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	<title>Ascot News</title>
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<title><![CDATA[One More Step: Socceroos Face World Cup Crossroads Against Paraguay]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:19:07 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[The Story behind Dunaverty, Albion’s Scottish-inspired Heritage Home]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/the-story-behind-dunaverty-albions-scottish-inspired-heritage-home</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:06:35 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Albion]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland Heritage Register]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/?page_id=12579</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Dunaverty, in nearby Albion, is a heritage-listed house dating from Brisbane's late-1880s boom period. Located on the corner of Birkbeck and Hudson roads, the picturesque timber cottage retains much of the character that led to its heritage listing.







Read: New 11-Storey Twin Towers Proposed on Dover Street, Albion







Built in 1887, Dunaverty is notable for its architectural detailing and historical associations. The house is closely associated with its builder, Scottish migrant and real estate entrepreneur Archibald McNish Fraser, and his family.



A showpiece for a rising entrepreneur



Sketch of Fraser Archibald McNish. Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland. Image number: 167284



Dunaverty was built by Archibald McNish Fraser, a Scottish migrant who arrived in Brisbane in 1880 at the age of 22 after completing his building apprenticeship.



After establishing himself as a building contractor in Brisbane and Cleveland, Fraser expanded into real estate. In 1885, he purchased the Albion site from his father-in-law, John Barclay, and by 1887 had launched his own business, the Onward Real Property Mart.



His success coincided with a period of strong growth in Brisbane. In 1888, the Aldine History of Queensland recognised Fraser as one of a group of young entrepreneurs who had prospered in the city. Around the same time, his company was regarded as one of Brisbane's most successful real estate businesses.



Heritage records suggest the house may have been built to showcase Fraser's business. The residence occupied a prominent corner position and featured decorative details that reflected both the builder's craftsmanship and personal identity.



Scottish heritage carved into the home



Decorative detailing on Dunaverty (Photo credit: BCC)



A notable feature of Dunaverty is the incorporation of Scottish motifs throughout the design. The chamferboard cottage, with its hipped corrugated iron roof and decorative verandahs, includes Scottish thistle motifs in its timberwork, cast iron lacework, window and entry brackets, and even elements of the stonework. Inside the house, thistle motifs appear in ceiling roses and fanlights above the doors.



Photo credit: Heritage Branch staff/Queensland Heritage Register



Personalised details can also be found above the home's front doors. The decorative fanlights incorporate the names and nicknames of Fraser's wife, Jemima, and three of their children: Nellie, Charlie, Mima and Katie. According to heritage records, these referred to Ellen, Charles, Jemima and Christina Fraser.



These decorative elements provide insight into the family's Scottish heritage and the personal significance Fraser attached to the home.



Part of the Albion Heritage Trail



Albion Heritage Trail map (Photo credit: BCC)



Today, Dunaverty is included on Brisbane's Albion Heritage Trail, which highlights sites associated with the suburb's history.



Its prominent corner location and rich decorative detailing distinguish it from many of the modest cottages along Birkbeck Street. Heritage records describe the house as making a picturesque contribution to the streetscape.



For visitors exploring the heritage trail, the home offers an opportunity to see one of Albion's surviving nineteenth-century residences and learn more about the suburb's development during Brisbane's expansion in the late 1800s.



A survivor through changing times



Dunaverty (2006); Photo credit: Heritage Branch staff/Queensland Heritage Register



The Fraser family's time living at Dunaverty was relatively brief. During the economic downturn of the early 1890s, the family moved to West End, closer to Fraser's property developments. Although they retained ownership until 1912, the house was occupied by a succession of tenants for much of that period.



In 1912, the property was purchased by William McGregor and renamed "Carvarmore". It changed hands several times over the following decades and underwent a number of alterations, including the possible addition of the south-east verandah and later extensions at the rear.







Read: Max Elliot: Impressive Teen With Autism Lands Job as Chef in Albion







Despite these changes, much of the original structure and decorative detailing has survived. Heritage records note that some original cedar joinery and ironmongery were stolen while the property stood vacant in 1998.



More than a century after it was built, Dunaverty remains a prominent heritage-listed home in Albion. Its surviving decorative features reflect the life and career of Archibald McNish Fraser and Brisbane's late nineteenth-century boom period.



Published 25-June-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Dunaverty, in nearby Albion, is a heritage-listed house dating from Brisbane's late-1880s boom period. Located on the corner of Birkbeck and Hudson roads, the picturesque timber cottage retains much of the character that led to its heritage listing.







Read: New 11-Storey Twin Towers Proposed on Dover Street, Albion







Built in 1887, Dunaverty is notable for its architectural detailing and historical associations. The house is closely associated with its builder, Scottish migrant and real estate entrepreneur Archibald McNish Fraser, and his family.



A showpiece for a rising entrepreneur



Sketch of Fraser Archibald McNish. Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland. Image number: 167284



Dunaverty was built by Archibald McNish Fraser, a Scottish migrant who arrived in Brisbane in 1880 at the age of 22 after completing his building apprenticeship.



After establishing himself as a building contractor in Brisbane and Cleveland, Fraser expanded into real estate. In 1885, he purchased the Albion site from his father-in-law, John Barclay, and by 1887 had launched his own business, the Onward Real Property Mart.



His success coincided with a period of strong growth in Brisbane. In 1888, the Aldine History of Queensland recognised Fraser as one of a group of young entrepreneurs who had prospered in the city. Around the same time, his company was regarded as one of Brisbane's most successful real estate businesses.



Heritage records suggest the house may have been built to showcase Fraser's business. The residence occupied a prominent corner position and featured decorative details that reflected both the builder's craftsmanship and personal identity.



Scottish heritage carved into the home



Decorative detailing on Dunaverty (Photo credit: BCC)



A notable feature of Dunaverty is the incorporation of Scottish motifs throughout the design. The chamferboard cottage, with its hipped corrugated iron roof and decorative verandahs, includes Scottish thistle motifs in its timberwork, cast iron lacework, window and entry brackets, and even elements of the stonework. Inside the house, thistle motifs appear in ceiling roses and fanlights above the doors.



Photo credit: Heritage Branch staff/Queensland Heritage Register



Personalised details can also be found above the home's front doors. The decorative fanlights incorporate the names and nicknames of Fraser's wife, Jemima, and three of their children: Nellie, Charlie, Mima and Katie. According to heritage records, these referred to Ellen, Charles, Jemima and Christina Fraser.



These decorative elements provide insight into the family's Scottish heritage and the personal significance Fraser attached to the home.



Part of the Albion Heritage Trail



Albion Heritage Trail map (Photo credit: BCC)



Today, Dunaverty is included on Brisbane's Albion Heritage Trail, which highlights sites associated with the suburb's history.



Its prominent corner location and rich decorative detailing distinguish it from many of the modest cottages along Birkbeck Street. Heritage records describe the house as making a picturesque contribution to the streetscape.



For visitors exploring the heritage trail, the home offers an opportunity to see one of Albion's surviving nineteenth-century residences and learn more about the suburb's development during Brisbane's expansion in the late 1800s.



A survivor through changing times



Dunaverty (2006); Photo credit: Heritage Branch staff/Queensland Heritage Register



The Fraser family's time living at Dunaverty was relatively brief. During the economic downturn of the early 1890s, the family moved to West End, closer to Fraser's property developments. Although they retained ownership until 1912, the house was occupied by a succession of tenants for much of that period.



In 1912, the property was purchased by William McGregor and renamed "Carvarmore". It changed hands several times over the following decades and underwent a number of alterations, including the possible addition of the south-east verandah and later extensions at the rear.







Read: Max Elliot: Impressive Teen With Autism Lands Job as Chef in Albion







Despite these changes, much of the original structure and decorative detailing has survived. Heritage records note that some original cedar joinery and ironmongery were stolen while the property stood vacant in 1998.



More than a century after it was built, Dunaverty remains a prominent heritage-listed home in Albion. Its surviving decorative features reflect the life and career of Archibald McNish Fraser and Brisbane's late nineteenth-century boom period.



Published 25-June-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 19-21 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:37:13 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:43:17 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:53:38 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Bluey’s Brisbane Home Remains In Northshore Hamilton]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/blueys-brisbane-home-remains-in-northshore-hamilton</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2026 03:03:05 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bluey]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bluey’s World]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane attractions]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[family events]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hamilton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ludo Studio]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Northshore Hamilton]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/?page_id=12508</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Bluey’s World will remain in Northshore Hamilton, extending Brisbane’s exclusive run as the home of the family experience inspired by the locally made series.&nbsp;



Read: Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane



Bluey’s World will continue operating exclusively in Brisbane until 3 February 2028, keeping the attraction at Northshore Hamilton after strong demand since its opening.&nbsp;



The experience, based on the television series Bluey, opened in November 2024 and has welcomed more than half a million visitors. It remains located at 281 Macarthur Drive, Northshore Hamilton, where families and fans can take part in a guided experience shaped around the world of Bluey.



The extension keeps Bluey’s World in the city where the series was created, written, animated and post-produced. The show follows Bluey, a blue heeler dog, with her mum, dad and younger sister Bingo, using play and family life as the centre of its stories.



Photo Credit: Supplied



At Northshore Hamilton, the experience brings elements of the series into a physical setting through set designs, interactive games and activities for children and adults. It is designed as a guided visit rather than a general exhibition, giving visitors a structured way to move through the world connected to the Brisbane-made program.



Since opening, Bluey’s World has drawn visitors from across Australia and overseas. More than a quarter of visitors have travelled from interstate, adding to the attraction’s visitor base beyond Brisbane.



Research covering 7 November 2024 to 17 March 2026 recorded 501,107 direct visitor nights linked to the attraction. Total direct and incremental expenditure across Queensland was placed at $156.9 million over the same period.



The extension also means tickets are now available through to 2028, with prices starting from AUD$44.90 plus booking fee.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Bluey’s World Remains Connected To Brisbane



The continued Hamilton run keeps Bluey’s World closely tied to the place where the series was made. Bluey is produced by Ludo Studio for ABC KIDS Australia and co-commissioned by ABC Children’s and BBC Studios.



The series has been produced in association with Screen Australia and Screen Queensland. BBC Studios Kids &amp; Family holds global distribution and merchandise rights, while the show airs in Australia on ABC.&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Supplied



Bluey’s World is produced by BBC Studios and HVK World. The attraction extends the screen world of Bluey into a visitor experience while keeping its exclusive location in Brisbane.



The social media announcement from official Bluey and Bluey’s World Brisbane accounts also confirmed that tickets were available through to 2028. Responses to the announcement included fans asking whether the Brisbane experience would remain open until then, alongside positive reactions to the extended run.



Read: North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026



For Hamilton, the extension keeps a major Bluey-linked visitor attraction at Northshore for the next phase of its Brisbane run. Bookings for Bluey’s World Brisbane are available through Ticketek.



Published 17-June-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Bluey’s World will remain in Northshore Hamilton, extending Brisbane’s exclusive run as the home of the family experience inspired by the locally made series.&nbsp;



Read: Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane



Bluey’s World will continue operating exclusively in Brisbane until 3 February 2028, keeping the attraction at Northshore Hamilton after strong demand since its opening.&nbsp;



The experience, based on the television series Bluey, opened in November 2024 and has welcomed more than half a million visitors. It remains located at 281 Macarthur Drive, Northshore Hamilton, where families and fans can take part in a guided experience shaped around the world of Bluey.



The extension keeps Bluey’s World in the city where the series was created, written, animated and post-produced. The show follows Bluey, a blue heeler dog, with her mum, dad and younger sister Bingo, using play and family life as the centre of its stories.



Photo Credit: Supplied



At Northshore Hamilton, the experience brings elements of the series into a physical setting through set designs, interactive games and activities for children and adults. It is designed as a guided visit rather than a general exhibition, giving visitors a structured way to move through the world connected to the Brisbane-made program.



Since opening, Bluey’s World has drawn visitors from across Australia and overseas. More than a quarter of visitors have travelled from interstate, adding to the attraction’s visitor base beyond Brisbane.



Research covering 7 November 2024 to 17 March 2026 recorded 501,107 direct visitor nights linked to the attraction. Total direct and incremental expenditure across Queensland was placed at $156.9 million over the same period.



The extension also means tickets are now available through to 2028, with prices starting from AUD$44.90 plus booking fee.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Bluey’s World Remains Connected To Brisbane



The continued Hamilton run keeps Bluey’s World closely tied to the place where the series was made. Bluey is produced by Ludo Studio for ABC KIDS Australia and co-commissioned by ABC Children’s and BBC Studios.



The series has been produced in association with Screen Australia and Screen Queensland. BBC Studios Kids &amp; Family holds global distribution and merchandise rights, while the show airs in Australia on ABC.&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Supplied



Bluey’s World is produced by BBC Studios and HVK World. The attraction extends the screen world of Bluey into a visitor experience while keeping its exclusive location in Brisbane.



The social media announcement from official Bluey and Bluey’s World Brisbane accounts also confirmed that tickets were available through to 2028. Responses to the announcement included fans asking whether the Brisbane experience would remain open until then, alongside positive reactions to the extended run.



Read: North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026



For Hamilton, the extension keeps a major Bluey-linked visitor attraction at Northshore for the next phase of its Brisbane run. Bookings for Bluey’s World Brisbane are available through Ticketek.



Published 17-June-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 23:07:38 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Popovic's Gamble Pays Off As Socceroos Deliver Famous World Cup Statement]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement</link>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://hamiltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Australia-Turkey-hero-image-scaled.png"/>
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<pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2026 07:56:34 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Would You Try a Wagyu Curry Bun? Brisbane's Newest Food Stall Thinks You Should]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/would-you-try-a-wagyu-curry-bun-brisbanes-newest-food-stall-thinks-you-should</link>
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<pubDate>Sun, 14 Jun 2026 18:09:59 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Darling Downs wagyu]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Eat Street Northshore]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hamilton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Inner North Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Japanese street food]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[kare pan]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[micro-restaurant]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[OKO OKO]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[wagyu]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/?page_id=12459</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
OKO OKO has opened at Eat Street Northshore on MacArthur Avenue in Hamilton, debuting what its founders describe as the world's first wagyu kare pan: a deep-fried Japanese curry bun built around Darling Downs wagyu, eighteen months in the making.



Read: Mental Health Awareness Walk to Start in Hamilton



The kare pan, Japan's beloved panko-crusted curry bun invented in Tokyo in 1927, has never been built around wagyu until now. 



OKO OKO's version is filled with Queensland wagyu sourced from Sandalwood Feedlot on the Darling Downs, one of Australia's oldest and most awarded producers, combined with a cheesy curry filling, panko-crusted and fried to order behind a Shinjuku-styled pagoda facade unlike anything else in the precinct.



Founder Michael Otway says the dish took six months of development on its own. "The dough, the curry, the wagyu, the cheese, the fry," he said. "Queensland wagyu changes the dish. No kitchen in Japan or anywhere else has done it this way. What comes out of the fryer at OKO OKO is something Brisbane hasn't tasted before."



A dish with a serious backstory



Kare pan has a devoted following in Japan, with its own annual national grand prix and a 50,000-member association. It is one of Japan's most loved everyday foods, widely available from bakeries across the country. What no kitchen in Japan or anywhere else had done, according to OKO OKO, was make wagyu the centrepiece.







Photo Credit: Supplied



The chef behind the menu brings serious credentials to that claim. OKO OKO's global head chef previously worked at Nobu London and Yoko Brisbane. The full OKO OKO menu extends well beyond the kare pan into okonomiyaki, yakisoba, yakisoba pan and other Japanese street food classics, all built to the same elevated standard.



Photo Credit: Supplied



The Shinjuku-styled pagoda that frames OKO OKO's space at Eat Street is described by the founders as a physical expression of the menu itself: respected traditions, modern elevation.



Getting to Eat Street Northshore



Eat Street Northshore at 221D MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton is open Friday and Saturday from 4pm to 10pm and Sunday from 4pm to 9pm. Entry is $6 per person. The precinct is accessible by CityCat to the Northshore Hamilton terminal, a 250-metre walk from the entrance, or by car with 1,400-plus free parks on site.



Read: Roads, Flood Resilience and Riverfront Works Drive Northshore Hamilton Renewal



Published 12-June-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
OKO OKO has opened at Eat Street Northshore on MacArthur Avenue in Hamilton, debuting what its founders describe as the world's first wagyu kare pan: a deep-fried Japanese curry bun built around Darling Downs wagyu, eighteen months in the making.



Read: Mental Health Awareness Walk to Start in Hamilton



The kare pan, Japan's beloved panko-crusted curry bun invented in Tokyo in 1927, has never been built around wagyu until now. 



OKO OKO's version is filled with Queensland wagyu sourced from Sandalwood Feedlot on the Darling Downs, one of Australia's oldest and most awarded producers, combined with a cheesy curry filling, panko-crusted and fried to order behind a Shinjuku-styled pagoda facade unlike anything else in the precinct.



Founder Michael Otway says the dish took six months of development on its own. "The dough, the curry, the wagyu, the cheese, the fry," he said. "Queensland wagyu changes the dish. No kitchen in Japan or anywhere else has done it this way. What comes out of the fryer at OKO OKO is something Brisbane hasn't tasted before."



A dish with a serious backstory



Kare pan has a devoted following in Japan, with its own annual national grand prix and a 50,000-member association. It is one of Japan's most loved everyday foods, widely available from bakeries across the country. What no kitchen in Japan or anywhere else had done, according to OKO OKO, was make wagyu the centrepiece.







Photo Credit: Supplied



The chef behind the menu brings serious credentials to that claim. OKO OKO's global head chef previously worked at Nobu London and Yoko Brisbane. The full OKO OKO menu extends well beyond the kare pan into okonomiyaki, yakisoba, yakisoba pan and other Japanese street food classics, all built to the same elevated standard.



Photo Credit: Supplied



The Shinjuku-styled pagoda that frames OKO OKO's space at Eat Street is described by the founders as a physical expression of the menu itself: respected traditions, modern elevation.



Getting to Eat Street Northshore



Eat Street Northshore at 221D MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton is open Friday and Saturday from 4pm to 10pm and Sunday from 4pm to 9pm. Entry is $6 per person. The precinct is accessible by CityCat to the Northshore Hamilton terminal, a 250-metre walk from the entrance, or by car with 1,400-plus free parks on site.



Read: Roads, Flood Resilience and Riverfront Works Drive Northshore Hamilton Renewal



Published 12-June-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 5-7 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-5-7-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-5-7-june-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://hamiltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-5-7-June-scaled.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://hamiltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-5-7-June-scaled.png"/>
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<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2026 03:31:57 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-5-7-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[








QAFL



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 10• Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 66 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sherwood QAFL Seniors 100



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Cooke-Murphy Oval / Cooke-Murphy Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 10• Labrador QAFL Seniors 131 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 80







QAFLW



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 8• Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 21 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 22



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 8• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 42 &nbsp; | &nbsp; University of Queensland QAFLW Seniors 23















FQPL1



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Ballinger Park (Buderim Wanderers &amp; Sunshine Coast Wanderers)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 14• Sunshine Coast Wanderers 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; North Star 0



Sunday, June 7, 2026 (Walton Bridge Reserve (The Gap FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 8• The Gap FC 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Virginia United 1







NPL



Friday, June 5, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Moreton City Excelsior 0



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Birmingham Road (Magic United FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Magic United 2 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 1



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Spencer Park (Brisbane City FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Brisbane City 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Lions FC 4



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Spencer Park (Brisbane City FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 17• Brisbane City 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Lions FC 1











NBL1 North



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 8• Northside Wizards 80 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sunshine Coast Phoenix 84



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 8• Northside Wizards 80 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sunshine Coast Phoenix 79











HART Premier Netball League (HPNL)



Sunday, June 7, 2026 (Nissan Arena-Court 7) – HART Premier Netball League (HPNL) – Women – Round 5• Bond University Bull Sharks Ruby 56 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Kedron-Wavell Cougars Ruby 69




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[








QAFL



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 10• Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 66 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sherwood QAFL Seniors 100



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Cooke-Murphy Oval / Cooke-Murphy Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 10• Labrador QAFL Seniors 131 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 80







QAFLW



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 8• Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 21 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 22



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 8• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 42 &nbsp; | &nbsp; University of Queensland QAFLW Seniors 23















FQPL1



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Ballinger Park (Buderim Wanderers &amp; Sunshine Coast Wanderers)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 14• Sunshine Coast Wanderers 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; North Star 0



Sunday, June 7, 2026 (Walton Bridge Reserve (The Gap FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 8• The Gap FC 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Virginia United 1







NPL



Friday, June 5, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Moreton City Excelsior 0



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Birmingham Road (Magic United FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Magic United 2 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 1



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Spencer Park (Brisbane City FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Brisbane City 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Lions FC 4



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Spencer Park (Brisbane City FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 17• Brisbane City 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Lions FC 1











NBL1 North



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 8• Northside Wizards 80 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sunshine Coast Phoenix 84



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 8• Northside Wizards 80 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sunshine Coast Phoenix 79











HART Premier Netball League (HPNL)



Sunday, June 7, 2026 (Nissan Arena-Court 7) – HART Premier Netball League (HPNL) – Women – Round 5• Bond University Bull Sharks Ruby 56 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Kedron-Wavell Cougars Ruby 69




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[One More Step: Socceroos Face World Cup Crossroads Against Paraguay]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3-scaled.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3-scaled.png"/>
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<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:19:06 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 19-21 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-19-21-June-2026-scaled.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-19-21-June-2026-scaled.png"/>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:37:12 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Wilston Grange Roads Targeted in Massive Brisbane Repair Blitz]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/wilston-grange-roads-targeted-in-massive-brisbane-repair-blitz</link>
<media:content url="https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Wilston-Grange-scaled.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Wilston-Grange-scaled.png"/>
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<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:23:51 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane City Council]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[infrastructure]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local government rates]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Operation Smooth]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[public transport]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[road resurfacing]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wilston Grange]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/?page_id=26548</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Motorists in Wilston Grange and across Brisbane are set to benefit from nearly one million square metres of fresh bitumen as the local official commits an enormous $110 million to smooth out the city's aging road network.



Read: Thousands of Victoria Park Assets to Go Under the Hammer as Brisbane Landmark Enters Next Chapter



Operation Smooth Hits the Suburbs



Photo Credits: Google Maps



Photo Credits: Google Maps



The massive infrastructure package, dubbed Operation Smooth, was announced this week and focuses on repairing heavily used streets throughout the city. Wilston Road in the Grange is slated for planned surface renewal and maintenance works. The program aims to direct funds toward busy routes that carry tens of thousands of vehicles daily. Other areas scheduled for priority resurfacing include Albion, Eagle Farm, Hamilton, Ipswich, Logan, Lutwyche, Moggill, and Toowong.&nbsp;



The most prominent repair job will take place on the southern approach to the Story Bridge. This section, which forms part of the National Highway Network, has been deteriorating for months. Emergency actions were previously required to secure the bridge footpaths after chunks of concrete threatened to fall onto boats below. The new repairs follow a recent pothole blitz that saw repair crews filling a pothole every two minutes at the height of the program.



The Cost to Households



Funding these widespread upgrades will impact local households. The new council budget introduces a rate increase of at least 3.97% for homeowners, with some suburbs experiencing jumps as high as 7.5%. The minimum rates cost for Brisbane residents will now sit at $948.64. Council leadership explained that total city debt was reduced by about $200 million, which lowered loan repayments and kept the rate increases smaller than those in neighbouring regions. Opposition figures argued against the effectiveness of the spending, suggesting that road maintenance had been neglected for over two decades.&nbsp;



They also claimed the current road repair budget is simply a recycled version of a $100 million policy from 2015, noting that inflation makes the current investment worth significantly less. The council leadership dismissed these claims, rejecting accusations of underspending and stating that all planned works were consistently completed, even when weather delays pushed them into a new timeline.



Upgrades Beyond the Pavement



Photo Credits: Google Maps



The broader $1.9 billion transport and infrastructure budget extends well beyond fixing potholes. A sum of $213 million will be directed toward subsidising bus, CityCat, and Brisbane Metro services. The city is also planning major intersection upgrades in Inala and Coorparoo, a new crossing in Bald Hills, and the progression of the Beams Road corridor project. Active transport is receiving a significant boost as well. A $63 million investment will fund new footpaths and bikeways, including a 1.2-kilometre cycleway linking Shafston Avenue between Kangaroo Point and East Brisbane.&nbsp;



To further ease traffic, Vulture Street in West End will be converted into a clearway, banning on-street parking during peak hours. A similar clearway plan launched last year reportedly saved drivers a combined 1,000 hours a week in travel delays, though some small businesses along the routes noted a drop in customer trade.



Read: Victoria Park Closure Marks End Of A Familiar Herston Landmark



Navigating Future Growth



As Brisbane continues to experience rapid population growth, local authorities are pressing for more federal support. Council leaders highlighted that local governments collect only a fraction of tax revenue while delivering a large portion of daily services. They noted that despite Brisbane and Perth being the only capitals seeing a net gain of residents moving from other states, federal infrastructure funding has largely gone elsewhere, such as a multi-billion dollar rail project in Melbourne. The council hopes to secure a fairer share of federal money to keep up with the rising demand on local roads and public transport networks.



Published Date 22-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Motorists in Wilston Grange and across Brisbane are set to benefit from nearly one million square metres of fresh bitumen as the local official commits an enormous $110 million to smooth out the city's aging road network.



Read: Thousands of Victoria Park Assets to Go Under the Hammer as Brisbane Landmark Enters Next Chapter



Operation Smooth Hits the Suburbs



Photo Credits: Google Maps



Photo Credits: Google Maps



The massive infrastructure package, dubbed Operation Smooth, was announced this week and focuses on repairing heavily used streets throughout the city. Wilston Road in the Grange is slated for planned surface renewal and maintenance works. The program aims to direct funds toward busy routes that carry tens of thousands of vehicles daily. Other areas scheduled for priority resurfacing include Albion, Eagle Farm, Hamilton, Ipswich, Logan, Lutwyche, Moggill, and Toowong.&nbsp;



The most prominent repair job will take place on the southern approach to the Story Bridge. This section, which forms part of the National Highway Network, has been deteriorating for months. Emergency actions were previously required to secure the bridge footpaths after chunks of concrete threatened to fall onto boats below. The new repairs follow a recent pothole blitz that saw repair crews filling a pothole every two minutes at the height of the program.



The Cost to Households



Funding these widespread upgrades will impact local households. The new council budget introduces a rate increase of at least 3.97% for homeowners, with some suburbs experiencing jumps as high as 7.5%. The minimum rates cost for Brisbane residents will now sit at $948.64. Council leadership explained that total city debt was reduced by about $200 million, which lowered loan repayments and kept the rate increases smaller than those in neighbouring regions. Opposition figures argued against the effectiveness of the spending, suggesting that road maintenance had been neglected for over two decades.&nbsp;



They also claimed the current road repair budget is simply a recycled version of a $100 million policy from 2015, noting that inflation makes the current investment worth significantly less. The council leadership dismissed these claims, rejecting accusations of underspending and stating that all planned works were consistently completed, even when weather delays pushed them into a new timeline.



Upgrades Beyond the Pavement



Photo Credits: Google Maps



The broader $1.9 billion transport and infrastructure budget extends well beyond fixing potholes. A sum of $213 million will be directed toward subsidising bus, CityCat, and Brisbane Metro services. The city is also planning major intersection upgrades in Inala and Coorparoo, a new crossing in Bald Hills, and the progression of the Beams Road corridor project. Active transport is receiving a significant boost as well. A $63 million investment will fund new footpaths and bikeways, including a 1.2-kilometre cycleway linking Shafston Avenue between Kangaroo Point and East Brisbane.&nbsp;



To further ease traffic, Vulture Street in West End will be converted into a clearway, banning on-street parking during peak hours. A similar clearway plan launched last year reportedly saved drivers a combined 1,000 hours a week in travel delays, though some small businesses along the routes noted a drop in customer trade.



Read: Victoria Park Closure Marks End Of A Familiar Herston Landmark



Navigating Future Growth



As Brisbane continues to experience rapid population growth, local authorities are pressing for more federal support. Council leaders highlighted that local governments collect only a fraction of tax revenue while delivering a large portion of daily services. They noted that despite Brisbane and Perth being the only capitals seeing a net gain of residents moving from other states, federal infrastructure funding has largely gone elsewhere, such as a multi-billion dollar rail project in Melbourne. The council hopes to secure a fairer share of federal money to keep up with the rising demand on local roads and public transport networks.



Published Date 22-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope</link>
<media:content url="https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/USA-Australia-hero-image-scaled.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/USA-Australia-hero-image-scaled.png"/>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:43:16 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
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</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Thousands of Victoria Park Assets to Go Under the Hammer as Brisbane Landmark Enters Next Chapter]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/thousands-of-victoria-park-assets-to-go-under-the-hammer-as-brisbane-landmark-enters-next-chapter</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:30:05 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Olympics]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lloyd Auctions]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Olympics]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Victoria Park]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/?page_id=26522</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
For many Brisbane residents, Victoria Park was more than a golf course.



Over nearly three decades, the inner-city venue became the setting for weddings, family celebrations, corporate events, school functions, social golf outings and countless community gatherings. While debate continues over the future of the site and its role in Brisbane's Olympic preparations, one chapter of Victoria Park's history is now set to be dispersed across homes and businesses around Australia.



Read: Victoria Park Closure Marks End Of A Familiar Herston Landmark



Thousands of assets from the former Victoria Park precinct will be auctioned later this month, with every item starting at just $1.



The three-part online auction series, conducted by Lloyds Auctions, follows the precinct's closure on 31 May after notice to vacate was issued to facilitate construction associated with Brisbane's planned 2032 Olympic stadium project.



A Chance to Own a Piece of Victoria Park



The auction will include thousands of items that were used throughout the venue's hospitality, events, golf and maintenance operations.



Buyers will have the opportunity to bid on commercial kitchen equipment, bar and hospitality assets, event infrastructure, furniture, vehicles, golf-related equipment and groundskeeping machinery that formed part of the site's day-to-day operations.



For many former patrons, the sale may offer a rare opportunity to acquire a tangible piece of a venue that played a significant role in Brisbane's social and recreational life for 27 years.



Photo Credit: Supplied



What Is Being Sold?



According to Lloyds Auctions, the offering spans virtually every aspect of the former Victoria Park operation, reflecting the scale of the precinct before its closure.



"This is a substantial commercial asset liquidation with thousands of items being offered across three separate auctions," said Lee Hames, Chief Operations Officer at Lloyds Auctions.



"With all assets starting from $1, the sale presents an opportunity for businesses and buyers to secure practical equipment and operational stock across a number of categories."



The auction catalogue includes:




Commercial hospitality equipment



Event and function infrastructure



Furniture and venue fit-out items



Golf course and driving range equipment



Groundskeeping and maintenance machinery



Vehicles and operational assets




The sale is expected to attract interest from hospitality operators, event hire companies, golf businesses, landscapers, facilities managers and small business owners.



Photo Credit: Supplied



The End of an Era



Victoria Park operated for 27 years and became one of Brisbane's best-known leisure and hospitality destinations.



Beyond golf, the venue hosted weddings, conferences, corporate events, community functions and public gatherings, making it a familiar destination for generations of Brisbane residents.



As preparations begin for the site's next phase, the auction will effectively clear the operational contents of the former venue, allowing equipment and infrastructure from across the precinct to find new homes.



"The range of assets reflects the scale of the former Victoria Park operations, from hospitality and events equipment through to golf, grounds and broader site infrastructure," Mr Hames said.



Read: Heritage Protection Bids For Victoria Park Knocked Back As Olympic Stadium Works Begin



Auction Dates



The auction series will be conducted online, with buyers able to participate from anywhere in Australia.




Front of the HouseClosing 29 June from 10am









Buildings, Buggies &amp; MaintenanceClosing 30 June from 10am









Back of HouseClosing 30 June from 2pm








Further catalogue and inspection details are available through Lloyds Auctions.



Published 19-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
For many Brisbane residents, Victoria Park was more than a golf course.



Over nearly three decades, the inner-city venue became the setting for weddings, family celebrations, corporate events, school functions, social golf outings and countless community gatherings. While debate continues over the future of the site and its role in Brisbane's Olympic preparations, one chapter of Victoria Park's history is now set to be dispersed across homes and businesses around Australia.



Read: Victoria Park Closure Marks End Of A Familiar Herston Landmark



Thousands of assets from the former Victoria Park precinct will be auctioned later this month, with every item starting at just $1.



The three-part online auction series, conducted by Lloyds Auctions, follows the precinct's closure on 31 May after notice to vacate was issued to facilitate construction associated with Brisbane's planned 2032 Olympic stadium project.



A Chance to Own a Piece of Victoria Park



The auction will include thousands of items that were used throughout the venue's hospitality, events, golf and maintenance operations.



Buyers will have the opportunity to bid on commercial kitchen equipment, bar and hospitality assets, event infrastructure, furniture, vehicles, golf-related equipment and groundskeeping machinery that formed part of the site's day-to-day operations.



For many former patrons, the sale may offer a rare opportunity to acquire a tangible piece of a venue that played a significant role in Brisbane's social and recreational life for 27 years.



Photo Credit: Supplied



What Is Being Sold?



