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.
Cirque du Soleil’s critically acclaimed production “LUZIA” is set to premiere under the Big Top at Eagle Farm, offering Brisbane audiences a visually stunning journey through an imaginary Mexico.
Premiering on Thursday, 26 September 2024, the show will feature a red carpet event at 6:00 pm, with the performance starting at 8:00 pm. This latest production marks 25 years since Cirque du Soleil first brought its performances to Australia.
Photo Credit: Supplied
What Audiences Can Expect
Brisbane audiences can look forward to a mesmerising combination of acrobatics, visual art, and a celebration of Mexican culture when “LUZIA” opens at Eagle Farm. The show, which blends reality with imagination, features awe-inspiring stunts and a unique artistic style that will captivate all ages.
One of the most exciting aspects of “LUZIA” is the incorporation of real rain into several of its acrobatic and artistic scenes, something never before seen in a Cirque du Soleil touring production. This, combined with dazzling costumes and set designs, promises spectators a unique experience.
Photo Credit: Cirque de Soleil
Fun Facts Behind the Show
The production of “LUZIA” involves some truly remarkable details that add to its spectacle. Over 4.5 million people around the world have witnessed the show since its debut in 2016. Travelling with a team of 120 people, including 47 artists from 26 different countries, the show is a global effort. On stage, the cast members wear over 1,000 different costume pieces, adding colour and variety to each performance.
Setting up the “LUZIA” Big Top is no small feat, either. The massive tent, standing 19 metres high and 52 metres in diameter, takes a full eight days to erect. It is supported by four steel masts standing 25 metres each and secured by 550 pegs, making sure it can withstand winds of up to 75 mph. The white canvas of the tent is designed to reduce energy consumption, demonstrating Cirque du Soleil’s commitment to minimising its environmental impact.
Photo Credit: Cirque de Soleil
The production scale is enormous, with nearly 2,000 tons of equipment transported for each tour stop. The Big Top itself seats more than 2,500 people, ensuring that large audiences can experience the magic of “LUZIA” at every show.
LUZIA’s Legacy in Australia
“LUZIA” comes to Australia as part of a celebration of Cirque du Soleil’s 25-year history in the country, having first toured with “Saltimbanco” in 1999. Over the years, Cirque du Soleil has brought ten Big Top shows to Australia, with “LUZIA” being the latest in this tradition. The show’s combination of cutting-edge performance techniques and cultural storytelling has cemented Cirque du Soleil’s reputation as one of the world’s leading entertainment companies.
This premiere at Eagle Farm continues that legacy, offering Brisbane locals a chance to see the latest Cirque du Soleil production in their own backyard.
The “LUZIA” premiere in Brisbane will take place at Eagle Farm on Thursday, 26 September 2024. Red carpet arrivals will begin at 6:00 p.m., and the show is scheduled to start at 8:00 p.m. It promises to be an exciting night for both attendees and those looking to witness Cirque du Soleil’s return to Australia after 25 years of memorable performances.
Ascot, get ready for a tasty new addition to your neighbourhood! Sarni, a versatile eatery offering sandwiches by day and small plates by night, is preparing to open its doors this month at Racecourse Road.
The minds behind this exciting new venture are no strangers to the Brisbane food scene. Sarni comes from the same talented team that brought us Ach in Hamilton last year. Now, they are turning their attention to Ascot, promising to bring their culinary expertise to the area.
Ach in Hamilton (Photo credit: Ach Wine Bar & Bistro/Facebook)
What’s on the Menu?
Sarni is set to cater to various tastes throughout the day. During daytime hours, expect a range of mouthwatering deli-style sandwiches featuring cured meats and other gourmet ingredients. Once their liquor licence is approved, Sarni will open for dinner service, offering small plates and share platters perfect for a night out with friends or a casual date.
Image shown for illustration purposes only (Photo credit: Rajesh TP/Pexels)
While the final menu is still being perfected, some tempting test dishes have included charcoal-chicken sandwiches, bresaola sandwiches with guindilla peppers and pickles; and beef belly bacon sambos.
For those looking forward to evening visits, Sarni plans to offer a carefully curated wine list. Expect around 20 bottles at any given time, with the selection rotating frequently to keep things interesting for regular patrons.
A New Local Hangout
Sarni aims to become a neighbourhood favourite, providing Ascot residents with a versatile space that transitions seamlessly from day to night. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, meeting friends for after-work drinks, or enjoying a relaxed dinner, Sarni promises to be your new go-to spot.
