Looking for the perfect way to celebrate Australia Day with your family? Head down to the Gallopers Sports Club in Ascot for fun, games, and good times!
The event, scheduled for Sunday, 26 January, will offer a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for locals to commemorate the national holiday.
This follows the success of last year’s festivities, which saw hundreds gather at the racecourse for a day of picnicking, live music, and children’s entertainment.
From 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., attendees can participate in various activities, including free barefoot bowls, a classic sausage sizzle, and fun games for all ages. Live music from local artist Spike will provide entertainment throughout the afternoon, while raffles offer the chance to snag exciting prizes.
Organisers encourage families to arrive early to secure a good activity spot and bring sunscreen, hats, and picnic blankets for comfort. The day promises to be a fantastic opportunity to enjoy Australia Day with loved ones in the heart of Ascot.
The Brisbane Racing Club has opposed the proposal by Gold Coast city official Tom Tate to demolish the Doomben Racecourse in Ascot in preparation for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic stadium.
Doomben Racecourse, a cornerstone of Brisbane’s sporting heritage, is now the centre of a contentious debate regarding its future.
The site, operational for over a century, is under threat due to proposed plans aimed at transforming it into an Olympic stadium for the 2032 games. This move comes as part of broader efforts to modernise and repurpose infrastructure in preparation for the Olympics.
Mr Tate recently suggested that the Doomben Racecourse, known for its prime location and access to infrastructure, could be razed to facilitate the construction of a new, state-of-the-art Olympic stadium.
Citing ease of construction due to favourable soil conditions, the city official’s office argues that the racecourse presents a viable alternative to other considered sites like Victoria Park.
Community Response
This proposal has met significant resistance from various stakeholders, including the Brisbane Racing Club. Karl deKroo, the club’s CEO, has voiced substantial concerns, stating that the demolition of Doomben would end a long-standing tradition of racing in Ascot.
Community members and local businesses have also expressed apprehension about losing a historic sporting venue that contributes significantly to the local culture and economy.
The Brisbane Racing Club has suggested that both Doomben and Eagle Farm could serve as venues for Olympic equestrian events. They believe there are potential opportunities for using training paddocks or fields for these purposes.
While the final decision is pending, the newly formed Infrastructure Authority is expected to complete a comprehensive review of all potential sites by March. This review will play a crucial role in determining the future of Doomben and other venue locations across Brisbane as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympics.
As the debate continues, the Brisbane Racing Club and local communities are holding their breath, hoping for a decision that preserves the rich equestrian heritage in Ascot. The outcome of this dispute will likely influence other planning decisions related to the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, underscoring the complex interplay between heritage, community interests, and modernisation demands.
Police have reported a worrying surge in number plate thefts in Ascot, alongside neighbouring areas of Hamilton and Hendra. The theft of registration plates is believed to be a calculated move by offenders aiming to evade detection during unlawful activities.
By attaching stolen plates to their vehicles, offenders can obscure their identities and delay law enforcement efforts. Police describe these thefts, which took place from 8 to 13 December, as largely opportunistic. They warn that unsecured plates present an easy target.
Residents are being urged to take preventative measures, including parking in locked garages or behind secure gates, to reduce their risk. Authorities have emphasised the importance of vigilance in these high-risk areas.
Community Initiative: Free Anti-Theft Screws
In response to the spike in thefts, the Gateway District Crime Prevention Unit has introduced an initiative offering free anti-theft screw packs to residents in affected areas, including Ascot. These screws are designed to make it nearly impossible for thieves to remove number plates without a specialised tool used exclusively by police.
The packs also include information on vehicle security, aiming to empower locals with practical tips to protect their property. Community members can order the screws online and install them to bolster their vehicles’ security.
Photo Credit: QPS
How to Report Suspicious Activity
Police are encouraging residents to report any suspicious behaviour immediately. Information can be provided online through the Queensland Police Service’s suspicious activity form, which operates 24 hours a day.
For those wishing to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers offers a confidential reporting option through their hotline or website.
A frustrated resident of Ascot has voiced concerns regarding irresponsible dog owners who leave bags of dog waste in public spaces, sparking a demand for improved waste management solutions in Brisbane. This issue has ignited a debate among locals, as residents find themselves divided over who should bear the responsibility of keeping the community clean.
Karen, an Ascot resident, voiced her complaint regarding the abandoned dog waste bags on the street where she resides. It had become a big issue since the lady complained that plastic bags full of dog muck were being deposited on the sidewalk in front of her and at particular public bins.