According to Lloyds Auctions, the offering spans virtually every aspect of the former Victoria Park operation, reflecting the scale of the precinct before its closure.



"This is a substantial commercial asset liquidation with thousands of items being offered across three separate auctions," said Lee Hames, Chief Operations Officer at Lloyds Auctions.



"With all assets starting from $1, the sale presents an opportunity for businesses and buyers to secure practical equipment and operational stock across a number of categories."



The auction catalogue includes:




Commercial hospitality equipment



Event and function infrastructure



Furniture and venue fit-out items



Golf course and driving range equipment



Groundskeeping and maintenance machinery



Vehicles and operational assets




The sale is expected to attract interest from hospitality operators, event hire companies, golf businesses, landscapers, facilities managers and small business owners.



Photo Credit: Supplied



The End of an Era



Victoria Park operated for 27 years and became one of Brisbane's best-known leisure and hospitality destinations.



Beyond golf, the venue hosted weddings, conferences, corporate events, community functions and public gatherings, making it a familiar destination for generations of Brisbane residents.



As preparations begin for the site's next phase, the auction will effectively clear the operational contents of the former venue, allowing equipment and infrastructure from across the precinct to find new homes.



"The range of assets reflects the scale of the former Victoria Park operations, from hospitality and events equipment through to golf, grounds and broader site infrastructure," Mr Hames said.



Read: Heritage Protection Bids For Victoria Park Knocked Back As Olympic Stadium Works Begin



Auction Dates



The auction series will be conducted online, with buyers able to participate from anywhere in Australia.




Front of the HouseClosing 29 June from 10am









Buildings, Buggies &amp; MaintenanceClosing 30 June from 10am









Back of HouseClosing 30 June from 2pm








Further catalogue and inspection details are available through Lloyds Auctions.



Published 19-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:53:37 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Herston Scientists Discover Hundreds of Genes Linked to Melanoma Risk]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/herston-scientists-discover-hundreds-of-genes-linked-to-melanoma-risk</link>
<media:content url="https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Shanika_Matthew_001-scaled.jpg" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Shanika_Matthew_001-scaled.jpg"/>
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<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:28:44 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane health news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[genetics]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Herston]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Herston Health Precinct]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Matthew Law]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[medical research]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[melanoma]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[melanoma risk]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mole count]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nature Communications]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[QIMR Berghofer]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland research]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Shanika Jayasinghe]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[skin cancer]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/?page_id=26493</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Scientists working in Herston have helped uncover hundreds of genes linked to mole growth and melanoma, a discovery that could lead to better ways of identifying people at risk of Australia’s deadliest skin cancer.



Read: QIMR Berghofer in Herston Develops AI Tool to Detect Hidden Cancers



Researchers from QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute led the world’s largest genetic study into what determines how many moles a person develops. The study analysed genetic data from 85,965 people of European ancestry and identified 24 previously unknown genetic regions linked to mole count.



Published in Nature Communications, the research offers fresh insight into the biological processes that drive both mole formation and melanoma, which remains one of Australia’s most common cancers.



Decades of Skin Cancer Research Lead to New Findings



The project was led by researchers from QIMR Berghofer’s Genetics and Skin Cancer Laboratory in Herston, continuing a long line of melanoma research carried out at the institute.



Lead author Shanika Jayasinghe said the study builds on years of work aimed at understanding why some people develop many moles and why some of those moles can progress to melanoma.



Moles and melanomas both develop from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment. While mole growth usually stops after a cluster of cells forms, melanoma develops when those cells continue multiplying uncontrollably.



Researchers identified 29 genetic regions associated with mole count, including 24 that had not previously been found in studies focused solely on moles. The team also pinpointed more than 250 genes that may play a role in mole development and melanoma risk.



High Mole Counts Remain a Key Melanoma Risk Factor



The findings reinforce what skin cancer researchers have known for many years: people with a large number of moles face a higher risk of melanoma.



The study notes that high mole counts are among the strongest known risk factors for melanoma. Researchers also found strong genetic overlap between the factors that influence mole numbers and those linked to melanoma development.



Using advanced genetic analysis, the team found evidence that a genetic tendency to develop more moles contributes directly to a person’s melanoma risk. This helps explain why some individuals remain more vulnerable to the disease even when traditional risk factors such as sun exposure and skin pigmentation are taken into account.







Immune System Clues Could Shape Future Treatments



One of the most interesting discoveries involved a gene known as SIKE1, which plays a role in regulating immune responses.



Researchers believe the gene may influence how effectively the body’s immune system identifies and controls abnormal melanocyte growth. If future studies confirm that role, the pathway could become a target for new melanoma treatments or prevention strategies.



The study also highlighted several biological pathways linked to cancers that are not primarily associated with skin pigmentation, including breast, prostate and brain cancers. Researchers say this suggests melanoma may share underlying biological mechanisms with other forms of cancer.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Genetic Risk Scores May Improve Early Detection



The Herston team used the findings to develop a Polygenic Risk Score designed to estimate a person’s inherited tendency to develop large numbers of moles.



While the tool is not yet ready for routine clinical use, researchers believe it could eventually be incorporated into melanoma risk assessment programs. Combining genetic information with existing screening methods may help doctors identify people who would benefit from closer monitoring and earlier intervention.



The study’s authors say larger datasets will be needed to identify additional genetic factors and further improve risk prediction.



Herston at the Centre of Queensland’s Medical Research Precinct



The research was conducted through QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, located in Herston alongside the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and other major medical and research facilities.



The institute has played a significant role in melanoma research for decades and contributed to some of the largest studies examining the genetics of skin cancer.



Read: QIMR Study Finds Australian Children Have Fewer Moles And Lower Melanoma Risk 



Despite improvements in treatment, melanoma continues to claim around 1,400 Australian lives each year. Researchers hope the latest findings will help create more personalised approaches to prevention, screening and treatment in the years ahead.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Scientists working in Herston have helped uncover hundreds of genes linked to mole growth and melanoma, a discovery that could lead to better ways of identifying people at risk of Australia’s deadliest skin cancer.



Read: QIMR Berghofer in Herston Develops AI Tool to Detect Hidden Cancers



Researchers from QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute led the world’s largest genetic study into what determines how many moles a person develops. The study analysed genetic data from 85,965 people of European ancestry and identified 24 previously unknown genetic regions linked to mole count.



Published in Nature Communications, the research offers fresh insight into the biological processes that drive both mole formation and melanoma, which remains one of Australia’s most common cancers.



Decades of Skin Cancer Research Lead to New Findings



The project was led by researchers from QIMR Berghofer’s Genetics and Skin Cancer Laboratory in Herston, continuing a long line of melanoma research carried out at the institute.



Lead author Shanika Jayasinghe said the study builds on years of work aimed at understanding why some people develop many moles and why some of those moles can progress to melanoma.



Moles and melanomas both develop from melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing skin pigment. While mole growth usually stops after a cluster of cells forms, melanoma develops when those cells continue multiplying uncontrollably.



Researchers identified 29 genetic regions associated with mole count, including 24 that had not previously been found in studies focused solely on moles. The team also pinpointed more than 250 genes that may play a role in mole development and melanoma risk.



High Mole Counts Remain a Key Melanoma Risk Factor



The findings reinforce what skin cancer researchers have known for many years: people with a large number of moles face a higher risk of melanoma.



The study notes that high mole counts are among the strongest known risk factors for melanoma. Researchers also found strong genetic overlap between the factors that influence mole numbers and those linked to melanoma development.



Using advanced genetic analysis, the team found evidence that a genetic tendency to develop more moles contributes directly to a person’s melanoma risk. This helps explain why some individuals remain more vulnerable to the disease even when traditional risk factors such as sun exposure and skin pigmentation are taken into account.







Immune System Clues Could Shape Future Treatments



One of the most interesting discoveries involved a gene known as SIKE1, which plays a role in regulating immune responses.



Researchers believe the gene may influence how effectively the body’s immune system identifies and controls abnormal melanocyte growth. If future studies confirm that role, the pathway could become a target for new melanoma treatments or prevention strategies.



The study also highlighted several biological pathways linked to cancers that are not primarily associated with skin pigmentation, including breast, prostate and brain cancers. Researchers say this suggests melanoma may share underlying biological mechanisms with other forms of cancer.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Genetic Risk Scores May Improve Early Detection



The Herston team used the findings to develop a Polygenic Risk Score designed to estimate a person’s inherited tendency to develop large numbers of moles.



While the tool is not yet ready for routine clinical use, researchers believe it could eventually be incorporated into melanoma risk assessment programs. Combining genetic information with existing screening methods may help doctors identify people who would benefit from closer monitoring and earlier intervention.



The study’s authors say larger datasets will be needed to identify additional genetic factors and further improve risk prediction.



Herston at the Centre of Queensland’s Medical Research Precinct



The research was conducted through QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, located in Herston alongside the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital and other major medical and research facilities.



The institute has played a significant role in melanoma research for decades and contributed to some of the largest studies examining the genetics of skin cancer.



Read: QIMR Study Finds Australian Children Have Fewer Moles And Lower Melanoma Risk 



Despite improvements in treatment, melanoma continues to claim around 1,400 Australian lives each year. Researchers hope the latest findings will help create more personalised approaches to prevention, screening and treatment in the years ahead.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 23:07:25 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Popovic's Gamble Pays Off As Socceroos Deliver Famous World Cup Statement]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement</link>
<media:content url="https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Australia-Turkey-hero-image-scaled.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Australia-Turkey-hero-image-scaled.png"/>
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<pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2026 07:56:33 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Chiefs End Reds' Season with Clinical Second-Half Surge in Hamilton]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/chiefs-end-reds-season-with-clinical-second-half-surge-in-hamilton</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2026 03:30:30 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Chiefs vs Reds]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland Reds]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[super rugby]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/?page_id=26423</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Queensland's Super Rugby Pacific campaign came to an end at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton on 8 June, with the Chiefs claiming a 46-24 victory in the Qualifying Final.



The Reds struck first, absorbed plenty of early pressure and remained within touching distance for much of the contest, but the Chiefs' ability to convert territory and possession into points proved decisive. After taking a 22-15 lead into halftime, the New Zealand side controlled the second half and finished with seven tries to three.



For a Reds side that had earned a finals berth after a strong finish to the regular season, it was a frustrating end to a season that had shown considerable promise.



Fast Start Before Chiefs Hit Back



The opening exchanges suggested the visitors were ready for the challenge.



After Fraser McReight punched through the defensive line in the fourth minute, the Reds capitalised moments later when Lukhan Salakaia-Loto crashed over from close range. Carter Gordon added the conversion to give Queensland an early 7-3 lead.



The advantage lasted only briefly.



The Chiefs responded almost immediately through Kyren Taumoefolau after a sharp break from halfback Cortez Ratima. Damian McKenzie missed the conversion, but the home side's attacking intent was clear.



As possession and field position began to tilt towards the Chiefs, further opportunities followed. Hooker Samisoni Taukei'aho crossed after sustained forward pressure before prop Aidan Ross powered over midway through the half.



The Reds remained in the contest thanks to Gordon's boot and some opportunistic attacking play, but a yellow card to Salakaia-Loto in the 17th minute forced them to spend ten minutes a man down against one of the competition's most dangerous attacking sides.



Discipline and Territory Begin to Tell



The statistics painted a clear picture of how the contest was unfolding.



The Chiefs finished with 53 per cent possession, ran for 471 metres compared with Queensland's 309 and produced six clean breaks to four. While the Reds matched them physically in several areas, including defenders beaten and tackles completed, they spent too much time defending inside their own half.



The visitors did earn a measure of reward when Chiefs forward Kyle Brown was shown a yellow card in the 31st minute, allowing Gordon to narrow the margin with a penalty goal.



However, just before halftime the Chiefs struck another blow. A series of pick-and-go phases ended with Taumoefolau scoring his second try, helping the hosts carry a seven-point advantage into the sheds.



Chiefs Take Control After the Break



The Reds needed the first score of the second half but instead conceded within six minutes of the restart.



McKenzie crossed from close range after repeated pressure near the line, extending the margin to 29-15 and forcing Queensland to chase the game.



Jock Campbell produced one of the Reds' best moments shortly after with a damaging line break that reignited hopes of a comeback. Matt Faessler eventually finished a driving maul in the 68th minute, with Gordon converting to reduce the deficit to 36-24.



For a brief period, the contest felt alive.



The Chiefs quickly extinguished that hope.



McKenzie added a penalty goal before finishing off another sweeping movement in the closing stages. Isaac Hutchinson then crossed in the final minutes to put a harsh edge on the scoreboard and seal the 22-point result.



A Season Ends, But Foundations Remain



Despite the final margin, the Reds never stopped competing.



They matched the Chiefs in turnovers won, were efficient at the breakdown and again demonstrated the resilience that carried them into the finals. Their lineout operated effectively for much of the night, while the forward pack continued to generate opportunities through maul pressure.



Ultimately, however, the Chiefs' superior execution in key moments proved decisive. The home side converted their territorial dominance into seven tries, controlled possession for long stretches and punished defensive lapses whenever they appeared.



The 46-24 result brings Queensland's 2026 Super Rugby Pacific campaign to a close at the first hurdle of the finals series. It is not the ending the Reds wanted, but the season still offered clear signs that the group is capable of challenging the competition's best. The task now is turning that promise into a deeper finals run in 2027.



Published 6-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Queensland's Super Rugby Pacific campaign came to an end at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton on 8 June, with the Chiefs claiming a 46-24 victory in the Qualifying Final.



The Reds struck first, absorbed plenty of early pressure and remained within touching distance for much of the contest, but the Chiefs' ability to convert territory and possession into points proved decisive. After taking a 22-15 lead into halftime, the New Zealand side controlled the second half and finished with seven tries to three.



For a Reds side that had earned a finals berth after a strong finish to the regular season, it was a frustrating end to a season that had shown considerable promise.



Fast Start Before Chiefs Hit Back



The opening exchanges suggested the visitors were ready for the challenge.



After Fraser McReight punched through the defensive line in the fourth minute, the Reds capitalised moments later when Lukhan Salakaia-Loto crashed over from close range. Carter Gordon added the conversion to give Queensland an early 7-3 lead.



The advantage lasted only briefly.



The Chiefs responded almost immediately through Kyren Taumoefolau after a sharp break from halfback Cortez Ratima. Damian McKenzie missed the conversion, but the home side's attacking intent was clear.



As possession and field position began to tilt towards the Chiefs, further opportunities followed. Hooker Samisoni Taukei'aho crossed after sustained forward pressure before prop Aidan Ross powered over midway through the half.



The Reds remained in the contest thanks to Gordon's boot and some opportunistic attacking play, but a yellow card to Salakaia-Loto in the 17th minute forced them to spend ten minutes a man down against one of the competition's most dangerous attacking sides.



Discipline and Territory Begin to Tell



The statistics painted a clear picture of how the contest was unfolding.



The Chiefs finished with 53 per cent possession, ran for 471 metres compared with Queensland's 309 and produced six clean breaks to four. While the Reds matched them physically in several areas, including defenders beaten and tackles completed, they spent too much time defending inside their own half.



The visitors did earn a measure of reward when Chiefs forward Kyle Brown was shown a yellow card in the 31st minute, allowing Gordon to narrow the margin with a penalty goal.



However, just before halftime the Chiefs struck another blow. A series of pick-and-go phases ended with Taumoefolau scoring his second try, helping the hosts carry a seven-point advantage into the sheds.



Chiefs Take Control After the Break



The Reds needed the first score of the second half but instead conceded within six minutes of the restart.



McKenzie crossed from close range after repeated pressure near the line, extending the margin to 29-15 and forcing Queensland to chase the game.



Jock Campbell produced one of the Reds' best moments shortly after with a damaging line break that reignited hopes of a comeback. Matt Faessler eventually finished a driving maul in the 68th minute, with Gordon converting to reduce the deficit to 36-24.



For a brief period, the contest felt alive.



The Chiefs quickly extinguished that hope.



McKenzie added a penalty goal before finishing off another sweeping movement in the closing stages. Isaac Hutchinson then crossed in the final minutes to put a harsh edge on the scoreboard and seal the 22-point result.



A Season Ends, But Foundations Remain



Despite the final margin, the Reds never stopped competing.



They matched the Chiefs in turnovers won, were efficient at the breakdown and again demonstrated the resilience that carried them into the finals. Their lineout operated effectively for much of the night, while the forward pack continued to generate opportunities through maul pressure.



Ultimately, however, the Chiefs' superior execution in key moments proved decisive. The home side converted their territorial dominance into seven tries, controlled possession for long stretches and punished defensive lapses whenever they appeared.



The 46-24 result brings Queensland's 2026 Super Rugby Pacific campaign to a close at the first hurdle of the finals series. It is not the ending the Reds wanted, but the season still offered clear signs that the group is capable of challenging the competition's best. The task now is turning that promise into a deeper finals run in 2027.



Published 6-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Think You Know the Breakfast Creek Hotel? Here Are 5 Remarkable Stories Behind the Brisbane Icon]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/think-you-know-the-breakfast-creek-hotel-here-are-5-remarkable-stories-behind-the-brisbane-icon</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2026 03:00:10 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Australian history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Breakfast Creek]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Breakfast Creek history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Breakfast Creek Hotel]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane community]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane heritage]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane landmarks]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane pubs]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clayfield]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clayfield Community News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Great Flood of 1893]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[heritage buildings]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[heritage pub]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[John Oxley]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[North Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Victorian architecture]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[William McNaughton Galloway]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/?page_id=25576</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
For more than 135 years, the Breakfast Creek Hotel has been part of Brisbane’s story. Sitting beside the creek that gave it its name, the heritage pub is best known for its famous steaks, cold beer and striking Victorian architecture.



Read: A Closer Look at Dunaverty, Albion’s Heritage-listed Treasure



Yet there is far more to the building than many people realise. Over the decades, it has survived major floods, welcomed generations of Brisbane families and become the setting for stories that continue to capture local interest. Even the name “Breakfast Creek” has an unusual origin dating back to one of the earliest European expeditions into the Moreton Bay area.



Here are five fascinating facts that show why the Breakfast Creek Hotel is much more than a popular place to eat.



The Hotel Was Built by Brisbane’s Mayor, but He Never Saw Its Full Legacy



The Breakfast Creek Hotel was built in 1889 during a period of rapid growth across Brisbane. The man behind the project was William McNaughton Galloway, a successful businessman who also served as Brisbane’s Mayor in the same year.



Photo Credit: Wikimedia/Public Domain



Galloway invested in a large two-storeyed brick hotel designed by architects George Simkin and John Ibler. Wide verandas, decorative iron lacework and spacious public rooms gave the building a distinctive appearance that still attracts visitors today.



Only a few years after the hotel was completed, tragedy struck. In 1895, Galloway fell from a second-floor window at the hotel and later died from his injuries. A later inquiry examined the circumstances surrounding the incident and heard that he had been intoxicated before the fall.



His death soon became part of local folklore. The hotel’s official history notes that staff and visitors have shared ghost stories linked to Galloway over many years. Whether people believe those stories or simply enjoy the history behind them, they remain one of the hotel’s best-known legends.



The Great Flood of 1893 Turned the Hotel Into a Refuge



Today, most visitors know the Breakfast Creek Hotel as a place to meet friends or enjoy a meal. During Brisbane’s Great Flood of 1893, however, it served a much different purpose.



The disaster remains one of the most significant floods in the city’s history. Heavy rain caused the Brisbane River and nearby waterways to rise rapidly, leaving many surrounding areas underwater.



Historical records show that the hotel’s upper floors became a refuge for people escaping the floodwaters while the lower levels were affected by rising water. The building’s sturdy construction helped it survive an event that caused widespread destruction across Brisbane.



Photo Credit: Wikimedia/Public Domain



More than a century later, history repeated itself when floodwaters again reached the hotel during the 2022 Brisbane floods. Although the city has changed dramatically since the nineteenth century, the Breakfast Creek Hotel continues to stand as one of the few buildings that has witnessed both disasters.



The Hotel Helped Shape Brisbane’s Pub Dining Culture



The Breakfast Creek Hotel is famous for its steaks, but its influence reaches beyond the menu.



Over the years, the hotel introduced several ideas that became well known across Brisbane’s hospitality industry. One of its most popular traditions allowed diners to choose their own steak from a refrigerated display before it was cooked over an outdoor grill. This remains one of the hotel’s signature attractions today.



Photo Credit: Breakfast Creek Hotel



The venue also became known for its beer garden dining at a time when outdoor meals were still uncommon in Brisbane. It later introduced one of the city’s early drive-through bottle shops, offering customers a level of convenience that was unusual for the period.



While these ideas may seem ordinary today, they helped shape the way many Brisbane pubs developed during the twentieth century.



For Decades, It Was One of Brisbane’s Favourite Meeting Places



The Breakfast Creek Hotel has long attracted a wide range of visitors.



Its location near the Brisbane River and the city’s wharves made it a popular destination for waterside workers, local businesses and residents from nearby suburbs, including Clayfield, Albion, Hamilton and Newstead.



Queensland’s heritage records also recognise the hotel’s long association with working-class communities, waterside workers, members of the Australian Labor Party and other local organisations that regularly gathered there throughout much of the twentieth century. Alongside these groups, countless families, sporting clubs and community organisations have also made the hotel part of their own traditions.



This long history of bringing people together has helped make the Breakfast Creek Hotel more than a heritage building. For many Brisbane families, it has become a place linked to celebrations, reunions and memorable meals across several generations.



The Famous Name Began With a Simple Breakfast Beside the Creek



The story behind the hotel’s name goes back much further than the building itself.



In 1824, explorer John Oxley travelled through the Moreton Bay area while searching for a suitable location for a new settlement. During the expedition, his party stopped beside a small creek to eat breakfast.



According to the Queensland Places historical records, the waterway became known as Breakfast Creek after that meal. The same records also note that the expedition later had an encounter with local Aboriginal people near the site. Over time, the name was adopted for the creek, the surrounding district and eventually the hotel built there more than 60 years later.



More than two centuries after Oxley’s journey, Breakfast Creek remains one of Brisbane’s most recognisable place names, linking the city’s earliest colonial history with one of its best-known heritage hotels.



Photo Credit: Wikipedia/CC BY-SA 3.0



More Than 135 Years of Brisbane History Under One Roof



The Breakfast Creek Hotel has survived changing ownership, devastating floods and Brisbane’s remarkable growth from a colonial settlement into a modern capital city. While many historic hotels have disappeared or undergone major alterations, this landmark has retained much of the character that first made it famous.



Read: Enderley Road Home Changes Hands After Nearly Six Decades in One Family 



Its Victorian architecture continues to attract visitors, but it is the stories connected to the building that leave the strongest impression. Across Brisbane’s northside, including Clayfield, it remains a familiar landmark that connects today’s community with Brisbane’s past. More than a century after it was built, the hotel continues to earn its place as one of Queensland’s most enduring local icons.



Published 26-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
For more than 135 years, the Breakfast Creek Hotel has been part of Brisbane’s story. Sitting beside the creek that gave it its name, the heritage pub is best known for its famous steaks, cold beer and striking Victorian architecture.



Read: A Closer Look at Dunaverty, Albion’s Heritage-listed Treasure



Yet there is far more to the building than many people realise. Over the decades, it has survived major floods, welcomed generations of Brisbane families and become the setting for stories that continue to capture local interest. Even the name “Breakfast Creek” has an unusual origin dating back to one of the earliest European expeditions into the Moreton Bay area.



Here are five fascinating facts that show why the Breakfast Creek Hotel is much more than a popular place to eat.



The Hotel Was Built by Brisbane’s Mayor, but He Never Saw Its Full Legacy



The Breakfast Creek Hotel was built in 1889 during a period of rapid growth across Brisbane. The man behind the project was William McNaughton Galloway, a successful businessman who also served as Brisbane’s Mayor in the same year.



Photo Credit: Wikimedia/Public Domain



Galloway invested in a large two-storeyed brick hotel designed by architects George Simkin and John Ibler. Wide verandas, decorative iron lacework and spacious public rooms gave the building a distinctive appearance that still attracts visitors today.



Only a few years after the hotel was completed, tragedy struck. In 1895, Galloway fell from a second-floor window at the hotel and later died from his injuries. A later inquiry examined the circumstances surrounding the incident and heard that he had been intoxicated before the fall.



His death soon became part of local folklore. The hotel’s official history notes that staff and visitors have shared ghost stories linked to Galloway over many years. Whether people believe those stories or simply enjoy the history behind them, they remain one of the hotel’s best-known legends.



The Great Flood of 1893 Turned the Hotel Into a Refuge



Today, most visitors know the Breakfast Creek Hotel as a place to meet friends or enjoy a meal. During Brisbane’s Great Flood of 1893, however, it served a much different purpose.



The disaster remains one of the most significant floods in the city’s history. Heavy rain caused the Brisbane River and nearby waterways to rise rapidly, leaving many surrounding areas underwater.



Historical records show that the hotel’s upper floors became a refuge for people escaping the floodwaters while the lower levels were affected by rising water. The building’s sturdy construction helped it survive an event that caused widespread destruction across Brisbane.



Photo Credit: Wikimedia/Public Domain



More than a century later, history repeated itself when floodwaters again reached the hotel during the 2022 Brisbane floods. Although the city has changed dramatically since the nineteenth century, the Breakfast Creek Hotel continues to stand as one of the few buildings that has witnessed both disasters.



The Hotel Helped Shape Brisbane’s Pub Dining Culture



The Breakfast Creek Hotel is famous for its steaks, but its influence reaches beyond the menu.



Over the years, the hotel introduced several ideas that became well known across Brisbane’s hospitality industry. One of its most popular traditions allowed diners to choose their own steak from a refrigerated display before it was cooked over an outdoor grill. This remains one of the hotel’s signature attractions today.



Photo Credit: Breakfast Creek Hotel



The venue also became known for its beer garden dining at a time when outdoor meals were still uncommon in Brisbane. It later introduced one of the city’s early drive-through bottle shops, offering customers a level of convenience that was unusual for the period.



While these ideas may seem ordinary today, they helped shape the way many Brisbane pubs developed during the twentieth century.



For Decades, It Was One of Brisbane’s Favourite Meeting Places



The Breakfast Creek Hotel has long attracted a wide range of visitors.



Its location near the Brisbane River and the city’s wharves made it a popular destination for waterside workers, local businesses and residents from nearby suburbs, including Clayfield, Albion, Hamilton and Newstead.



Queensland’s heritage records also recognise the hotel’s long association with working-class communities, waterside workers, members of the Australian Labor Party and other local organisations that regularly gathered there throughout much of the twentieth century. Alongside these groups, countless families, sporting clubs and community organisations have also made the hotel part of their own traditions.



This long history of bringing people together has helped make the Breakfast Creek Hotel more than a heritage building. For many Brisbane families, it has become a place linked to celebrations, reunions and memorable meals across several generations.



The Famous Name Began With a Simple Breakfast Beside the Creek



The story behind the hotel’s name goes back much further than the building itself.



In 1824, explorer John Oxley travelled through the Moreton Bay area while searching for a suitable location for a new settlement. During the expedition, his party stopped beside a small creek to eat breakfast.



According to the Queensland Places historical records, the waterway became known as Breakfast Creek after that meal. The same records also note that the expedition later had an encounter with local Aboriginal people near the site. Over time, the name was adopted for the creek, the surrounding district and eventually the hotel built there more than 60 years later.



More than two centuries after Oxley’s journey, Breakfast Creek remains one of Brisbane’s most recognisable place names, linking the city’s earliest colonial history with one of its best-known heritage hotels.



Photo Credit: Wikipedia/CC BY-SA 3.0



More Than 135 Years of Brisbane History Under One Roof



The Breakfast Creek Hotel has survived changing ownership, devastating floods and Brisbane’s remarkable growth from a colonial settlement into a modern capital city. While many historic hotels have disappeared or undergone major alterations, this landmark has retained much of the character that first made it famous.



Read: Enderley Road Home Changes Hands After Nearly Six Decades in One Family 



Its Victorian architecture continues to attract visitors, but it is the stories connected to the building that leave the strongest impression. Across Brisbane’s northside, including Clayfield, it remains a familiar landmark that connects today’s community with Brisbane’s past. More than a century after it was built, the hotel continues to earn its place as one of Queensland’s most enduring local icons.



Published 26-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[One More Step: Socceroos Face World Cup Crossroads Against Paraguay]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://clayfieldnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://clayfieldnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://clayfieldnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png" length="1350150" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:19:01 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[A Closer Look at Dunaverty, Albion's Heritage-listed Treasure]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/a-closer-look-at-dunaverty-albions-heritage-listed-treasure</link>
<media:content url="https://clayfieldnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FI-for-OMC-2026-06-25T081914.478.webp" medium="image"/>
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<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:29:08 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Albion]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Archibald McNish Fraser]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dunaverty]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/?page_id=25559</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Just a short distance from Clayfield, one of Albion's most distinctive heritage homes continues to tell a story that began during Brisbane's property boom of the 1880s.







Read: Delve into the Fascinating History of Four Heritage-Listed Mansions in Clayfield







Known as Dunaverty, the heritage-listed residence on the corner of Birkbeck and Hudson roads is notable not only for its ornate appearance but also for the personal touches left behind by its original owner, builder and real estate entrepreneur Archibald McNish Fraser.



Constructed in 1887, the timber cottage remains an important reminder of a period when Brisbane was expanding rapidly and ambitious newcomers were helping shape the city's future.



The vision of a Scottish newcomer



Sketch of Fraser, Archibald McNish (Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland. Image number: 167284)



Fraser arrived in Brisbane from Argyllshire, Scotland, in 1880 after completing his apprenticeship as a builder. Although he arrived with limited financial resources, he quickly established himself as a contractor working in Brisbane and Cleveland.



His career soon expanded beyond construction. By the mid-1880s, Fraser had moved into real estate, purchasing the Albion site from his father-in-law, John Barclay, in 1885. Two years later, he launched the Onward Real Property Mart, the same year Dunaverty was completed.



Fraser's business success attracted attention. The Aldine History of Queensland later recognised him among a generation of young businessmen who had prospered in Brisbane, while newspaper reports of the era described his company as one of the city's leading real estate enterprises.



Heritage records suggest Dunaverty may have served as a showcase for Fraser's growing business interests as well as a family home.



A house filled with personal details



Decorative detailing on Dunaverty (Photo credit: BCC)



While Dunaverty's verandahs, decorative timberwork and corrugated iron roof make it visually striking, some of its most fascinating features are found in the details. Fraser incorporated references to his Scottish heritage throughout the property. Thistle motifs, associated with Scotland, appear in decorative ironwork, timber features, ceiling roses and fanlights.



Dunaverty (2006); Photo credit: Heritage Branch staff/Queensland Heritage Register



The home also contains a more personal connection to the Fraser family. Fanlights above the front doors feature the names and nicknames of Fraser's wife, Jemima, and three of their children: Nellie, Charlie, Mima and Katie.



These design elements help distinguish Dunaverty from many other nineteenth-century homes and offer a rare insight into the people who first lived there.



Featured on the Albion Heritage Trail



Albion Heritage Trail map (Photo credit: BCC)



Today, Dunaverty is one of the sites included on Brisbane City's Albion Heritage Trail, which highlights places connected to the suburb's history. The house occupies a prominent corner position and stands out among neighbouring cottages because of its decorative features and architectural character. Heritage documentation describes it as making a picturesque contribution to the streetscape.



For residents interested in local history, Dunaverty provides a tangible connection to Albion's development during Brisbane's late nineteenth-century growth.



More than 130 years of history



Dunaverty (2025); Photo credit: Heritage Branch staff/Queensland Heritage Register



The Fraser family did not remain at Dunaverty for long. During the economic depression of the early 1890s, they relocated to West End, where Fraser had property interests. Although the family retained ownership until 1912, the house was occupied by a succession of tenants for much of that time.



That year, the property was purchased by William McGregor and renamed Carvarmore. Over subsequent decades it changed owners several times and underwent a number of modifications, including additions to the rear of the house.







Read: Scaled Back Albion Exchange Development Proposal Relodged







Despite these changes, much of the original residence remains intact. Heritage records note that some original cedar joinery and ironmongery were stolen while the house sat vacant in 1998, but many of its defining features have survived.



Today, Dunaverty continues to reflect both the aspirations of its builder and an important chapter in Albion's history. More than a century after its construction, the house remains a visible reminder of the people and enterprises that helped shape Brisbane's northern suburbs.



Published 25-June-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Just a short distance from Clayfield, one of Albion's most distinctive heritage homes continues to tell a story that began during Brisbane's property boom of the 1880s.







Read: Delve into the Fascinating History of Four Heritage-Listed Mansions in Clayfield







Known as Dunaverty, the heritage-listed residence on the corner of Birkbeck and Hudson roads is notable not only for its ornate appearance but also for the personal touches left behind by its original owner, builder and real estate entrepreneur Archibald McNish Fraser.



Constructed in 1887, the timber cottage remains an important reminder of a period when Brisbane was expanding rapidly and ambitious newcomers were helping shape the city's future.