Keep an eye out for Sarni’s grand opening this month at 143 Racecourse Road, and get ready to welcome this exciting new addition to the local food scene. With its prime location and promising menu, Sarni is set to become an instant hit with Ascot locals and visitors alike. Follow them on Instagram for updates on the grand opening.
Sheryl Fitzgerald, a dedicated volunteer with The Pyjama Foundation in Albion, has been named Brisbane’s Pyjama Angel of the Year at a ceremony held at Parliament House.
The Queensland Government has been a long-standing supporter of The Pyjama Foundation’s Love of Learning Programme, investing over $690,000 annually to facilitate the work of Pyjama Angels with children in care. Currently, two-thirds of Pyjama Angels nationwide are located in Queensland, mentoring 843 children residing in foster, residential, and kinship care across the state.
Pyjama Angels play a vital role in children’s and young people’s lives by reading books, engaging in games, and assisting with homework. Studies have indicated that children and young people in care may face educational disadvantages and may be less likely to meet national literacy and numeracy standards than their peers. Research highlights that reading to children can significantly enhance their reading abilities, language skills, and overall development.
Child Safety Minister Charis Mullen expressed her utmost respect for the generous gift of time and undivided attention these special volunteers provide to children and young people in care.
She reaffirmed the unwavering support for The Pyjama Foundation and commended them for their extraordinary work. Mullen also acknowledged the remarkable results of The Pyjama Foundation’s Love of Learning Programme for children in out-of-home care.
The Pyjama Foundation’s CEO, Bronwyn Sheehan, emphasised the vital role of volunteers, stating that their kindness, compassion, and dedication are the driving force behind the foundation’s accomplishments.
She praised Fitzgerald as the embodiment of all they hope for in a volunteer, highlighting her commitment, reliability, resilience, and persistence.
Fitzgerald expressed her gratitude for the award, stating that it is a great privilege to be recognised for something she loves. She described her role as a Pyjama Angel, meeting children where they are in their learning journey and cheering them on to do their best. Fitzgerald also shared her joy in witnessing the positive impact of a reading buddy’s presence in a child’s life.
She expressed her gratitude for the award, stating that it is a great privilege to be recognised for something she loves. She described her role as a Pyjama Angel, meeting children where they are in their learning journey and cheering them on to do their best.
Fitzgerald also expressed her joy at witnessing the positive impact of a reading buddy’s presence on a child’s life.
Robbie Wilson, a Brisbane-born acrobatic rigger, is one of the key figures behind Cirque du Soleil’s latest show, LUZIA, which opens next to the Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm.
Robbie, who has worked with Cirque du Soleil for over 20 years, won’t be on stage in the elaborate costumes typical of the company’s performers. Instead, he’ll be high above the action, rigging the acrobatic equipment for the “fly” acts that are a hallmark of LUZIA, which will start its run on 25 September.
This show is exceptional for Robbie as it marks the first time he’s returned to his hometown with the globally renowned circus. Cirque du Soleil has always been a part of Robbie’s life, and bringing this show home is a dream come true.
Robbie’s colleague, Denise Wal, also plays a pivotal role in the production. A former performer in Cirque du Soleil’s Quidam, she now works alongside Robbie as an acrobatic rigger.
While the spotlight often shines on the performers, the effort behind the scenes is just as impressive. Robbie and his team are responsible for ensuring the safety and seamless execution of the acrobatic acts that define LUZIA. This includes rigging over two tonnes of equipment and maintaining the Big Top, which takes eight days to set up. With four steel masts standing 25 metres tall and a white canvas designed to reduce energy consumption, the Big Top is as much a marvel as the performance itself.
“An acrobatic rigger is concerned mainly with anything that’s suspended from the roof, whether it be people or props. So we look after the maintenance of their equipment, some of the building of their equipment, and then during the show we’ll assist the artists with their apparatus and keep an eye on them for their safety,” Robbie said.
The Big Top, located beside the famous Gateway Bridge and the Royal Queensland Golf Club, stands 19 metres high and seats over 2,500 spectators. It’s a familiar sight for locals, but the show’s blend of cutting-edge design and spectacular artistry promises something entirely new.
“I don’t think I can find words to describe it and now I feel like the way people appreciate life entertainment has changed as well. We really see it of how the audience react to the show that we put on.”
