Ascot Archives - Ascot News

Ascot Swarmed by Police in Operation Whiskey Legion Crackdown

Ascot is currently experiencing a surge in police presence as Operation Whiskey Legion (OWL) descends for a 10-day deployment.

*Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police Service*

This intensive operation, which started June 19 and has proven successful in six other Queensland districts since its launch in April, involves various specialised units working alongside local police to tackle high-risk crime and repeat offenders.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Denzil Clark from the Crime and Intelligence Command highlighted the operation’s effectiveness, stating that it has led to over 1,380 adult arrests and over 3,126 charges in the past three months. The increased police capacity has also allowed officers to provide support to more than 2,606 victims of crime.

OWL’s multi-faceted approach involves specialist police from Highway Patrol, Railway Squad, Water Police, Dog Squad, and Crime Prevention units collaborating with frontline officers to prevent crime and apprehend serious offenders.

The operation’s focus in Ascot will address specific local issues, such as public safety at transport hubs and shopping centres, motor vehicle theft, home invasions, domestic violence breaches, and targeted investigations of high-risk individuals.

Brisbane Region Assistant Commissioner Ben Marcus emphasised that the additional resources provided by OWL will bolster local enforcement capabilities, ultimately reducing crime and improving community safety. He detailed the plan to rapidly deploy specialised units to identify hot spots, utilising resources across the Queensland Police Service.

Acting Chief Superintendent Simon Tayler of the North Brisbane Police District called upon the community to actively participate in the operation, encouraging residents to be extra vigilant and report any suspicious activity promptly. He stressed the importance of securing homes and vehicles, making it more difficult for thieves to operate in the area.

With the successful track record of Operation Whiskey Legion in other districts, authorities are optimistic about the positive impact it will have in Ascot over the next ten days.

Published Date 24-June-2024

Bernborough Ascot, Retirement Village Takes Shape

Bernborough Ascot, a new high-rise retirement living development is taking shape in as part of a large-scale renewal project transforming the city’s Doomben and Eagle Farm racecourse precincts.

The $270 million complex by retirement village operator Keyton has reached a construction milestone with the topping out of its second building called Poinciana House. The 53-apartment tower is set for completion in early 2025.

Bernborough Ascot claims to be the nation’s first vertical retirement community integrated within a racecourse precinct. Its first stage, the sold-out Fig Tree House, has already opened.

While pioneering the high-rise retirement living concept in Brisbane, the development is also garnering attention for its green credentials as one of the first in Australia to achieve a 6-Star Green Star sustainability rating.

Nathan Cockerill, Keyton’s CEO, says the project aims to create “connected, diverse retirement communities” with an emphasis on amenities that promote resident wellbeing and social engagement.

In addition to stylishly appointed independent living apartments, Poinciana House will feature resort-style facilities like a rooftop terrace, restaurant, outdoor entertaining areas, pool, gym and allied health consulting rooms.

The development forms part of the $1.5 billion Brisbane Racing Club master plan to revitalise the Doomben and Eagle Farm racing precinct into a mixed-use destination with residential, commercial and recreational elements.

For the established Ascot neighbourhood, the arrival of a new cohort of over-55s residents could spur demand for more age-friendly infrastructure and services while adding density to the inner-city suburb.

With Australia’s senior population continuing to grow, retirement operators are exploring innovative housing models like vertical villages to meet the changing needs and lifestyle expectations of this demographic.

Published 16-June-2024

Ascot to Host Additional Cirque du Soleil Shows as Queensland Embraces ‘LUZIA’

Brisbane’s love affair with Cirque du Soleil continues as the world-renowned entertainment company adds seven more shows to its critically acclaimed production, LUZIA, set to premiere in Ascot on 25th of September.

LUZIA by Cirque Du Soleil — *Photo Credit: Nicole Cleary*

The announcement comes in response to overwhelming demand, further solidifying Queensland’s status as a dedicated Cirque du Soleil fanbase since the company’s Australian debut in 1999.

LUZIA, Cirque du Soleil’s 38th original production, will take up residence under the iconic Big Top next to the Royal Queensland Golf Club, off Curtin Ave East. The newly added performances, scheduled from November 6th to 11th, are expected to draw both seasoned Cirque du Soleil enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Adding to the local excitement, Queenslander Helena Merten will star in LUZIA, fulfilling a childhood dream sparked when she first saw Cirque du Soleil’s QUIDAM in Brisbane.

“I’ve dreamt of this since I was seven years old,” Merten said, expressing her eagerness to perform for her hometown crowd.