The vision of a Scottish newcomer



Sketch of Fraser, Archibald McNish (Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland. Image number: 167284)



Fraser arrived in Brisbane from Argyllshire, Scotland, in 1880 after completing his apprenticeship as a builder. Although he arrived with limited financial resources, he quickly established himself as a contractor working in Brisbane and Cleveland.



His career soon expanded beyond construction. By the mid-1880s, Fraser had moved into real estate, purchasing the Albion site from his father-in-law, John Barclay, in 1885. Two years later, he launched the Onward Real Property Mart, the same year Dunaverty was completed.



Fraser's business success attracted attention. The Aldine History of Queensland later recognised him among a generation of young businessmen who had prospered in Brisbane, while newspaper reports of the era described his company as one of the city's leading real estate enterprises.



Heritage records suggest Dunaverty may have served as a showcase for Fraser's growing business interests as well as a family home.



A house filled with personal details



Decorative detailing on Dunaverty (Photo credit: BCC)



While Dunaverty's verandahs, decorative timberwork and corrugated iron roof make it visually striking, some of its most fascinating features are found in the details. Fraser incorporated references to his Scottish heritage throughout the property. Thistle motifs, associated with Scotland, appear in decorative ironwork, timber features, ceiling roses and fanlights.



Dunaverty (2006); Photo credit: Heritage Branch staff/Queensland Heritage Register



The home also contains a more personal connection to the Fraser family. Fanlights above the front doors feature the names and nicknames of Fraser's wife, Jemima, and three of their children: Nellie, Charlie, Mima and Katie.



These design elements help distinguish Dunaverty from many other nineteenth-century homes and offer a rare insight into the people who first lived there.



Featured on the Albion Heritage Trail



Albion Heritage Trail map (Photo credit: BCC)



Today, Dunaverty is one of the sites included on Brisbane City's Albion Heritage Trail, which highlights places connected to the suburb's history. The house occupies a prominent corner position and stands out among neighbouring cottages because of its decorative features and architectural character. Heritage documentation describes it as making a picturesque contribution to the streetscape.



For residents interested in local history, Dunaverty provides a tangible connection to Albion's development during Brisbane's late nineteenth-century growth.



More than 130 years of history



Dunaverty (2025); Photo credit: Heritage Branch staff/Queensland Heritage Register



The Fraser family did not remain at Dunaverty for long. During the economic depression of the early 1890s, they relocated to West End, where Fraser had property interests. Although the family retained ownership until 1912, the house was occupied by a succession of tenants for much of that time.



That year, the property was purchased by William McGregor and renamed Carvarmore. Over subsequent decades it changed owners several times and underwent a number of modifications, including additions to the rear of the house.







Read: Scaled Back Albion Exchange Development Proposal Relodged







Despite these changes, much of the original residence remains intact. Heritage records note that some original cedar joinery and ironmongery were stolen while the house sat vacant in 1998, but many of its defining features have survived.



Today, Dunaverty continues to reflect both the aspirations of its builder and an important chapter in Albion's history. More than a century after its construction, the house remains a visible reminder of the people and enterprises that helped shape Brisbane's northern suburbs.



Published 25-June-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Clayfield Students Mark Arts Day With Creativity and House Spirit]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/clayfield-students-mark-arts-day-with-creativity-and-house-spirit</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 08:36:07 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Arts Day]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clayfield]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clayfield Arts Day]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clayfield College]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[House competition]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[school arts]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[student workshops]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/?page_id=25537</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Clayfield Arts Day brought Years 6 to 12 students together for House performances, hands-on workshops and a day of activities shaped by the theme Be Strong, Strive for the Stars.



Read: Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope



Arts Day was held on Wednesday, 17 June, the final Wednesday of Term 2, after Houses spent the lead-up choosing songs and dances for the event.



The day gave students a program built around performance, practical activities and House involvement. Each House prepared a song and dance, with students taking part in workshops and performances as part of the competition for the Arts Day Cup.



The theme, Be Strong, Strive for the Stars, shaped a program that combined rehearsed House items with a broader set of creative activities across the day.



Photo Credit: Foundry Media/Clayfield College/Facebook



House Competitions Take The Stage



The House Choral Competition formed a key part of the program, with Campbell House recognised for its performance of Man in the Mirror.



The House Dance Competition also brought Houses to the stage, with Youngman House recognised for a creative and high-energy dance.



The choral and dance competitions gave students a shared focus for the day, with each House contributing performances prepared ahead of the event. The format placed singing, movement and House participation at the centre of the program.



Photo Credit: Foundry Media/Clayfield College/Facebook



Workshops Broaden The Clayfield Program



Students also joined hands-on workshops throughout Arts Day, adding activities beyond the House competitions.



The workshop program included stage combat, musical theatre, robotics, visual arts, Zumba and fondant cake decorating. The mix gave students opportunities to take part in theatre, movement, technology, visual work and practical creative activities.



The range of workshops helped shape Arts Day as more than a performance program, with students able to try different activities while taking part in the end-of-term event.



Photo Credit: Foundry Media/Clayfield College/Facebook



Semester Ends With Arts Focus



Arts Day closed Semester 1 with a program centred on participation, confidence and connection through the arts.



Read: Enderley Road Home Changes Hands After Nearly Six Decades in One Family



For Clayfield students in Years 6 to 12, the event brought together competition, workshops and House performances in one end-of-term program. Campbell House and Youngman House were among the Houses recognised for their choral and dance contributions, while the wider day gave students several ways to take part.



Published 23-June-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Clayfield Arts Day brought Years 6 to 12 students together for House performances, hands-on workshops and a day of activities shaped by the theme Be Strong, Strive for the Stars.



Read: Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope



Arts Day was held on Wednesday, 17 June, the final Wednesday of Term 2, after Houses spent the lead-up choosing songs and dances for the event.



The day gave students a program built around performance, practical activities and House involvement. Each House prepared a song and dance, with students taking part in workshops and performances as part of the competition for the Arts Day Cup.



The theme, Be Strong, Strive for the Stars, shaped a program that combined rehearsed House items with a broader set of creative activities across the day.



Photo Credit: Foundry Media/Clayfield College/Facebook



House Competitions Take The Stage



The House Choral Competition formed a key part of the program, with Campbell House recognised for its performance of Man in the Mirror.



The House Dance Competition also brought Houses to the stage, with Youngman House recognised for a creative and high-energy dance.



The choral and dance competitions gave students a shared focus for the day, with each House contributing performances prepared ahead of the event. The format placed singing, movement and House participation at the centre of the program.



Photo Credit: Foundry Media/Clayfield College/Facebook



Workshops Broaden The Clayfield Program



Students also joined hands-on workshops throughout Arts Day, adding activities beyond the House competitions.



The workshop program included stage combat, musical theatre, robotics, visual arts, Zumba and fondant cake decorating. The mix gave students opportunities to take part in theatre, movement, technology, visual work and practical creative activities.



The range of workshops helped shape Arts Day as more than a performance program, with students able to try different activities while taking part in the end-of-term event.



Photo Credit: Foundry Media/Clayfield College/Facebook



Semester Ends With Arts Focus



Arts Day closed Semester 1 with a program centred on participation, confidence and connection through the arts.



Read: Enderley Road Home Changes Hands After Nearly Six Decades in One Family



For Clayfield students in Years 6 to 12, the event brought together competition, workshops and House performances in one end-of-term program. Campbell House and Youngman House were among the Houses recognised for their choral and dance contributions, while the wider day gave students several ways to take part.



Published 23-June-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 19-21 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:37:08 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:43:13 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Case of Clayfield Businessman’s Death Moves to Supreme Court]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/case-of-clayfield-businessmans-death-moves-to-supreme-court</link>
<media:content url="https://clayfieldnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Supreme-Court-of-Queensland.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://clayfieldnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Supreme-Court-of-Queensland.png"/>
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<pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2026 01:50:23 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Children’s Court]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane court news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clayfield]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clayfield homicide investigation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Greg Josephson]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Greg Josephson case]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Oriel Road]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland courts]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland Police Service]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Supreme Court of Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Universal Store]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/?page_id=25547</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A teenager accused of the murder of Brisbane businessman Greg Josephson has been committed to stand trial in the Supreme Court of Queensland, marking a significant development in a case that has drawn widespread public interest.



Read: Clayfield Teen Charged with Murder of Local Businessman Greg Josephson



The accused, who was 15 years old at the time of the alleged offence in June 2025, appeared in the court via video link for a committal hearing. He did not enter a plea and remains in custody while the matter progresses through the court system.



Matter Formally Committed for Trial



The hearing was held to determine whether the prosecution's case is sufficient to proceed to a higher court.



During proceedings, the court was told that the brief of evidence includes 104 witness statements. The matter was formally committed to the Supreme Court for trial at a future date. No trial date has yet been publicly announced.



When asked by the magistrate whether he wished to present evidence or say anything in answer to the charge, the teenager declined. He also chose not to enter a plea at this stage.



High-Profile Business Figure



Mr Josephson, 58, was found deceased at a Clayfield residence in June 2025.



Emergency services were originally called to the property following reports of a serious incident during a gathering. Police later arrested and charged a teenage boy with murder.



Mr Josephson was a prominent and well-known figure in Queensland’s retail sector, recognized nationally as a co-founder of the youth fashion retailer Universal Store.



Read: Update: Police Renew Appeal in Greg Josephson Homicide Investigation 



As the case has not yet been heard by a jury at trial, the allegations against the accused remain untested in court.



Published 19-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A teenager accused of the murder of Brisbane businessman Greg Josephson has been committed to stand trial in the Supreme Court of Queensland, marking a significant development in a case that has drawn widespread public interest.



Read: Clayfield Teen Charged with Murder of Local Businessman Greg Josephson



The accused, who was 15 years old at the time of the alleged offence in June 2025, appeared in the court via video link for a committal hearing. He did not enter a plea and remains in custody while the matter progresses through the court system.



Matter Formally Committed for Trial



The hearing was held to determine whether the prosecution's case is sufficient to proceed to a higher court.



During proceedings, the court was told that the brief of evidence includes 104 witness statements. The matter was formally committed to the Supreme Court for trial at a future date. No trial date has yet been publicly announced.



When asked by the magistrate whether he wished to present evidence or say anything in answer to the charge, the teenager declined. He also chose not to enter a plea at this stage.



High-Profile Business Figure



Mr Josephson, 58, was found deceased at a Clayfield residence in June 2025.



Emergency services were originally called to the property following reports of a serious incident during a gathering. Police later arrested and charged a teenage boy with murder.



Mr Josephson was a prominent and well-known figure in Queensland’s retail sector, recognized nationally as a co-founder of the youth fashion retailer Universal Store.



Read: Update: Police Renew Appeal in Greg Josephson Homicide Investigation 



As the case has not yet been heard by a jury at trial, the allegations against the accused remain untested in court.



Published 19-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Enderley Road Home Changes Hands After Nearly Six Decades in One Family]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/enderley-road-home-changes-hands-after-nearly-six-decades-in-one-family</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2026 05:28:41 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[14 Enderley Road]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr Brian Hirschfeld]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Enderley Road]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/?page_id=25476</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
For nearly six decades, the home at 14 Enderley Road in Clayfield remained in the hands of the same Clayfield family.







Read: Enderley Road Heritage Precinct: From Pineapple Farms to Clayfield’s Best Street







Now, after 57 years of ownership, the property has entered a new chapter, selling under the hammer for $4.55 million. The four-bedroom home, set on a 1,062-square-metre block, attracted strong interest when it went to auction, drawing multiple registered bidders and a large crowd of onlookers.



A New Chapter for a Long-Held Family Home



Photo credit: Ray White



The property was the longtime family residence of renowned Brisbane endocrinologist Dr Brian Hirschfeld, who lived there for decades.



Following his passing almost two years ago, the family prepared the home for sale, sorting through furniture, documents and possessions accumulated over more than half a century.



Photo credit: Ray White



Situated on one of Clayfield's most prestigious and tightly held streets, the home offered buyers a rare opportunity to secure a large parcel of land in an established inner-north suburb.



According to Ray White Collective, the property occupies two lots with dual street frontage and retains many original character features, including high ceilings, VJ walls, French doors and hardwood flooring.



The home had remained largely untouched and was described as the last unrenovated house on Enderley Road.



Competitive Auction Draws Strong Interest



Photo credit: Ray White



Dozens of neighbours and interested buyers gathered for the on-site auction to watch the sale unfold. Bidding opened at $3 million and competition came from five of the 10 registered bidders before narrowing to two parties in the final stages. At $4.5 million the property was declared on the market before selling for $4.55 million.



The successful purchasers, a family of six, secured the home after a search that had reportedly lasted three years. The buyers are understood to be planning a restoration of the property, having engaged an architect shortly after first inspecting the home.



The result came amid a softer auction market, with clearance rates and buyer inspections reported to have declined in recent months across South East Queensland.



Rare Land Holdings Continue to Attract Buyers



Photo credit: Ray White



The strong result suggests large landholdings in established suburbs continue to attract buyer interest. Properties of this scale rarely become available on Enderley Road, where sales are infrequent and ownership is tightly held.



The property's large block size, character features and location were key elements highlighted during the sales campaign. Ray White's campaign described the property as an opportunity to renovate the existing residence into a substantial family estate or explore future development possibilities, subject to the necessary approvals.



The listing also highlighted the elevated site's north-south orientation, district outlook and dual street frontage.







Read: Street Spotlight: Enderley Rd, Clayfield







End of an Era, Beginning of Another



The sale closes a chapter for a property that had remained in the same family for 57 years.



After nearly six decades under the care of one family, the home is set to begin a new phase with owners who intend to restore and reinvest in the property.



In a suburb where opportunities of this scale are uncommon, the $4.55 million result reflects the strong buyer interest generated by the property's size, history and potential.



Published 18-June-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
For nearly six decades, the home at 14 Enderley Road in Clayfield remained in the hands of the same Clayfield family.







Read: Enderley Road Heritage Precinct: From Pineapple Farms to Clayfield’s Best Street







Now, after 57 years of ownership, the property has entered a new chapter, selling under the hammer for $4.55 million. The four-bedroom home, set on a 1,062-square-metre block, attracted strong interest when it went to auction, drawing multiple registered bidders and a large crowd of onlookers.



A New Chapter for a Long-Held Family Home



Photo credit: Ray White



The property was the longtime family residence of renowned Brisbane endocrinologist Dr Brian Hirschfeld, who lived there for decades.



Following his passing almost two years ago, the family prepared the home for sale, sorting through furniture, documents and possessions accumulated over more than half a century.



Photo credit: Ray White



Situated on one of Clayfield's most prestigious and tightly held streets, the home offered buyers a rare opportunity to secure a large parcel of land in an established inner-north suburb.



According to Ray White Collective, the property occupies two lots with dual street frontage and retains many original character features, including high ceilings, VJ walls, French doors and hardwood flooring.



The home had remained largely untouched and was described as the last unrenovated house on Enderley Road.



Competitive Auction Draws Strong Interest



Photo credit: Ray White



Dozens of neighbours and interested buyers gathered for the on-site auction to watch the sale unfold. Bidding opened at $3 million and competition came from five of the 10 registered bidders before narrowing to two parties in the final stages. At $4.5 million the property was declared on the market before selling for $4.55 million.



The successful purchasers, a family of six, secured the home after a search that had reportedly lasted three years. The buyers are understood to be planning a restoration of the property, having engaged an architect shortly after first inspecting the home.



The result came amid a softer auction market, with clearance rates and buyer inspections reported to have declined in recent months across South East Queensland.



Rare Land Holdings Continue to Attract Buyers



Photo credit: Ray White



The strong result suggests large landholdings in established suburbs continue to attract buyer interest. Properties of this scale rarely become available on Enderley Road, where sales are infrequent and ownership is tightly held.



The property's large block size, character features and location were key elements highlighted during the sales campaign. Ray White's campaign described the property as an opportunity to renovate the existing residence into a substantial family estate or explore future development possibilities, subject to the necessary approvals.



The listing also highlighted the elevated site's north-south orientation, district outlook and dual street frontage.







Read: Street Spotlight: Enderley Rd, Clayfield







End of an Era, Beginning of Another



The sale closes a chapter for a property that had remained in the same family for 57 years.



After nearly six decades under the care of one family, the home is set to begin a new phase with owners who intend to restore and reinvest in the property.



In a suburb where opportunities of this scale are uncommon, the $4.55 million result reflects the strong buyer interest generated by the property's size, history and potential.



Published 18-June-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:53:32 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 22:51:36 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[One More Step: Socceroos Face World Cup Crossroads Against Paraguay]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026</link>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://ascotnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png"/>
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<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:19:08 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[From St Margaret’s to The Lion King: Ascot Graduate Lands Dream Role in Disney Musical]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/from-st-margarets-to-the-lion-king-ascot-graduate-lands-dream-role-in-disney-musical</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:48:40 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Akari Komoto]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[arts education Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ascot]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Capitol Theatre Sydney]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community achievement]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Disney The Lion King]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[musical theatre]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[North Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[WAAPA]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/?page_id=11815</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Akari Komoto, a graduate of St Margaret's Anglican Girls School, has landed the role of Music Associate on Disney's Australian production of The Lion King, currently playing at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney.



Read: Albion Memorial Wall Gives Fallen Firefighters a Lasting Place of Honour



It is the kind of career milestone that tends to feel both earned and surprising at once, but for those who watched Akari move through St Margaret's music programme between 2017 and 2021, the trajectory makes complete sense. She arrived at school not particularly fond of musical theatre. She left bound for one of the most celebrated stage productions in the world.



A teacher's suggestion that changed everything



Akari credits a pivotal conversation in her final year of school for setting her on the path to musical directing. Her music teacher, Mr Ng, suggested she look into the field, a career direction she had never previously considered. After researching it herself, she realised musical directing combined everything she loved about music into a viable profession.



Photo Credit: St Margaret's



Before that conversation, her school years had already been building something. Akari performed in three St Margaret's school productions, and by her own account, the experience transformed her relationship with musical theatre entirely.



"The school musicals were life-changing experiences," Akari said. "I didn't really like musical theatre at first, but I had the chance to play in three school productions, and with each one, I felt my love for the art form grow more and more. In the end, I went from disliking musical theatre to wanting to live and breathe it, and that's when I knew I wanted to pursue it as a career."



From Ascot, Akari went on to study at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), graduating with a Bachelor of Music Honours in Composition and Sonic Arts, before landing her role on The Lion King.



Sitting in the pit at the Capitol Theatre



The Music Associate role places Akari directly inside the production's musical operation, and her first show as Keyboard 1 in front of a live audience was an experience she has described in vivid terms.



Photo Credit: Akari Komoto Music



"It's such a surreal and overwhelming feeling being part of this show," Akari said. "From the very first note of 'Circle of Life', you can feel the audience shift as they're taken back to the film and their childhood."



"A moment that made it feel real was playing my first show as Keyboard 1 in front of an audience. I don't think I've been that nervous in a long time — my arms and legs were shaking during the first song but by halfway through Act 1 I started to relax and really felt present with the rest of the band and cast. That was the moment when it really hit me."



The production she is now part of has reached more than 124 million people worldwide across its decades-long run. The Australian season brings the full scale of that production to the Capitol Theatre, with the visual artistry, costume design and live musicianship that have made it one of the most recognised stage shows in history.



The show's themes land differently from inside the pit



Working on The Lion King has given Akari an unexpected personal resonance with the story she helps tell every night.



        View this post on Instagram            




"In the short time I've been working on the show, it has made me more aware and prouder of my Japanese heritage," she said. "That idea of understanding who we are because of the people who came before us is such a powerful message that should be constantly retold, and it's something that resonates with me. To be able to play even a small part in sharing that legacy story with so many people is incredibly special and something I'm so grateful to be a part of."



That reflection extends to how she thinks about the arts more broadly, and about the role that school communities play in shaping what young people believe is possible.



"The arts is truly a unique and powerful community," Akari said. "It's provided me with a sense of purpose and direction. It also fosters empathy and understanding in a world that should strive more towards those qualities."



Experience the production live&nbsp;



Disney's The Lion King is currently in a strictly limited season at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney. The production runs approximately two hours and thirty minutes including a 20-minute interval and is recommended for ages six and up. Accessible performances including Auslan-interpreted, audio-described and relaxed sessions are available during August.



Tickets and session information are available here.



Read: Why This Deep-Fried Wagyu Curry Bun Is Turning Heads at Eat Street



Published 25-June-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Akari Komoto, a graduate of St Margaret's Anglican Girls School, has landed the role of Music Associate on Disney's Australian production of The Lion King, currently playing at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney.



Read: Albion Memorial Wall Gives Fallen Firefighters a Lasting Place of Honour



It is the kind of career milestone that tends to feel both earned and surprising at once, but for those who watched Akari move through St Margaret's music programme between 2017 and 2021, the trajectory makes complete sense. She arrived at school not particularly fond of musical theatre. She left bound for one of the most celebrated stage productions in the world.



A teacher's suggestion that changed everything



Akari credits a pivotal conversation in her final year of school for setting her on the path to musical directing. Her music teacher, Mr Ng, suggested she look into the field, a career direction she had never previously considered. After researching it herself, she realised musical directing combined everything she loved about music into a viable profession.



Photo Credit: St Margaret's



Before that conversation, her school years had already been building something. Akari performed in three St Margaret's school productions, and by her own account, the experience transformed her relationship with musical theatre entirely.



"The school musicals were life-changing experiences," Akari said. "I didn't really like musical theatre at first, but I had the chance to play in three school productions, and with each one, I felt my love for the art form grow more and more. In the end, I went from disliking musical theatre to wanting to live and breathe it, and that's when I knew I wanted to pursue it as a career."



From Ascot, Akari went on to study at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), graduating with a Bachelor of Music Honours in Composition and Sonic Arts, before landing her role on The Lion King.



Sitting in the pit at the Capitol Theatre



The Music Associate role places Akari directly inside the production's musical operation, and her first show as Keyboard 1 in front of a live audience was an experience she has described in vivid terms.



Photo Credit: Akari Komoto Music



"It's such a surreal and overwhelming feeling being part of this show," Akari said. "From the very first note of 'Circle of Life', you can feel the audience shift as they're taken back to the film and their childhood."



"A moment that made it feel real was playing my first show as Keyboard 1 in front of an audience. I don't think I've been that nervous in a long time — my arms and legs were shaking during the first song but by halfway through Act 1 I started to relax and really felt present with the rest of the band and cast. That was the moment when it really hit me."



The production she is now part of has reached more than 124 million people worldwide across its decades-long run. The Australian season brings the full scale of that production to the Capitol Theatre, with the visual artistry, costume design and live musicianship that have made it one of the most recognised stage shows in history.



The show's themes land differently from inside the pit



Working on The Lion King has given Akari an unexpected personal resonance with the story she helps tell every night.



        View this post on Instagram            




"In the short time I've been working on the show, it has made me more aware and prouder of my Japanese heritage," she said. "That idea of understanding who we are because of the people who came before us is such a powerful message that should be constantly retold, and it's something that resonates with me. To be able to play even a small part in sharing that legacy story with so many people is incredibly special and something I'm so grateful to be a part of."



That reflection extends to how she thinks about the arts more broadly, and about the role that school communities play in shaping what young people believe is possible.



"The arts is truly a unique and powerful community," Akari said. "It's provided me with a sense of purpose and direction. It also fosters empathy and understanding in a world that should strive more towards those qualities."



Experience the production live&nbsp;



Disney's The Lion King is currently in a strictly limited season at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney. The production runs approximately two hours and thirty minutes including a 20-minute interval and is recommended for ages six and up. Accessible performances including Auslan-interpreted, audio-described and relaxed sessions are available during August.



Tickets and session information are available here.



Read: Why This Deep-Fried Wagyu Curry Bun Is Turning Heads at Eat Street



Published 25-June-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Champion Performances Continue for St Margaret’s Girls in Pool and Water Polo Arenas]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/champion-performances-continue-for-st-margarets-girls-in-pool-and-water-polo-arenas</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2026 07:37:02 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bless Daly]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lifesaving Championships]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/?page_id=11795</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Students at St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Ascot are marking a series of sporting achievements, including success at the Royal Life Saving Society Queensland Secondary School State Lifesaving Championships and Australian squad selection for Year 12 student Bless Daly.







Read: Music Journeys: How St Margaret’s Old Girls Are Inspiring the Next Generation







The achievements span both lifesaving and water polo, with students earning recognition at state and international levels.



Lifesaving Team Continues Championship Legacy







Photo credit: Facebook/St Margaret's Anglican Girls School



A team of 42 St Margaret’s students travelled to Sunshine Coast Grammar School on 2 June to compete in the Royal Life Saving Society Queensland (RLSSQ) 2026 Secondary School State Lifesaving Championships.



The students retained the Sheena Dyason Shield for Champion School Female while also securing the Judith Beal Shield as the overall champion school. The result continues a long tradition of success for the school's lifesaving program.



The pool lifesaving competition is run by the Royal Life Saving Society and includes a range of events for both individuals and teams. The school’s lifesaving program has enjoyed sustained success over many years, with St Margaret’s claiming the Sheena Dyason Shield for Champion School Female at the Queensland Secondary Schools Life Saving Championships for more than 20 years.



In its Facebook post, the school said the result reflected the students’ hard work and commitment and congratulated every student who competed.



Water Polo Star Earns National Selection







Photo credit: Facebook/St Margaret's Anglican Girls School



Adding to the celebrations, Year 12 student Bless Daly has been selected in Australia’s 15-player squad for the 2026 World Aquatics Water Polo World Cup Finals, which will be held in Sydney next month.



The selection marks another milestone for Daly, who recently made her debut as an Aussie Stinger, representing Australia at the World Aquatics World Cup Division 1 competition in the Netherlands.



During the tournament, Daly was named player of the match. St Margaret’s congratulated Daly on her selection. Her inclusion in the Australian squad brings her a step closer to her long-term ambition of representing Australia at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.







Read: St Margaret’s Ascot Educator Named Among Australia’s Most Influential 2025







Sporting Success Across Multiple Disciplines



The recent achievements span two of the school’s sporting programs, lifesaving and water polo.



From its long-running success in lifesaving competition to Daly’s selection for an Australian representative team, the achievements mark a significant period for the school’s sporting programs.



The results add to a growing list of sporting achievements by St Margaret’s students during 2026.



Published 24-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Students at St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Ascot are marking a series of sporting achievements, including success at the Royal Life Saving Society Queensland Secondary School State Lifesaving Championships and Australian squad selection for Year 12 student Bless Daly.







Read: Music Journeys: How St Margaret’s Old Girls Are Inspiring the Next Generation







The achievements span both lifesaving and water polo, with students earning recognition at state and international levels.



Lifesaving Team Continues Championship Legacy







Photo credit: Facebook/St Margaret's Anglican Girls School



A team of 42 St Margaret’s students travelled to Sunshine Coast Grammar School on 2 June to compete in the Royal Life Saving Society Queensland (RLSSQ) 2026 Secondary School State Lifesaving Championships.



The students retained the Sheena Dyason Shield for Champion School Female while also securing the Judith Beal Shield as the overall champion school. The result continues a long tradition of success for the school's lifesaving program.



The pool lifesaving competition is run by the Royal Life Saving Society and includes a range of events for both individuals and teams. The school’s lifesaving program has enjoyed sustained success over many years, with St Margaret’s claiming the Sheena Dyason Shield for Champion School Female at the Queensland Secondary Schools Life Saving Championships for more than 20 years.



In its Facebook post, the school said the result reflected the students’ hard work and commitment and congratulated every student who competed.



Water Polo Star Earns National Selection







Photo credit: Facebook/St Margaret's Anglican Girls School



Adding to the celebrations, Year 12 student Bless Daly has been selected in Australia’s 15-player squad for the 2026 World Aquatics Water Polo World Cup Finals, which will be held in Sydney next month.



The selection marks another milestone for Daly, who recently made her debut as an Aussie Stinger, representing Australia at the World Aquatics World Cup Division 1 competition in the Netherlands.



During the tournament, Daly was named player of the match. St Margaret’s congratulated Daly on her selection. Her inclusion in the Australian squad brings her a step closer to her long-term ambition of representing Australia at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.







Read: St Margaret’s Ascot Educator Named Among Australia’s Most Influential 2025







Sporting Success Across Multiple Disciplines



The recent achievements span two of the school’s sporting programs, lifesaving and water polo.



From its long-running success in lifesaving competition to Daly’s selection for an Australian representative team, the achievements mark a significant period for the school’s sporting programs.



The results add to a growing list of sporting achievements by St Margaret’s students during 2026.



Published 24-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Albion Memorial Wall Gives Fallen Firefighters a Lasting Place of Honour]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/albion-memorial-wall-gives-fallen-firefighters-a-lasting-place-of-honour</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 06:32:59 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Albion]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[fallen firefighters]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[memorial wall]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[QFD Headquarters]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland Fire Department]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland Fire Legacy]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/?page_id=11778</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A new memorial wall at Queensland Fire Department Headquarters in Albion has created a public place of remembrance for 60 firefighters who died in the line of duty while protecting Queensland communities.



Read: Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane



A 12-metre memorial wall has been unveiled at Queensland Fire Department Headquarters in Albion, carrying the names of 60 Queensland firefighters who died in the line of duty.



The wall stands at the entrance to the new headquarters, giving the tribute a prominent and publicly viewable place within the facility. It honours Queensland Fire and Rescue and Rural Fire Service firefighters whose service ended while protecting communities across Queensland.



Photo Credit: QFD/Facebook



The earliest name listed is Brisbane volunteer firefighter James Thomas Mooney, who died on 25 March 1877.



Family and friends gathered for the opening of the memorial wall, marking a formal moment of remembrance for those named on the tribute. The wall is open for relatives, friends, QFD personnel and members of the public to view.



A Public Place for Remembrance in Albion



The memorial has been installed as part of the new QFD headquarters in Albion, following an extensive refurbishment of the facility.



The headquarters is now home to more than 900 QFD personnel. With the wall positioned at the entryway, the names of fallen firefighters are placed where they can be seen by those working at the site and by visitors to the headquarters.



Photo Credit: QFD/Facebook



Its public location gives families, colleagues and the wider community a clearer place to remember firefighters who died in service. Rather than being limited to internal recognition, the memorial brings those names into a visible space connected to the ongoing work of Queensland’s fire services.



The opening also marked the launch of Queensland Fire Legacy, a dedicated charity supporting QFD staff, volunteers and their families.



Community Response Follows Opening



Public responses to the memorial described it as a fitting tribute to fallen firefighters and a permanent reminder of the risks faced by frontline crews.



Several comments shared after the opening thanked those involved in creating the wall, while others offered messages of remembrance for the firefighters whose names are now displayed at the Albion headquarters.



Photo Credit: QFD/Facebook



The feedback centred on the wall’s role as a respectful and lasting tribute, particularly for the 60 firefighters recognised for losing their lives while serving Queensland communities.



Read: Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope



Future plaques on the memorial wall will also recognise personnel lost as a result of service, including deaths linked to recognised presumptive illnesses.



The memorial wall was officially unveiled on 19 June 2026.



Published 23-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A new memorial wall at Queensland Fire Department Headquarters in Albion has created a public place of remembrance for 60 firefighters who died in the line of duty while protecting Queensland communities.



Read: Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane



A 12-metre memorial wall has been unveiled at Queensland Fire Department Headquarters in Albion, carrying the names of 60 Queensland firefighters who died in the line of duty.



The wall stands at the entrance to the new headquarters, giving the tribute a prominent and publicly viewable place within the facility. It honours Queensland Fire and Rescue and Rural Fire Service firefighters whose service ended while protecting communities across Queensland.



Photo Credit: QFD/Facebook



The earliest name listed is Brisbane volunteer firefighter James Thomas Mooney, who died on 25 March 1877.



Family and friends gathered for the opening of the memorial wall, marking a formal moment of remembrance for those named on the tribute. The wall is open for relatives, friends, QFD personnel and members of the public to view.



A Public Place for Remembrance in Albion



The memorial has been installed as part of the new QFD headquarters in Albion, following an extensive refurbishment of the facility.



The headquarters is now home to more than 900 QFD personnel. With the wall positioned at the entryway, the names of fallen firefighters are placed where they can be seen by those working at the site and by visitors to the headquarters.



Photo Credit: QFD/Facebook



Its public location gives families, colleagues and the wider community a clearer place to remember firefighters who died in service. Rather than being limited to internal recognition, the memorial brings those names into a visible space connected to the ongoing work of Queensland’s fire services.



The opening also marked the launch of Queensland Fire Legacy, a dedicated charity supporting QFD staff, volunteers and their families.



Community Response Follows Opening



Public responses to the memorial described it as a fitting tribute to fallen firefighters and a permanent reminder of the risks faced by frontline crews.



Several comments shared after the opening thanked those involved in creating the wall, while others offered messages of remembrance for the firefighters whose names are now displayed at the Albion headquarters.



Photo Credit: QFD/Facebook



The feedback centred on the wall’s role as a respectful and lasting tribute, particularly for the 60 firefighters recognised for losing their lives while serving Queensland communities.



Read: Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope



Future plaques on the memorial wall will also recognise personnel lost as a result of service, including deaths linked to recognised presumptive illnesses.



The memorial wall was officially unveiled on 19 June 2026.