Photo Credit: Supplied
LUZIA: A Celebration of 25 Years in Queensland
This year, Cirque du Soleil celebrates 25 years of performances in Queensland, with LUZIA being the 10th show to visit Brisbane since 1999. The show, directed by Daniele Finzi Pasca, takes audiences on a surreal journey through an imaginary version of Mexico, blending light, rain, and stunning acrobatics in a visually captivating performance. LUZIA is the first touring production to incorporate rain into its scenes, creating an awe-inspiring visual experience for the audience.
This year also marks a milestone for Cirque du Soleil’s relationship with Queensland, which began in 1999 with the show “Saltimbanco.” Over the years, productions such as “Quidam,” “Alegría,” and “Kurios: Cabinet of Curiosities” have captivated Brisbane audiences.
LUZIA has already been seen by over 4.5 million people worldwide and continues to resonate with audiences due to its vibrant portrayal of Mexican culture, blending tradition and modernity. The show features 47 artists from 26 different countries, making it a truly international spectacle.
The show runs from 25 September to 10 November at the Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm. Tickets are available online, and demand is high as fans eagerly anticipate this unique production, which combines the magic of Cirque du Soleil with the energy of Brisbane’s cultural landscape.
Cirque du Soleil’s connection with Brisbane is stronger than ever, and with local talents like Robbie Wilson playing key roles, LUZIA promises to be a highlight of the city’s arts calendar.
Doughcraft, which has venues in the CBD and in Albion, is redefining the art of dough-based delights with its innovative take on Roman-style pinsa, house-made pasta, and an array of mouthwatering mains.
At the core of Doughcraft’s menu is the star attraction: Pinsa Romana. This lighter, crispier, and more flavorful cousin of traditional pizza is taking Brisbane by storm.
Pinsa Romana (Photo credit: Doughcraft/Facebook)
For those seeking a taste sensation, the Sfizio Pinsa is a must-try. This culinary masterpiece features a delicate balance of cured salmon, peppery rocket, and creamy whipped bufala, further enhanced by vibrant beetroot, zesty lemon, and crispy fried capers. It’s a fresh and exciting combination that promises to captivate even the most discerning palates.
Photo credit: Doughcraft/Facebook
But Doughcraft’s expertise extends far beyond pinsa. Pasta enthusiasts will delight in their house-made creations, with weekly specials that showcase the kitchen’s creativity. A recent highlight was the King Tiger Prawns Pasta, a tantalising dish featuring juicy prawns paired with cherry tomatoes and spicy nduja, brightened by a burst of lemon zest and fresh parsley.
For those with a sweet tooth, Doughcraft doesn’t disappoint. Their croissant with coconut almond cream, luxuriously covered in white chocolate and coconut flakes, is a testament to their mastery of pastry. And for an indulgent twist, don’t miss the Pain Suisse – a rich, gooey chocolate chip cookie nestled inside a buttery pastry shell.
Photo credit: Doughcraft/Facebook
The culinary experience at Doughcraft is complemented by a carefully curated selection of cocktails and Italian wines, all served in a beautiful dining room that transports guests straight to the heart of Rome. With its commitment to quality ingredients, innovative recipes, and a constantly evolving menu, Doughcraft is quickly establishing itself as one of Brisbane’s most exciting dining destinations.
Whether you’re in the CBD or venturing to Albion, a visit to Doughcraft promises a journey through the best of Italian cuisine, reimagined with a distinctly Brisbane twist. From pinsa to pasta, and pastries to prawns, these masters of dough are proving that when it comes to Italian-inspired dining, the possibilities are endless.
In a unique celebration of its 160th anniversary, Hendra State School treated 18 of its Prep to Year 4 students to an unforgettable day at Doomben racecourse.
The historic school, predating even the iconic Eagle Farm racecourse by a year, marked its milestone with an educational visit intertwined with the excitement of live racing.
The young students were immersed in horse racing, many experiencing their first close encounter with the majestic animals as they patted and fed carrots to the gentle grey horses of the Clerks of the Course. The visit to the Jockeys’ Rooms proved a hit, with riders generously sharing their gear, including the tiny saddles and safety vests.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Racing Queensland’s educators, Shane Scriven and Jorge Villamizar, offered each student a thrilling ride on the Mechanical Horse, a training tool usually reserved for apprentice jockeys. Champion trainer Barry Baldwin shared his expertise, demonstrating horse handling techniques with the life-sized fibreglass horse, “Bernborough.”
The children even witnessed the behind-the-scenes action of post-race interviews with Sky Thoroughbred Central’s Bernie Cooper.