Written and directed by Daniele Finzi Pasca, LUZIA invites audiences into a dreamlike, imaginary Mexico where light (“luz” in Spanish) and rain (“lluvia”) intertwine. The production promises a surreal journey through a vibrant world filled with wonder, playfulness, and striking artistry.

LUZIA is notable for its groundbreaking incorporation of rain into acrobatic and artistic scenes, a first for a Cirque du Soleil touring production. From Cyr Wheel artists performing under rainfall to an aerialist soaring through showers, LUZIA pushes the boundaries of traditional circus disciplines.

book tickets here

“Queensland has always been a huge fanbase for Cirque du Soleil,” said Yannick Spierkel, LUZIA Senior Tour Director, highlighting the 25-year anniversary of Cirque du Soleil’s presence in Australia.

Published Date 28-May-2024

Elegance, Excitement, and Indulgence Unite at XXXX Doomben Cup Day

Experience the thrill of world-class racing and luxurious hospitality at the XXXX Doomben Cup Day of the Brisbane Racing Club in Ascot.

Read: Ascot to Host Second Leg of The Star Stradbroke Season

This iconic event, to be held at the prestigious Doomben Racecourse, features the $1 million Group 1 XXXX Doomben Cup, a prestigious weight-for-age contest over 2,000 metres.

Last year, the Snowden-trained import Huetor etched its name in history, becoming only the fourth horse to claim multiple victories in this coveted race since its inception in 1933.

In addition to the main event, the action-packed program includes three other prestigious Group races: the Group 2 ANZ Bloodstock News The Roses, Group 3 Magic Millions Mile, and Group 3 Ladbrokes BRC Sprint, ensuring a day filled with world-class racing and excitement.

Photo credit: Brisbane Racing Club/Facebook

Immerse yourself in the Ascot experience with a range of exclusive hospitality packages, offering the best in trackside amenities, gourmet cuisine, premium beverages, and live entertainment. Embrace the tradition of contemporary racing style, and dress to impress in smart and sophisticated attire befitting the Members Reserve at Doomben Racecourse.

Secure your place at the XXXX Doomben Cup Day by purchasing tickets through the Brisbane Racing Club’s website. Explore the various hospitality packages on offer and select the one that best suits your preferences for an exceptional trackside experience. Get ready to immerse yourself in the excitement of world-class racing and the glamour of Ascot at the iconic XXXX Doomben Cup Day.

Read: Albion Park Raceway Nixed as 2032 Brisbane Olympics Indoor Sports Venue

Mark your calendars for Saturday, 25 May 2024, and join Brisbane Racing Club for an unforgettable day of racing, elegance, and indulgence at the XXXX Doomben Cup Day.

Published 15-May-2024

Ascot to Host Second Leg of The Star Stradbroke Season

The heart of Australian racing beats in Ascot as the popular Doomben Racecourse takes centre stage for the second leg of the exhilarating 2024 Star Stradbroke Season.

The day’s highlight on Saturday, the 18th of May, is the prestigious $1.5 million Ladbrokes Doomben 10,000, a Group 1 sprint attracting the nation’s finest thoroughbreds. This elite race is just the first of seven Group 1 showdowns set to unfold throughout the thrilling season.

In addition to the main event, the day’s card boasts the Group 2 Spirit of Boom Classic, the inaugural leg of the season’s highly anticipated triple crown for two-year-olds. The Group 3 Seven Rough Habit Plate will also take place, providing a critical indicator for the upcoming Ladbrokes Queensland Derby.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Brisbane Racing Club (@brisbaneracingclub)

Beyond the racing action at the Doomben Racecourse, attendees can indulge in the exquisite food, wine, and entertainment packages available throughout Doomben’s grandstand terraces, suites, and marquees. The atmosphere promises to be electric, providing an unforgettable experience for all.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, May 18, 2024

Location: Doomben Racecourse, Ascot

Gate Opening Times:

Members: 10:00 am

Public: 10:30 am

Functions: 11:30 am

Trackside & Precinct Admission – At Gate:

Children Under 17: Free

Seniors and Concessions: Half price (ID required)

Pensioners and Veterans: Free (ID required)

buy tickets here

Don’t miss this extraordinary day of racing, food, and festivities at Ascot’s iconic Doomben Racecourse.

Published Date 14-May-2024

Hyundai Stolen in Daylight From Ascot Sports Club

Authorities have issued an urgent appeal to the public, requesting assistance tracking down a yellow 2016 Hyundai Accent, identified by its unique Queensland registration plate 525XJC. The vehicle was reported stolen from an Ascot sports club facility.