Published 23-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 19-21 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:37:14 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:43:18 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:53:39 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 23:07:46 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Popovic's Gamble Pays Off As Socceroos Deliver Famous World Cup Statement]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement</link>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://ascotnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Australia-Turkey-hero-image.png"/>
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<pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2026 07:56:35 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Why This Deep-Fried Wagyu Curry Bun Is Turning Heads at Eat Street]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/why-this-deep-fried-wagyu-curry-bun-is-turning-heads-at-eat-street</link>
<media:content url="https://ascotnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/oko-3.jpg" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://ascotnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/oko-3.jpg"/>
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<pubDate>Sun, 14 Jun 2026 18:22:37 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ascot]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Darling Downs wagyu]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Eat Street Northshore]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hamilton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[inner north Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Japanese street food]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[kare pan]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[OKO OKO]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[wagyu]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/?page_id=11685</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
OKO OKO, a new Japanese micro-restaurant at Eat Street Northshore in neighbouring Hamilton, is serving what its founders describe as the world's first wagyu kare pan — a panko-crusted, deep-fried Japanese curry bun built around Queensland wagyu from the Darling Downs.



Read: Four Friends Bring a Massive Japanese Sake Library to Albion



For Ascot residents who already make the short trip to Eat Street on a Friday or Saturday night, the new addition gives a compelling reason to visit. OKO OKO on 12 June behind a Shinjuku-styled pagoda facade, at 221D MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton, one of the most distinctive new fit-outs in the precinct's history.



The kare pan — Japan's beloved deep-fried curry bun, invented in Tokyo in 1927 and now the subject of its own annual national grand prix and a 50,000-member enthusiast association — has never previously been made with wagyu at its centre. 



OKO OKO's version uses Darling Downs wagyu from Sandalwood Feedlot, one of Australia's oldest and most awarded producers, combined with a cheesy curry filling, panko-crusted and cooked to order.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Six months on a single dish



Founder Michael Otway says the kare pan took six months of development before the team was satisfied. "The dough, the curry, the wagyu, the cheese, the fry," he said. "Queensland wagyu changes the dish. No kitchen in Japan or anywhere else has done it this way."



Photo Credit: Supplied



The global head chef behind the menu previously worked at Nobu London and Yoko Brisbane. The full menu extends into okonomiyaki, yakisoba, yakisoba pan and other Japanese street food staples, all built to the same level of care as the hero dish.



Photo Credit: Supplied



OKO OKO is open at Eat Street Northshore every Friday and Saturday from 4pm to 10pm and Sunday from 4pm to 9pm. Entry to Eat Street is $6 per person. Drive or take the CityCat to Northshore Hamilton, a 250-metre walk from the gate.



Read: 4 Pines at Landers Pocket Named Queensland’s Best Pub in 2026 QLD Day All the Best Awards



Published 13-June-2026








]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
OKO OKO, a new Japanese micro-restaurant at Eat Street Northshore in neighbouring Hamilton, is serving what its founders describe as the world's first wagyu kare pan — a panko-crusted, deep-fried Japanese curry bun built around Queensland wagyu from the Darling Downs.



Read: Four Friends Bring a Massive Japanese Sake Library to Albion



For Ascot residents who already make the short trip to Eat Street on a Friday or Saturday night, the new addition gives a compelling reason to visit. OKO OKO on 12 June behind a Shinjuku-styled pagoda facade, at 221D MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton, one of the most distinctive new fit-outs in the precinct's history.



The kare pan — Japan's beloved deep-fried curry bun, invented in Tokyo in 1927 and now the subject of its own annual national grand prix and a 50,000-member enthusiast association — has never previously been made with wagyu at its centre. 



OKO OKO's version uses Darling Downs wagyu from Sandalwood Feedlot, one of Australia's oldest and most awarded producers, combined with a cheesy curry filling, panko-crusted and cooked to order.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Six months on a single dish



Founder Michael Otway says the kare pan took six months of development before the team was satisfied. "The dough, the curry, the wagyu, the cheese, the fry," he said. "Queensland wagyu changes the dish. No kitchen in Japan or anywhere else has done it this way."



Photo Credit: Supplied



The global head chef behind the menu previously worked at Nobu London and Yoko Brisbane. The full menu extends into okonomiyaki, yakisoba, yakisoba pan and other Japanese street food staples, all built to the same level of care as the hero dish.



Photo Credit: Supplied



OKO OKO is open at Eat Street Northshore every Friday and Saturday from 4pm to 10pm and Sunday from 4pm to 9pm. Entry to Eat Street is $6 per person. Drive or take the CityCat to Northshore Hamilton, a 250-metre walk from the gate.



Read: 4 Pines at Landers Pocket Named Queensland’s Best Pub in 2026 QLD Day All the Best Awards



Published 13-June-2026








]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Chermside Gardener Reveals Daily Habits after Reaching 101 Years of Age]]></title>
<link>https://chermsidenews.com.au/chermside-gardener-reveals-daily-habits-after-reaching-101-years-of-age</link>
<media:content url="https://chermsidenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Chermside.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://chermsidenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Chermside.png"/>
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<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:13:27 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[centenarian]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Chermside]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[gardening]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[healthy ageing]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[longevity]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[The Prince Charles Hospital]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chermside News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://chermsidenews.com.au/?page_id=17406</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A resilient Chermside local has proven that a simple daily routine of pulling weeds and eating a hearty breakfast is the surprising formula for reaching the rare milestone of 101 years of age.



Read: Chermside-Based Disability Employment Program ORCA to Close After Eight Years



Photo Credit: Metro North Health



After taking a tumble while working in her garden, the vibrant senior, Eloise, was treated at The Prince Charles Hospital before moving into Anglicare St Martin's this week to begin her next chapter. She celebrated her latest birthday milestone surrounded by a mix of long-time friends, new acquaintances, and the hospital medical staff who aided her recovery. Eloise remains in excellent health and has seamlessly settled into her new care facility, which she now calls home.



The secret to such a long life goes beyond simple luck, with Eloise attributing her health to a lifetime of hard work and a commitment to exploring the globe. She spent many years travelling overseas with her husband, taking memorable trips to destinations like Russia, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy.&nbsp;



At home, she prefers to stay active by pottering around the yard and removing weeds. She also insists that her daily routine of taking vitamin supplements and eating a substantial breakfast gives her the necessary energy to keep going.



Photo Credit: Metro North Health



Medical professionals agree that these consistent lifestyle choices make a massive difference in how we age. Dr Lucy Dakin, a geriatrician from the local hospital who attended the birthday celebrations, explained that reaching such an advanced age requires a mix of good genetics and dedicated self-care.&nbsp;



She noted that people who live for a century often share common traits, such as walking regularly, maintaining a clear sense of purpose, and practising gratitude daily. The doctor added that staying curious about the world, much like Eloise did through her travels and hobbies, is a key factor in keeping the mind sharp.







Read: How Marchant Park Went From War Camp to Community Hub



While reaching a century of life is still quite rare for the average person, medical teams are seeing a shift in the local wards. Dr Dakin observed that the number of centenarians is growing due to the generally ageing population. It is becoming increasingly common for patients in their hundreds to successfully recover from hospital visits and return to their normal lives. Because of this trend, doctors are highly focussed on promoting healthy diets, exercise, and strong social networks to give older patients the best chance of staying happy and healthy well into their hundreds.



Published Date 25-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A resilient Chermside local has proven that a simple daily routine of pulling weeds and eating a hearty breakfast is the surprising formula for reaching the rare milestone of 101 years of age.



Read: Chermside-Based Disability Employment Program ORCA to Close After Eight Years



Photo Credit: Metro North Health



After taking a tumble while working in her garden, the vibrant senior, Eloise, was treated at The Prince Charles Hospital before moving into Anglicare St Martin's this week to begin her next chapter. She celebrated her latest birthday milestone surrounded by a mix of long-time friends, new acquaintances, and the hospital medical staff who aided her recovery. Eloise remains in excellent health and has seamlessly settled into her new care facility, which she now calls home.



The secret to such a long life goes beyond simple luck, with Eloise attributing her health to a lifetime of hard work and a commitment to exploring the globe. She spent many years travelling overseas with her husband, taking memorable trips to destinations like Russia, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy.&nbsp;



At home, she prefers to stay active by pottering around the yard and removing weeds. She also insists that her daily routine of taking vitamin supplements and eating a substantial breakfast gives her the necessary energy to keep going.



Photo Credit: Metro North Health



Medical professionals agree that these consistent lifestyle choices make a massive difference in how we age. Dr Lucy Dakin, a geriatrician from the local hospital who attended the birthday celebrations, explained that reaching such an advanced age requires a mix of good genetics and dedicated self-care.&nbsp;



She noted that people who live for a century often share common traits, such as walking regularly, maintaining a clear sense of purpose, and practising gratitude daily. The doctor added that staying curious about the world, much like Eloise did through her travels and hobbies, is a key factor in keeping the mind sharp.







Read: How Marchant Park Went From War Camp to Community Hub



While reaching a century of life is still quite rare for the average person, medical teams are seeing a shift in the local wards. Dr Dakin observed that the number of centenarians is growing due to the generally ageing population. It is becoming increasingly common for patients in their hundreds to successfully recover from hospital visits and return to their normal lives. Because of this trend, doctors are highly focussed on promoting healthy diets, exercise, and strong social networks to give older patients the best chance of staying happy and healthy well into their hundreds.



Published Date 25-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[One More Step: Socceroos Face World Cup Crossroads Against Paraguay]]></title>
<link>https://chermsidenews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://chermsidenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://chermsidenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://chermsidenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png" length="1350150" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:19:02 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chermside News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://chermsidenews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Free 'Toy Story' Fun at Westfield Chermside for the School Holidays]]></title>
<link>https://chermsidenews.com.au/free-toy-story-fun-at-westfield-chermside-for-the-school-holidays</link>
<media:content url="https://chermsidenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Art-Craft-banner.jpg" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://chermsidenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Art-Craft-banner.jpg"/>
<enclosure url="https://chermsidenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Art-Craft-banner.jpg" length="251002" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 06:44:29 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane North]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Chermside]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Disney Pixar]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[family activities]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Forky Asks a Question]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[free events]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[school holidays]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Toy Story 5]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Westfield Chermside]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[winter holidays]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chermside News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://chermsidenews.com.au/?page_id=17389</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
School holidays often leave parents searching for ways to keep children entertained without spending a fortune. This winter, Westfield Chermside is giving local families another option, with a series of free Toy Story-themed activities inspired by Disney and Pixar’s latest film, Toy Story 5.



Read: Nearly 200 Apartments Proposed for Kelso Street as Chermside’s Skyline Keeps Climbing



Across two weeks, children can step into the world of Woody, Buzz Lightyear and their friends through interactive experiences, hands-on crafts and short animated films, all designed to celebrate the latest chapter in one of Pixar’s best-known movie franchises.



Toy Story adventures arrive in Chermside



The festivities begin with the Toy Story Tales Corner, an immersive space where families can watch four episodes from Disney+’s Forky Asks a Question series.



Running daily from 26 June to 9 July between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in Centre Court near Telstra on Level 1, the experience gives younger visitors the chance to spend time with Forky, the curious handmade toy introduced in Toy Story 4, while enjoying a break from shopping.



The activity forms part of a Queensland-wide promotion celebrating the cinema release of Toy Story 5, which reached Australian theatres on 18 June.



Creative activities for young Toy Story fans



The Toy Story fun continues from 5 July to 9 July, when Centre Court transforms into a creative space where children can make and decorate their own themed keepsakes.



Families can take part in activities including DIY Forky creations, Slinky Dog-inspired crafts, decorated tote bags and bucket hats, each drawing inspiration from familiar characters from the Toy Story universe.



Rather than simply watching the story unfold on screen, children will have the chance to create something of their own to take home.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Part of a statewide school holiday celebration



Westfield Chermside is one of several Queensland shopping centres taking part in the Toy Story 5 promotion, alongside locations including Coomera, Helensvale, Mt Gravatt and North Lakes.



While Westfield Carindale will host exclusive Buzz Lightyear and Woody meet-and-greet sessions, the Chermside program focuses on free activities that families can enjoy throughout the school holidays.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Westfield members across Queensland can also enter a statewide competition through the Westfield app for the chance to win a family holiday to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. The prize includes return flights for up to four people, accommodation at a Disney resort hotel and four-day Park Hopper theme park tickets.



Read: Sport And Cycling Spaces Proposed For 7th Brigade Park In Chermside



Chermside, Westfield Chermside, Toy Story 5, school holidays, Brisbane North, family activities, Forky Asks a Question, Disney Pixar, free events, winter holidays



Westfield Chermside will host free Toy Story-themed activities, crafts and animated fun for families during the Queensland school holidays.







Published 25-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
School holidays often leave parents searching for ways to keep children entertained without spending a fortune. This winter, Westfield Chermside is giving local families another option, with a series of free Toy Story-themed activities inspired by Disney and Pixar’s latest film, Toy Story 5.



Read: Nearly 200 Apartments Proposed for Kelso Street as Chermside’s Skyline Keeps Climbing



Across two weeks, children can step into the world of Woody, Buzz Lightyear and their friends through interactive experiences, hands-on crafts and short animated films, all designed to celebrate the latest chapter in one of Pixar’s best-known movie franchises.



Toy Story adventures arrive in Chermside



The festivities begin with the Toy Story Tales Corner, an immersive space where families can watch four episodes from Disney+’s Forky Asks a Question series.



Running daily from 26 June to 9 July between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in Centre Court near Telstra on Level 1, the experience gives younger visitors the chance to spend time with Forky, the curious handmade toy introduced in Toy Story 4, while enjoying a break from shopping.



The activity forms part of a Queensland-wide promotion celebrating the cinema release of Toy Story 5, which reached Australian theatres on 18 June.



Creative activities for young Toy Story fans



The Toy Story fun continues from 5 July to 9 July, when Centre Court transforms into a creative space where children can make and decorate their own themed keepsakes.



Families can take part in activities including DIY Forky creations, Slinky Dog-inspired crafts, decorated tote bags and bucket hats, each drawing inspiration from familiar characters from the Toy Story universe.



Rather than simply watching the story unfold on screen, children will have the chance to create something of their own to take home.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Part of a statewide school holiday celebration



Westfield Chermside is one of several Queensland shopping centres taking part in the Toy Story 5 promotion, alongside locations including Coomera, Helensvale, Mt Gravatt and North Lakes.



While Westfield Carindale will host exclusive Buzz Lightyear and Woody meet-and-greet sessions, the Chermside program focuses on free activities that families can enjoy throughout the school holidays.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Westfield members across Queensland can also enter a statewide competition through the Westfield app for the chance to win a family holiday to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. The prize includes return flights for up to four people, accommodation at a Disney resort hotel and four-day Park Hopper theme park tickets.



Read: Sport And Cycling Spaces Proposed For 7th Brigade Park In Chermside



Chermside, Westfield Chermside, Toy Story 5, school holidays, Brisbane North, family activities, Forky Asks a Question, Disney Pixar, free events, winter holidays



Westfield Chermside will host free Toy Story-themed activities, crafts and animated fun for families during the Queensland school holidays.







Published 25-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Uncertainty Remains Over When Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel Will Move Beyond Planning]]></title>
<link>https://chermsidenews.com.au/uncertainty-remains-over-when-gympie-road-bypass-tunnel-will-move-beyond-planning</link>
<media:content url="https://chermsidenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FI-for-OMC-2026-06-23T113545.974.webp" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://chermsidenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FI-for-OMC-2026-06-23T113545.974.webp"/>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 03:41:59 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane 2032 Olympics]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Cr Adrian Schrinner]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Gympie Road bypass tunnel]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chermside News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://chermsidenews.com.au/?page_id=17365</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Northside commuters may be waiting until after the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games before work begins on the proposed Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel, a nine-kilometre bypass between Carseldine and Kedron designed to ease congestion along one of Brisbane's busiest transport corridors.







Read: Gympie Road Named Among Brisbane’s Worst Peak-Hour Routes







The project's delivery timeline has come under renewed attention after Cr Adrian Schrinner indicated in his recent budget speech that the tunnel would be among the first major projects to commence following the 2032 Games.



The comments have sparked debate about when construction could begin on the transport project, which has been promoted as a solution to persistent traffic congestion affecting motorists across Brisbane's northside.



Gympie Road remains one of Queensland's busiest arterial roads, serving as a key transport corridor through suburbs including Chermside, Aspley, Kedron and Carseldine. Traffic delays are particularly noticeable around major intersections including Hamilton Road, Rode Road, Stafford Road and Beams Road.



Questions over delivery timeline



Photo credit: Google Street View



Attention turned to the project's schedule after Cr Schrinner referred to the tunnel as one of the first major infrastructure projects expected to begin immediately after the 2032 Games.



Opposition Leader Steven Miles argued the comments suggested residents could face several more years of congestion before any relief arrives. He said congestion on Gympie Road was already affecting motorists across Brisbane's northside.



Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg did not provide a specific timeframe for construction when questioned about the project, stating that planning work was continuing as previously outlined.



Labor transport spokesman Bart Mellish also raised concerns about the future funding pathway for the tunnel, noting that planning and pre-construction funding allocated in previous budgets is approaching the end of its current funding period.



Cr Schrinner's office later clarified that the comments reflected the scale and complexity of major tunnel projects, which typically require lengthy planning and delivery timeframes. The office noted that other significant underground infrastructure projects in Brisbane have taken many years to progress from planning to construction.



What is the Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel?



Photo credit: Sandy Landers



The Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel is a proposed nine-kilometre, two-lane tolled bypass connecting Carseldine and Kedron. The project would include a seven-kilometre tunnel designed to run broadly alongside the existing Gympie Road corridor.



The proposal was announced in June 2024 and has been progressed by North Brisbane Infrastructure, a subsidiary of Queensland Investment Corporation. The tunnel is intended to provide an alternative route for through traffic travelling along Brisbane's northside and ease congestion along Gympie Road.



For Chermside residents, the proposal has attracted particular attention because planning investigations identified several potential tunnel entry and exit locations within the suburb.



A report released last year identified eight possible access points in the Chermside area. Many details remain unresolved, including the final design, delivery schedule and funding arrangements.







Read: Gympie Road, Chermside Among Queensland’s Congestion Hotspots







Planning review underway



The Department of Transport and Main Roads is currently reviewing planning work previously undertaken by Queensland Investment Corporation.



According to the department, responsibility for the proposed tunnel was formally transferred on 1 July 2025. The review is continuing as authorities assess planning completed to date and consider the project's next stages.



For now, motorists travelling through Chermside and surrounding suburbs continue to navigate one of Brisbane's busiest road corridors while awaiting greater certainty on when the proposed bypass could move from planning into construction.



Published 23-June-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Northside commuters may be waiting until after the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games before work begins on the proposed Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel, a nine-kilometre bypass between Carseldine and Kedron designed to ease congestion along one of Brisbane's busiest transport corridors.







Read: Gympie Road Named Among Brisbane’s Worst Peak-Hour Routes







The project's delivery timeline has come under renewed attention after Cr Adrian Schrinner indicated in his recent budget speech that the tunnel would be among the first major projects to commence following the 2032 Games.



The comments have sparked debate about when construction could begin on the transport project, which has been promoted as a solution to persistent traffic congestion affecting motorists across Brisbane's northside.



Gympie Road remains one of Queensland's busiest arterial roads, serving as a key transport corridor through suburbs including Chermside, Aspley, Kedron and Carseldine. Traffic delays are particularly noticeable around major intersections including Hamilton Road, Rode Road, Stafford Road and Beams Road.



Questions over delivery timeline



Photo credit: Google Street View



Attention turned to the project's schedule after Cr Schrinner referred to the tunnel as one of the first major infrastructure projects expected to begin immediately after the 2032 Games.



Opposition Leader Steven Miles argued the comments suggested residents could face several more years of congestion before any relief arrives. He said congestion on Gympie Road was already affecting motorists across Brisbane's northside.



Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg did not provide a specific timeframe for construction when questioned about the project, stating that planning work was continuing as previously outlined.



Labor transport spokesman Bart Mellish also raised concerns about the future funding pathway for the tunnel, noting that planning and pre-construction funding allocated in previous budgets is approaching the end of its current funding period.



Cr Schrinner's office later clarified that the comments reflected the scale and complexity of major tunnel projects, which typically require lengthy planning and delivery timeframes. The office noted that other significant underground infrastructure projects in Brisbane have taken many years to progress from planning to construction.



What is the Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel?



Photo credit: Sandy Landers



The Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel is a proposed nine-kilometre, two-lane tolled bypass connecting Carseldine and Kedron. The project would include a seven-kilometre tunnel designed to run broadly alongside the existing Gympie Road corridor.



The proposal was announced in June 2024 and has been progressed by North Brisbane Infrastructure, a subsidiary of Queensland Investment Corporation. The tunnel is intended to provide an alternative route for through traffic travelling along Brisbane's northside and ease congestion along Gympie Road.



For Chermside residents, the proposal has attracted particular attention because planning investigations identified several potential tunnel entry and exit locations within the suburb.



A report released last year identified eight possible access points in the Chermside area. Many details remain unresolved, including the final design, delivery schedule and funding arrangements.







Read: Gympie Road, Chermside Among Queensland’s Congestion Hotspots







Planning review underway



The Department of Transport and Main Roads is currently reviewing planning work previously undertaken by Queensland Investment Corporation.



According to the department, responsibility for the proposed tunnel was formally transferred on 1 July 2025. The review is continuing as authorities assess planning completed to date and consider the project's next stages.



For now, motorists travelling through Chermside and surrounding suburbs continue to navigate one of Brisbane's busiest road corridors while awaiting greater certainty on when the proposed bypass could move from planning into construction.



Published 23-June-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 19-21 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://chermsidenews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:37:08 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chermside News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://chermsidenews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Chermside-Based Disability Employment Program ORCA to Close After Eight Years]]></title>
<link>https://chermsidenews.com.au/chermside-based-disability-employment-program-orca-to-close-after-eight-years</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 04:55:02 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[autism]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane North]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Chermside]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Chermside news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[disability advocacy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[disability employment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[disability support services]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[employment readiness]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[NDIS]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[NDIS reform]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[ORCA Project]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland community news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wesley Mission Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Williams syndrome]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[young people with disability]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chermside News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://chermsidenews.com.au/?page_id=17338</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Families of young people with disability are scrambling to find alternatives after Wesley Mission Queensland announced it will close the ORCA Project, an employment-readiness program that has helped school leavers transition into the workforce since 2018.



Read: How Marchant Park Went From War Camp to Community Hub



The Brisbane-based service, operated by the Chermside-headquartered charity, will finish on 26 June. Wesley Mission Queensland says rising costs, increasing compliance requirements and changes across the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) sector have made the program unsustainable.



Loss of a Pathway



For some families, the closure feels like the loss of a pathway they had spent years searching for.



Among those affected is a teenage boy who joined ORCA after leaving school. He lives with autism and a rare chromosomal condition that affects his communication, learning and overall health. His family said the program was helping him build a future around his strong interest in information technology while providing the support he needs to navigate the workplace.



Another participant, a young woman, attended ORCA while completing her schooling. She lives with Williams syndrome, a genetic condition that can affect learning and development. Her family said the program had helped her become more independent and confident, including learning practical skills such as using public transport on her own.



Families who spoke publicly following the announcement described feeling shocked and concerned about what comes next.



Photo Credit: YouTube/Wesley Mission Queensland



Built Because Families Could Not Find Enough Support



The ORCA Project was established after parents and disability advocates identified a gap between school and employment for young people with disability.



Rather than focusing solely on classroom learning, the program combined training with real workplace experience. Participants worked alongside employers, developed practical job skills and explored career options in supported environments.



What began as a small initiative grew steadily over the years. ORCA built partnerships with businesses, community organisations and employers across South East Queensland, creating opportunities for young people who might otherwise struggle to gain workplace experience.



More than 90 participants took part in the program during 2025, completing more than 300 work placements.



Why Wesley Mission Queensland Says ORCA Can No Longer Continue



Wesley Mission Queensland described the closure as a difficult decision.



The organisation said disability providers are facing increasing pressure from rising operating costs, compliance obligations and changes to funding arrangements. It also revealed attempts were made to transfer the program to another provider, but those efforts were unsuccessful.



Participants have since been offered assistance to identify alternative programs and training opportunities.



The closure comes as the NDIS undergoes significant reform, with governments seeking to slow the growth of the scheme’s spending. While some families fear these changes are reducing available support options, the National Disability Insurance Agency says it funds participants rather than providers directly and has reported growth in employment-related supports.



Read: Nearly 200 Apartments Proposed for Kelso Street as Chermside’s Skyline Keeps Climbing 



More Than a Program Closure



Supporters of ORCA argue its value extended beyond job preparation.



Former participants have gone on to secure employment in industries including technology, retail and community services. Wesley Mission Queensland has previously promoted the program as a way of helping people with disability build independence while connecting employers with capable workers.



For families now searching for alternatives, the challenge is not simply finding another service. It is finding one that offers the same combination of workplace experience, individual support and long-term preparation for employment.



Published 22-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Families of young people with disability are scrambling to find alternatives after Wesley Mission Queensland announced it will close the ORCA Project, an employment-readiness program that has helped school leavers transition into the workforce since 2018.



Read: How Marchant Park Went From War Camp to Community Hub



The Brisbane-based service, operated by the Chermside-headquartered charity, will finish on 26 June. Wesley Mission Queensland says rising costs, increasing compliance requirements and changes across the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) sector have made the program unsustainable.



Loss of a Pathway



For some families, the closure feels like the loss of a pathway they had spent years searching for.



Among those affected is a teenage boy who joined ORCA after leaving school. He lives with autism and a rare chromosomal condition that affects his communication, learning and overall health. His family said the program was helping him build a future around his strong interest in information technology while providing the support he needs to navigate the workplace.



Another participant, a young woman, attended ORCA while completing her schooling. She lives with Williams syndrome, a genetic condition that can affect learning and development. Her family said the program had helped her become more independent and confident, including learning practical skills such as using public transport on her own.



Families who spoke publicly following the announcement described feeling shocked and concerned about what comes next.



Photo Credit: YouTube/Wesley Mission Queensland



Built Because Families Could Not Find Enough Support



The ORCA Project was established after parents and disability advocates identified a gap between school and employment for young people with disability.



Rather than focusing solely on classroom learning, the program combined training with real workplace experience. Participants worked alongside employers, developed practical job skills and explored career options in supported environments.



What began as a small initiative grew steadily over the years. ORCA built partnerships with businesses, community organisations and employers across South East Queensland, creating opportunities for young people who might otherwise struggle to gain workplace experience.



More than 90 participants took part in the program during 2025, completing more than 300 work placements.



Why Wesley Mission Queensland Says ORCA Can No Longer Continue



Wesley Mission Queensland described the closure as a difficult decision.



The organisation said disability providers are facing increasing pressure from rising operating costs, compliance obligations and changes to funding arrangements. It also revealed attempts were made to transfer the program to another provider, but those efforts were unsuccessful.



Participants have since been offered assistance to identify alternative programs and training opportunities.



The closure comes as the NDIS undergoes significant reform, with governments seeking to slow the growth of the scheme’s spending. While some families fear these changes are reducing available support options, the National Disability Insurance Agency says it funds participants rather than providers directly and has reported growth in employment-related supports.



Read: Nearly 200 Apartments Proposed for Kelso Street as Chermside’s Skyline Keeps Climbing 



More Than a Program Closure



Supporters of ORCA argue its value extended beyond job preparation.



Former participants have gone on to secure employment in industries including technology, retail and community services. Wesley Mission Queensland has previously promoted the program as a way of helping people with disability build independence while connecting employers with capable workers.



For families now searching for alternatives, the challenge is not simply finding another service. It is finding one that offers the same combination of workplace experience, individual support and long-term preparation for employment.



Published 22-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[How Marchant Park Went From War Camp to Community Hub]]></title>
<link>https://chermsidenews.com.au/how-marchant-park-went-from-war-camp-to-community-hub</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 02:21:52 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[2nd Light Horse Regiment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[ANZAC legacy]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Camp Chermside]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Chermside history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[George Marchant]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Marchant Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[memorial parks Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[WWI Queensland]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chermside News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://chermsidenews.com.au/?page_id=15042</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
In the heart of Chermside, Marchant Park looks like any other suburban green space. But more than a century ago, it echoed with the sounds of hooves, boots, and military drills as young men from across Queensland prepared for the First World War. 



Read: Enforcement Cameras Coming to McDowall to Tackle Illegal Parking



From Marchant’s Paddock to Military Grounds



Before it became a public park, the land known as Marchant’s Paddock was transformed into “Camp Chermside” during WWI. It was a major training ground where soldiers, including the 2nd Light Horse Regiment, camped, drilled, and broke in horses before heading to war.  



Photo Credit: National Library of Australia



Records show Marchant Park was a key training site in Queensland during 1914–1918. Soldiers learned to handle weapons, navigate rough terrain, and work with animals used in war zones. Life was harsh—tents for shelter, long marches in the heat, and basic meals. 



Photo Credit: National Library of Australia



A Gift to the People



In 1917, soft-drink maker and philanthropist George Marchant offered to donate the land, on the condition it remain a public park that honoured those who served. The gift was finalised after the war, fulfilling his wish to preserve the site as a lasting tribute to the soldiers who trained there. 



Photo Credit: National Library of Australia











Photo Credit: National Library of Australia







Brisbane City Council records show Marchant’s gift came as memorial parks were becoming popular in Australia, spaces that honoured war service while serving the community. Marchant Park became one of Brisbane’s earliest examples.



Preserving a Legacy



Over time, the community added features to honour the park’s military past. The Kedron Shire War Memorial Gates were built in 1924, listing local soldiers, and the park later became part of Seventh Brigade Park—named after a WWI unit that trained in Queensland. These reminders still stand, though many may not know their full meaning. 







Photo Credit: National Library of Australia



Photo Credit: National Library of Australia







During World War II, nearby Sparkes’ Paddock became an army camp, and Marchant Park was used for vehicle testing and driver training. The park stayed public land, though soldiers used the George Hastie Cricket Pavilion during that time. 







Photo Credit: National Library of Australia







Today, Marchant Park is a place for families, sporting groups, and weekend barbecues. Yet underneath the grass where cricket players now run, history is buried, stories of young men who trained there before being sent far from home.



A Community Connection







Photo Credit: Google Maps







The Chermside &amp; Districts Historical Society has spent years researching the park’s past. Their work, along with articles archived on Trove from 1917, helps paint a full picture of how the park went from military ground to community treasure. 



Read: Nearly 200 Apartments Proposed for Kelso Street as Chermside’s Skyline Keeps Climbing



Locals who walk through Marchant Park may not know the full story, but its legacy is woven into the suburb’s identity. From horse drills to playgrounds, the land has changed but the community’s commitment to remembering those who served has stayed the same. 







Updated 21-June-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
In the heart of Chermside, Marchant Park looks like any other suburban green space. But more than a century ago, it echoed with the sounds of hooves, boots, and military drills as young men from across Queensland prepared for the First World War. 



Read: Enforcement Cameras Coming to McDowall to Tackle Illegal Parking



From Marchant’s Paddock to Military Grounds



Before it became a public park, the land known as Marchant’s Paddock was transformed into “Camp Chermside” during WWI. It was a major training ground where soldiers, including the 2nd Light Horse Regiment, camped, drilled, and broke in horses before heading to war.  



Photo Credit: National Library of Australia



Records show Marchant Park was a key training site in Queensland during 1914–1918. Soldiers learned to handle weapons, navigate rough terrain, and work with animals used in war zones. Life was harsh—tents for shelter, long marches in the heat, and basic meals. 



Photo Credit: National Library of Australia



A Gift to the People



In 1917, soft-drink maker and philanthropist George Marchant offered to donate the land, on the condition it remain a public park that honoured those who served. The gift was finalised after the war, fulfilling his wish to preserve the site as a lasting tribute to the soldiers who trained there. 



Photo Credit: National Library of Australia











Photo Credit: National Library of Australia







Brisbane City Council records show Marchant’s gift came as memorial parks were becoming popular in Australia, spaces that honoured war service while serving the community. Marchant Park became one of Brisbane’s earliest examples.



Preserving a Legacy



Over time, the community added features to honour the park’s military past. The Kedron Shire War Memorial Gates were built in 1924, listing local soldiers, and the park later became part of Seventh Brigade Park—named after a WWI unit that trained in Queensland. These reminders still stand, though many may not know their full meaning. 







Photo Credit: National Library of Australia



Photo Credit: National Library of Australia







During World War II, nearby Sparkes’ Paddock became an army camp, and Marchant Park was used for vehicle testing and driver training. The park stayed public land, though soldiers used the George Hastie Cricket Pavilion during that time. 







Photo Credit: National Library of Australia







Today, Marchant Park is a place for families, sporting groups, and weekend barbecues. Yet underneath the grass where cricket players now run, history is buried, stories of young men who trained there before being sent far from home.



A Community Connection







Photo Credit: Google Maps







The Chermside &amp; Districts Historical Society has spent years researching the park’s past. Their work, along with articles archived on Trove from 1917, helps paint a full picture of how the park went from military ground to community treasure. 