Karen’s grievance quickly gained traction on social media. She argued that while dog owners are required to pick up after their pets, some neglect the final step of properly disposing of waste.
Residents Weigh In
Karen’s comments have been mixed. Some people sympathise with her frustration, but others say the problem points to the need for more bins and other community infrastructure in Ascot.
Mark Hughes, a long-time resident of Ascot, expressed concerns about the lack of bins in the area. He noted that while people generally want to dispose of waste responsibly, it becomes frustrating when bins are either too far apart or overflowing.
On the other hand, others believe the issue ultimately comes down to personal responsibility. Sarah Blake, who takes time every day to walk her dog, argued that there is no excuse for improper disposal. She emphasized that if someone has already taken the effort to pick up waste, they should also make the effort to find a bin, adding that leaving it on the ground or next to someone’s property is simply unacceptable.
Brisbane’s Approach to Waste Management
City officials have recognized the concern, emphasizing that waste management in bustling locations like parks and walkways continues to be a top priority. Brisbane authorities encourage residents to use existing public bins responsibly and report overflowing bins to ensure timely servicing.
A spokesperson for Council acknowledged the frustration caused by irresponsible behavior. They reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining clean public spaces but emphasized the importance of community cooperation. Residents were encouraged to report problem areas through official channels.
City leaders also confirmed that additional waste management solutions are being reviewed, including the placement of new bins in dog-friendly parks and popular walking routes. However, funding and implementation timelines remain unclear.
Local Dog Owners Call for Solutions
While residents like Karen think officials should strictly impose current waste disposal laws and regulations, dog owners gave several practical solutions to the concern. Some of the said suggestions include increasing the use of signage to remind of responsibility and installing more bin areas at popular dog walking spots.
Similar issues have been tackled in nearby suburbs through community-led efforts. In Hamilton, for example, residents collaborated with local businesses to install sponsored bins featuring biodegradable bag dispensers, thereby significantly reducing waste dumping.
Balancing Responsibility and Community Cleanliness
This debate shows that there is a balance between personal accountability and community infrastructure. Though Brisbane’s waste services play a very crucial role, residents agree that individual behavior is the key to maintaining clean and pleasant neighbourhoods.
Long-time Ascot resident Karen highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining the neighbourhood. She pointed out that everyone has a role to play, whether walking a dog or simply passing through, and that doing the right thing makes a significant difference.
With an increase in the population of Brisbane and growing community spaces, it becomes important to handle these little but impacting issues that remain crucial to Brisbane’s liveability. Authorities in cities are therefore seeking continued communication with its citizens to create solutions for everybody.
Sutherland Avenue in Ascot tells a compelling story of transformation and established community ties. In 1936, aerial photography reveals only a handful of houses dotting this prestigious street, a stark contrast to today’s distinguished residential landscape.
The street’s evolution is reflected in its sales history, with notable transactions like 37 Sutherland Avenue changing hands for $415,000 in November 1989. Today, the avenue stands as a testament to residential stability, with 100% owner-occupancy and residents staying an average of nearly 14 years – more than half having called it home for over a decade. Below, you will find an aerial image taken in 1936, capturing a glimpse of this street’s humble beginnings in what would become one of Brisbane’s most esteemed neighborhoods.
Sutherland Ave, Ascot Residents
NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 16 % OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 100% AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 13 years and 10 months % OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 54%
Sutherland Ave, Ascot – As It Looked in 1936
Sutherland Ave, Ascot in 1936
SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON SUTHERLAND AVE FROM YESTERYEAR
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
30 Sutherland Ave, Ascot
$6,120,000
Mar 2003
42 Sutherland Ave, Ascot
$1,400,000
Apr 2000
37 Sutherland Ave, Ascot
$415,000
Nov 1989
SUBURB PROFILE
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2024 was $1,825,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2020 was $1,045,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $780,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2024 was $2,425,000 The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2020 was $1,425,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $1,000,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2024 was $3,250,000 The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2020 was $2,450,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $800,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2024 was $650,000 The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2020 was $400,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $150,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2024 was $1,106,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2020 was $666,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $440,000
Brisbane Heat’s quest for a third premiership ended in heartbreak at the MCG, falling seven runs short against the Melbourne Renegades in a rain-affected WBBL10 final. Captain Jess Jonassen’s heroic unbeaten innings of 44 went in vain as Brisbane fell just short of the revised target.
