotline or website.
A frustrated resident of Ascot has voiced concerns regarding irresponsible dog owners who leave bags of dog waste in public spaces, sparking a demand for improved waste management solutions in Brisbane. This issue has ignited a debate among locals, as residents find themselves divided over who should bear the responsibility of keeping the community clean.
Karen, an Ascot resident, voiced her complaint regarding the abandoned dog waste bags on the street where she resides. It had become a big issue since the lady complained that plastic bags full of dog muck were being deposited on the sidewalk in front of her and at particular public bins.
Karen’s grievance quickly gained traction on social media. She argued that while dog owners are required to pick up after their pets, some neglect the final step of properly disposing of waste.
Residents Weigh In
Karen’s comments have been mixed. Some people sympathise with her frustration, but others say the problem points to the need for more bins and other community infrastructure in Ascot.
Mark Hughes, a long-time resident of Ascot, expressed concerns about the lack of bins in the area. He noted that while people generally want to dispose of waste responsibly, it becomes frustrating when bins are either too far apart or overflowing.
On the other hand, others believe the issue ultimately comes down to personal responsibility. Sarah Blake, who takes time every day to walk her dog, argued that there is no excuse for improper disposal. She emphasized that if someone has already taken the effort to pick up waste, they should also make the effort to find a bin, adding that leaving it on the ground or next to someone’s property is simply unacceptable.
Brisbane’s Approach to Waste Management
City officials have recognized the concern, emphasizing that waste management in bustling locations like parks and walkways continues to be a top priority. Brisbane authorities encourage residents to use existing public bins responsibly and report overflowing bins to ensure timely servicing.
A spokesperson for Council acknowledged the frustration caused by irresponsible behavior. They reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining clean public spaces but emphasized the importance of community cooperation. Residents were encouraged to report problem areas through official channels.
City leaders also confirmed that additional waste management solutions are being reviewed, including the placement of new bins in dog-friendly parks and popular walking routes. However, funding and implementation timelines remain unclear.
Local Dog Owners Call for Solutions
While residents like Karen think officials should strictly impose current waste disposal laws and regulations, dog owners gave several practical solutions to the concern. Some of the said suggestions include increasing the use of signage to remind of responsibility and installing more bin areas at popular dog walking spots.
Similar issues have been tackled in nearby suburbs through community-led efforts. In Hamilton, for example, residents collaborated with local businesses to install sponsored bins featuring biodegradable bag dispensers, thereby significantly reducing waste dumping.
Balancing Responsibility and Community Cleanliness
This debate shows that there is a balance between personal accountability and community infrastructure. Though Brisbane’s waste services play a very crucial role, residents agree that individual behavior is the key to maintaining clean and pleasant neighbourhoods.
Long-time Ascot resident Karen highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining the neighbourhood. She pointed out that everyone has a role to play, whether walking a dog or simply passing through, and that doing the right thing makes a significant difference.
With an increase in the population of Brisbane and growing community spaces, it becomes important to handle these little but impacting issues that remain crucial to Brisbane’s liveability. Authorities in cities are therefore seeking continued communication with its citizens to create solutions for everybody.
Sutherland Avenue in Ascot tells a compelling story of transformation and established community ties. In 1936, aerial photography reveals only a handful of houses dotting this prestigious street, a stark contrast to today’s distinguished residential landscape.
The street’s evolution is reflected in its sales history, with notable transactions like 37 Sutherland Avenue changing hands for $415,000 in November 1989. Today, the avenue stands as a testament to residential stability, with 100% owner-occupancy and residents staying an average of nearly 14 years – more than half having called it home for over a decade. Below, you will find an aerial image taken in 1936, capturing a glimpse of this street’s humble beginnings in what would become one of Brisbane’s most esteemed neighborhoods.