Read: Nearly 200 Apartments Proposed for Kelso Street as Chermside’s Skyline Keeps Climbing



Locals who walk through Marchant Park may not know the full story, but its legacy is woven into the suburb’s identity. From horse drills to playgrounds, the land has changed but the community’s commitment to remembering those who served has stayed the same. 







Updated 21-June-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope]]></title>
<link>https://chermsidenews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:43:13 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chermside News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://chermsidenews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane]]></title>
<link>https://chermsidenews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:53:33 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chermside News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://chermsidenews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[The Coffee Club’s New Coffee Guarantee Comes With a Free Coffee Offer]]></title>
<link>https://chermsidenews.com.au/the-coffee-clubs-new-coffee-guarantee-comes-with-a-free-coffee-offer</link>
<media:content url="https://chermsidenews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/The-Coffee-Club-FI.png" medium="image"/>
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<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 08:17:23 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane coffee]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane northside]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[café news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Chermside]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Chermside Community News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Coffee Guarantee]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[coffee promotion]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[free coffee]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[free coffee offer]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Golden Bean Awards]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland cafes]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[specialty coffee]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[The Coffee Club]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chermside News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://chermsidenews.com.au/?page_id=17263</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Most coffee drinkers are loyal to their local café, but The Coffee Club is hoping its new Coffee Guarantee might convince a few people to try something different. To celebrate the launch, customers can claim a free coffee by bringing in a takeaway cup from another café.



Read: Sport And Cycling Spaces Proposed For 7th Brigade Park In Chermside



The week-long promotion (15 to 21 June) is available at participating outlets across Australia and forms part of the company’s push to showcase its specialty coffee offering. The Coffee Guarantee promises to remake any coffee free of charge if it isn’t prepared exactly as ordered.



In Chermside, The Coffee Club is at Westfield Chermside. You can view other locations here.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Breaking one of coffee’s biggest unwritten rules



Most coffee drinkers don’t shop around. Once they find a place they like, they tend to stick with it. Whether it’s the café near work, the local drive-through, or the spot they’ve visited for years, loyalty runs deep when it comes to a morning coffee order.



That makes The Coffee Club’s latest campaign a tempting proposition for even the most loyal coffee drinkers. Rather than relying on discounts, loyalty cards or app-based rewards, the company is inviting people to step outside their usual routine and try its coffee for themselves.



It’s a bold move, but one backed by a growing confidence in the product behind the counter.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Why The Coffee Club believes customers will come back



The Coffee Club’s Coffee Guarantee promises to remake a coffee free of charge if it isn’t prepared exactly as ordered. Whether it’s almond milk instead of full cream, extra hot, no sugar or a flavoured syrup, the company says customers should receive the drink they asked for.



Nikki Price, General Manager of Marketing and Product at The Coffee Club, said the guarantee reflects the company’s focus on customer satisfaction and consistency. The confidence isn’t coming from the guarantee alone.



In recent years, The Coffee Club has invested heavily in its coffee program, including training more than 1,200 baristas across Australia and introducing its specialty-grade coffee blend, Three Stories, which is roasted in Melbourne.



Photo Credit: Supplied



The company has also received recognition in major coffee competitions, including awards at the Golden Bean Awards and the title of Best Overall Chain/Large Franchise at the Golden Bean World Series.



For a brand that has spent decades serving Australians, the campaign signals a growing focus on specialty coffee and quality.



Read: Nearly 200 Apartments Proposed for Kelso Street as Chermside’s Skyline Keeps Climbing



What locals need to know



The free coffee promotion runs from 15 to 21 June at participating The Coffee Club stores across Australia. To claim the offer, customers simply need to bring in a takeaway coffee cup from another café.



Whether you’re fiercely loyal to your regular coffee spot or simply curious to see what all the fuss is about, this might be one of the easiest free coffees you’ll find this year.



And if nothing else, it’s a good excuse to shake up the morning routine.







Published 15-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Most coffee drinkers are loyal to their local café, but The Coffee Club is hoping its new Coffee Guarantee might convince a few people to try something different. To celebrate the launch, customers can claim a free coffee by bringing in a takeaway cup from another café.



Read: Sport And Cycling Spaces Proposed For 7th Brigade Park In Chermside



The week-long promotion (15 to 21 June) is available at participating outlets across Australia and forms part of the company’s push to showcase its specialty coffee offering. The Coffee Guarantee promises to remake any coffee free of charge if it isn’t prepared exactly as ordered.



In Chermside, The Coffee Club is at Westfield Chermside. You can view other locations here.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Breaking one of coffee’s biggest unwritten rules



Most coffee drinkers don’t shop around. Once they find a place they like, they tend to stick with it. Whether it’s the café near work, the local drive-through, or the spot they’ve visited for years, loyalty runs deep when it comes to a morning coffee order.



That makes The Coffee Club’s latest campaign a tempting proposition for even the most loyal coffee drinkers. Rather than relying on discounts, loyalty cards or app-based rewards, the company is inviting people to step outside their usual routine and try its coffee for themselves.



It’s a bold move, but one backed by a growing confidence in the product behind the counter.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Why The Coffee Club believes customers will come back



The Coffee Club’s Coffee Guarantee promises to remake a coffee free of charge if it isn’t prepared exactly as ordered. Whether it’s almond milk instead of full cream, extra hot, no sugar or a flavoured syrup, the company says customers should receive the drink they asked for.



Nikki Price, General Manager of Marketing and Product at The Coffee Club, said the guarantee reflects the company’s focus on customer satisfaction and consistency. The confidence isn’t coming from the guarantee alone.



In recent years, The Coffee Club has invested heavily in its coffee program, including training more than 1,200 baristas across Australia and introducing its specialty-grade coffee blend, Three Stories, which is roasted in Melbourne.



Photo Credit: Supplied



The company has also received recognition in major coffee competitions, including awards at the Golden Bean Awards and the title of Best Overall Chain/Large Franchise at the Golden Bean World Series.



For a brand that has spent decades serving Australians, the campaign signals a growing focus on specialty coffee and quality.



Read: Nearly 200 Apartments Proposed for Kelso Street as Chermside’s Skyline Keeps Climbing



What locals need to know



The free coffee promotion runs from 15 to 21 June at participating The Coffee Club stores across Australia. To claim the offer, customers simply need to bring in a takeaway coffee cup from another café.



Whether you’re fiercely loyal to your regular coffee spot or simply curious to see what all the fuss is about, this might be one of the easiest free coffees you’ll find this year.



And if nothing else, it’s a good excuse to shake up the morning routine.







Published 15-June-2026
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</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[One More Step: Socceroos Face World Cup Crossroads Against Paraguay]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:19:03 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
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</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Future of Gympie Road Tunnel Remains Unclear as Questions Grow Over Delivery Timeline]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/future-of-gympie-road-tunnel-remains-unclear-as-questions-grow-over-delivery-timeline</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:32:51 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Gympie Road]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron to Carseldine]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/?page_id=18393</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Motorists hoping for relief from congestion along Gympie Road may face a longer wait, with comments made during Brisbane's latest budget suggesting the proposed bypass tunnel could remain in the planning phase until after the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.







Read: $335-M Earmarked for Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel, Surface Upgrades







The proposed project would create a nine-kilometre bypass linking Kedron and Carseldine, including a seven-kilometre tunnel intended to provide an alternative route to the congested Gympie Road corridor.



Discussion about the project's timeline intensified after Cr Adrian Schrinner indicated in his budget speech that the tunnel would be among the first major infrastructure projects to get underway after the 2032 Games. While no formal construction schedule has been released, the remarks have prompted renewed debate about when the project might move beyond the planning stage.



Timeline in focus



Photo credit: Sandy Landers



The proposed tunnel was a key transport commitment ahead of the 2024 state election and has been promoted as a way to ease congestion along one of Brisbane's busiest arterial roads.



Opposition Leader Steven Miles argued the comments suggested northside motorists could face years of additional traffic delays before any major construction begins.



Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg did not provide a specific timeframe for the project when responding to questions about the remarks. Instead, he said planning work was continuing.



Labor transport spokesman Bart Mellish also questioned the project's future delivery schedule, pointing to planning and pre-construction funding allocated in previous budgets that is due to reach the end of its current funding period.



In response, Cr Schrinner's office said the comments reflected the reality that major underground infrastructure projects often require lengthy planning and construction timeframes before they can be delivered.



Proposed route from Kedron to Carseldine



Photo credit: Google Street View



The Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel would be a two-lane tolled bypass extending between Kedron and Carseldine. The project was announced in June 2024 and has been progressed by North Brisbane Infrastructure, a subsidiary of Queensland Investment Corporation.



The bypass has been proposed as a way of reducing congestion along Gympie Road, one of Queensland's busiest road corridors. Traffic bottlenecks are particularly common around intersections including Stafford Road, Rode Road, Hamilton Road and Beams Road.



The project could affect communities along the corridor, including Kedron, Chermside, Aspley and Carseldine, depending on its final design and delivery.







Read: Public Consultation Opens on Proposed Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel







Planning review continues



Transport and Main Roads is currently reviewing planning work previously undertaken by Queensland Investment Corporation after responsibility for the project transferred on 1 July 2025.



The department has not yet announced a construction timetable and says the review process is continuing. With planning still underway and no construction timetable announced, the project's next stages remain subject to the ongoing review process.



Published 24-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Motorists hoping for relief from congestion along Gympie Road may face a longer wait, with comments made during Brisbane's latest budget suggesting the proposed bypass tunnel could remain in the planning phase until after the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.







Read: $335-M Earmarked for Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel, Surface Upgrades







The proposed project would create a nine-kilometre bypass linking Kedron and Carseldine, including a seven-kilometre tunnel intended to provide an alternative route to the congested Gympie Road corridor.



Discussion about the project's timeline intensified after Cr Adrian Schrinner indicated in his budget speech that the tunnel would be among the first major infrastructure projects to get underway after the 2032 Games. While no formal construction schedule has been released, the remarks have prompted renewed debate about when the project might move beyond the planning stage.



Timeline in focus



Photo credit: Sandy Landers



The proposed tunnel was a key transport commitment ahead of the 2024 state election and has been promoted as a way to ease congestion along one of Brisbane's busiest arterial roads.



Opposition Leader Steven Miles argued the comments suggested northside motorists could face years of additional traffic delays before any major construction begins.



Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg did not provide a specific timeframe for the project when responding to questions about the remarks. Instead, he said planning work was continuing.



Labor transport spokesman Bart Mellish also questioned the project's future delivery schedule, pointing to planning and pre-construction funding allocated in previous budgets that is due to reach the end of its current funding period.



In response, Cr Schrinner's office said the comments reflected the reality that major underground infrastructure projects often require lengthy planning and construction timeframes before they can be delivered.



Proposed route from Kedron to Carseldine



Photo credit: Google Street View



The Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel would be a two-lane tolled bypass extending between Kedron and Carseldine. The project was announced in June 2024 and has been progressed by North Brisbane Infrastructure, a subsidiary of Queensland Investment Corporation.



The bypass has been proposed as a way of reducing congestion along Gympie Road, one of Queensland's busiest road corridors. Traffic bottlenecks are particularly common around intersections including Stafford Road, Rode Road, Hamilton Road and Beams Road.



The project could affect communities along the corridor, including Kedron, Chermside, Aspley and Carseldine, depending on its final design and delivery.







Read: Public Consultation Opens on Proposed Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel







Planning review continues



Transport and Main Roads is currently reviewing planning work previously undertaken by Queensland Investment Corporation after responsibility for the project transferred on 1 July 2025.



The department has not yet announced a construction timetable and says the review process is continuing. With planning still underway and no construction timetable announced, the project's next stages remain subject to the ongoing review process.



Published 24-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
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<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 19-21 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-19-21-June-2026.png" medium="image"/>
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<enclosure url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-19-21-June-2026.png" length="657907" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:37:09 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope</link>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/USA-Australia-hero-image.png"/>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:43:14 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[The Epitome of a Maroon : Lindsay Collins]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/the-epitome-of-a-maroon-lindsay-collins</link>
<media:content url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Lindsay-Collins-maroons.png" medium="image"/>
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<enclosure url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Lindsay-Collins-maroons.png" length="761980" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:45:51 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lindsay Collins]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Maroons]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Padua College]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/?page_id=18319</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
For a bloke that relishes the state of his dental work, one thing you really don't want to see is Lindsay Collins galloping towards you with his high knee lift and contorted face IN A MAROONS JERSEY.



Read: ]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
For a bloke that relishes the state of his dental work, one thing you really don't want to see is Lindsay Collins galloping towards you with his high knee lift and contorted face IN A MAROONS JERSEY.



Read: ]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg</link>
<media:content url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Origin-Game-Two.png" medium="image"/>
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<enclosure url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Origin-Game-Two.png" length="1760103" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:53:34 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-12-14-June.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-12-14-June.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-12-14-June.png" length="250141" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 22:51:52 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Popovic's Gamble Pays Off As Socceroos Deliver Famous World Cup Statement]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement</link>
<media:content url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Australia-Turkey-hero-image.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Australia-Turkey-hero-image.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Australia-Turkey-hero-image.png" length="1347022" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2026 07:56:31 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 5-7 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-5-7-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-5-7-june-2026</link>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-5-7-June.png"/>
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<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2026 03:31:52 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-5-7-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[








QAFL



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 10• Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 66 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sherwood QAFL Seniors 100



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Cooke-Murphy Oval / Cooke-Murphy Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 10• Labrador QAFL Seniors 131 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 80







QAFLW



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 8• Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 21 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 22



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 8• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 42 &nbsp; | &nbsp; University of Queensland QAFLW Seniors 23















FQPL1



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Ballinger Park (Buderim Wanderers &amp; Sunshine Coast Wanderers)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 14• Sunshine Coast Wanderers 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; North Star 0



Sunday, June 7, 2026 (Walton Bridge Reserve (The Gap FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 8• The Gap FC 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Virginia United 1







NPL



Friday, June 5, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Moreton City Excelsior 0



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Birmingham Road (Magic United FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Magic United 2 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 1



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Spencer Park (Brisbane City FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Brisbane City 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Lions FC 4



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Spencer Park (Brisbane City FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 17• Brisbane City 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Lions FC 1











NBL1 North



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 8• Northside Wizards 80 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sunshine Coast Phoenix 84



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 8• Northside Wizards 80 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sunshine Coast Phoenix 79











HART Premier Netball League (HPNL)



Sunday, June 7, 2026 (Nissan Arena-Court 7) – HART Premier Netball League (HPNL) – Women – Round 5• Bond University Bull Sharks Ruby 56 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Kedron-Wavell Cougars Ruby 69




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[








QAFL



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 10• Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 66 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sherwood QAFL Seniors 100



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Cooke-Murphy Oval / Cooke-Murphy Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 10• Labrador QAFL Seniors 131 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 80







QAFLW



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 8• Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 21 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 22



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 8• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 42 &nbsp; | &nbsp; University of Queensland QAFLW Seniors 23















FQPL1



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Ballinger Park (Buderim Wanderers &amp; Sunshine Coast Wanderers)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 14• Sunshine Coast Wanderers 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; North Star 0



Sunday, June 7, 2026 (Walton Bridge Reserve (The Gap FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 8• The Gap FC 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Virginia United 1







NPL



Friday, June 5, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Moreton City Excelsior 0



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Birmingham Road (Magic United FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Magic United 2 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 1



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Spencer Park (Brisbane City FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Brisbane City 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Lions FC 4



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Spencer Park (Brisbane City FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 17• Brisbane City 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Lions FC 1











NBL1 North



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 8• Northside Wizards 80 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sunshine Coast Phoenix 84



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 8• Northside Wizards 80 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sunshine Coast Phoenix 79











HART Premier Netball League (HPNL)



Sunday, June 7, 2026 (Nissan Arena-Court 7) – HART Premier Netball League (HPNL) – Women – Round 5• Bond University Bull Sharks Ruby 56 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Kedron-Wavell Cougars Ruby 69




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Kedron Café and Stafford Heights Butcher Share A Local Food Success Story ]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/kedron-cafe-and-stafford-heights-butcher-share-a-local-food-success-story</link>
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<pubDate>Sun, 07 Jun 2026 13:03:51 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Best Butcher Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Best Café Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Farmhouse Kedron]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local produce]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland food]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rode Meats]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Stafford Heights]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/?page_id=18224</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Kedron and Stafford Heights have more than two award wins to celebrate, with Farmhouse and Rode Meats recognised as Queensland favourites after years of building their names around local produce, loyal customers and the kind of everyday service that keeps communities coming back.



Read: Stafford Heights Butcher Leads Queensland-Wide Vote For Best Butcher



Kedron And Stafford Heights Winners Reflect Local Loyalty



Farmhouse in Kedron and Rode Meats in Stafford Heights have been named among Queensland’s All the Best winners, with the two businesses recognised in separate food categories after a record 74,630 votes were cast across the 2026 campaign.



Farmhouse, located at 9 Somerset Road in Kedron, was named Best Café, while Rode Meats, at 269 Appleby Road in Stafford Heights, was named Best Butcher. The awards covered 15 categories, including cafés, butchers, bakeries, burger shops, fish and chip shops, pizzerias, pubs, gyms, florists, tourism attractions and other local favourites.



Photo Credit: Farmhouse, Kedron/Facebook



While the titles mark a public vote result, the story behind the two winners is also about consistency. Both businesses have built their identities around food, produce and repeat local support. Their connection is also practical, with Farmhouse noting that Rode Meats already supplies it with produce.



Photo Credit: Rode Meats/Facebook



That link gives the recognition a stronger local thread. One winner serves meals from a Kedron café grounded in regional produce, while the other has spent decades trading as a Stafford Heights butcher. Together, their wins show how local food businesses can grow through daily trust, steady service and a clear sense of place.



Farmhouse Kedron Carries A Produce-Focused Story



Farmhouse’s story is tied to the memory of Farmer Joe’s, a family-owned produce store that closed in 2009 to make way for a new road. Farmer Joe’s had been remembered as a community hub, and Farmhouse has shaped its own identity around fresh food producers, family farms and local and regional supply.



The café presents itself as a tribute to dairy farmers, local farms and fresh food producers. It says it buys from many local and regional producers and aims to add more farmers to its list each season. That focus gives the Kedron café a clear point of difference beyond its Best Café title.



Its approach is simple but effective: bring food from farms to plates with as little fuss as possible. That idea sits at the centre of the café’s public story and helps explain why its win carries weight with customers who value local food connections.



Farmhouse operates from 6:30am to 2:30pm, seven days a week, and offers food, drinks, catering and bookings. After being named Best Café in Queensland, the business marked Queensland Day with lunch and drink specials and acknowledged its team and supporters.







Rode Meats Builds On More Than Four Decades In Stafford Heights



Rode Meats has been part of Stafford Heights since 1980. The family-owned butcher operates from Rode Road Shopping Centre and lists beef, chicken, lamb, pork, roasts, sausages, low-and-slow meats and ready-to-go items among its products.



Its Best Butcher recognition adds to earlier honours listed by the business, including a 2020 Brisbane butcher title and a 2020 Australia’s Best Continental Sausage award. Those earlier achievements help give context to the latest win, showing that the All the Best result is not a sudden appearance but part of a longer record of recognition.



Before the winners were announced, Rode Meats had already been leading the butcher category leaderboard. The public vote put the Stafford Heights shop ahead in a competitive field and drew attention to the strong support behind the business.



The butcher’s profile has also grown online, helped by apprentice butcher Ethan Johns and sausage-making content that attracted wide attention. One video received more than 5.8 million views, showing how a traditional local trade can reach far beyond the shopfront while still being rooted in everyday craft.







A Shared Food Story With A Local Connection



The recognition of Farmhouse and Rode Meats stands out because the two businesses are connected beyond the winners list. Farmhouse has publicly noted that Rode Meats already supplies it with produce, giving the awards a direct local supply link.



That connection makes the story more than a simple list of winners. It shows one local business supporting another, with the café and butcher each playing a role in the area’s food scene.



For Farmhouse, the Best Café title reflects a business shaped around farmers, producers and community support. For Rode Meats, the Best Butcher title adds to decades of Stafford Heights trading, earlier awards and growing public attention.



Read: Kedron Brook tops Microplastic Count in QUT Study of Brisbane Creeks



The All the Best winners were announced on Wednesday, 3 June, ahead of Queensland Day on Saturday, 6 June. For Kedron and Stafford Heights, the result places two local food names on a Queensland-wide winners list while highlighting the value of steady support, trusted supply and businesses that continue to grow from their local base.



Published 4-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Kedron and Stafford Heights have more than two award wins to celebrate, with Farmhouse and Rode Meats recognised as Queensland favourites after years of building their names around local produce, loyal customers and the kind of everyday service that keeps communities coming back.



Read: Stafford Heights Butcher Leads Queensland-Wide Vote For Best Butcher



Kedron And Stafford Heights Winners Reflect Local Loyalty



Farmhouse in Kedron and Rode Meats in Stafford Heights have been named among Queensland’s All the Best winners, with the two businesses recognised in separate food categories after a record 74,630 votes were cast across the 2026 campaign.



Farmhouse, located at 9 Somerset Road in Kedron, was named Best Café, while Rode Meats, at 269 Appleby Road in Stafford Heights, was named Best Butcher. The awards covered 15 categories, including cafés, butchers, bakeries, burger shops, fish and chip shops, pizzerias, pubs, gyms, florists, tourism attractions and other local favourites.



Photo Credit: Farmhouse, Kedron/Facebook



While the titles mark a public vote result, the story behind the two winners is also about consistency. Both businesses have built their identities around food, produce and repeat local support. Their connection is also practical, with Farmhouse noting that Rode Meats already supplies it with produce.



Photo Credit: Rode Meats/Facebook



That link gives the recognition a stronger local thread. One winner serves meals from a Kedron café grounded in regional produce, while the other has spent decades trading as a Stafford Heights butcher. Together, their wins show how local food businesses can grow through daily trust, steady service and a clear sense of place.



Farmhouse Kedron Carries A Produce-Focused Story



Farmhouse’s story is tied to the memory of Farmer Joe’s, a family-owned produce store that closed in 2009 to make way for a new road. Farmer Joe’s had been remembered as a community hub, and Farmhouse has shaped its own identity around fresh food producers, family farms and local and regional supply.



The café presents itself as a tribute to dairy farmers, local farms and fresh food producers. It says it buys from many local and regional producers and aims to add more farmers to its list each season. That focus gives the Kedron café a clear point of difference beyond its Best Café title.



Its approach is simple but effective: bring food from farms to plates with as little fuss as possible. That idea sits at the centre of the café’s public story and helps explain why its win carries weight with customers who value local food connections.



Farmhouse operates from 6:30am to 2:30pm, seven days a week, and offers food, drinks, catering and bookings. After being named Best Café in Queensland, the business marked Queensland Day with lunch and drink specials and acknowledged its team and supporters.







Rode Meats Builds On More Than Four Decades In Stafford Heights



Rode Meats has been part of Stafford Heights since 1980. The family-owned butcher operates from Rode Road Shopping Centre and lists beef, chicken, lamb, pork, roasts, sausages, low-and-slow meats and ready-to-go items among its products.



Its Best Butcher recognition adds to earlier honours listed by the business, including a 2020 Brisbane butcher title and a 2020 Australia’s Best Continental Sausage award. Those earlier achievements help give context to the latest win, showing that the All the Best result is not a sudden appearance but part of a longer record of recognition.



Before the winners were announced, Rode Meats had already been leading the butcher category leaderboard. The public vote put the Stafford Heights shop ahead in a competitive field and drew attention to the strong support behind the business.



The butcher’s profile has also grown online, helped by apprentice butcher Ethan Johns and sausage-making content that attracted wide attention. One video received more than 5.8 million views, showing how a traditional local trade can reach far beyond the shopfront while still being rooted in everyday craft.







A Shared Food Story With A Local Connection



The recognition of Farmhouse and Rode Meats stands out because the two businesses are connected beyond the winners list. Farmhouse has publicly noted that Rode Meats already supplies it with produce, giving the awards a direct local supply link.



That connection makes the story more than a simple list of winners. It shows one local business supporting another, with the café and butcher each playing a role in the area’s food scene.



For Farmhouse, the Best Café title reflects a business shaped around farmers, producers and community support. For Rode Meats, the Best Butcher title adds to decades of Stafford Heights trading, earlier awards and growing public attention.



Read: Kedron Brook tops Microplastic Count in QUT Study of Brisbane Creeks



The All the Best winners were announced on Wednesday, 3 June, ahead of Queensland Day on Saturday, 6 June. For Kedron and Stafford Heights, the result places two local food names on a Queensland-wide winners list while highlighting the value of steady support, trusted supply and businesses that continue to grow from their local base.



Published 4-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[One More Step: Socceroos Face World Cup Crossroads Against Paraguay]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png"/>
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<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:19:04 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 19-21 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-19-21-June-2026.png" medium="image"/>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:37:10 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Wavell State High Students Earn Places in Prestigious QMEA Programs]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wavell-state-high-students-earn-places-in-prestigious-qmea-programs</link>
<media:content url="https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FI-for-OMC-2026-06-22T084838.480.webp" medium="image"/>
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<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:52:43 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[QMEA]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[STEM]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wavell State High School]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/?page_id=21638</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Three students from Wavell State High School will spend their upcoming school holidays gaining hands-on industry experience and exploring future career pathways through a range of Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) programs.







Read: Wavell State High School Celebrates Excellence in Sport, Science, and Community







The opportunities will see students connect with industry professionals and take part in STEM-related activities aimed at expanding their understanding of future career pathways.



Year 12 student Zahra Patel has been selected to complete work experience with Glencore Technology through the QMEA Resource Your Future program. The placement is designed to help participants explore careers in engineering, science, technology and professional services.







Year 11 student Callum Keaney will head to Mt Isa after being selected for the QMEA Oresome Minds Camp. During the six-day program, students from across Queensland will work together to develop solutions to real challenges faced by the resources industry. The camp also includes site tours, career talks and presentations to industry representatives.



Joining Callum on the trip will be Wavell State High School science teacher Mrs Susan Siemon, who has volunteered her time to serve as a camp supervisor and support students throughout the experience.



Meanwhile, Year 10 student Roy Blenkiron will attend the 2026 QMEA-UQ Oresome Engineering Camp. The program provides opportunities to participate in hands-on projects, industry-based activities and mentoring from professionals working in the field. The camp will give Roy the opportunity to further explore his passion for engineering through practical projects and industry-based activities.



Wavell State High School said it was proud to see students embracing the opportunities available through its involvement in the academy and looked forward to hearing about their experiences when they return.



About the QMEA



Photo credit: QMEA



The Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy is an industry-led education initiative and the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council. Established in 2005 with 18 schools, the academy has grown into a network of more than 100 schools across regional and south-east Queensland.



With support from industry partners and Queensland Resources Council members, the QMEA provides opportunities for school-industry engagement through workshops, mentoring programs, STEM experiences and trade-focused activities.



According to the academy, more than 65,000 Queensland students have participated in QMEA programs over the past two decades. The initiative focuses on providing practical learning experiences and direct engagement with industry, helping students better understand opportunities available through university study, apprenticeships and careers in the resources and energy sectors.







Read: Wavell State High School Students Among Buy Smart Competition Winners







The upcoming holiday programs will provide Zahra, Callum, and Roy with opportunities to engage in STEM-related learning beyond the classroom. The programs are designed to connect students with industry professionals and expose them to potential future study and career pathways.



Published 22-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Three students from Wavell State High School will spend their upcoming school holidays gaining hands-on industry experience and exploring future career pathways through a range of Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) programs.







Read: Wavell State High School Celebrates Excellence in Sport, Science, and Community







The opportunities will see students connect with industry professionals and take part in STEM-related activities aimed at expanding their understanding of future career pathways.



Year 12 student Zahra Patel has been selected to complete work experience with Glencore Technology through the QMEA Resource Your Future program. The placement is designed to help participants explore careers in engineering, science, technology and professional services.







Year 11 student Callum Keaney will head to Mt Isa after being selected for the QMEA Oresome Minds Camp. During the six-day program, students from across Queensland will work together to develop solutions to real challenges faced by the resources industry. The camp also includes site tours, career talks and presentations to industry representatives.



Joining Callum on the trip will be Wavell State High School science teacher Mrs Susan Siemon, who has volunteered her time to serve as a camp supervisor and support students throughout the experience.



Meanwhile, Year 10 student Roy Blenkiron will attend the 2026 QMEA-UQ Oresome Engineering Camp. The program provides opportunities to participate in hands-on projects, industry-based activities and mentoring from professionals working in the field. The camp will give Roy the opportunity to further explore his passion for engineering through practical projects and industry-based activities.



Wavell State High School said it was proud to see students embracing the opportunities available through its involvement in the academy and looked forward to hearing about their experiences when they return.



About the QMEA



Photo credit: QMEA



The Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy is an industry-led education initiative and the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council. Established in 2005 with 18 schools, the academy has grown into a network of more than 100 schools across regional and south-east Queensland.



With support from industry partners and Queensland Resources Council members, the QMEA provides opportunities for school-industry engagement through workshops, mentoring programs, STEM experiences and trade-focused activities.



According to the academy, more than 65,000 Queensland students have participated in QMEA programs over the past two decades. The initiative focuses on providing practical learning experiences and direct engagement with industry, helping students better understand opportunities available through university study, apprenticeships and careers in the resources and energy sectors.







Read: Wavell State High School Students Among Buy Smart Competition Winners







The upcoming holiday programs will provide Zahra, Callum, and Roy with opportunities to engage in STEM-related learning beyond the classroom. The programs are designed to connect students with industry professionals and expose them to potential future study and career pathways.



Published 22-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope</link>
<media:content url="https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/USA-Australia-hero-image.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/USA-Australia-hero-image.png"/>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:43:15 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Kelvin Street Queenslander Tipped to Break Wavell Heights Price Record]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/kelvin-street-queenslander-tipped-to-break-wavell-heights-price-record</link>
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<pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2026 02:09:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[auction]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kelvin Street]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queenslander]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/?page_id=21618</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A sprawling, freshly renovated Queenslander at Kelvin Street in Wavell Heights is heading to auction, and early signs suggest it could give the suburb's price record a serious nudge.







Read: Wavell Heights Home Tops Australia’s Most-Viewed Property List in Stunning Debut Week







The five bedroom, three bathroom home at 14 Kelvin Street has been completely transformed by its owner-builders, who took on a substantial renovation project to turn the property into one of the area's standout family homes. It's being billed as the largest Queenslander to come onto the local market in four years, sitting on a generous 810 square metre block.



Photo credit: Place Ascot



Inside, the scale is hard to miss. Ceilings stretch to 4.5 metres through the open plan living and dining areas, and the home still carries plenty of original Queenslander charm alongside its new finishes. French doors, leadlight windows, VJ panelling and timber floors sit comfortably next to a more contemporary kitchen fitted with Smeg appliances and a servery window that opens onto the outdoor entertaining space. From there, the home flows out to a pool and neatly kept gardens, making the indoor-outdoor connection one of its strongest selling points.



Photo credit: Place Ascot







Marketing agents Nick Moloney and Drew Davies, of Place Ascot, have reported strong early interest, with around 35 groups coming through across two inspections so far. According to Moloney, buyers have responded well to both the quality of the renovation and the sheer size of the home for a Queenslander, with separate living zones proving particularly popular among middle-aged families.



Photo credit: Place Ascot



Property records show the current owners bought the house in 2022 for $1.264 million, before embarking on the renovation that has reshaped it into its current form. It will go under the hammer on June 27.



Whether it can challenge the suburb record is the real question hanging over the auction. The benchmark to beat is 48 Power Street, which changed hands for $3.79 million in 2024, and remains the highest price paid for a house in Wavell Heights.



The scale of this one, both in size and in the level of finish, has clearly caught buyers' attention, and with auction day fast approaching, there's genuine curiosity about how far the bidding will go.







Read: The Wavell Heights Home That Went From Asbestos Nightmare to Suburb Showstopper







For now, the home stands as one of the more closely watched listings in Wavell Heights this winter, a reminder of how much appetite remains for character homes that combine old Queenslander bones with a genuinely modern renovation.



Auction is scheduled for June 27.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A sprawling, freshly renovated Queenslander at Kelvin Street in Wavell Heights is heading to auction, and early signs suggest it could give the suburb's price record a serious nudge.







Read: Wavell Heights Home Tops Australia’s Most-Viewed Property List in Stunning Debut Week







The five bedroom, three bathroom home at 14 Kelvin Street has been completely transformed by its owner-builders, who took on a substantial renovation project to turn the property into one of the area's standout family homes. It's being billed as the largest Queenslander to come onto the local market in four years, sitting on a generous 810 square metre block.



Photo credit: Place Ascot



Inside, the scale is hard to miss. Ceilings stretch to 4.5 metres through the open plan living and dining areas, and the home still carries plenty of original Queenslander charm alongside its new finishes. French doors, leadlight windows, VJ panelling and timber floors sit comfortably next to a more contemporary kitchen fitted with Smeg appliances and a servery window that opens onto the outdoor entertaining space. From there, the home flows out to a pool and neatly kept gardens, making the indoor-outdoor connection one of its strongest selling points.



Photo credit: Place Ascot







Marketing agents Nick Moloney and Drew Davies, of Place Ascot, have reported strong early interest, with around 35 groups coming through across two inspections so far. According to Moloney, buyers have responded well to both the quality of the renovation and the sheer size of the home for a Queenslander, with separate living zones proving particularly popular among middle-aged families.