After winning the toss and electing to field, the Heat’s bowlers applied consistent pressure early on. Charli Knott (3-26) and Grace Parsons (2-29) kept the Renegades in check, but West Indies star Hayley Matthews was the standout performer. Matthews crafted a masterful 69 off 61 balls—the highest individual score in WBBL final history—propelling her side to a competitive total.
Brisbane’s chase began disastrously. Power-hitter Grace Harris fell for a second-ball duck, followed soon after by the in-form Jemimah Rodrigues. The situation worsened when rain caused a 40-minute delay, leaving Brisbane with a reduced target of 98 runs from 12 overs.
In a display of remarkable resilience, skipper Jess Jonassen nearly pulled off the impossible with an unbeaten 44 from 28 deliveries. Her late assault included a six and a four in the Power Surge over against Deandra Dottin, bringing the equation down to 30 off the final two overs. However, the experience of Renegades’ international spinners, Matthews and Sophie Molineux, proved decisive in the closing stages.
While the result marks a second consecutive final defeat for the Heat, their consistent presence in the championship decider underscores their status as one of the WBBL’s powerhouses. Emerging talents like Knott and Parsons, combined with Jonassen’s seasoned leadership, leave Brisbane well-positioned for future campaigns.
This loss will sting for the Heat faithful, but the team’s journey to the final—including dominant performances throughout the tournament—provides hope for the seasons ahead. As the dust settles on another WBBL campaign, the focus will now shift to regrouping and coming back stronger for WBBL11.
Published 01-December-2024
Match preview published on 29-November-2024.
Brisbane Heat’s Hot Streak Burns Bright: WBBL10 Final Showdown Awaits
Photo Credit: Instagram/heatbbl
The Brisbane Heat’s remarkable late-season surge shows no signs of slowing as they prepare to face minor premiers Melbourne Renegades in the WBBL10 final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday, 1 December.
Riding a six-match winning streak, the Heat secured a commanding nine-wicket victory over the Sydney Thunder in Friday’s Challenger, booking their place in the premiership decider for a second consecutive season.
The Heat’s dominant performance at Allan Border Field showcased why they’re genuine contenders for the title. Georgia Redmayne’s masterful unbeaten 51 off 41 balls, supported by Jemimah Rodrigues’ elegant 43, highlighted the team’s batting depth. However, Rodrigues retired hurt due to a hand injury, raising concerns about her availability for the final.
In the bowling department, Grace Parsons emerged as the standout performer, claiming an impressive 3-10 in three overs. Her spell, supported by Jess Jonassen’s sharp tactics, limited the Thunder to 7-133 despite late resistance from Hannah Darlington and Taneale Peschel.
History and form point to epic battle
The Heat enter the final with momentum on their side, but the Renegades, as minor premiers, present a formidable challenge. The teams’ only encounter this season resulted in a 28-run victory for the Heat, though much has changed since that early-season clash.
Sunday’s final at the MCG promises a thrilling contest between the competition’s most consistent side and the team carrying the hottest form. For Heat supporters, the prospect of their team lifting the trophy seems increasingly possible, given their recent dominant performances and the confidence flowing through the squad.
The decider begins at 12:20 p.m. on Sunday, with Brisbane seeking to convert their late-season momentum into championship glory. After dismantling the Thunder with such efficiency, the Heat have sent a clear message to the Renegades: they’re ready for the ultimate challenge.
In a dramatic showdown at Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm, 22-year-old Elvis Smylie etched his name in Australian golfing history, claiming his maiden DP World Tour title at the BMW Australian PGA Championship.
The Gold Coast native displayed remarkable composure, fending off his mentor and three-time champion Cam Smith in a wire-to-wire victory that has electrified the local golfing community.
Defining victory for Elvis Smylie
The significance of Smylie’s triumph extends beyond the pristine fairways of Royal Queensland Golf Club. Just weeks after securing his first professional win at the WA Open, the young golfer demonstrated exceptional poise throughout the championship, particularly during Sunday’s pressure-packed final round. Playing alongside his golfing idol Cam Smith and veteran Marc Leishman, Smylie crafted a flawless 67 to finish at 14 under par, two shots clear of Smith.
“It’s a dream come true,” Smylie reflects. “Playing with Cam and Leish there… I looked up to these guys since I was a kid, and just being in their presence and to compete against them for the title, I’ve learnt so much.”