Sutherland Ave, Ascot Residents
NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 16 % OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 100% AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 13 years and 10 months % OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 54%
Sutherland Ave, Ascot – As It Looked in 1936
Sutherland Ave, Ascot in 1936
SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON SUTHERLAND AVE FROM YESTERYEAR
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
30 Sutherland Ave, Ascot
$6,120,000
Mar 2003
42 Sutherland Ave, Ascot
$1,400,000
Apr 2000
37 Sutherland Ave, Ascot
$415,000
Nov 1989
SUBURB PROFILE
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2024 was $1,825,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2020 was $1,045,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $780,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2024 was $2,425,000 The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2020 was $1,425,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $1,000,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2024 was $3,250,000 The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2020 was $2,450,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $800,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2024 was $650,000 The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2020 was $400,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $150,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2024 was $1,106,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2020 was $666,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $440,000
St Margaret’s Anglican Girls’ School in Ascot has once again distinguished itself in Queensland’s academic landscape, achieving notable rankings in the 2024 NAPLAN results.
As the only girls’ school to place in the top 10 for primary education, St Margaret’s secured 8th position in Queensland rankings with a Year 5 average score of 558.8. The school also performed strongly at the secondary level at the 2024 NAPLAN, ranking 14th with a Year 9 average of 624.8.
Photo credit: St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School/Google Maps
St Margaret’s Anglican Girls’ School is an independent day and boarding school for girls from Pre-Prep to Year 12, with boys also welcomed in Pre-Prep. The primary school encompasses Prep to Year 6, providing a foundational education grounded in literacy and numeracy.
Photo credit: St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School/Google Maps
Known for its commitment to academic excellence, the school attributes its success to a combination of specialized teaching, supportive programs, and a focus on holistic education. According to its website, “St Margaret’s students are supported to develop strong foundational literacy and numeracy skills, critical building blocks for their future learning.”
As the school prepares to celebrate 130 years of educating young women in 2025, it remains dedicated to its mission of delivering a well-rounded education that balances academic achievement with the development of leadership skills, compassion, and individual passions.
Achievements Beyond NAPLAN
While the school’s performance in the 2024 NAPLAN is commendable, St Margaret’s also emphasizes broader educational and extracurricular achievements.
Middle School Ethics Olympiad: Year 9 students excelled in the 2024 Middle School Ethics Olympiad, where they debated ethical issues such as AI in education and responsibilities of bystanders. The school’s Black Team secured a gold medal and will represent the school in the International Ethics Olympiad in 2025, while the Green Team placed 4th with an honourable mention.
Acknowledgement Assembly: Primary students were celebrated at the recent Acknowledgement Assembly, where achievements across academic, cultural, sporting, philanthropic, and leadership domains were recognized.
Commitment to Holistic Education
Photo credit: St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School/Google Maps
St Margaret’s approach to education goes beyond standardized testing. With dedicated roles such as a Literacy Coordinator and Mathematics Specialist, the school ensures that students receive expert guidance in foundational areas.
This specialized instruction has contributed to the school’s consistent performance across all NAPLAN domains—Writing, Reading, Spelling, Grammar and Punctuation, and Numeracy—where its results are significantly above state averages.
“NAPLAN results are used both individually and collectively. Individually, they provide important insights to a child’s progress, strengths and areas requiring further development. Collectively, the results ensure we are meeting our commitment to developing strong foundational skills and are used to further inform curriculum programs and delivery throughout the school,” the school stated in its website.
The school acknowledges the role of its community in these achievements. “We commend the efforts and dedication of our students and the staff and parents who support them,” it shared in a statement.
As St Margaret’s approaches its 130th anniversary, it continues to uphold its reputation as a leading educational institution in Brisbane. With a blend of academic rigor, specialized support, and opportunities for students to thrive in diverse areas, the school remains committed to its vision of preparing students for future challenges while nurturing their passions and talents.
Brisbane Heat’s quest for a third premiership ended in heartbreak at the MCG, falling seven runs short against the Melbourne Renegades in a rain-affected WBBL10 final. Captain Jess Jonassen’s heroic unbeaten innings of 44 went in vain as Brisbane fell just short of the revised target.
