Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Australia Day with your family? Head down to the Gallopers Sports Club in Ascot for fun, games, and good times!
The event, scheduled for Sunday, 26 January, will offer a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for locals to commemorate the national holiday.
This follows the success of last year’s festivities, which saw hundreds gather at the racecourse for a day of picnicking, live music, and children’s entertainment.
From 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., attendees can participate in various activities, including free barefoot bowls, a classic sausage sizzle, and fun games for all ages. Live music from local artist Spike will provide entertainment throughout the afternoon, while raffles offer the chance to snag exciting prizes.
Organisers encourage families to arrive early to secure a good activity spot and bring sunscreen, hats, and picnic blankets for comfort. The day promises to be a fantastic opportunity to enjoy Australia Day with loved ones in the heart of Ascot.
The Brisbane Racing Club has opposed the proposal by Gold Coast city official Tom Tate to demolish the Doomben Racecourse in Ascot in preparation for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic stadium.
Doomben Racecourse, a cornerstone of Brisbane’s sporting heritage, is now the centre of a contentious debate regarding its future.
The site, operational for over a century, is under threat due to proposed plans aimed at transforming it into an Olympic stadium for the 2032 games. This move comes as part of broader efforts to modernise and repurpose infrastructure in preparation for the Olympics.
Mr Tate recently suggested that the Doomben Racecourse, known for its prime location and access to infrastructure, could be razed to facilitate the construction of a new, state-of-the-art Olympic stadium.
Citing ease of construction due to favourable soil conditions, the city official’s office argues that the racecourse presents a viable alternative to other considered sites like Victoria Park.
Community Response
This proposal has met significant resistance from various stakeholders, including the Brisbane Racing Club. Karl deKroo, the club’s CEO, has voiced substantial concerns, stating that the demolition of Doomben would end a long-standing tradition of racing in Ascot.
Community members and local businesses have also expressed apprehension about losing a historic sporting venue that contributes significantly to the local culture and economy.
The Brisbane Racing Club has suggested that both Doomben and Eagle Farm could serve as venues for Olympic equestrian events. They believe there are potential opportunities for using training paddocks or fields for these purposes.
While the final decision is pending, the newly formed Infrastructure Authority is expected to complete a comprehensive review of all potential sites by March. This review will play a crucial role in determining the future of Doomben and other venue locations across Brisbane as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympics.
As the debate continues, the Brisbane Racing Club and local communities are holding their breath, hoping for a decision that preserves the rich equestrian heritage in Ascot. The outcome of this dispute will likely influence other planning decisions related to the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, underscoring the complex interplay between heritage, community interests, and modernisation demands.
Queensland’s iconic Eagle Farm Racecourse, a hub of thoroughbred racing in the state, requires a significant redevelopment of its aging John Power Stand before its safety certification expires in August 2026, according to the Brisbane Racing Club.
The grandstand at Eagle Farm has surpassed its intended lifespan, with engineering reports confirming it is only “safe for now.” Brisbane Racing Club (BRC) Chief Executive Karl deKroo highlighted the urgency of starting construction work to avoid disruption during key carnival periods and to ensure the venue remains operational while the redevelopment progresses.
The proposed project, titled “The Terraces,” aims to replace the John Power Stand with a scaled-down, modern structure suitable for one of Queensland’s premier racing facilities. DeKroo noted that despite the challenges of securing funding amid government priorities like the 2032 Olympics, action is essential to prevent the venue from falling into disrepair.
The replacement of the John Power Stand is part of a broader project, referenced as MID-0524-0842 – Eagle Farm Racecourse, which includes significant upgrades within the “Eagle Farm Grandstand Precinct.” This redevelopment project seeks to align with existing planning approvals and regulatory conditions established through court judgments in 2015 and 2016.
As part of the development process, a public consultation period was conducted from 25 September 2024 to 18 December 2024, allowing stakeholders and community members to review and provide feedback on the project’s plans.
Eagle Farm Racecourse is more than just a sporting venue. As the heart of thoroughbred racing in Queensland, it plays a vital role in the state’s economy and cultural identity. DeKroo stressed the importance of investing in the venue for the benefit of the entire racing industry, which relies heavily on Eagle Farm’s operations. He also expressed support for past investments in regional and greyhound racing but called for recognition of Eagle Farm’s critical role in metropolitan racing.
The BRC has historically funded its projects independently, including a $50 million training facility that supports the broader industry. However, deKroo argued that this redevelopment requires government collaboration, especially given the project’s broader economic and community implications.
In addition to preserving the racecourse, the BRC sees an opportunity to align with Queensland’s preparations for the 2032 Olympics. DeKroo suggested that nearby Doomben Racecourse could serve Olympic-related needs, such as hosting equestrian quarantine facilities or training fields, providing an enduring community benefit.
While the project timeline is tight, the BRC remains committed to ensuring Eagle Farm Racecourse remains a key part of Queensland’s racing and cultural heritage. With the 2026 deadline, the BRC emphasised the importance of starting enabling works immediately to avoid operational disruptions.
On 26 July, 1985, Michael Petrovic, a 41-year-old man from Alexandra Hills, boarded a sightseeing helicopter flight with his two young children. What began as a routine family outing quickly escalated into one of Queensland’s most tense hostage situations.
While mid-air over Currumbin, Mr Petrovic brandished a sawn-off shotgun, demanding the pilot fly them to a US airbase in Japan. Unable to meet the demand, the helicopter made an emergency landing at Eagle Farm Airport under the guise of refuelling. Once on the tarmac, Mr Petrovic seized control of a fuel tanker, spreading aviation fuel across the ground and even onto his children, all while firing two warning shots into the air.
A Man in Crisis
The events at Eagle Farm were deeply rooted in personal anguish. Mr Petrovic had recently gone through a difficult divorce, and the emotional toll seemed to drive his desperate actions. His children, aged just 8 and 9, remained startlingly calm throughout, seen playing on the fuel tanker and near the helicopter as their father held authorities at bay.
The Queensland Police Emergency Squad arrived on the scene, tasked with preventing tragedy. Among them were Sergeant Ron Strong and Constable Denver Monley. Negotiations began under immense pressure, with Sgt Strong addressing Mr Petrovic by his Slavic name, ‘Mischa,’ in an effort to build trust. Over four tense hours, Sgt Strong carefully reassured Mr Petrovic, promising to ensure the safety of his children.
Finally, after hours of patient negotiation, Mr Petrovic surrendered peacefully. No lives were lost, and the children were unharmed—an outcome that stood as a testament to the skill and resolve of the negotiators.
In the years that followed, Sgt Strong and Cst Monley were recognised for their heroism. In 1989, Sgt Strong received the Australia Bravery Medal, and in 1994, he was awarded the National Medal for his dedication to duty in hazardous circumstances. Sgt Strong eventually retired in 2003 at the rank of Inspector.
Lessons from Eagle Farm
The Eagle Farm siege remains a poignant chapter in Brisbane’s history. It serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between authority and empathy in crisis situations. The incident is often studied as a model of successful negotiation under extreme pressure.
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