A legacy takes shape at Royal Queensland
As the son of four-time grand slam doubles champion Liz Smylie, Elvis’s athletic roots run deep. From receiving the Cameron Smith Scholarship in 2019 to defeating his mentor on one of golf’s biggest stages, his journey epitomises Queensland sporting excellence.
Under the guidance of coach Ritchie Smith, Smylie has transformed his game through dedicated physical conditioning, despite challenges maintaining weight at 71 kg. His quiet determination and “old soul” demeanour, as described by his coach, stand in stark contrast to the flashier personalities often found on tour.
For Queensland’s newest sporting hero, this victory is not an endpoint but a beginning. With the Australian Open looming, Smylie remains focused, eschewing celebrations for continued preparation. “There’ll be a time to celebrate,” he noted, “but for now, I’m really looking forward to doing my best here.”
His success at Eagle Farm has resonated beyond Australian shores, drawing congratulations from unexpected quarters, including tennis legend Ivan Lendl. Yet Smylie remains grounded, his triumph serving as a testament to the power of perseverance and the bright future of Australian golf.
Crosby Road in Ascot has changed dramatically since 1936 when it had only a few houses. By 1985, apartments were selling for as little as $51,500, highlighting its journey from modest beginnings to becoming a vibrant part of the suburb’s evolution.
NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 55 % OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 75% AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 12 years, 5 months % OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 46%
Crosby Rd, Ascot Residents – As It Looked in 1936
Crosby Rd, Ascot in 1936
SOME RECENT SALES ON CROSBY RD, ASCOT
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
114 Crosby Rd, Ascot
$3.250M
Feb 2024
SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON CROSBY ROAD FROM YESTERYEAR
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
3/110 Crosby Rd, Ascot
$51,500
Dec 1985
126 Crosby Rd, Ascot
$204,000
Dec 1989
154 Crosby Rd, Ascot
$216,000
Dec 1998
SUBURB PROFILE
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2024 was $1,910,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2020 was $1.045,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Ascot SINCE 2020 : $865,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2024 was $2,400.000 The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2020 was $1,450,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Ascot SINCE 2020 : $950,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2024 was $3.250,000 The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2020 was $2,445,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Ascot SINCE 2020 : $805,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2024 was $647,000 The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2020 was $400,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN Ascot SINCE 2020 : $267,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2024 was $1,107,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2020 was $679,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN Ascot SINCE 2020 : $428,000
28 properties, 70% are owner occupied. Average owner occupier has been living there for 22 years and 9 months. 70% of residents have lived there for 10+ years and 11 months.
In 2001, #23, a 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom house sold for $345,000. The same house today would likely fetch between $3m and $4m.
Bentong at 5 Kidston St is heritage-listed.
Photo Credit: BCC
Architectural Design: Designed in 1916 by Alexander Brown Wilson, a prominent Brisbane architect, in a composite style with terracotta tile roofing and timber walls.
Historical Figure: The house was built for Roger William Hercules Hawken, a civil engineering professor at the University of Queensland, who later became a key figure in Queensland’s engineering community.
Name Origin: The house was named “Bentong” after a town in the Malay States, reflecting Hawken’s previous work experience there.
Location: Situated in Ascot, Queensland, on Kidston Street, which became a prestigious residential area for academics and professionals in the early 20th century.
Elevated Position: The property is located on Albion Heights (now part of Ascot), offering scenic views of Brisbane’s bay, river, and mountains, which added to its appeal.
Distinct Features: The house is notable for its multi-gabled bungalow design, incorporating features like silky oak paneling, leadlight fanlights, and spacious arched bay windows.
Professional Influence: Hawken was a founding member of the Institute of Engineers, Australia, and contributed significantly to public infrastructure discussions in Brisbane.
Community Landmark: It is recognized for its elegant aesthetic, with a triple-gabled roof, verandahs, and a large garden that reflect sophisticated suburban living.
Family Residence: Hawken and his family lived in Bentong from 1917, making it a significant location in both his personal and professional life.
Heritage Recognition: The property has been listed as a local heritage place since January 1, 2004, for its historical, aesthetic, and associative significance.
Arden at 11 Kidston St is heritage-listed.
Photo Credit: BCC
Architectural Design: “Arden” was designed in 1912 by Alexander Brown Wilson, a renowned Brisbane architect, showcasing a Federation style with brick walls, a tiled roof, and a stone base.