After winning the toss and electing to field, the Heat’s bowlers applied consistent pressure early on. Charli Knott (3-26) and Grace Parsons (2-29) kept the Renegades in check, but West Indies star Hayley Matthews was the standout performer. Matthews crafted a masterful 69 off 61 balls—the highest individual score in WBBL final history—propelling her side to a competitive total.
Brisbane’s chase began disastrously. Power-hitter Grace Harris fell for a second-ball duck, followed soon after by the in-form Jemimah Rodrigues. The situation worsened when rain caused a 40-minute delay, leaving Brisbane with a reduced target of 98 runs from 12 overs.
In a display of remarkable resilience, skipper Jess Jonassen nearly pulled off the impossible with an unbeaten 44 from 28 deliveries. Her late assault included a six and a four in the Power Surge over against Deandra Dottin, bringing the equation down to 30 off the final two overs. However, the experience of Renegades’ international spinners, Matthews and Sophie Molineux, proved decisive in the closing stages.
While the result marks a second consecutive final defeat for the Heat, their consistent presence in the championship decider underscores their status as one of the WBBL’s powerhouses. Emerging talents like Knott and Parsons, combined with Jonassen’s seasoned leadership, leave Brisbane well-positioned for future campaigns.
This loss will sting for the Heat faithful, but the team’s journey to the final—including dominant performances throughout the tournament—provides hope for the seasons ahead. As the dust settles on another WBBL campaign, the focus will now shift to regrouping and coming back stronger for WBBL11.
Published 01-December-2024
Match preview published on 29-November-2024.
Brisbane Heat’s Hot Streak Burns Bright: WBBL10 Final Showdown Awaits
Photo Credit: Instagram/heatbbl
The Brisbane Heat’s remarkable late-season surge shows no signs of slowing as they prepare to face minor premiers Melbourne Renegades in the WBBL10 final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday, 1 December.
Riding a six-match winning streak, the Heat secured a commanding nine-wicket victory over the Sydney Thunder in Friday’s Challenger, booking their place in the premiership decider for a second consecutive season.
The Heat’s dominant performance at Allan Border Field showcased why they’re genuine contenders for the title. Georgia Redmayne’s masterful unbeaten 51 off 41 balls, supported by Jemimah Rodrigues’ elegant 43, highlighted the team’s batting depth. However, Rodrigues retired hurt due to a hand injury, raising concerns about her availability for the final.
In the bowling department, Grace Parsons emerged as the standout performer, claiming an impressive 3-10 in three overs. Her spell, supported by Jess Jonassen’s sharp tactics, limited the Thunder to 7-133 despite late resistance from Hannah Darlington and Taneale Peschel.
History and form point to epic battle
The Heat enter the final with momentum on their side, but the Renegades, as minor premiers, present a formidable challenge. The teams’ only encounter this season resulted in a 28-run victory for the Heat, though much has changed since that early-season clash.
Sunday’s final at the MCG promises a thrilling contest between the competition’s most consistent side and the team carrying the hottest form. For Heat supporters, the prospect of their team lifting the trophy seems increasingly possible, given their recent dominant performances and the confidence flowing through the squad.
The decider begins at 12:20 p.m. on Sunday, with Brisbane seeking to convert their late-season momentum into championship glory. After dismantling the Thunder with such efficiency, the Heat have sent a clear message to the Renegades: they’re ready for the ultimate challenge.
In a dramatic showdown at Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm, 22-year-old Elvis Smylie etched his name in Australian golfing history, claiming his maiden DP World Tour title at the BMW Australian PGA Championship.
The Gold Coast native displayed remarkable composure, fending off his mentor and three-time champion Cam Smith in a wire-to-wire victory that has electrified the local golfing community.
Defining victory for Elvis Smylie
The significance of Smylie’s triumph extends beyond the pristine fairways of Royal Queensland Golf Club. Just weeks after securing his first professional win at the WA Open, the young golfer demonstrated exceptional poise throughout the championship, particularly during Sunday’s pressure-packed final round. Playing alongside his golfing idol Cam Smith and veteran Marc Leishman, Smylie crafted a flawless 67 to finish at 14 under par, two shots clear of Smith.
