Eagle Farm-based Hydraulink Brisbane North has partnered with its Gold Coast counterpart to support a sports and cultural exchange program between Queensland and Fiji.
Operating from their 1130 Kingsford Smith Drive location, Hydraulink Brisbane North co-owners Martin Smith and Andrew Schuler joined with Hydraulink Gold Coast to sponsor jerseys for Palm Beach Currumbin State High School‘s rugby league tour to Fiji.
Photo Credit: Supplied
The eight-day cultural exchange program, led by former NRL champion Petero Civoniceva, saw 34 students engage in rugby league clinics, environmental initiatives, and cultural activities across Fiji. The tour culminated in matches against the Under-18 Fiji Bati representative teams.
Martin Smith, a pioneer of the Hydraulink brand in Brisbane, has demonstrated significant business growth in the Eagle Farm area, having tripled his distributorship’s size over the past nine years. The recent expansion with business partner Andrew Schuler extends their services to Bayside businesses, focusing on safety standards and operational efficiency.
The Eagle Farm operation continues to support community initiatives while maintaining hydraulic services for various industries. The sponsorship aligns with Hydraulink’s broader community engagement strategy, supporting self-funded initiatives that foster international goodwill and youth development.
After falling three runs short in last season’s Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) final and suffering a recent last-ball defeat in the Spring Challenge decider, the Brisbane Heat enter their tenth WBBL campaign with redemption firmly in their sights. The Heat’s journey begins this Saturday, 27 October, where last season ended—against the defending champion Adelaide Strikers.
Spring Challenge Final sets tone for season rivalry
The Brisbane Heat’s path to WBBL10 was marked by a dramatic last-ball defeat in the inaugural T20 Spring Challenge final against the Hobart Hurricanes. After electing to bat, the Heat found themselves restricted to 133, with Sianna Ginger leading the scoring with a determined 24. The Hurricanes’ duo of Ruth Johnston (4-20) and Molly Strano (3-31) proved particularly challenging for the Heat’s usually potent batting lineup.
With the Heat bowling and the Hurricanes needing three runs in the final over, Ginger’s tight start—two dot balls—almost pulled off an improbable win for Brisbane. However, with one run needed off the final delivery, Emma Manix-Geeves pierced the gap at backward point, sealing a five-wicket victory for Hobart.
Key matches for the Brisbane Heat
The Brisbane Heat schedule includes three home fixtures at Allan Border Field and one at The Gabba, offering fans multiple opportunities to support the team.
Here are the key matchups to watch: • Opening day finals rematch against the Adelaide Strikers (27 October) • Home opener at Allan Border Field with a night clash against the Melbourne Renegades (30 October) • A highly anticipated Hurricanes rematch at CitiPower Centre (2 November), reigniting the Spring Challenge rivalry • The historic Gabba return against the Strikers (9 November), marking the first WBBL match at the venue in six years • Western swing featuring back-to-back matches at WACA Ground against the Perth Scorchers (5 November) and the Sydney Thunder (7 November) • Season finale against the Sydney Sixers at Allan Border Field (24 November)
For the full schedule and match details, visit the Brisbane Heat Women’s official schedule.
With the tournament condensed to 43 matches including knockouts, every game carries increased significance in the race for the title. The Heat’s campaign could extend to 1 December, should they qualify for the final, as they aim to capture their third WBBL title and go one better than their runner-up finish in WBBL09.
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.
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.
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.
Police are investigating the crime wave of multiple break-ins and attempted break-ins between October 13 and 16, 2024, impacting North Brisbane businesses including Eagle Farm.
The crime spree began in Eagle Farm, where four businesses along Kingsford Smith Drive fell victim to break-ins between 11:45 PM on October 13 and 1:15 AM on October 14. This cluster of incidents appears to be the starting point of a broader pattern of criminal activity spanning several suburbs.
This recent surge has hit Eagle Farm the hardest in criminal activity. Local business owners are understandably concerned about the security of their premises and the potential impact on their operations.
Following the Eagle Farm incidents, the perpetrators appear to have moved to other areas. A petrol station in Deagon suffered property damage around 2 AM on October 14, with its glass doors smashed. However, no entry was made to the premises. The same night, a possible attempted break-in was reported at a business in Pinkenba.
The crime wave continued with an attempted break-in at a Lutwyche business on October 15, followed by six more break-ins along Racecourse Road in Hamilton between 3 AM and 4 AM on October 16.
Police have emphasised that while property has been damaged and stolen, no physical injuries have been reported in connection with these incidents.
Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that might assist in their investigations. They are particularly interested in relevant video footage or eyewitness accounts that could help identify the perpetrators.
Local business owners are advised to review their security measures and remain vigilant. The police have not yet released details about potential suspects or the exact nature of the items stolen.
As the investigation unfolds, the business community in North Brisbane, particularly in Eagle Farm, remains on high alert.
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.
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”
Queensland Health and the state’s Opioid Treatment Program will face scrutiny in an upcoming inquest into the fatal prescription drug overdose of an Albion woman. The inquiry, scheduled to begin on December 9, will examine the death of Alexandria Catherine Forrester, 39, who succumbed to methadone toxicity in September 2021.
Forrester was found unresponsive in her Albion home on September 20, 2021, and passed away in hospital the following day. A pre-inquest conference at the Brisbane Coroner’s Court revealed that Peter Morrow, a friend of Forrester’s, had collected her prescribed methadone doses from Brisbane Compounding Pharmacy on the morning of the incident, despite not being authorised to do so.
The inquest will delve into several crucial aspects of Forrester’s case, including:
The appropriateness of her treatment under the Queensland Opioid Treatment Program
The dispensation of methadone to Forrester and Morrow
The adequacy of Queensland Health measures in addressing concerns or non-compliance between health service providers and pharmacists
Whether any individual’s actions contributed to Forrester’s death
Forrester’s complex medical history, including asthma, Hepatitis C, chronic pain, and a history of heroin abuse, will be considered. The court heard that she had been flagged as “a doctor shopper” and was allowed to self-administer six methadone doses per week, with one dose to be taken under supervision.
Concerns about Forrester’s medication regimen had been raised previously. In May 2020, following a hospital admission, staff alerted Queensland Health’s monitored medicines unit and Forrester’s GP about the number and combination of her medications, as well as her access to takeaway methadone doses.
The four-day inquest is expected to call up to 10 witnesses, including Morrow, Forrester’s current and former GPs, and the pharmacists who dispensed her medication.
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.