The day’s highlight was witnessing the race that the Brisbane Racing Club graciously named in honour of the school’s anniversary. With its special title displayed, the event was broadcast across Australia and internationally, providing a unique platform to showcase the school’s historic milestone.
The Thoroughbred Racing History Association, which organised the visit, emphasised that such excursions are tailored to the school’s curriculum, with resources developed to align with the Australian Curriculum’s Learning Areas.
The preliminary designs for the new Albion station hub, aimed at transforming transit and community infrastructure in Brisbane’s inner north, have been released.
Set to rebuild and upgrade the existing Albion train station, the New Albion Station Project is designed to meet the expected rise in passenger traffic from the upcoming Cross River Rail project. With four updated, wider platforms, the design caters to increased interchange activity. This development is closely integrated with housing, retail, and commercial spaces, creating a vibrant community hub around the station.
Photo Credit: TMR
The project is tied with the ‘Albion Exchange’ initiative, a significant Transit Orientated Development led by Geon Property. This development will introduce up to 1,200 new residences, along with commercial, retail, and entertainment facilities, marking a major urban renewal for the Albion area.
The revamped station will feature an array of modern amenities, including new lifts, stairs, a ticket office, accessible toilets, and enhanced wayfinding and signage. Security will also be improved with updated lighting and CCTV systems. Moreover, the station design includes a new pedestrian overbridge and a southern concourse that promises better connectivity across the rail corridor, thus making it easier for people to access the station from different parts of Albion.
Photo Credit: TMR
“This will be the key piece of infrastructure for the creation of a genuine Transit Oriented Development, providing for up to 1200 new residences, commercial, retail, lifestyle, and entertainment uses,” GEON Executive Director and CEO, Ben Griffin said.
“It will advance the suburb’s renewal by providing a high level of convenience for residents and workers in the community.”
Community Engagement and Feedback
The Department of Transport and Main Roads will host information sessions to engage the community, offering a platform for feedback and further insights into the project plans.
Details on these sessions, along with opportunities for online feedback, are available on the TMR website, ensuring community members have ample opportunity to contribute to the project’s final design.
Four straighter, wider and raised platforms, with shade cover;
An elevated concourse at the southern end of the platforms, providing opportunities for a high-quality public domain and accessibility across the rail corridor;
A new station building with customer facilities including lifts, stairs, ticket office, accessible toilets, wayfinding and signage, lighting and CCTV;
A new pedestrian overbridge at the northern end of the platforms and cross corridor connection to Hudson Road and Mawarra Street;
Reconfiguration of the rail corridor, infrastructure and systems;
St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Ascot is set to transform its campus with an ambitious Performing Arts Precinct and additional classroom facilities. The school has applied to modify its masterplan, paving the way for a state-of-the-art arts hub and expanded learning spaces.
The proposal outlines plans for the St Margaret’s Arts Precinct (SMAP), a cutting-edge complex designed to nurture students’ talents in music, drama, and various performing arts disciplines. In addition to the SMAP, the project encompasses constructing an exam room building and a secondary classroom building to address the school’s growing enrollment.
The Performing Arts Precinct will be strategically situated adjacent to Lapraik Street. At the same time, the new classrooms will find their home at the end of Petrie Street, seamlessly integrating with the existing campus layout. Specific existing structures, including the Labyrinth, the decommissioned 50-metre and 25-metre swimming pools, the Daphne Mayo Centre, and other buildings, landscaping, and pathways, will be removed to accommodate these additions.
This redevelopment represents the next phase in the school’s master plan, with Stage 1 (the Sports Precinct) already completed. The amendment to the master plan will incorporate three new buildings, car parking provisions, landscaping enhancements, and acoustic fencing.
The SMAP building itself promises to be an architectural and functional marvel. It will feature a basement parking lot with 29 spaces and multiple levels dedicated to performing arts activities, including rehearsal rooms, a black box theatre, dressing rooms, and a recital hall. The top floor will boast classrooms, a control room, and specialised music practice spaces. Construction will be carried out in stages to minimise disruption.
The additional two-storey buildings will house general learning areas, a kitchen, an exam room, and an arrival plaza with stair and lift access. The secondary building will provide six general learning areas and stair access.
Planners at John Gaskell Planning emphasise the project’s importance in optimising resource allocation and ensuring the timely delivery of community infrastructure. They assert that the new facilities will enable the school to meet the evolving needs of its students and staff, empowering St Margaret’s to uphold its commitment to providing high-quality education and maintaining exceptional teaching standards.