Photo credit: Place Ascot



Property records show the current owners bought the house in 2022 for $1.264 million, before embarking on the renovation that has reshaped it into its current form. It will go under the hammer on June 27.



Whether it can challenge the suburb record is the real question hanging over the auction. The benchmark to beat is 48 Power Street, which changed hands for $3.79 million in 2024, and remains the highest price paid for a house in Wavell Heights.



The scale of this one, both in size and in the level of finish, has clearly caught buyers' attention, and with auction day fast approaching, there's genuine curiosity about how far the bidding will go.







Read: The Wavell Heights Home That Went From Asbestos Nightmare to Suburb Showstopper







For now, the home stands as one of the more closely watched listings in Wavell Heights this winter, a reminder of how much appetite remains for character homes that combine old Queenslander bones with a genuinely modern renovation.



Auction is scheduled for June 27.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:53:35 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
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<title><![CDATA[Virginia Drivers Sit Within Brisbane’s Hybrid Vehicle Shift]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/virginia-drivers-sit-within-brisbanes-hybrid-vehicle-shift</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 22:17:51 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane EVs]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[electric vehicles]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[EV charging]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[hybrid vehicles]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[North Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[petrol costs]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[vehicle registrations]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Virginia]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/?page_id=21599</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Virginia has been identified as one of Brisbane’s high-hybrid suburbs, with nearly a quarter of registered vehicles in the north Brisbane area recorded as hybrids.



Read: Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane



The suburb was listed among Brisbane areas with a high concentration of hybrid vehicles, along with Murarrie, Kedron and Kangaroo Point. Across most Brisbane suburbs, hybrids outnumber full battery electric vehicles.



The Virginia figure places the suburb within a wider vehicle shift where hybrids remain more common than full electric vehicles in many parts of Brisbane.



Virginia Hybrid Uptake Shapes Local Vehicle Trends



The Brisbane data separates Virginia’s hybrid share from suburbs where full electric vehicle ownership is more prominent.



Cost, charging access and driving range remain concerns for some drivers considering a full battery electric vehicle. Plug-in hybrids have been described as a bridge option for consumers who want to reduce fuel use but are not ready to move entirely to a battery electric vehicle.



For Virginia, the available figure supports a clear local focus on hybrids rather than full EV uptake. The suburb’s high hybrid share should not be treated as evidence that it has one of Brisbane’s highest full electric vehicle rates.



Photo Credit: Pexels



Full electric vehicle adoption has been stronger in some affluent Brisbane suburbs, where households are more likely to manage the upfront cost of an EV and have easier access to home charging.



Charging practicality also affects the pattern. Suburbs with more homes, garages or private parking can be better suited to EV charging than areas where apartment living makes private charging less accessible.



Business registrations also shape the broader data. A large share of Queensland EVs are registered to Brisbane CBD addresses, with company-owned vehicles likely contributing to that concentration.



Photo Credit: Pexels



Wider Vehicle Trends Add Context



National vehicle sales provide added context for Virginia’s high hybrid share.



In Q1 2026, hybrids accounted for 46,945 new light vehicle sales across Australia. Over the same period, hybrids made up 16.70 per cent of new light vehicle sales, compared with 12.25 per cent for battery electric vehicles and 6.82 per cent for plug-in hybrid vehicles.



Internal combustion engine vehicles remained the largest category, making up 64.23 per cent of new light vehicle sales.



Read: Hamilton Road Resurfacing Brings Brisbane Road Blitz To Wavell Heights



The Virginia figure sits within that wider market, where hybrids remain a major part of the move away from petrol-only motoring while full electric vehicle uptake continues to vary across suburbs.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Virginia has been identified as one of Brisbane’s high-hybrid suburbs, with nearly a quarter of registered vehicles in the north Brisbane area recorded as hybrids.



Read: Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane



The suburb was listed among Brisbane areas with a high concentration of hybrid vehicles, along with Murarrie, Kedron and Kangaroo Point. Across most Brisbane suburbs, hybrids outnumber full battery electric vehicles.



The Virginia figure places the suburb within a wider vehicle shift where hybrids remain more common than full electric vehicles in many parts of Brisbane.



Virginia Hybrid Uptake Shapes Local Vehicle Trends



The Brisbane data separates Virginia’s hybrid share from suburbs where full electric vehicle ownership is more prominent.



Cost, charging access and driving range remain concerns for some drivers considering a full battery electric vehicle. Plug-in hybrids have been described as a bridge option for consumers who want to reduce fuel use but are not ready to move entirely to a battery electric vehicle.



For Virginia, the available figure supports a clear local focus on hybrids rather than full EV uptake. The suburb’s high hybrid share should not be treated as evidence that it has one of Brisbane’s highest full electric vehicle rates.



Photo Credit: Pexels



Full electric vehicle adoption has been stronger in some affluent Brisbane suburbs, where households are more likely to manage the upfront cost of an EV and have easier access to home charging.



Charging practicality also affects the pattern. Suburbs with more homes, garages or private parking can be better suited to EV charging than areas where apartment living makes private charging less accessible.



Business registrations also shape the broader data. A large share of Queensland EVs are registered to Brisbane CBD addresses, with company-owned vehicles likely contributing to that concentration.



Photo Credit: Pexels



Wider Vehicle Trends Add Context



National vehicle sales provide added context for Virginia’s high hybrid share.



In Q1 2026, hybrids accounted for 46,945 new light vehicle sales across Australia. Over the same period, hybrids made up 16.70 per cent of new light vehicle sales, compared with 12.25 per cent for battery electric vehicles and 6.82 per cent for plug-in hybrid vehicles.



Internal combustion engine vehicles remained the largest category, making up 64.23 per cent of new light vehicle sales.



Read: Hamilton Road Resurfacing Brings Brisbane Road Blitz To Wavell Heights



The Virginia figure sits within that wider market, where hybrids remain a major part of the move away from petrol-only motoring while full electric vehicle uptake continues to vary across suburbs.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Hamilton Road Resurfacing Brings Brisbane Road Blitz To Wavell Heights]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/hamilton-road-resurfacing-brings-brisbane-road-blitz-to-wavell-heights</link>
<media:content url="https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/3-1-1.webp" medium="image"/>
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<pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 07:00:32 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane budget]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane rates]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hamilton Road]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local roadworks]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Operation Smooth]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[road resurfacing]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wavell Heights]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/?page_id=21594</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Hamilton Road has been included in Brisbane’s $110 million Operation Smooth resurfacing program, placing Wavell Heights among the suburbs named in the citywide roadworks push.



Read: Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane



The program will resurface nearly one million square metres of roads across Brisbane. Hamilton Road is listed for Chermside and Wavell Heights, making it the local road connected to the resurfacing rollout.



No local closure timetable or detour plan has been released for Hamilton Road.



Photo Credit: LMAdrianSchrinner



Hamilton Road Added To Resurfacing Blitz



Operation Smooth has been set up to deliver smoother road surfaces across Brisbane, with the program focused on some of the city’s busiest roads.



The resurfacing program follows the Big Fill pothole blitz, which at its peak repaired one pothole every two minutes across Brisbane.



Hamilton Road is listed alongside several other major roads, including Forest Lake Boulevard, Albion Road, Ipswich Road, Logan Road, Lutwyche Road, Moggill Road, South Pine Road, Kedron Park Road and Toohey Road.



The southern approach to the Story Bridge is also included and has been identified as the highest-profile resurfacing work in the program.



The resurfacing program sits within the 2026-27 Budget, which also increases rates for Brisbane homeowners.



Rates will rise by 3.97 per cent, with some suburbs facing increases of up to 7.5 per cent. The minimum rates cost for Brisbane residents will be $948.64.



A Wavell Heights-specific rates figure has not been provided in the available budget details.



Photo Credit: BCC



Rate Discounts And Resident Services



The budget includes several citywide measures for households.



Residents who pay rates on time will receive a $60 annual discount. The maximum pensioner rates rebate will increase to $1,350, while first home buyers will receive a rates establishment fee exemption.



Credit and debit card surcharges will be removed from 1 July 2026.



Renters and owner-occupiers will receive 10 free 100kg waste vouchers. Brisbane residents will also continue to receive two free native plants, and the annual kerbside collection service will continue.



More than $2 million is listed for free off-peak transport for seniors.



Wider Roads And Transport Program



Operation Smooth forms part of a $1.9 billion transport and infrastructure investment.



More than $400 million is listed for road upgrades, including the Beams Road corridor upgrade, intersection upgrades in Inala and Coorparoo, and a new crossing on Gympie Road at Bald Hills.



The budget also includes $213 million to subsidise bus, CityCat and Brisbane Metro services.



Read: Nook Coffee Brings Together Coffee, Community and Craft in Northgate



More than $63 million is allocated for footpaths and bikeways, while artificial intelligence technology is planned for trial within Brisbane’s traffic signal network.



Published 17-June-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Hamilton Road has been included in Brisbane’s $110 million Operation Smooth resurfacing program, placing Wavell Heights among the suburbs named in the citywide roadworks push.



Read: Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane



The program will resurface nearly one million square metres of roads across Brisbane. Hamilton Road is listed for Chermside and Wavell Heights, making it the local road connected to the resurfacing rollout.



No local closure timetable or detour plan has been released for Hamilton Road.



Photo Credit: LMAdrianSchrinner



Hamilton Road Added To Resurfacing Blitz



Operation Smooth has been set up to deliver smoother road surfaces across Brisbane, with the program focused on some of the city’s busiest roads.



The resurfacing program follows the Big Fill pothole blitz, which at its peak repaired one pothole every two minutes across Brisbane.



Hamilton Road is listed alongside several other major roads, including Forest Lake Boulevard, Albion Road, Ipswich Road, Logan Road, Lutwyche Road, Moggill Road, South Pine Road, Kedron Park Road and Toohey Road.



The southern approach to the Story Bridge is also included and has been identified as the highest-profile resurfacing work in the program.



The resurfacing program sits within the 2026-27 Budget, which also increases rates for Brisbane homeowners.



Rates will rise by 3.97 per cent, with some suburbs facing increases of up to 7.5 per cent. The minimum rates cost for Brisbane residents will be $948.64.



A Wavell Heights-specific rates figure has not been provided in the available budget details.



Photo Credit: BCC



Rate Discounts And Resident Services



The budget includes several citywide measures for households.



Residents who pay rates on time will receive a $60 annual discount. The maximum pensioner rates rebate will increase to $1,350, while first home buyers will receive a rates establishment fee exemption.



Credit and debit card surcharges will be removed from 1 July 2026.



Renters and owner-occupiers will receive 10 free 100kg waste vouchers. Brisbane residents will also continue to receive two free native plants, and the annual kerbside collection service will continue.



More than $2 million is listed for free off-peak transport for seniors.



Wider Roads And Transport Program



Operation Smooth forms part of a $1.9 billion transport and infrastructure investment.



More than $400 million is listed for road upgrades, including the Beams Road corridor upgrade, intersection upgrades in Inala and Coorparoo, and a new crossing on Gympie Road at Bald Hills.



The budget also includes $213 million to subsidise bus, CityCat and Brisbane Metro services.



Read: Nook Coffee Brings Together Coffee, Community and Craft in Northgate



More than $63 million is allocated for footpaths and bikeways, while artificial intelligence technology is planned for trial within Brisbane’s traffic signal network.



Published 17-June-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Nook Coffee Brings Together Coffee, Community and Craft in Northgate]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/nook-coffee-brings-together-coffee-community-and-craft-in-northgate</link>
<media:content url="https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/nook.jpg" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/nook.jpg"/>
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<pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2026 06:01:22 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[artisan goods]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[café]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local business]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nook Coffee]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[North Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Northgate]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[specialty coffee]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Tim Adams Specialty Coffee]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wavell Heights]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/?page_id=21566</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Nook Coffee has quickly found its place in the morning routines of Northgate locals, offering specialty coffee, house-made jaffles and a space lined with handmade goods from local artisans, all pulled together by owner Suzanne and her daughter Bijoux. 



Read: Meet the Woman Behind Wavell Heights’ Favourite Honey



The café sources its coffee from Tim Adams Specialty Coffee, a Sunshine Coast roaster known for quality single origins and blends, and its pastries from Danny's Bread, keeping the food offering as local as the rest of the fit-out. 



House-made jaffles are made fresh each day, bringing a nostalgic and satisfying edge to the menu that slots naturally alongside the morning coffee crowd.



A café that fills a particular gap



Northgate has long had limited options for a true neighbourhood café, often sitting in the shadow of nearby Nundah's busier dining and coffee scene. Nook gives locals exactly the kind of venue many residents appreciate: somewhere that remembers your order, supports local makers and gives people a reason to walk rather than drive.



Photo Credit: Yvonne Clark/Google Maps



What sets Nook apart from a typical neighbourhood café is its support for local artisans. The shelves showcase ceramics, candles, books and fresh flowers alongside a rotating collection of handmade goods. 



        View this post on Instagram            




Jewellery, soft furnishings, artworks and children's toys all feature in the display, turning the café into a small marketplace as much as a place to enjoy a flat white.



Community connection and local craft



The combination of specialty coffee and artisan goods is not new to Brisbane, but Nook delivers it with a genuine sense of warmth rather than as a carefully curated concept. 



        View this post on Instagram            




Much of that comes from Suzanne's vision for the café and the involvement of her daughter Bijoux, whose presence helps create a welcoming family atmosphere.



Suzanne sees the café as a place for community connection as much as a coffee destination. The shelves provide local artisans with a permanent space to showcase their work, giving makers an audience beyond the occasional weekend market and helping strengthen connections within the local community.



A stop worth making if you're in the area



Nook Coffee is at 135 Northgate Road, Northgate. Follow along at nookcoffee.com.au or on their Instagram page for updates on new artisan stock and café news.



Read: The Wavell Heights Home That Went From Asbestos Nightmare to Suburb Showstopper



Published 16-June-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Nook Coffee has quickly found its place in the morning routines of Northgate locals, offering specialty coffee, house-made jaffles and a space lined with handmade goods from local artisans, all pulled together by owner Suzanne and her daughter Bijoux. 



Read: Meet the Woman Behind Wavell Heights’ Favourite Honey



The café sources its coffee from Tim Adams Specialty Coffee, a Sunshine Coast roaster known for quality single origins and blends, and its pastries from Danny's Bread, keeping the food offering as local as the rest of the fit-out. 



House-made jaffles are made fresh each day, bringing a nostalgic and satisfying edge to the menu that slots naturally alongside the morning coffee crowd.



A café that fills a particular gap



Northgate has long had limited options for a true neighbourhood café, often sitting in the shadow of nearby Nundah's busier dining and coffee scene. Nook gives locals exactly the kind of venue many residents appreciate: somewhere that remembers your order, supports local makers and gives people a reason to walk rather than drive.



Photo Credit: Yvonne Clark/Google Maps



What sets Nook apart from a typical neighbourhood café is its support for local artisans. The shelves showcase ceramics, candles, books and fresh flowers alongside a rotating collection of handmade goods. 



        View this post on Instagram            




Jewellery, soft furnishings, artworks and children's toys all feature in the display, turning the café into a small marketplace as much as a place to enjoy a flat white.



Community connection and local craft



The combination of specialty coffee and artisan goods is not new to Brisbane, but Nook delivers it with a genuine sense of warmth rather than as a carefully curated concept. 



        View this post on Instagram            




Much of that comes from Suzanne's vision for the café and the involvement of her daughter Bijoux, whose presence helps create a welcoming family atmosphere.



Suzanne sees the café as a place for community connection as much as a coffee destination. The shelves provide local artisans with a permanent space to showcase their work, giving makers an audience beyond the occasional weekend market and helping strengthen connections within the local community.



A stop worth making if you're in the area



Nook Coffee is at 135 Northgate Road, Northgate. Follow along at nookcoffee.com.au or on their Instagram page for updates on new artisan stock and café news.



Read: The Wavell Heights Home That Went From Asbestos Nightmare to Suburb Showstopper



Published 16-June-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-12-14-June.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-12-14-June.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-12-14-June.png" length="250141" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 22:51:56 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[One More Step: Socceroos Face World Cup Crossroads Against Paraguay]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png" length="1350150" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:19:05 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Everton Park State School's Fete Breaks Records in the Drive for a New Tuckshop]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/everton-park-state-schools-fete-breaks-records-in-the-drive-for-a-new-tuckshop</link>
<media:content url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/tuckshop.jpg" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/tuckshop.jpg"/>
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<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 15:21:28 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane school news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community fundraising]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Everton Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Everton Park State School]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Fete on the Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mitchelton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[North Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[P&C Association]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[school community]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[school fete]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[tuckshop]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/?page_id=37744</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Everton Park State School has raised a record-breaking $26,648.38 towards a new tuckshop through its Fete on the Park, bringing the community closer than ever to its $125,000 fundraising goal.



Read: Arana Hills Dance Studio Celebrates Queensland Honours and National Championship Selection



The fete, organised by the school's P&amp;C Association, drew around 1,500 students, families, staff, neighbours and community members for an afternoon and evening packed with rides, food, market stalls, performances and the kind of collective energy that only a well-run school event can generate. It was the school's first fete in three years, and by every measure available, the community made it count.



The result pushes the tuckshop fund to well over $100,000. With approximately $75,000 already secured before the fete opened its gates, the latest haul means the school now sits within striking distance of the full amount needed to build a facility that parents, students and the P&amp;C team have been working toward for some time.



A day the numbers tell well



The statistics behind the day speak to just how thoroughly the Everton Park community threw itself into the event. The fete produced $47 raised per student, 70 entries in the inaugural Art Show, and overwhelmingly positive feedback from those who attended. A post-event survey found that 97.3 per cent of respondents rated the fete as excellent or very good, while 81 per cent said their children loved the event.



Photo Credit: EPSS P&amp;C



The Art Show was a first for the school, with Harmony Early Education Everton Park stepping in as a sponsor to back the inaugural showcase of student creativity. It added a genuinely distinctive element to the day and gave students a chance to see their work celebrated in a public setting alongside the rides and stalls.



Parents did more than attend. Volunteers ran the Quality Second Hand Stall and the popular Plant Stall, contributing the kind of hands-on energy that makes the difference between a good community event and a great one. 



Local businesses also played a meaningful role, with Everton Park businesses including Professionals Everton Park Real Estate and TMP Organics Butcher and Supermarket among the sponsors who backed the day.



Photo Credit: Fete on the Park



More than just a tuckshop&nbsp;



The existing tuckshop at Everton Park State School operates three days a week, on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, with tuckshop convenors Liz Laidely and Elinore Stott supported by a rotating team of parent volunteers. A sushi service runs every Wednesday. The tuckshop follows Queensland Education's Healthy Food and Drink Supply Guidelines, and all profits flow directly back through the P&amp;C to fund school programs and resources.







A new facility would give that operation more room to work with, improving the experience for students, volunteers and staff who keep the service running each week. The P&amp;C has long run the tuckshop as one of several community services alongside the uniform shop and swimming club, all of which depend on volunteer participation to function.



The fundraising continues



The next Fete on the Park is not scheduled until 2028, but the school community has other events lined up to keep the tuckshop fund moving. The upcoming Chappy Disco will raise funds for the school's chaplaincy programme, while the annual Spelling Bee will direct its proceeds toward the tuckshop goal.



Anyone who wants to get involved with the P&amp;C, attend a meeting or volunteer for upcoming events can find details at evertonparksspandc.com. Meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at 7pm in the school library. Tuckshop volunteer enquiries can go directly to tuckshop@evertonparksspandc.com.



Read: Want to Foster a Greyhound? This Arana Hills Event Is the Perfect Place to Start



Published 25-June-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Everton Park State School has raised a record-breaking $26,648.38 towards a new tuckshop through its Fete on the Park, bringing the community closer than ever to its $125,000 fundraising goal.



Read: Arana Hills Dance Studio Celebrates Queensland Honours and National Championship Selection



The fete, organised by the school's P&amp;C Association, drew around 1,500 students, families, staff, neighbours and community members for an afternoon and evening packed with rides, food, market stalls, performances and the kind of collective energy that only a well-run school event can generate. It was the school's first fete in three years, and by every measure available, the community made it count.



The result pushes the tuckshop fund to well over $100,000. With approximately $75,000 already secured before the fete opened its gates, the latest haul means the school now sits within striking distance of the full amount needed to build a facility that parents, students and the P&amp;C team have been working toward for some time.



A day the numbers tell well



The statistics behind the day speak to just how thoroughly the Everton Park community threw itself into the event. The fete produced $47 raised per student, 70 entries in the inaugural Art Show, and overwhelmingly positive feedback from those who attended. A post-event survey found that 97.3 per cent of respondents rated the fete as excellent or very good, while 81 per cent said their children loved the event.



Photo Credit: EPSS P&amp;C



The Art Show was a first for the school, with Harmony Early Education Everton Park stepping in as a sponsor to back the inaugural showcase of student creativity. It added a genuinely distinctive element to the day and gave students a chance to see their work celebrated in a public setting alongside the rides and stalls.



Parents did more than attend. Volunteers ran the Quality Second Hand Stall and the popular Plant Stall, contributing the kind of hands-on energy that makes the difference between a good community event and a great one. 



Local businesses also played a meaningful role, with Everton Park businesses including Professionals Everton Park Real Estate and TMP Organics Butcher and Supermarket among the sponsors who backed the day.



Photo Credit: Fete on the Park



More than just a tuckshop&nbsp;



The existing tuckshop at Everton Park State School operates three days a week, on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, with tuckshop convenors Liz Laidely and Elinore Stott supported by a rotating team of parent volunteers. A sushi service runs every Wednesday. The tuckshop follows Queensland Education's Healthy Food and Drink Supply Guidelines, and all profits flow directly back through the P&amp;C to fund school programs and resources.







A new facility would give that operation more room to work with, improving the experience for students, volunteers and staff who keep the service running each week. The P&amp;C has long run the tuckshop as one of several community services alongside the uniform shop and swimming club, all of which depend on volunteer participation to function.



The fundraising continues



The next Fete on the Park is not scheduled until 2028, but the school community has other events lined up to keep the tuckshop fund moving. The upcoming Chappy Disco will raise funds for the school's chaplaincy programme, while the annual Spelling Bee will direct its proceeds toward the tuckshop goal.



Anyone who wants to get involved with the P&amp;C, attend a meeting or volunteer for upcoming events can find details at evertonparksspandc.com. Meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at 7pm in the school library. Tuckshop volunteer enquiries can go directly to tuckshop@evertonparksspandc.com.



Read: Want to Foster a Greyhound? This Arana Hills Event Is the Perfect Place to Start



Published 25-June-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 19-21 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-19-21-June-2026.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-19-21-June-2026.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-19-21-June-2026.png" length="657907" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:37:11 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Arana Hills Dance Studio Celebrates Queensland Honours and National Championship Selection]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/arana-hills-dance-studio-celebrates-queensland-honours-and-national-championship-selection</link>
<media:content url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FI-for-OMC-2026-06-22T091704.835.webp" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FI-for-OMC-2026-06-22T091704.835.webp"/>
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<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 01:20:47 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[2026 ATOD Queensland Championships]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Arana Hills]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Impact Performing Arts]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/?page_id=37688</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Young dancers from Arana Hills dance studio Impact Performing Arts have earned top honours at the 2026 Australian Teachers of Dancing (ATOD) Queensland Championships, with three students qualifying to represent Queensland at the national titles later this year.







Read: One Arana Hills Resident Wakes Up a Million Dollars Richer







The event attracted dancers from across Queensland and featured competition in disciplines including jazz, tap, ballet and contemporary. Impact Performing Arts students achieved strong results across several championship categories.



Leading the achievements was Willow Barltrop, who was crowned Queensland Intermediate Jazz Champion after taking first place in the Intermediate Jazz Championship.



        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Impact Performing Arts (@impactperformingarts)




Chloe Turner also achieved strong results at the championships, claiming the title of Queensland Junior Tap Champion with a first-place finish in the Junior Tap Championship. She also received a Highly Commended result in the Junior Jazz Championship and a Commended result in the Junior Queensland Ballet Championship.



Mia Farrell placed fourth in the Intermediate Jazz Championship. As a result of their performances, Willow, Chloe and Mia have all qualified to represent Queensland at the upcoming ATOD National Championships, where they will compete against dancers from around the country.



Photo credit: Instagram/Impact Performing Arts



Other Impact Performing Arts students were also recognised during the championships. Sophie Attinger received a Highly Commended award in the Junior Queensland Ballet Championship, while Lara Stewart-Guex earned a Commended result in the Junior Contemporary Championship. Lotti Polyak also received a Commended result in the Intermediate Tap Championship.







Read: Hillbrook Chorale Celebrates 30 Years with Reunion Concert in Enoggera







Students from the Arana Hills dance studio earned recognition across multiple disciplines and age groups. The ATOD Queensland Championships attracted dancers from across Queensland. Qualification for the national championships allows dancers to compete against representatives from other states and territories.



Willow, Chloe and Mia will now turn their attention to the ATOD National Championships as they prepare to represent Queensland following their success at the state event.



Published 22-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Young dancers from Arana Hills dance studio Impact Performing Arts have earned top honours at the 2026 Australian Teachers of Dancing (ATOD) Queensland Championships, with three students qualifying to represent Queensland at the national titles later this year.







Read: One Arana Hills Resident Wakes Up a Million Dollars Richer







The event attracted dancers from across Queensland and featured competition in disciplines including jazz, tap, ballet and contemporary. Impact Performing Arts students achieved strong results across several championship categories.



Leading the achievements was Willow Barltrop, who was crowned Queensland Intermediate Jazz Champion after taking first place in the Intermediate Jazz Championship.



        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Impact Performing Arts (@impactperformingarts)




Chloe Turner also achieved strong results at the championships, claiming the title of Queensland Junior Tap Champion with a first-place finish in the Junior Tap Championship. She also received a Highly Commended result in the Junior Jazz Championship and a Commended result in the Junior Queensland Ballet Championship.



Mia Farrell placed fourth in the Intermediate Jazz Championship. As a result of their performances, Willow, Chloe and Mia have all qualified to represent Queensland at the upcoming ATOD National Championships, where they will compete against dancers from around the country.



Photo credit: Instagram/Impact Performing Arts



Other Impact Performing Arts students were also recognised during the championships. Sophie Attinger received a Highly Commended award in the Junior Queensland Ballet Championship, while Lara Stewart-Guex earned a Commended result in the Junior Contemporary Championship. Lotti Polyak also received a Commended result in the Intermediate Tap Championship.







Read: Hillbrook Chorale Celebrates 30 Years with Reunion Concert in Enoggera







Students from the Arana Hills dance studio earned recognition across multiple disciplines and age groups. The ATOD Queensland Championships attracted dancers from across Queensland. Qualification for the national championships allows dancers to compete against representatives from other states and territories.



Willow, Chloe and Mia will now turn their attention to the ATOD National Championships as they prepare to represent Queensland following their success at the state event.



Published 22-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope</link>
<media:content url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/USA-Australia-hero-image.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/USA-Australia-hero-image.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/USA-Australia-hero-image.png" length="1380392" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:43:15 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:53:35 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Man Charged After Alleged Everton Park Car Theft Attempt]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/man-charged-after-alleged-everton-park-car-theft-attempt</link>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-2.webp"/>
<enclosure url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-2.webp" length="29916" type="image/webp"/>
<pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 06:06:36 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane police]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[car theft attempt]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Everton Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland Police]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[robbery with violence]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[South Pine Road]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/?page_id=37668</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A man has been charged after an alleged attempt to steal a car at Everton Park, where a driver was allegedly assaulted at a South Pine Road traffic light before the vehicle struck a bus and a utility.



Read: Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane



The alleged incident happened about 12:40 pm on 15 June, while a 23-year-old man was sitting in a silver Kia Rio sedan at a red traffic light on South Pine Road.



Police allege another man, who was not known to him, opened the driver’s door and began assaulting him. The 23-year-old was then allegedly pulled from the sedan before the other man got into the driver’s seat.



Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook



Vehicle Struck Bus And Hilux



The man allegedly tried to drive away in the Kia Rio after getting into the vehicle.



During the attempt to leave, the sedan allegedly hit the rear of a bus and also struck a Toyota Hilux utility.



The man then got out of the Kia Rio and fled on foot.



The 23-year-old vehicle owner received minor injuries. He did not need to be taken to hospital.



Arrest Near Everton Park Scene



A 33-year-old Harristown man was later found at a nearby residence and arrested without incident.



He was charged with one count each of robbery with violence, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, dangerous operation of a vehicle and unlicensed driving.



The man was refused police bail and was due to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on 16 June.



Read: North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026



The reference number is QP2601145057. Information can be provided to Policelink or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.



Published 15-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A man has been charged after an alleged attempt to steal a car at Everton Park, where a driver was allegedly assaulted at a South Pine Road traffic light before the vehicle struck a bus and a utility.



Read: Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane



The alleged incident happened about 12:40 pm on 15 June, while a 23-year-old man was sitting in a silver Kia Rio sedan at a red traffic light on South Pine Road.



Police allege another man, who was not known to him, opened the driver’s door and began assaulting him. The 23-year-old was then allegedly pulled from the sedan before the other man got into the driver’s seat.



Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook



Vehicle Struck Bus And Hilux



The man allegedly tried to drive away in the Kia Rio after getting into the vehicle.



During the attempt to leave, the sedan allegedly hit the rear of a bus and also struck a Toyota Hilux utility.



The man then got out of the Kia Rio and fled on foot.



The 23-year-old vehicle owner received minor injuries. He did not need to be taken to hospital.



Arrest Near Everton Park Scene



A 33-year-old Harristown man was later found at a nearby residence and arrested without incident.



He was charged with one count each of robbery with violence, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, dangerous operation of a vehicle and unlicensed driving.



The man was refused police bail and was due to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on 16 June.



Read: North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026



The reference number is QP2601145057. Information can be provided to Policelink or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.



Published 15-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-12-14-June.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-12-14-June.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-12-14-June.png" length="250141" type="image/jpg"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 22:52:05 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Popovic's Gamble Pays Off As Socceroos Deliver Famous World Cup Statement]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement</link>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Australia-Turkey-hero-image.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Australia-Turkey-hero-image.png" length="1347022" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2026 07:56:32 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Want to Foster a Greyhound? This Arana Hills Event Is the Perfect Place to Start]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/want-to-foster-a-greyhound-this-arana-hills-event-is-the-perfect-place-to-start</link>
<media:content url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FI-for-OMC-2026-06-13T141751.742.webp" medium="image"/>
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<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jun 2026 06:23:23 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Arana Hills]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Greyhound]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Leslie Patrick Park]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/?page_id=37617</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Leslie Patrick Park in Arana Hills will be the backdrop for a community celebration of the people who give retired racing greyhounds their best shot at a second life, with the Greyhound Adoption Program Queensland (GAP) hosting a special free event there later this June.







Read: Story Dogs Program at Arana Hills Library Brings Pawsitive Impact







The GAP Greyhound Walk for Foster a Pet Month takes place on Saturday, 27 June, starting at 10am at the park on Olearia Street West, accessible via Dawson Parade. GAP describes it as a new community event, and it is open to all comers, whether you are an experienced foster carer, a greyhound owner, or simply curious about the breed.



At the heart of the celebration is a tribute to foster carers, who open their homes to retired racing greyhounds as they transition into domestic life. GAP Rehoming Manager Lisa Kohler said the event was about shining a light on the importance of foster families, bringing together past and present carers, adopters and greyhound enthusiasts.



From the Racetrack to the Couch



Photo credit: Facebook/Greyhound Adoption Program QLD



Foster carers play a practical but deeply personal role in a greyhound's journey out of racing. These dogs are accustomed to a racing environment, and adjusting to family home life requires patience and guidance. Foster families help them learn household routines and build the kind of confidence that makes a successful adoption possible.



For the people doing this work, the rewards are hard to put into words. Foster carers have spoken of milestones like a greyhound's first zoomies and first trip to the beach as moments that stay with them long after a dog moves on to a forever home. Others speak of the small, everyday moments of progress that accumulate over a fostering placement. And more than one carer has put it plainly: fostering makes a house feel like a home.



A Morning for the Whole Community



Photo credit: Facebook/Greyhound Adoption Program QLD



GAP is welcoming anyone and everyone through the gates at Leslie Patrick Park on the day. As the organisation puts it: "Whether you currently foster a GAP greyhound, have fostered in the past, adopted a greyhound of your own, or are simply interested in learning more about the breed, we'd love for you to come along and join the fun."



Photo credit: Facebook/Greyhound Adoption Program QLD



The morning program kicks off with a meet-up at 10am, followed by a community greyhound walk at 10:15am and a special foster carer presentation at 10:45am. GAP promises attendees can "enjoy a relaxed morning with fellow greyhound lovers, meet other foster families, and spend time with some beautiful greyhounds available for adoption, who will be attending for pats, cuddles, and walks."







Read: What Does the Draft Arana Hills Precinct Plan Mean for Leslie Patrick Park?