“It’s a dream come true,” Smylie reflects. “Playing with Cam and Leish there… I looked up to these guys since I was a kid, and just being in their presence and to compete against them for the title, I’ve learnt so much.”
A legacy takes shape at Royal Queensland
As the son of four-time grand slam doubles champion Liz Smylie, Elvis’s athletic roots run deep. From receiving the Cameron Smith Scholarship in 2019 to defeating his mentor on one of golf’s biggest stages, his journey epitomises Queensland sporting excellence.
Under the guidance of coach Ritchie Smith, Smylie has transformed his game through dedicated physical conditioning, despite challenges maintaining weight at 71 kg. His quiet determination and “old soul” demeanour, as described by his coach, stand in stark contrast to the flashier personalities often found on tour.
For Queensland’s newest sporting hero, this victory is not an endpoint but a beginning. With the Australian Open looming, Smylie remains focused, eschewing celebrations for continued preparation. “There’ll be a time to celebrate,” he noted, “but for now, I’m really looking forward to doing my best here.”
His success at Eagle Farm has resonated beyond Australian shores, drawing congratulations from unexpected quarters, including tennis legend Ivan Lendl. Yet Smylie remains grounded, his triumph serving as a testament to the power of perseverance and the bright future of Australian golf.
Brisbane Heat, riding high on a five-game winning streak, are set to host the Sydney Thunder this Friday, 29 November, in the WBBL10 Challenger at Allan Border Field. With a spot in Sunday’s final against the Melbourne Renegades at stake, both teams are gearing up for a thrilling contest—first ball is at 7:15 p.m.
Despite pre-season doubts following significant roster changes, the Heat have silenced their critics by storming into their seventh consecutive finals series. Captain Jess Jonassen attributes their success to a strong Queensland core, emerging talent, and an international superstar.
“I think the only people that were concerned were those from outside these walls,” Jonassen says. “I feel like we’ve proved a few of the doubters wrong, but we’re by no means done proving that point.”
The Heat’s resilience has shone through rising stars like Lucy Hamilton, who has claimed 10 wickets in her last three games, and Grace Parsons, with seven wickets in her debut season. The team’s local backbone remains intact with the dynamic duo of Georgia Redmayne and Grace Harris at the top of the order, supported by Laura Harris and Charli Knott in the middle.
India’s Shikha Pandey has also been a key addition, earning recognition as the sole Heat player named in the Team of the Tournament. “Having the international class of someone like Shikha Pandey around, who can talk fast bowling, talk tactics, talk plans… that’s something that’s really added a lot of value to our pace bowling attack,” Jonassen added.
Adding to the excitement is the return of Georgia Voll, who left the Heat for the Thunder to seek more opportunities. The 21-year-old opener, named in the Team of the Tournament and fresh from her first Australian ODI call-up, faces her former teammates on home turf.
“I always wanted to open—you look at Grace Harris and Georgia Redmayne, they’ve done the job for the Heat over the last couple of years.”
“It was always going to be tough for me to nail down a spot, and last year I was up and down the order, which was quite tough.”
Momentum points to thriller in WBBL10 Challenger
The Thunder enter the match buoyed by their victory over the Hobart Hurricanes in The Knockout, while the Heat have strung together five consecutive wins since their last defeat—ironically, against the Thunder on 7 November. In that match, Sam Bates claimed four wickets, and Phoebe Litchfield’s explosive 40 off 25 balls proved decisive.
With light rain forecast for Friday in Brisbane, the match is expected to proceed as scheduled, with the first ball at 7:15 p.m. AEDT. If weather intervenes, the higher-ranked Heat will advance to the final.
Brisbane faithful are in for an electric atmosphere at Allan Border Field—with the Heat chasing their fourth WBBL final in seven years and the Thunder eyeing their first finals appearance since WBBL06, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
