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A Day of Racing, Fashion, & Fun: Girls Day Out Returns to Eagle Farm

Eagle Farm Racecourse will transform into a hub of excitement on 1 March as the Brisbane Racing Club (BRC) hosts the highly anticipated 2025 Roku Gin Girls Day Out Raceday.

Read: The Eagle Farm Siege: A Historical Look at Courage and Crisis

A staple in Brisbane’s social calendar, this event promises an unforgettable mix of high-energy racing, fashion, and entertainment right in the heart of the community.

A Day of Fun Beyond the Races

Photo credit: Brisbane Racing Club/brc.com.au

While the thrilling races will be the main attraction, the fun extends far beyond the track. Guests can enjoy roving entertainment, tarot card readings, and live performances, adding a unique flair to the experience. The Roku Gin Retreat offers a luxurious escape, while pamper stations, henna tattoos, and face painting ensure there’s something for everyone. Plus, a charity raffle gives racegoers the chance to support a great cause while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Exclusive Perks for BRC Members

For Brisbane Racing Club members, the perks keep coming. Fashion-forward guests can enter the Members Best Dressed Competition by simply getting their photo taken, with the chance to take home stylish prizes. After the races, the members-only Champagne Bar will set the scene for a lively evening of music and celebration.

Elevate Your Experience

For those looking to take their day to the next level, the Lower Level of the Squires Perch is the place to be. This exclusive 18+ event offers stunning views of the track, a cocktail-style menu curated by Executive Chef John Felesina, and a five-hour gold beverage package featuring premium wines, beers, sparkling, and non-alcoholic options. A live DJ will keep the energy high, making it the perfect setting for an afternoon of indulgence and fun.

Read: Eagle Farm Racecourse Faces Urgent Redevelopment Deadline

Get Ready for a Glamorous Day Out

With so many Instagram-worthy moments, an electrifying atmosphere, and thrilling races to enjoy, the 2025 Roku Gin Girls Day Out at Eagle Farm is an unmissable event. So gather your friends, dress to impress, and get ready to make lasting memories.

Tickets are on sale now—secure yours today for a day of fashion, excitement, and entertainment right here in Eagle Farm!

Published 4-February-2025

Homegrown Legacy: Greg Norman and Royal Queensland’s Road to Brisbane 2032

A historic full-circle moment is unfolding at Eagle Farm’s Royal Queensland Golf Club, as former shop assistant turned global golfing icon Greg Norman AO joins the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee (OCOG). For local residents, this appointment carries special significance as their neighbourhood golf club prepares for its Olympic destiny.

Read: Summer Surge: How the North Brisbane Property Market is Heating Up in 2025

From Pro Shop to Olympic Leadership

Greg Norman, who once worked in Royal Queensland’s pro shop during the 1970s, now returns in a pivotal role, helping to shape the club’s transformation into an Olympic venue. Reflecting on this journey, Norman remarked, “In my youth in the 70’s I worked in the golf shop at Royal Queensland and now that course will be the home of golf at Brisbane 2032.”

“As a proud Queenslander it is an honour and privilege to help shape the Brisbane Games.”

Greg Norman Shapes Olympic Future of Royal Queensland

Since its founding in 1920, Royal Queensland has been a cornerstone of the Eagle Farm community, hosting numerous prestigious tournaments. Now, it stands on the cusp of an unprecedented evolution. As the venue prepares to welcome the world’s best golfers in 2032, Norman’s deep-rooted connection to the club adds an invaluable perspective to its Olympic planning.

*Photo Credit: CC-BY 2.0 / Ted Van Pelt / Flickr*

OCOG President Andrew Liveris reinforced the significance of his involvement, stating, “What better Queensland sports brand than Greg Norman? He will help elevate our state and our city on the global stage over the next seven years.”

Read: Olympic Stadium Debate Heats Up in Ascot: Doomben Racecourse at Risk

Beyond his sporting achievements, Norman brings substantial business expertise to the role. As chairman and CEO of the Greg Norman Company, he has overseen successful ventures in apparel, interior design, real estate, and golf course design—experience that could prove invaluable in Brisbane’s Olympic development.

As Royal Queensland Golf Club prepares to welcome the world’s best golfers in 2032, the community can take pride in knowing that one of their own is helping guide the way.

Published 31-January-2025

Australia Day Fun for the Whole Family in Ascot

Photo Credit: Australia Day/ Facebook

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.

Published Date 15-Jan-2025

Olympic Stadium Debate Heats Up in Ascot: Doomben Racecourse at Risk

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

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.

Ascot Doomben Racecourse — *Photo Credit: Brisbane Racing Club*

Proposal Details

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.

Equestrian events in Doomben Racecourse — *Photo Credit: Grant Courtney/Instagram*

Alternatives and Future Steps

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.

Published 10-Jan-2025

Eagle Farm Racecourse Faces Urgent Redevelopment Deadline

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 Race Against Time

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 Terraces Eagle Farm racecourse — *Photo Credit: MID-0524-0842*

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.

Plans for The Terraces Eagle Farm racecourse — *Photo Credit: MID-0524-0842*

Community and Industry Significance

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.

Demolition plans for the grandstand at the Eagle Farm racecourse — *Photo Credit: MID-0524-0842*

Balancing Development and Future Needs

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.

Published 6-Jan-2025

The Eagle Farm Siege: A Historical Look at Courage and Crisis

Photo Credit: QPS/Museum

The usually calm atmosphere of Eagle Farm Airport was shattered by an unexpected crisis.

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.

Eagle Farm Siege — *Photo Credit:* *National Library Australia*

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.

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The Negotiators Step In

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.

Honouring Bravery

Eagle Farm Siege 1985 - Crisis and Resolution — *Photo Credit: Queensland Police Museum*

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.

Though decades have passed, the story of Eagle Farm continues to resonate—a moment where calm words, trust, and courage prevailed over chaos.

Published 2-Jan-2024

Fine Cotton Fiasco: Eagle Farm Racecourse at the Centre of Notorious Horse Racing Scandal

Photo Credit: Trove

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 Fine Cotton Fiasco

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.

Eagle Farm’s Place in History

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.

The Aftermath

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.

Published Date 02-January-2025

Street Spotlight: Pring St, Hendra

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

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

If you know Pring St, Hendra well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Fire Forces Temporary Closure of Albion’s Amore Venue

Photo Credit: Albion Events & Functions

Amore Events & Functions in Albion, a well-known event location close to the CBD, was temporarily closed after suffering extensive damage from a fire.

Albion Amore Events & Function — *Photo Credit:* *Amore Events & Functions*

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 & Function*s

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.

Investigation and Future Steps

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.

Published-24-Dec-2024

Ascot Residents Urged to Secure Plates Amid Rising Thefts

Photo Credit: Flickr

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.

Targeted Thefts for Criminal 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.

Securing plates in Ascot — *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.

By working together as a community, Ascot and surrounding areas can help deter offenders and reduce the frequency of these crimes, police stated.

Published 24-Dec-2024