Original Owner: Built for Percy Leonard Weston, an electrical engineer and lecturer at the University of Queensland, who played a role in early electrical engineering projects in Brisbane.
Elite Location: Situated on Kidston Street, Ascot, a fashionable area known as Albion Heights at the time, which attracted Brisbane’s professional class due to its scenic views and proximity to the city.
Historical Value: The property reflects Ascot’s development as a prestigious residential area in the early 20th century, popular among academics and business professionals.
Federation Style Elements: The two-storey brick residence includes multiple gables, restrained timber detailing, and a prominent chimney, making it a prime example of Federation architecture.
Prominent Residents: Owned by the Hemsley family from 1924 to 1993, who named it “Arden” and frequently hosted social gatherings, adding to its historical social significance.
Contrasting Aesthetics: The house features a striking contrast between its red brick exterior and cream render, enhancing its architectural charm and visibility in the neighborhood.
Engineering Milestones: Weston was instrumental in early electrical installations around Brisbane, including projects for the General Post Office and the Botanic Gardens.
Heritage Listing: Recognized as a place of local heritage significance since 2004 due to its historical, representative, and aesthetic value.
Community Legacy: The property remains an enduring symbol of Brisbane’s early 20th-century architectural and cultural development, linked with influential figures in engineering and architecture.
If you know Kidston Street, Ascot well and you have some anecdotes or details to add please email: editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au
Ascot Property Market Oct 2024
The median price of a 3-bedroom house in Ascot in 2024 was $1.91m. The median price of a 3-bedroom house in Ascot in 2020 was $1.045m. TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $865,000
The median price of a 4-bedroom house in Ascot in 2024 was $2.4m. The median price of a 4-bedroom house in Ascot in 2020 was $1.45m. TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $950,000
The median price of a 5-bedroom house in Ascot in 2024 was $3.25m. The median price of a 5-bedroom house in Ascot in 2020 was $2.445m. TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $805,000
The median price of a 2-bedroom unit in Ascot in 2024 was $647,000. The median price of a 2-bedroom unit in Ascot in 2020 was $400,000. TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $247,000
The median price of a 3-bedroom unit in Ascot in 2024 was $1,107,000. The median price of a 3-bedroom unit in Ascot in 2020 was $679,000. TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $428,000
After falling three runs short in last season’s Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) final and suffering a recent last-ball defeat in the Spring Challenge decider, the Brisbane Heat enter their tenth WBBL campaign with redemption firmly in their sights. The Heat’s journey begins this Saturday, 27 October, where last season ended—against the defending champion Adelaide Strikers.
Spring Challenge Final sets tone for season rivalry
The Brisbane Heat’s path to WBBL10 was marked by a dramatic last-ball defeat in the inaugural T20 Spring Challenge final against the Hobart Hurricanes. After electing to bat, the Heat found themselves restricted to 133, with Sianna Ginger leading the scoring with a determined 24. The Hurricanes’ duo of Ruth Johnston (4-20) and Molly Strano (3-31) proved particularly challenging for the Heat’s usually potent batting lineup.
With the Heat bowling and the Hurricanes needing three runs in the final over, Ginger’s tight start—two dot balls—almost pulled off an improbable win for Brisbane. However, with one run needed off the final delivery, Emma Manix-Geeves pierced the gap at backward point, sealing a five-wicket victory for Hobart.
Key matches for the Brisbane Heat
The Brisbane Heat schedule includes three home fixtures at Allan Border Field and one at The Gabba, offering fans multiple opportunities to support the team.
Here are the key matchups to watch: • Opening day finals rematch against the Adelaide Strikers (27 October) • Home opener at Allan Border Field with a night clash against the Melbourne Renegades (30 October) • A highly anticipated Hurricanes rematch at CitiPower Centre (2 November), reigniting the Spring Challenge rivalry • The historic Gabba return against the Strikers (9 November), marking the first WBBL match at the venue in six years • Western swing featuring back-to-back matches at WACA Ground against the Perth Scorchers (5 November) and the Sydney Thunder (7 November) • Season finale against the Sydney Sixers at Allan Border Field (24 November)
For the full schedule and match details, visit the Brisbane Heat Women’s official schedule.
With the tournament condensed to 43 matches including knockouts, every game carries increased significance in the race for the title. The Heat’s campaign could extend to 1 December, should they qualify for the final, as they aim to capture their third WBBL title and go one better than their runner-up finish in WBBL09.