The event ties in with GAP's broader Host a Hound campaign, running throughout June for National Foster a Pet Month. The program is actively seeking more families willing to temporarily care for a greyhound, and GAP covers food, bedding, equipment and veterinary care for foster placements.



Registration is free via the GAP Queensland website at gapqld.com.au.



Published 13-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Leslie Patrick Park in Arana Hills will be the backdrop for a community celebration of the people who give retired racing greyhounds their best shot at a second life, with the Greyhound Adoption Program Queensland (GAP) hosting a special free event there later this June.







Read: Story Dogs Program at Arana Hills Library Brings Pawsitive Impact







The GAP Greyhound Walk for Foster a Pet Month takes place on Saturday, 27 June, starting at 10am at the park on Olearia Street West, accessible via Dawson Parade. GAP describes it as a new community event, and it is open to all comers, whether you are an experienced foster carer, a greyhound owner, or simply curious about the breed.



At the heart of the celebration is a tribute to foster carers, who open their homes to retired racing greyhounds as they transition into domestic life. GAP Rehoming Manager Lisa Kohler said the event was about shining a light on the importance of foster families, bringing together past and present carers, adopters and greyhound enthusiasts.



From the Racetrack to the Couch



Photo credit: Facebook/Greyhound Adoption Program QLD



Foster carers play a practical but deeply personal role in a greyhound's journey out of racing. These dogs are accustomed to a racing environment, and adjusting to family home life requires patience and guidance. Foster families help them learn household routines and build the kind of confidence that makes a successful adoption possible.



For the people doing this work, the rewards are hard to put into words. Foster carers have spoken of milestones like a greyhound's first zoomies and first trip to the beach as moments that stay with them long after a dog moves on to a forever home. Others speak of the small, everyday moments of progress that accumulate over a fostering placement. And more than one carer has put it plainly: fostering makes a house feel like a home.



A Morning for the Whole Community



Photo credit: Facebook/Greyhound Adoption Program QLD



GAP is welcoming anyone and everyone through the gates at Leslie Patrick Park on the day. As the organisation puts it: "Whether you currently foster a GAP greyhound, have fostered in the past, adopted a greyhound of your own, or are simply interested in learning more about the breed, we'd love for you to come along and join the fun."



Photo credit: Facebook/Greyhound Adoption Program QLD



The morning program kicks off with a meet-up at 10am, followed by a community greyhound walk at 10:15am and a special foster carer presentation at 10:45am. GAP promises attendees can "enjoy a relaxed morning with fellow greyhound lovers, meet other foster families, and spend time with some beautiful greyhounds available for adoption, who will be attending for pats, cuddles, and walks."







Read: What Does the Draft Arana Hills Precinct Plan Mean for Leslie Patrick Park?







The event ties in with GAP's broader Host a Hound campaign, running throughout June for National Foster a Pet Month. The program is actively seeking more families willing to temporarily care for a greyhound, and GAP covers food, bedding, equipment and veterinary care for foster placements.



Registration is free via the GAP Queensland website at gapqld.com.au.



Published 13-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[One More Step: Socceroos Face World Cup Crossroads Against Paraguay]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FIFA-Socceroos-game-3.png"/>
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<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:19:05 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 19-21 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-19-21-June-2026.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-19-21-June-2026.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-19-21-June-2026.png" length="657907" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:37:11 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Massive 450-Home Development Planned for Banyo Triggers Local Infrastructure Concerns]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/massive-450-home-development-planned-for-banyo-triggers-local-infrastructure-concerns</link>
<media:content url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Banyo.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Banyo.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Banyo.png" length="1401036" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 04:47:40 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[affordable housing Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Banyo community infrastructure]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Banyo housing development]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland land activation program]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[state-owned land development]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[urban planning Banyo]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/?page_id=12077</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A massive state-backed development project will transform a vacant government block in Banyo into a sprawling community of more than 450 new dwellings, bringing much-needed affordable housing and aged care to the area.



Read: Nundah Retail Plans Move Ahead For Former Toombul Shopping Centre Site



The state government launched its land activation scheme early this year to turn unused public land into private housing. Under this initiative, three separate developers will take over the former Energy Queensland property. AR Development Group is planning to build 207 townhouses on the 6.4-hectare site.&nbsp;



Rockpool Holdings will construct a 180-bed residential aged care facility, and Mission Australia Housing will add 64 affordable units for essential workers. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie explained that the site attracted significant interest from the property industry, receiving over 150 expressions of interest from various groups.



Community Infrastructure Worries







Photo Credit: Economic Development Queensland



While the increase in housing supply is meant to address regional shortages, some Banyo residents are worried about the sudden population boom. Local resident Chris Vale expressed frustration over the scale of the project, which grew from an initial estimate of 400 homes to more than 450. Vale pointed out that modern households often rely on multiple vehicles, raising fears that local streets will not cope with the extra parking demand.



He also highlighted existing problems with the neighbourhood's sewerage and stormwater systems, questioning how the older infrastructure will handle the massive influx of new residents. Furthermore, residents feel left out of the planning stages, claiming there has been zero public consultation prior to the developers being chosen.



Fast-Tracked Approvals







Photo Credit: Economic Development Queensland



In response to local concerns, the government confirmed that community consultation will take place during the next phases. Bleijie noted that the developers must submit their exact plans to Economic Development Queensland, the body responsible for assessing impacts on roads, traffic, flooding, and utilities.



To speed up the building process, the state has declared the location a provisional priority development area. This status allows the government to bypass standard council planning rules to get construction moving faster. Early groundworks are expected to begin within a few months, with major construction scheduled for the start of next year.



Read: Oxenham Park in Nundah to Lead Major Wave of Suburban Facility Upgrades



Changing Public Land Policies



The Banyo project is the first major test of a new policy that forces government departments to either use their land or surrender it for private housing projects. Since the start of the program, the state has released dozens of hectares to the market and is currently reviewing thousands more. While the scheme aims to boost the housing supply quickly, it does not strictly force developers to include public or social housing in their designs.



Shadow Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon supported the inclusion of affordable units in this specific project but argued that strict rules should be in place to guarantee homes for working families across all state land sales. Despite the debate, industry groups like the Property Council of Australia praised the mix of housing types, noting that placing homes near public transport and existing jobs is the best way to address affordability.



Published Date 22-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A massive state-backed development project will transform a vacant government block in Banyo into a sprawling community of more than 450 new dwellings, bringing much-needed affordable housing and aged care to the area.



Read: Nundah Retail Plans Move Ahead For Former Toombul Shopping Centre Site



The state government launched its land activation scheme early this year to turn unused public land into private housing. Under this initiative, three separate developers will take over the former Energy Queensland property. AR Development Group is planning to build 207 townhouses on the 6.4-hectare site.&nbsp;



Rockpool Holdings will construct a 180-bed residential aged care facility, and Mission Australia Housing will add 64 affordable units for essential workers. Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie explained that the site attracted significant interest from the property industry, receiving over 150 expressions of interest from various groups.



Community Infrastructure Worries







Photo Credit: Economic Development Queensland



While the increase in housing supply is meant to address regional shortages, some Banyo residents are worried about the sudden population boom. Local resident Chris Vale expressed frustration over the scale of the project, which grew from an initial estimate of 400 homes to more than 450. Vale pointed out that modern households often rely on multiple vehicles, raising fears that local streets will not cope with the extra parking demand.



He also highlighted existing problems with the neighbourhood's sewerage and stormwater systems, questioning how the older infrastructure will handle the massive influx of new residents. Furthermore, residents feel left out of the planning stages, claiming there has been zero public consultation prior to the developers being chosen.



Fast-Tracked Approvals







Photo Credit: Economic Development Queensland



In response to local concerns, the government confirmed that community consultation will take place during the next phases. Bleijie noted that the developers must submit their exact plans to Economic Development Queensland, the body responsible for assessing impacts on roads, traffic, flooding, and utilities.



To speed up the building process, the state has declared the location a provisional priority development area. This status allows the government to bypass standard council planning rules to get construction moving faster. Early groundworks are expected to begin within a few months, with major construction scheduled for the start of next year.



Read: Oxenham Park in Nundah to Lead Major Wave of Suburban Facility Upgrades



Changing Public Land Policies



The Banyo project is the first major test of a new policy that forces government departments to either use their land or surrender it for private housing projects. Since the start of the program, the state has released dozens of hectares to the market and is currently reviewing thousands more. While the scheme aims to boost the housing supply quickly, it does not strictly force developers to include public or social housing in their designs.



Shadow Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon supported the inclusion of affordable units in this specific project but argued that strict rules should be in place to guarantee homes for working families across all state land sales. Despite the debate, industry groups like the Property Council of Australia praised the mix of housing types, noting that placing homes near public transport and existing jobs is the best way to address affordability.



Published Date 22-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope</link>
<media:content url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/USA-Australia-hero-image.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/USA-Australia-hero-image.png"/>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:43:16 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Nudgee Beach Boardwalk Reopens After Loop Work ]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/nudgee-beach-boardwalk-reopens-after-loop-work</link>
<media:content url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-1.webp" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/1-1.webp"/>
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<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:41:07 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[boardwalk reopening]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane walking trails]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[coastal walk]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local parks]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nudgee]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nudgee Beach]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nudgee Beach Boardwalk]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[wetlands]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/?page_id=12052</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
The Nudgee Beach Boardwalk has reopened after works to replace and realign part of the 1.5-kilometre loop were completed ahead of schedule, restoring full access for walkers, runners and sightseers.



Read: North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026



Nudgee Beach Boardwalk Open Again



The Nudgee Beach Boardwalk has reopened after works to replace and realign a section of the loop were completed ahead of schedule.



The affected section had become unsafe, prompting works to restore a safer and more connected route through the Nudgee Beach area. With the construction now finished, the full 1.5-kilometre loop is available again for people using the boardwalk for walking, running and sightseeing.



The works ran from early May 2026 to early June 2026. The section that was closed during construction has now returned to public use.



Photo Credit: Facebook/Cr Adam Allan



Full Loop Restored At Nudgee Beach



The Nudgee Beach Boardwalk is a popular bayside route for locals and visitors, passing through coastal surrounds with wetlands, birdlife and views of the coastline.







The reopened section restores access to the complete loop, allowing visitors to move through the full boardwalk route again. The works involved replacing and realigning the affected part of the structure rather than only reopening the previous section.



The upgrade provides a safer and more continuous experience for walkers, runners and sightseers using the boardwalk. The full route is now available for short outings, morning walks and time outdoors around Nudgee Beach.



Photo Credit: Debbie Cowles/Facebook



Wetlands And Coastline Back On The Route



The return of the complete loop reconnects visitors with the boardwalk’s bayside setting, including its wetlands, birdlife and coastal views.



The boardwalk’s reopening follows the end of the temporary closure needed for the replacement and realignment works. With the project finished, visitors can once again use the full circuit rather than only part of the route.



Read: Bright Lights and Local Music Transform Nundah this Weekend



The completed works bring the Nudgee Beach Boardwalk back into full public use after the construction period, restoring one of the area’s short outdoor routes for local users and visitors.



Published 18-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
The Nudgee Beach Boardwalk has reopened after works to replace and realign part of the 1.5-kilometre loop were completed ahead of schedule, restoring full access for walkers, runners and sightseers.



Read: North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026



Nudgee Beach Boardwalk Open Again



The Nudgee Beach Boardwalk has reopened after works to replace and realign a section of the loop were completed ahead of schedule.



The affected section had become unsafe, prompting works to restore a safer and more connected route through the Nudgee Beach area. With the construction now finished, the full 1.5-kilometre loop is available again for people using the boardwalk for walking, running and sightseeing.



The works ran from early May 2026 to early June 2026. The section that was closed during construction has now returned to public use.



Photo Credit: Facebook/Cr Adam Allan



Full Loop Restored At Nudgee Beach



The Nudgee Beach Boardwalk is a popular bayside route for locals and visitors, passing through coastal surrounds with wetlands, birdlife and views of the coastline.







The reopened section restores access to the complete loop, allowing visitors to move through the full boardwalk route again. The works involved replacing and realigning the affected part of the structure rather than only reopening the previous section.



The upgrade provides a safer and more continuous experience for walkers, runners and sightseers using the boardwalk. The full route is now available for short outings, morning walks and time outdoors around Nudgee Beach.



Photo Credit: Debbie Cowles/Facebook



Wetlands And Coastline Back On The Route



The return of the complete loop reconnects visitors with the boardwalk’s bayside setting, including its wetlands, birdlife and coastal views.



The boardwalk’s reopening follows the end of the temporary closure needed for the replacement and realignment works. With the project finished, visitors can once again use the full circuit rather than only part of the route.



Read: Bright Lights and Local Music Transform Nundah this Weekend



The completed works bring the Nudgee Beach Boardwalk back into full public use after the construction period, restoring one of the area’s short outdoor routes for local users and visitors.



Published 18-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Bright Lights and Local Music Transform Nundah this Weekend]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/bright-lights-and-local-music-transform-nundah-this-weekend</link>
<media:content url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Nundah.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Nundah.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Nundah.png" length="1122032" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2026 01:52:45 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community events]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Family Activities]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Glühwein]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local entertainment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nundah]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[street food]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Twilight Markets]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[winter festival]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/?page_id=12033</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
More than 120 local vendors and dazzling light installations are completely transforming the regular farmers market space in Nundah into a massive nighttime street party.



Read: The Therapy Dogs Turning Brisbane Airport Into a Happier Place to Travel



A Winter Community Gathering



Photo Credit: Supplied



The local neighbourhood will gather this Saturday, 20 June, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. along Station Street. For an entry fee of $4, the familiar morning market grounds will shift into the Neon Nights Twilight Markets.&nbsp;



Organisers have planned a massive evening featuring crackling bonfires to keep the winter chill away. Glowing decorations and neon displays will colour the streets, providing a bright backdrop for residents to meet and celebrate the cooler months together.



Food, Drinks, and Secret Recipes



Photo Credit: Supplied



A major drawcard for the community is the pop-up bar, which serves local craft brews alongside a highly anticipated traditional Glühwein. The creators of this hot spiced wine have kept their recipe closely guarded, spending the last six years perfecting the warm blend.&nbsp;



Visitors can pair their winter drinks with a huge selection of gourmet street food and sweet treats from the dozens of stalls lining the avenue.



Read: Nundah Father Scores Life-Changing $2-M Windfall



Local Entertainment Takes the Stage



Photo Credit: Supplied



Live performances will keep the energy high across two separate music stages, with crowd favourites Soul Cutz leading the main stage lineup. Families will find plenty of activities to keep children entertained throughout the evening. Adding to the lively atmosphere, roving circus acts and jugglers will move through the crowds. Art lovers can also watch a live spray-paint artist create bold pieces from scratch, bringing a creative street edge to the local community celebration.



Published Date 18-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
More than 120 local vendors and dazzling light installations are completely transforming the regular farmers market space in Nundah into a massive nighttime street party.



Read: The Therapy Dogs Turning Brisbane Airport Into a Happier Place to Travel



A Winter Community Gathering



Photo Credit: Supplied



The local neighbourhood will gather this Saturday, 20 June, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. along Station Street. For an entry fee of $4, the familiar morning market grounds will shift into the Neon Nights Twilight Markets.&nbsp;



Organisers have planned a massive evening featuring crackling bonfires to keep the winter chill away. Glowing decorations and neon displays will colour the streets, providing a bright backdrop for residents to meet and celebrate the cooler months together.



Food, Drinks, and Secret Recipes



Photo Credit: Supplied



A major drawcard for the community is the pop-up bar, which serves local craft brews alongside a highly anticipated traditional Glühwein. The creators of this hot spiced wine have kept their recipe closely guarded, spending the last six years perfecting the warm blend.&nbsp;



Visitors can pair their winter drinks with a huge selection of gourmet street food and sweet treats from the dozens of stalls lining the avenue.



Read: Nundah Father Scores Life-Changing $2-M Windfall



Local Entertainment Takes the Stage



Photo Credit: Supplied



Live performances will keep the energy high across two separate music stages, with crowd favourites Soul Cutz leading the main stage lineup. Families will find plenty of activities to keep children entertained throughout the evening. Adding to the lively atmosphere, roving circus acts and jugglers will move through the crowds. Art lovers can also watch a live spray-paint artist create bold pieces from scratch, bringing a creative street edge to the local community celebration.



Published Date 18-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:53:36 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 22:45:58 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Popovic's Gamble Pays Off As Socceroos Deliver Famous World Cup Statement]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement</link>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Australia-Turkey-hero-image.png"/>
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<pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2026 07:56:33 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Twilight Market To Light Up Nundah’s Station Street]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/twilight-market-to-light-up-nundahs-station-street</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 05:05:31 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane events]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Family Activities]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Goodwill Projects]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Neon Nights At Nundah]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nundah]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nundah Farmers Markets]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Station Street]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[twilight market]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/?page_id=12045</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Neon Nights at Nundah will bring an evening market to Station Street, with food vendors, live music, artisan stalls, children’s activities and a pop-up bar planned for the one-night event.



Read: Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane



Neon Nights at Nundah is scheduled for Saturday, 20 June 2026, with the twilight market to run from 4pm to 10pm on Station Street.



The event will be held in the Nundah Train Station area, at the bottom of Nundah Village. Entry is listed at $4.



For one evening, the regular Nundah market site will take on a night-time format, with more than 120 stalls planned across food, drinks and artisan offerings. The event will also include neon-themed decorations, glowing installations and bonfires.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Food vendors will operate throughout the evening, alongside a pop-up bar serving local brews and Glühwein. The event information also lists a gourmet hamper giveaway worth more than $200, with entry details available through its online registration page.



Entertainment will include two stages of live music, with Soul Cutz listed to perform on the main stage. The program also includes roving performers, juggling acts, circus performers, children’s activities and a live spray paint artist.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Regular Sunday Markets Continue In Nundah



Nundah Fresh Farmers Markets usually operate on Sundays at the Nundah Train Station car park, below Nundah Village.



The regular Sunday markets are free to attend and include coffee and breakfast options.



Goodwill Projects, which is connected to the Nundah market program, began with Brisbane farmers markets in 2006 and now coordinates 12 markets across South East Queensland.



Read: Bright Lights and Local Music Transform Nundah this Weekend



Neon Nights at Nundah will use the same local market setting for a six-hour evening event, centred on food stalls, live entertainment and market traders along Station Street.



Published 13-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Neon Nights at Nundah will bring an evening market to Station Street, with food vendors, live music, artisan stalls, children’s activities and a pop-up bar planned for the one-night event.



Read: Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane



Neon Nights at Nundah is scheduled for Saturday, 20 June 2026, with the twilight market to run from 4pm to 10pm on Station Street.



The event will be held in the Nundah Train Station area, at the bottom of Nundah Village. Entry is listed at $4.



For one evening, the regular Nundah market site will take on a night-time format, with more than 120 stalls planned across food, drinks and artisan offerings. The event will also include neon-themed decorations, glowing installations and bonfires.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Food vendors will operate throughout the evening, alongside a pop-up bar serving local brews and Glühwein. The event information also lists a gourmet hamper giveaway worth more than $200, with entry details available through its online registration page.



Entertainment will include two stages of live music, with Soul Cutz listed to perform on the main stage. The program also includes roving performers, juggling acts, circus performers, children’s activities and a live spray paint artist.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Regular Sunday Markets Continue In Nundah



Nundah Fresh Farmers Markets usually operate on Sundays at the Nundah Train Station car park, below Nundah Village.



The regular Sunday markets are free to attend and include coffee and breakfast options.



Goodwill Projects, which is connected to the Nundah market program, began with Brisbane farmers markets in 2006 and now coordinates 12 markets across South East Queensland.



Read: Bright Lights and Local Music Transform Nundah this Weekend



Neon Nights at Nundah will use the same local market setting for a six-hour evening event, centred on food stalls, live entertainment and market traders along Station Street.



Published 13-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[One More Step: Socceroos Face World Cup Crossroads Against Paraguay]]></title>
<link>https://aspleynews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:19:06 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Aspley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://aspleynews.com.au/socceroos-vs-paraguay-fifa-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


World Cup campaigns can turn on a single afternoon.



John Aloisi's penalty against Uruguay. Tim Cahill's volley in Germany. Mathew Leckie's winner over Denmark that carried Australia into the knockout rounds four years ago.



The next opportunity arrives on Friday, June 26 (AEST), when the Socceroos meet Paraguay at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara with a place in the Round of 32 on the line. A point will be enough to secure second place in Group D behind the United States, while victory would send Australia into the knockout rounds with real momentum. Defeat would leave qualification resting on results elsewhere — a situation Tony Popovic has made clear he has no intention of relying on.



"We're going into the game tomorrow to win," Popovic said at his pre-match press conference.



"I expect they'll be doing the same."



Opportunity Knocks Again



The mood around the Australian camp has remained positive despite the 2-0 defeat to the United States.



Players and coaches have spent the week focusing less on the result than on the contrast between the two halves in Seattle. Australia struggled to handle the Americans' intensity before half-time but looked a different side after the break, with Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Cristian Volpato helping swing momentum and ask far more questions of the tournament hosts.



Popovic believes that response says as much about his squad as the opening 45 minutes.



"We're happy with the squad," he said.



"The players responded extremely well in the second half and we're growing day by day, even quicker than I anticipated."



Selection, though, has again been forced upon him.



Mathew Leckie has been ruled out after injuring his hamstring against the United States, while Jacob Italiano will also miss the match after suffering an adductor injury at training. Both started Australia's opening win over Türkiye, meaning fresh faces will again be asked to perform in one of the biggest matches of the tournament.



A Different Kind Of Contest



Paraguay presents a challenge unlike the two opponents Australia has already faced.



The South Americans arrive level on points with the Socceroos after defeating Türkiye 1-0 despite playing the entire second half with 10 men following Miguel Almirón's dismissal. It was a display built on resilience, discipline and an ability to stay organised when the pressure mounted.



Assistant coach Paul Okon Sr expects another uncompromising contest.



"They're a typical South American team," he said.



"They have very technical players, but they also like to play in unorganised chaos where they have a backs-to-the-wall mentality. It's going to be a fight."



Almirón's suspension removes one of Paraguay's biggest attacking threats, but Popovic believes little changes.



"They're here because they deserve to be here," he said.



"We have a lot of respect for them, but we're also very confident in our ability."



Ready For The Fight



Australia's record against South American opposition has rarely been comfortable, which is one reason the Socceroos deliberately sought out friendlies against Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela over the past two years.



Those matches exposed many of the players to the physicality, tactical discipline and unpredictability that often define teams from CONMEBOL.



Jason Geria expects more of the same on Friday.



"They fight for everything," he said. "And they play like every game is their last."



Australia knows exactly what is coming. The challenge will be matching that intensity without getting drawn into the sort of battle Paraguay thrives on.



Everything Still In Australia's Hands



There has been plenty of discussion about Australia's heavier travel schedule during the tournament compared with Paraguay, but the Socceroos have shown little interest in using logistics as an excuse. The squad established its base in Northern California before the tournament specifically to limit travel across time zones, and Friday's match will be played less than an hour from the team hotel.



For Popovic, the focus has remained exactly where it has been since the squad assembled before the World Cup — on continual improvement.



The Socceroos earned plenty of belief from their victory over Türkiye. They learned some valuable lessons against the United States. Now comes the match that will determine whether those lessons were enough.



Ninety minutes against Paraguay. 



Win or draw, and Australia's World Cup journey continues.



Published 25-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 19-21 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://aspleynews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:37:13 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Aspley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://aspleynews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-19-21-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[












QAFL



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Salk Oval / Stalagmite Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Palm Beach Currumbin QAFL Seniors 182 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 39



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 12 • Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 68 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Redland Victoria Point QAFL Seniors 152







QAFLW



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Aspley QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Bond University QAFLW Seniors 46



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 10 • Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 16 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Southport QAFLW Seniors 44















FQPL1



Sat, June 20, 2026 (O'Callaghan Park (North Star FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 15 • North Star 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Broadbeach United 3







NPL



 Sat, June 20, 2026 (Gold Coast United - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Gold Coast United 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 4



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Olympic FC - Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 15 • Olympic FC 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 3



Sat, June 20, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 19 • Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane City 0















NBL1 North



Sun, June 21, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 10 • Northside Wizards 90   |   Gold Coast Rollers 118




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Carseldine Commuters May Face Longer Wait for Gympie Road Tunnel Completion]]></title>
<link>https://aspleynews.com.au/carseldine-commuters-may-face-longer-wait-for-gympie-road-tunnel-completion</link>
<media:content url="https://aspleynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Gympie-Road-Bypass-Tunnel-FI.jpg" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://aspleynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Gympie-Road-Bypass-Tunnel-FI.jpg"/>
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<pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 02:55:23 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Adrian Schrinner]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Beams Road]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge commuters]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brent Mickelberg]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane infrastructure]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane traffic]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Carseldine]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Carseldine traffic]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Chermside]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[David Crisafulli]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Gympie Road congestion]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Gympie Road tunnel]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[North Brisbane Infrastructure]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[North Brisbane tunnel]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[QIC]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland transport]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Steven Miles]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Transport and Main Roads]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Aspley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://aspleynews.com.au/?page_id=32034</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Residents across Carseldine and Brisbane’s northern suburbs could be waiting until after the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games before construction begins on the long-promised Gympie Road bypass tunnel, following comments made during Brisbane City Council’s latest budget.



Read: Work Starts on Long-Awaited Beams Road Upgrade Project in Carseldine



The future timing of the project has come under renewed scrutiny after LM Adrian Schrinner referred to the tunnel as one of the first major projects expected to begin after the 2032 Games.&nbsp;



The remarks have sparked a debate over whether northside commuters will face nearly a decade of further gridlock before work starts on one of Queensland’s most significant proposed road projects.



Bypassing Brisbane's Busiest Bottlenecks



The proposed nine-kilometre underground tunnel is designed to link Carseldine and Kedron, carrying through-traffic away from Gympie Road's most congested sections. Motorists regularly face severe delays at key intersections—including Beams, Hamilton, Rode, and Stafford roads—as rapid population growth puts immense pressure on Brisbane's northern transport corridors.



While planning documents have identified potential entry and exit locations near Chermside, the project has effectively become a political football regarding its actual delivery timeframe.



Photo Credit: Google Maps



Tug-of-War Over Timelines



In June 2026, the budget comments quickly triggered pushback. Opposition leaders argued that northside residents should not have to wait years for relief, highlighting the daily toll the congestion takes on thousands of commuters.



In response, the State Government rejected suggestions that the project had been sidelined. Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg maintained that planning remains actively underway, progressing as promised during the 2024 state election campaign.



Mr Schrinner’s office also sought to clarify the remarks, claiming the comments reflected the project’s massive, long-term scale rather than a formal delay. They noted that mega-infrastructure projects inherently require extended planning periods, drawing parallels to other major transport schemes that took a decade to transition from blueprint to bitumen.



Community Divided on Alternative Solutions



The ongoing uncertainty has also intensified community debate over whether a mega-tunnel is the right fix. While many motorists view the underground bypass as the only practical way to remove through-traffic from surface roads, a growing contingent of residents argues for faster, more sustainable alternatives.&nbsp;



Online community forums show strong support for pivoting funding toward expanding dedicated northside busways, extending the Brisbane Metro further north, and upgrading rail infrastructure rather than continuing to focus heavily on road capacity.



Read: Drilling Begins on $14-Billion Tunnel Project Set to Transform Carseldine Corridor 



Years of Planning and Millions Committed



Despite the uncertainty, the project has already progressed through several costly planning stages:




2023: The Queensland Government allocated $35 million for a detailed business case overseen by North Brisbane Infrastructure (under the Queensland Investment Corporation).



2024: The state budget injected a further $318 million for pre-construction activities, including technical studies, traffic modelling, and environmental assessments.



2025: Responsibility for the project was officially transferred to the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), which continues to review the data to balance immediate and long-term traffic solutions.Published 22-Jun-2026

]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Residents across Carseldine and Brisbane’s northern suburbs could be waiting until after the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games before construction begins on the long-promised Gympie Road bypass tunnel, following comments made during Brisbane City Council’s latest budget.



Read: Work Starts on Long-Awaited Beams Road Upgrade Project in Carseldine



The future timing of the project has come under renewed scrutiny after LM Adrian Schrinner referred to the tunnel as one of the first major projects expected to begin after the 2032 Games.&nbsp;



The remarks have sparked a debate over whether northside commuters will face nearly a decade of further gridlock before work starts on one of Queensland’s most significant proposed road projects.



Bypassing Brisbane's Busiest Bottlenecks



The proposed nine-kilometre underground tunnel is designed to link Carseldine and Kedron, carrying through-traffic away from Gympie Road's most congested sections. Motorists regularly face severe delays at key intersections—including Beams, Hamilton, Rode, and Stafford roads—as rapid population growth puts immense pressure on Brisbane's northern transport corridors.



While planning documents have identified potential entry and exit locations near Chermside, the project has effectively become a political football regarding its actual delivery timeframe.



Photo Credit: Google Maps



Tug-of-War Over Timelines



In June 2026, the budget comments quickly triggered pushback. Opposition leaders argued that northside residents should not have to wait years for relief, highlighting the daily toll the congestion takes on thousands of commuters.



In response, the State Government rejected suggestions that the project had been sidelined. Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg maintained that planning remains actively underway, progressing as promised during the 2024 state election campaign.



Mr Schrinner’s office also sought to clarify the remarks, claiming the comments reflected the project’s massive, long-term scale rather than a formal delay. They noted that mega-infrastructure projects inherently require extended planning periods, drawing parallels to other major transport schemes that took a decade to transition from blueprint to bitumen.



Community Divided on Alternative Solutions



The ongoing uncertainty has also intensified community debate over whether a mega-tunnel is the right fix. While many motorists view the underground bypass as the only practical way to remove through-traffic from surface roads, a growing contingent of residents argues for faster, more sustainable alternatives.&nbsp;



Online community forums show strong support for pivoting funding toward expanding dedicated northside busways, extending the Brisbane Metro further north, and upgrading rail infrastructure rather than continuing to focus heavily on road capacity.



Read: Drilling Begins on $14-Billion Tunnel Project Set to Transform Carseldine Corridor 



Years of Planning and Millions Committed



Despite the uncertainty, the project has already progressed through several costly planning stages:




2023: The Queensland Government allocated $35 million for a detailed business case overseen by North Brisbane Infrastructure (under the Queensland Investment Corporation).



2024: The state budget injected a further $318 million for pre-construction activities, including technical studies, traffic modelling, and environmental assessments.



2025: Responsibility for the project was officially transferred to the Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), which continues to review the data to balance immediate and long-term traffic solutions.Published 22-Jun-2026

]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Socceroos Left With Plenty To Ponder After USA Punishment — But Fightback Offers Hope]]></title>
<link>https://aspleynews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:43:17 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Aspley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://aspleynews.com.au/socceroos-left-with-plenty-to-ponder-after-usa-punishment-but-fightback-offers-hope/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


The Socceroos spent 45 minutes chasing shadows in Seattle — and by the time they finally woke up, the damage was already done.



Australia's World Cup momentum hit a speed bump at Seattle's Lumen Field on Saturday, June 20 (AEST), falling 2-0 to the United States after a disappointing first half in which Tony Popovic's side struggled to cope with the hosts' intensity, movement and pressure. The response after halftime was far more encouraging, but it came too late to rescue a result.







For all the disappointment, Australia remains firmly in the hunt for a place in the Round of 32 heading into next week's final Group D clash against Paraguay.



Americans Set The Early Tone



The opening minute suggested Australia might be in for a productive morning.



Mohamed Toure pounced on a loose pass and forced Matt Freese into a save after just 40 seconds, but it quickly became apparent that the United States had no intention of allowing the Socceroos to settle.



The hosts pressed aggressively, moved the ball sharply and repeatedly found space around Australia's midfield. Malik Tillman was influential between the lines, while Folarin Balogun's pace immediately caused concern whenever the Americans turned defence into attack.



The breakthrough came after 11 minutes.



Balogun drove to the byline and fired a dangerous ball across the six-yard box. Cameron Burgess, scrambling back towards goal under pressure, could only divert the cross into his own net.



The Americans kept coming.



Every time Australia appeared to have weathered the storm, possession was handed straight back. Balogun was causing problems. Tillman was finding pockets. Dest had far too much room.



The game was being played almost entirely on American terms.



Harry Souttar and Alessandro Circati were forced into plenty of defensive work, while Jordan Bos picked up an early booking as frustration began creeping into the contest.



VAR Frustration Deepens The Hole



The second goal arrived just before halftime and only added to Australian frustration.



A free-kick routine ended with Dest's shot taking a deflection and looping high into the penalty area. Freeman reacted quickest and headed beyond Patrick Beach from close range.



The assistant referee immediately raised the flag.



After a lengthy VAR review, however, the goal was awarded despite Balogun standing in an offside position as the ball dropped into the area.



Australia protested. The decision stood.



Whether Balogun was interfering with play will remain a talking point, but the larger issue for Popovic was the performance that had preceded it.



The Socceroos looked off the pace. Loose passes surrendered possession. Second balls were routinely won by the Americans. When opportunities arose to settle the game, Australia rarely took them.



Popovic's assessment afterwards reflected what everyone had seen.



"I don't know if it was the occasion but we looked sluggish and heavy-legged," he said.



"They were quicker and more powerful. They won every duel and every second ball."



Popovic Turns To His Bench



Popovic did not wait long to act.



Connor Metcalfe, Nestory Irankunda and Jason Geria were all sent on at halftime, with Cameron Burgess, Nishan Velupillay and Mohamed Toure making way.



The game looked different almost straight away.



Metcalfe got Australia moving through midfield. Irankunda gave the Americans something to chase. Suddenly the ball was sticking.



For the first time all morning, the United States were being asked questions.



The hosts still carried a threat. Early in the half Balogun burst clear and appeared set to add a third before Circati produced a superb recovery challenge to block the attempt.



At 3-0 the match would likely have been over.



Instead, Australia began to gain territory and, more importantly, belief.



Volpato Provides A Spark



Cristian Volpato's introduction midway through the second half gave the Socceroos another attacking dimension.



Making his World Cup debut after replacing the injured Mathew Leckie, Volpato quickly became involved. His first major contribution saw him combine with Irankunda before firing over the crossbar from a promising position.



It was the sort of move Australia simply hadn't produced before halftime.



Metcalfe forced Freese into a save after a strong pressing sequence. Irankunda repeatedly drove at defenders. Volpato found space in areas Australia had barely occupied during the opening period.



The crowd, roaring for most of the first half, grew noticeably quieter as Australia started stringing passes together.



The Americans were still dangerous on the break, but they were no longer controlling every aspect of the contest.



Australia's best chance arrived during a chaotic scramble inside the penalty area when Souttar failed to make clean contact with the ball in front of goal. Geria then saw an effort blocked as the Americans scrambled clear.



Australia spent the closing stages camped in the American half, but the breakthrough never arrived.



All Roads Lead To Paraguay



The defeat leaves Australia needing a result against Paraguay in San Francisco next week, but qualification remains firmly within reach.



A win should be enough to secure progression. Depending on results elsewhere, a draw may also keep the Socceroos alive.



Popovic will be disappointed with how his side handled the opening 45 minutes, particularly against a United States team that looked sharper from the outset despite missing injured star Christian Pulisic.



He may have found a few answers after halftime.



Volpato, Irankunda and Metcalfe all made strong cases for bigger roles in the final group match.



The performance raised as many questions as it answered.



Australia looked a long way off the pace before halftime. After the break, it looked capable of troubling the group leaders.



Which version turns up against Paraguay may decide whether the Socceroos' World Cup continues.



Published 20-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
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<title><![CDATA[Queensland Punishes Blues To Send Origin Series Back To Brisbane]]></title>
<link>https://aspleynews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2026 12:53:37 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Aspley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://aspleynews.com.au/state-of-origin-game-two-mcg/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Twenty minutes into State of Origin II, New South Wales looked to be cruising towards the shield.



The Blues had raced to a 12-2 lead, Mark Nawaqanitawase had already crossed on debut and Queensland had been forced to send both Cameron Munster and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui for head injury assessments during a chaotic opening half-hour.



Much of the pre-match discussion centred on whether Queensland could turn its strong periods in Game One into an 80-minute performance. 







Click to read the MATCH PREVIEW







The answer arrived emphatically at the MCG, in one of the Maroons' most impressive performances in recent years.



Queensland recovered from the early setback, wrestled momentum back through the middle of the field and then dominated the second half to defeat New South Wales 44-24 at the MCG on Wednesday night, levelling the series at 1-1 and setting up a winner-takes-all decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Played before a record State of Origin crowd of 91,671, the contest swung dramatically after the Blues' bright start as Queensland gradually gained control through its forward pack before its outside backs took over the game.



NSW Lands The First Punch



NSW capitalised immediately after Sam Walker opened the scoring with a penalty goal when Thomas Flegler spilled the ensuing kick-off. Nawaqanitawase reacted quickest to the loose ball and put Kotoni Staggs over for the opening try before the debutant winger scored one himself soon after as the Blues surged to a 12-2 advantage.



At that stage Queensland looked vulnerable.



The Maroons were struggling to generate field position and matters became more difficult when both Munster and Fa'asuamaleaui were temporarily forced from the field for HIAs.



Hamiso Ignites The Fightback



Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Queensland found a way back through the speed and creativity of Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow.



The Dolphins star split the Blues defence with a damaging run that shifted momentum and led to Queensland's first try. Harry Grant, Munster, Sam Walker and Max Plath all handled before Trent Loiero crashed over, reducing the margin to four points and ensuring the Maroons entered halftime with genuine belief despite trailing 12-8.



Just as importantly, Fa’asuamaleaui returned and helped Queensland regain control of the middle. The Maroons had spent much of the opening half reacting to NSW. By halftime they were the team asking the questions.



Walker, Munster And Cobbo Turn The Tide



The opening exchanges of the second half quickly confirmed that the game had changed.



Queensland's forwards began winning the yardage battle, Grant started to find space around the ruck and the Blues struggled to contain the Maroons' kicking game. The first blow came when Robert Toia outleapt James Tedesco to collect a Walker bomb before Max Plath and Munster combined to create space for Selwyn Cobbo, who finished in the corner to give Queensland its first lead of the night.



From there, Queensland's confidence grew with every set.



Cobbo crossed for his second seven minutes later and the Blues suddenly found themselves chasing a game they had controlled for much of the first half. Munster and Walker continued to probe, while Harry Grant's running game kept creating problems around the middle of the field.



Queensland Find The Weak Spot



Queensland's coaching staff clearly saw an opportunity on the edges and they kept going back to it.



The Maroons repeatedly challenged NSW through the air and won more often than they lost. Jojo Fifita came down with one attacking kick to score, while Queensland continued to create opportunities whenever the ball was shifted wide.



Nawaqanitawase briefly gave the Blues hope with his second try on debut, but Queensland's response was immediate. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow crossed after another dangerous attacking raid before Staggs was sent to the sin bin for a high shot on Kalyn Ponga as NSW's night unravelled.



By that stage the Maroons had complete control of the contest.



Harry Grant sliced through the middle to help create a try for Lindsay Collins, while Cobbo completed a deserved hat-trick as Queensland turned a close contest into a convincing victory.



Suncorp Gets Its Decider



While Cobbo's three tries and Tabuai-Fidow's influence will attract plenty of attention, Queensland's win was built on far more than individual brilliance.



Fa'asuamaleaui's return from his HIA proved crucial. Grant controlled the ruck, Collins made a major second-half impact, while Loiero and Plath both made important contributions.



A fortnight ago the Maroons were left wondering what might have been after surrendering a winning position in Sydney.



Now the series is heading back to Brisbane.



The Blues arrived in Melbourne believing they were one win away from reclaiming the shield. Instead, Queensland heads home with momentum, confidence and the chance to decide the series in front of a packed Suncorp Stadium.



Published 17-June-2022







MATCH PREVIEW



Maroons Out to Keep Series Alive as Origin Heads to the MCG







Queensland arrives in Melbourne with a point to prove.



The Maroons were the better side for long stretches of State of Origin I in Sydney, racing to a 20-6 halftime lead and threatening to blow the Blues off the park before the contest turned dramatically following Kalyn Ponga's second-half send-off. New South Wales ultimately capitalised on the numerical advantage to claim a comeback victory and move within one win of reclaiming the Origin shield.



Now, with a massive crowd expected at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday night, Billy Slater's side has the opportunity to reset the narrative and force the series into a decider at Suncorp Stadium.



Why Queensland Should Be Confident



For Queensland supporters, there is plenty of reason for confidence.



While the Blues enter as favourites in many predictions, the Maroons can point to the opening 50 minutes of Game I as evidence that their game plan works. Cameron Munster controlled proceedings, Harry Grant constantly threatened around the ruck, and Queensland's speed on the edges repeatedly exposed New South Wales' defence.



The challenge this time is maintaining that standard for the full 80 minutes.



Walsh Returns As Maroons Reshuffle



Queensland's line-up features several notable changes. Reece Walsh returns to the squad after missing the series opener and has been named on the bench as a potential game-breaker. Whether he enters as an impact player late in the contest or is required earlier, his speed and unpredictability could prove crucial on the expansive MCG surface.



The Maroons have also welcomed back Thomas Flegler, while Dolphins utility Max Plath retains his place in the 17 after impressing with his versatility and work ethic.



One of Queensland's biggest losses is Patrick Carrigan, whose absence removes a proven Origin performer from the middle rotation. However, Slater has reshaped the pack around Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Reuben Cotter, Lindsay Collins and Kurt Capewell, a group that will be tasked with matching a powerful New South Wales forward unit.



Haas And Moses Boost Blues



The Blues receive a major boost through the return of Payne Haas. The Brisbane Broncos prop is widely regarded as one of the game's premier front-rowers and his inclusion adds significant punch to New South Wales' engine room.



New South Wales has also recalled Mitchell Moses at five-eighth after he was cleared to return from the hamstring injury that ruled him out of the series opener. Moses brings an elite kicking game and running threat, but Origin football is a demanding environment for any player returning from a lay-off.



Queensland will undoubtedly test him defensively whenever opportunities arise.



The Blues have also been forced into a late backline reshuffle, with Mark Nawaqanitawase coming onto the wing after Casey McLean was ruled out. Tolutau Koula shifts into the centres alongside Kotoni Staggs as Laurie Daley looks to secure the series in Melbourne.



The Key Battle



The battle between the halves could ultimately decide the contest.



Nathan Cleary and Moses offer New South Wales one of the most accomplished playmaking combinations in the game, but Munster has built his reputation on delivering in Origin's biggest moments. Alongside Sam Walker, he will be expected to guide Queensland around the park and create opportunities for strike weapons such as Ponga, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Selwyn Cobbo.



Queensland's Familiar Underdog Mindset



The Maroons also have a psychological edge that statistics cannot measure.



Queensland has built its Origin legacy on responding when backed into a corner, and there is no shortage of motivation after the manner of the Game I defeat. Many Queensland supporters will feel the opening match turned on a handful of key moments after the Maroons had built a commanding first-half lead.



That belief could become a powerful weapon in Melbourne.



Most experts have tipped New South Wales to wrap up the series, but the predictions are far from unanimous. Several former players and commentators expect Queensland's desperation, combined with the return of key personnel, to be enough to level the series.



If the Maroons can reproduce the intensity, discipline and attacking fluency they showed before Ponga's dismissal in Sydney, a trip to Brisbane for a winner-takes-all decider may well await.



And if that happens, the pressure will shift squarely back onto the Blues.



Match Details



State of Origin IIWednesday, June 17Melbourne Cricket GroundKick-off: 8:05pm AEST



New South Wales Blues



Backs: James Tedesco, Brian To'o, Tolutau Koula, Kotoni Staggs, Mark Nawaqanitawase



Halves: Mitchell Moses, Nathan Cleary



Forwards: Payne Haas, Reece Robson, Mitchell Barnett, Hudson Young, Dylan Lucas, Isaah Yeo



Interchange: Cameron Murray, Victor Radley, Addin Fonua-Blake, Apisai Koroisau



Extended Squad: Ethan Strange, Jack Bostock, Haumole Olakau'atu



Coach: Laurie Daley



Queensland Maroons



Backs: Kalyn Ponga, Selwyn Cobbo, Robert Toia, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jojo Fifita



Halves: Cameron Munster, Sam Walker



Forwards: Thomas Flegler, Harry Grant, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Briton Nikora, Kurt Capewell, Reuben Cotter



Interchange: Max Plath, Lindsay Collins, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Trent Loiero



Extended Squad: Reece Walsh, Murray Taulagi, Heilum Luki



Coach: Billy Slater



Match Officials



Referee: Ashley Klein



Touch Judges: Phil Henderson, Matt Noyen



Bunker: Chris Butler



Prediction



Queensland by 4. The Maroons showed in the opening game that they can trouble the Blues when their forwards win the middle and Munster is given time and space. If they maintain their discipline and keep all 13 men on the field, a Suncorp Stadium decider looks well within reach.



Published 17-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 12-14 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://aspleynews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://aspleynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-12-14-June.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://aspleynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/North-12-14-June.png"/>
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<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2026 23:07:30 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Aspley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://aspleynews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-12-14-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[








QAFL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Aspley QAFL Seniors 83   |   Coorparoo QAFL Seniors 51



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Jack Esplen Oval / Jack Esplen Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 11• Maroochydore QAFL Seniors 127   |   Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 75



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ninja Stadium, Hobart • Palawa) – Toyota AFL Premiership – Men – Round 14• Richmond 80   |   Brisbane Lions 115







QAFLW



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 24   |   Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 47



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Maroochydore Multi Sports Complex / Neil Upton Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 9• Maroochydore QAFLW Seniors 12   |   Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 27















FQPL1



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Lanham Park) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 10• Grange Thistle Postponed   |   North Lakes United Postponed







NPL



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Croatian Sports Centre) – NPL Women – Women – Round 18• Gold Coast Knights Postponed   |   Brisbane City Postponed







KAPPA QUEENSLAND



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Nudgee Recreation Reserve-Field 2) – Kappa Queensland Cup – Men – Quarter Finals• North Star 3 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Peninsula Power 7











Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 136   |   Southern Districts Spartans 87



Fri, June 12, 2026 (Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Gold Coast Rollers 68   |   Southern Districts Spartans 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 82   |   Cairns Dolphins 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 66   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 90



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 71   |   Logan Thunder 91



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Hibiscus Sports Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• South West Metro Pirates 102   |   Sunshine Coast Phoenix 92



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Auchenflower Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Brisbane Capitals 89   |   Cairns Marlins 114



Sat, June 13, 2026 (Rowland Cowan Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Southern Districts Spartans 84   |   Logan Thunder 124



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 9• Ipswich Force 76   |   Northside Wizards 107



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Ipswich Basketball Stadium) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 9• Ipswich Force 121   |   Northside Wizards 81











Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Men – Round 13• Norths Devils 26   |   Tweed Heads Seagulls 16



Sun, June 14, 2026 (Premiers' Park, Brisbane) – QRL – Women – Round 2• Norths Devils 10   |   Burleigh Bears 12




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Popovic's Gamble Pays Off As Socceroos Deliver Famous World Cup Statement]]></title>
<link>https://aspleynews.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement</link>
<media:content url="https://aspleynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Australia-Turkey-hero-image.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://aspleynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Australia-Turkey-hero-image.png"/>
<enclosure url="https://aspleynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Australia-Turkey-hero-image.png" length="1347022" type="image/png"/>
<pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2026 07:56:33 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Aspley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://aspleynews.com.au/popovics-gamble-pays-off-as-socceroos-deliver-famous-world-cup-statement/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
The Socceroos arrived in Vancouver carrying one of the youngest starting line-ups in their World Cup history and a coach prepared to make the biggest calls of his tenure.



By the final whistle at BC Place, Tony Popovic looked like a man who had got every one of them right.



Australia opened its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a stunning 2-0 victory over Türkiye at BC Place in Vancouver on Sunday, June 14 (AEST), with Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe scoring either side of halftime while Patrick Beach justified his surprise selection with a string of outstanding saves.



Against a Turkish side packed with European stars and able to control possession for long periods, the Socceroos absorbed pressure, struck with ruthless efficiency and delivered one of their most complete World Cup performances in years.



The result gave Australia its first win in a World Cup opener since 2006 and immediately strengthened its chances of progressing from Group D.







Youthful Socceroos Rise To The Occasion



The pre-match discussion centred on Popovic's team sheet.



Beach kept his place ahead of captain Maty Ryan. Paul Okon-Engstler started in midfield. Ten members of the starting side were making their World Cup debuts.



Any concerns about nerves disappeared quickly.



The opening stages were played at a frantic pace, with both teams looking to attack directly whenever possession changed hands. Türkiye enjoyed more of the ball, but Australia looked dangerous whenever space opened up behind the defence.



The breakthrough came after 27 minutes.



Okon-Engstler launched a long pass forward from inside Australia's half and Irankunda did the rest. The Watford winger accelerated past his marker, steadied himself and guided a composed finish beyond Ugurcan Çakir.



The goal was Irankunda's first at a World Cup and another reminder of why he is regarded as one of Australia's brightest attacking talents.



Beach Answers Popovic's Biggest Call



If Irankunda provided the headline moment, Beach delivered the reassurance.



The 22-year-old goalkeeper was one of the most talked-about selections before kickoff and spent the evening showing exactly why Popovic trusted him.



Only minutes after Australia took the lead, Abdülkerim Bardakci struck a powerful effort from outside the area that appeared destined for the top corner. Beach flew across goal and got enough on the ball to push it onto the post.



Türkiye continued to control possession and territory for much of the contest.



Arda Güler tested Beach from a second-half free kick. Zeki Çelik found space in behind during the final 20 minutes. Kerem Aktürkoğlu also forced a save from close range.



Each time, Beach responded.



Australia's defensive unit deserved plenty of credit as well. Harry Souttar, Alessandro Circati and Cameron Burgess spent long periods under pressure but rarely allowed Türkiye clear opportunities inside the box.



Metcalfe Seals It



The longer the match remained at 1-0, the more dangerous Australia's counter-attacking opportunities became.



Jordan Bos continued to find space down the left. Mohamed Toure worked tirelessly up front. Irankunda remained a threat until he departed to a standing ovation shortly after the hour mark.



Then came the decisive moment.



With 15 minutes remaining, Metcalfe collected possession outside the penalty area and shifted the ball onto his left foot. The finish was outstanding, curling beyond Çakir and into the corner to double Australia's advantage.



For a Turkish side that had enjoyed more than 70 per cent possession, it was a brutal setback.



Australia had spent much of the evening absorbing pressure. When chances arrived, it made them count.



An Ideal Start



The victory immediately placed Australia alongside the United States at the top of Group D after the Americans defeated Paraguay earlier in the round.



More importantly, it rewarded Popovic's willingness to trust youth on the biggest stage.



Okon-Engstler provided the assist for the opening goal. Irankunda scored it. Beach produced one of the performances of the match. Bos, Circati and Italiano all handled themselves well under pressure.



There will be tougher tests ahead.



But for a team that entered the tournament facing questions about experience, selection and depth, the opening night could hardly have gone much better.



Australia left Vancouver with three points, a clean sheet and momentum heading into its showdown with the United States.







Published 14-June-2026 
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Bridgeman Downs Subdivision Plan Revises Beckett Road Access For 43 Lots]]></title>
<link>https://aspleynews.com.au/bridgeman-downs-subdivision-plan-revises-beckett-road-access-for-43-lots</link>
<media:content url="https://aspleynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/4.webp" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://aspleynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/4.webp"/>
<enclosure url="https://aspleynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/4.webp" length="74958" type="image/webp"/>
<pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2026 14:27:55 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[43-lot subdivision]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Beckett Road]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bridgeman Downs]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local development]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Purser Street]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[residential subdivision]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[traffic assessment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[wildlife concerns]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Aspley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://aspleynews.com.au/?page_id=31941</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A revised subdivision proposal for Beckett Road in Bridgeman Downs would create 43 residential lots across a 7.6-hectare site, with changes to vehicle access, internal roads, staging and retained environmental areas now central to the plan.



Read: The Banh Mi Shop That Started as a Market Stall Just Won Queensland’s Best



Beckett Road Layout Shifts Under Revised Plan



The proposal covers 409, 411, 415 and 427 Beckett Road and is listed under application A007012501. It was submitted on 30 April 2026 and remains in progress.



The amended plan is described as a minor change to an approved subdivision, but it includes several notable layout changes. The proposal would increase the residential yield to 43 lots, introduce staged delivery and remove the previously approved direct vehicle access from Beckett Road.



Instead of direct Beckett Road vehicle access, the layout identifies a future road connection through the adjoining southern subdivision. A pedestrian connection to Beckett Road would be retained.



The internal road network would also be realigned. The proposal includes supporting infrastructure such as a pad mount transformer, stormwater basin, water quality works, bioretention treatment and tree pit treatment systems.



Photo Credit: DA/A007012501



Bridgeman Downs Subdivision Includes Covenant And Drainage Areas



The proposed residential lots range from 400 square metres to 764 square metres. The lot mix includes 31 lots between 400 square metres and 499 square metres, eight lots between 500 square metres and 764 square metres, and a retained dwelling lot of 3,707 square metres.



The plan also includes eight rear lots, a 1.29-hectare environmental covenant lot, a retained bushfire covenant area and drainage reserve land. Lot 901 is identified as an environmental and drainage reserve, while Lot 902 is identified as a 1,101-square-metre drainage reserve.



The proposal is planned in two stages. The first stage would reconfigure four lots into 28 residential lots, two balance lots, a park lot, a drainage easement and an access easement. The second stage would reconfigure two lots into 13 residential lots and a drainage lot.



Photo Credit: DA/A007012501



Wildlife, Bushland And Infrastructure Concerns Raised



Opposition submissions lodged in 2025 raised concerns about bushland removal, koalas, wildlife habitat and the capacity of local infrastructure to support additional homes.



One objection opposed the removal of land described as being used by koalas and other wildlife. It sought either a stop to the development or a delay until wildlife relocation could be addressed through an animal welfare process. Other objections raised concern about further clearing of bushland and the pressure of additional properties in the area.



Those concerns sit alongside the revised plan’s retained environmental, bushfire and drainage areas, making the balance between housing yield and site constraints a central part of the local discussion.



Photo Credit: DA/A007012501



Purser Street Traffic And Noise Issues Added To Debate



A separate objection lodged on 3 May 2026 focused on traffic, road access and noise impacts linked to the amended layout.



The objection referred to earlier traffic material that considered likely vehicle movements on the Purser Street extension. That material estimated that 76 lots across several nearby residential areas could generate up to 760 vehicle movements per day if all traffic used Purser Street.



The traffic material also stated that a 14-metre local street could accommodate up to 1,000 vehicle movements per day. However, the objection argued that the amended Beckett Road layout may have changed the assumptions behind that assessment, particularly because the earlier material referred to a left-in, left-out Beckett Road access.



The objection sought clarification on whether that access remained part of the plan and called for updated traffic assessment material if it had been removed or altered. It also raised concern that no formal noise assessment had addressed the effect of increased traffic on existing Purser Street residents.



Read: Bonfires, Live Music and 200 Stalls Set for Carseldine Winter Wonderland



The Beckett Road proposal remains under assessment, with no decision notice listed. Its next steps will determine whether the revised 43-lot layout proceeds as planned, changes further, or requires additional assessment of access, traffic, noise and site constraints.



Published 9-June-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A revised subdivision proposal for Beckett Road in Bridgeman Downs would create 43 residential lots across a 7.6-hectare site, with changes to vehicle access, internal roads, staging and retained environmental areas now central to the plan.



Read: The Banh Mi Shop That Started as a Market Stall Just Won Queensland’s Best



Beckett Road Layout Shifts Under Revised Plan



The proposal covers 409, 411, 415 and 427 Beckett Road and is listed under application A007012501. It was submitted on 30 April 2026 and remains in progress.



The amended plan is described as a minor change to an approved subdivision, but it includes several notable layout changes. The proposal would increase the residential yield to 43 lots, introduce staged delivery and remove the previously approved direct vehicle access from Beckett Road.



Instead of direct Beckett Road vehicle access, the layout identifies a future road connection through the adjoining southern subdivision. A pedestrian connection to Beckett Road would be retained.



The internal road network would also be realigned. The proposal includes supporting infrastructure such as a pad mount transformer, stormwater basin, water quality works, bioretention treatment and tree pit treatment systems.



Photo Credit: DA/A007012501



Bridgeman Downs Subdivision Includes Covenant And Drainage Areas



The proposed residential lots range from 400 square metres to 764 square metres. The lot mix includes 31 lots between 400 square metres and 499 square metres, eight lots between 500 square metres and 764 square metres, and a retained dwelling lot of 3,707 square metres.



The plan also includes eight rear lots, a 1.29-hectare environmental covenant lot, a retained bushfire covenant area and drainage reserve land. Lot 901 is identified as an environmental and drainage reserve, while Lot 902 is identified as a 1,101-square-metre drainage reserve.



The proposal is planned in two stages. The first stage would reconfigure four lots into 28 residential lots, two balance lots, a park lot, a drainage easement and an access easement. The second stage would reconfigure two lots into 13 residential lots and a drainage lot.



Photo Credit: DA/A007012501



Wildlife, Bushland And Infrastructure Concerns Raised



Opposition submissions lodged in 2025 raised concerns about bushland removal, koalas, wildlife habitat and the capacity of local infrastructure to support additional homes.



One objection opposed the removal of land described as being used by koalas and other wildlife. It sought either a stop to the development or a delay until wildlife relocation could be addressed through an animal welfare process. Other objections raised concern about further clearing of bushland and the pressure of additional properties in the area.



Those concerns sit alongside the revised plan’s retained environmental, bushfire and drainage areas, making the balance between housing yield and site constraints a central part of the local discussion.



Photo Credit: DA/A007012501



Purser Street Traffic And Noise Issues Added To Debate



A separate objection lodged on 3 May 2026 focused on traffic, road access and noise impacts linked to the amended layout.



The objection referred to earlier traffic material that considered likely vehicle movements on the Purser Street extension. That material estimated that 76 lots across several nearby residential areas could generate up to 760 vehicle movements per day if all traffic used Purser Street.



The traffic material also stated that a 14-metre local street could accommodate up to 1,000 vehicle movements per day. However, the objection argued that the amended Beckett Road layout may have changed the assumptions behind that assessment, particularly because the earlier material referred to a left-in, left-out Beckett Road access.



The objection sought clarification on whether that access remained part of the plan and called for updated traffic assessment material if it had been removed or altered. It also raised concern that no formal noise assessment had addressed the effect of increased traffic on existing Purser Street residents.



Read: Bonfires, Live Music and 200 Stalls Set for Carseldine Winter Wonderland



The Beckett Road proposal remains under assessment, with no decision notice listed. Its next steps will determine whether the revised 43-lot layout proceeds as planned, changes further, or requires additional assessment of access, traffic, noise and site constraints.



Published 9-June-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[The Banh Mi Shop That Started as a Market Stall Just Won Queensland's Best]]></title>
<link>https://aspleynews.com.au/the-banh-mi-shop-that-started-as-a-market-stall-just-won-queenslands-best</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2026 03:34:13 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
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<category><![CDATA[compulsory acquisition]]></category>
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<dc:creator><![CDATA[Aspley News]]></dc:creator>
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<description><![CDATA[
Banh Mi Factory has been crowned Queensland's best banh mi place in the 2026 QLD Day All the Best competition, after more than 74,000 votes were cast across 15 categories statewide.



Read: Bonfires, Live Music and 200 Stalls Set for Carseldine Winter Wonderland



The announcement came on 3 June, the day before Queensland Day, with Banh Mi Factory taking the top spot in a category that put some of Brisbane's most beloved Vietnamese eateries up against each other for public votes. 



For the regulars who have been lining up at Zillmere since this family-run shop opened its first bricks-and-mortar store after years as a market stall, the result will not come as a surprise.



The shop holds a 4.8 out of 5 Google rating across hundreds of customer reviews.



What makes a banh mi worth driving across Brisbane for



The banh mi at Zillmere is built the way it should be: a crunchy baguette, housemade mayo and pâté, pickled carrots, cucumber, and your choice of filling from chicken, beef, pork, tofu or mixed. 



The Friday crispy pork special has earned its own following. Orders move fast at the counter, even during the lunch rush that reliably builds by mid-morning.








Beyond the banh mi, the menu includes pho made with a 24-hour broth, rice paper rolls, rice bowls and noodle salads. Everything is affordable, and portions are generous by any measure. The shop is alfresco-friendly, child-friendly and accessible, with dine-in seating inside and outdoor tables when the weather suits.



Photo Credit: Banh Mi Factory/Facebook



Banh Mi Factory has a second location at 10 Austin Street, Newstead, for inner-city regulars. The Zillmere original is open Monday to Saturday from 7am to 3pm and closed Sunday. Phone (07) 3061 5067 or visit banhmifactory.com.au.



Read: Zillmere Teacher Ryan St John’s Full-Circle Journey Into The Classroom 



Published 5-June-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Banh Mi Factory has been crowned Queensland's best banh mi place in the 2026 QLD Day All the Best competition, after more than 74,000 votes were cast across 15 categories statewide.



Read: Bonfires, Live Music and 200 Stalls Set for Carseldine Winter Wonderland



The announcement came on 3 June, the day before Queensland Day, with Banh Mi Factory taking the top spot in a category that put some of Brisbane's most beloved Vietnamese eateries up against each other for public votes. 



For the regulars who have been lining up at Zillmere since this family-run shop opened its first bricks-and-mortar store after years as a market stall, the result will not come as a surprise.



The shop holds a 4.8 out of 5 Google rating across hundreds of customer reviews.



What makes a banh mi worth driving across Brisbane for



The banh mi at Zillmere is built the way it should be: a crunchy baguette, housemade mayo and pâté, pickled carrots, cucumber, and your choice of filling from chicken, beef, pork, tofu or mixed. 



The Friday crispy pork special has earned its own following. Orders move fast at the counter, even during the lunch rush that reliably builds by mid-morning.








Beyond the banh mi, the menu includes pho made with a 24-hour broth, rice paper rolls, rice bowls and noodle salads. Everything is affordable, and portions are generous by any measure. The shop is alfresco-friendly, child-friendly and accessible, with dine-in seating inside and outdoor tables when the weather suits.



Photo Credit: Banh Mi Factory/Facebook



Banh Mi Factory has a second location at 10 Austin Street, Newstead, for inner-city regulars. The Zillmere original is open Monday to Saturday from 7am to 3pm and closed Sunday. Phone (07) 3061 5067 or visit banhmifactory.com.au.



Read: Zillmere Teacher Ryan St John’s Full-Circle Journey Into The Classroom 



Published 5-June-2026




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<title><![CDATA[North Brisbane Area Sports Results 5-7 June 2026]]></title>
<link>https://aspleynews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-5-7-june-2026/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-5-7-june-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2026 03:31:56 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Aspley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://aspleynews.com.au/north-brisbane-area-sports-results-5-7-june-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[








QAFL



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 10• Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 66 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sherwood QAFL Seniors 100



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Cooke-Murphy Oval / Cooke-Murphy Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 10• Labrador QAFL Seniors 131 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 80







QAFLW



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 8• Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 21 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 22



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 8• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 42 &nbsp; | &nbsp; University of Queensland QAFLW Seniors 23















FQPL1



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Ballinger Park (Buderim Wanderers &amp; Sunshine Coast Wanderers)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 14• Sunshine Coast Wanderers 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; North Star 0



Sunday, June 7, 2026 (Walton Bridge Reserve (The Gap FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 8• The Gap FC 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Virginia United 1







NPL



Friday, June 5, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Moreton City Excelsior 0



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Birmingham Road (Magic United FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Magic United 2 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 1



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Spencer Park (Brisbane City FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Brisbane City 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Lions FC 4



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Spencer Park (Brisbane City FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 17• Brisbane City 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Lions FC 1











NBL1 North



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 8• Northside Wizards 80 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sunshine Coast Phoenix 84



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 8• Northside Wizards 80 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sunshine Coast Phoenix 79











HART Premier Netball League (HPNL)



Sunday, June 7, 2026 (Nissan Arena-Court 7) – HART Premier Netball League (HPNL) – Women – Round 5• Bond University Bull Sharks Ruby 56 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Kedron-Wavell Cougars Ruby 69




]]></description>
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QAFL



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 10• Wilston Grange QAFL Seniors 66 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sherwood QAFL Seniors 100



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Cooke-Murphy Oval / Cooke-Murphy Oval 1) – TPIL Lawyers QAFL – Men – Round 10• Labrador QAFL Seniors 131 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Aspley QAFL Seniors 80







QAFLW



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Hickey Park / Hickey Park) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 8• Wilston Grange QAFLW Seniors 21 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Coorparoo QAFLW Seniors 22



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Graham Road / Automall Aspley Oval) – Bond University QAFLW – Women – Round 8• Aspley QAFLW Seniors 42 &nbsp; | &nbsp; University of Queensland QAFLW Seniors 23















FQPL1



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Ballinger Park (Buderim Wanderers &amp; Sunshine Coast Wanderers)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 14• Sunshine Coast Wanderers 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; North Star 0



Sunday, June 7, 2026 (Walton Bridge Reserve (The Gap FC)-Field 1) – FQPL1 – Women – Round 8• The Gap FC 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Virginia United 1







NPL



Friday, June 5, 2026 (Heath Park (Eastern Suburbs FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Eastern Suburbs 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Moreton City Excelsior 0



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Birmingham Road (Magic United FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Magic United 2 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Brisbane Roar B 1



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Spencer Park (Brisbane City FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 14• Brisbane City 0 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Lions FC 4



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Spencer Park (Brisbane City FC)-Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 17• Brisbane City 1 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Lions FC 1











NBL1 North



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Men – Round 8• Northside Wizards 80 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sunshine Coast Phoenix 84



Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Northside Indoor Sports Centre) – NBL1 North – Women – Round 8• Northside Wizards 80 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Sunshine Coast Phoenix 79











HART Premier Netball League (HPNL)



Sunday, June 7, 2026 (Nissan Arena-Court 7) – HART Premier Netball League (HPNL) – Women – Round 5• Bond University Bull Sharks Ruby 56 &nbsp; | &nbsp; Kedron-Wavell Cougars Ruby 69




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