On Thursday, 28 March 2024, the owners of a yellow Hyundai Accent were at the Ascot facility and engaged in lawn bowls. Inadvertently, they left behind a bowls bag with the car keys inside. This oversight paved the way for a theft executed by a man and woman, who allegedly stole the bag and the vehicle, discarding the bag shortly thereafter.

The Queensland Police have released descriptions of the suspects in hopes of gathering leads from the public. The woman involved is described as Caucasian, in her mid-20s, with distinctive bleached blonde hair. She is seen donning a white sleeveless top and black skirt and carrying numerous shopping bags. The man is characterised by his short dark hair and sportive attire consisting of white sneakers, brightly coloured shorts, a light T-shirt, a black cap with a white motif, and a NIKE camo backpack.

The stolen Hyundai Accent stands out due to its distinct yellow colour and the Queensland registration plate 525XJC. It last sighted in Gotha Street, Fortitude Valley on Monday, 1 April 2024.

Crime Patterns in Ascot Evident in 1st Quarter Data

A total of 102 offences have been recorded in Ascot during the first quarter of 2024, as per the Queensland Police Service online crime map. The data highlights a surge in unlawful activities, casting a shadow on the suburb known for its prestigious racing events and serene residential areas.

Ascot Crime Jan to March 2024 — *Photo Credit: QPS*

Notable Offences

The crime statistics in Ascot have shown several concerning trends:

Unlawful Use of Motor Vehicle: 5 recorded offences, including the recent high-profile theft of a yellow Hyundai Accent bearing the registration plate 525XJC.
Unlawful Entry: A significant number of 22 offences suggest a spike in property-related crimes, urging residents to exercise increased vigilance and security measures.
Other Theft: With 32 offences, theft is the most common crime, underscoring the urgent need for community awareness and preventative action.

Police and Community Response

In light of these figures, the Queensland Police continue to encourage public assistance in reporting suspicious activities and sharing information that may lead to arrests and recovery of stolen property.

Information regarding the vehicle’s whereabouts, the identity of the suspects, or any related suspicious activity may be reported through Policelink’s online form www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au, with the reference number QP2400541804.

Published 3 April 2024

Frigg Cafe Owners, With Store in Ascot, Announce Voluntary Liquidation

The twin sisters behind Frigg Cafe, a well-known eatery and catering business in Gold Coast and Brisbane, including one outlet in Ascot, have gone into voluntary liquidation “with a heavy heart.”

Maria Elita and Toula Scott of the Frigg Group opened their first cafe in Labrador on the Gold Coast in 2017. Over the years, they expanded their presence with cafes at Nerang, Ascot and Manly, and then relocated from Labrador to Southport in 2022.

Frigg Group was not just known for its exceptional food and beverages; it also had a special menu catering to customers who had undergone weight loss surgery. Moreover, the business actively collected donations for victims of the devastating 2020 bushfires, demonstrating its commitment to the community.

The pair successfully weathered the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, but they were unable to overcome the overwhelming financial burden of skyrocketing operational costs. These mounting costs not only stretched their business thin but also adversely affected customer spending.

But on 21 January 2024, Terry van der Velde of SV Partners was appointed to oversee three Frigg companies, marking the beginning of the liquidation process. Frigg Group, once a regular feature on the list of top cafes and brunch spots on the Gold Coast, faced an uncertain future.

In a heartfelt statement posted a few days later, the sisters expressed their gratitude towards their team, suppliers, and loyal customers who had supported the Frigg Brand throughout its seven-year journey. They acknowledged the adversities they faced but emphasised their love for what they had created and the Frigg family they built.

“It is beyond devastating especially since we gave it our all & then some, it is a sign of the times. We feel very sad for our staff as well, it’s been very tough for everyone,” Ms Elita wrote and official shared their statement on her social media.

Despite the closure, the twin sisters expressed their hope that the Frigg brand would find a new owner, ensuring its legacy lives on.

Published 24-Jan-2024

Luxury Shoptop Apartments Set to Transform Ascot Landscape

South East Queensland developer Silverstone has set its sights on an ambitious residential project poised to redefine Ascot, one of Brisbane’s most affluent suburbs.

The proposed five-storey edifice, artfully crafted by PDT Architects, is poised to introduce 30 opulent two and three-bedroom apartments to the charming enclave on a 1,250 sqm expanse at 77 Racecourse Road.

Ascot Racecourse Road — Photo Credit: DA A006428025

Astonishingly, this parcel of prime real estate was once home to Woolworths, which has now made way for a grander vision.

A Grand Vision Takes Root

Silverstone’s journey to this transformative endeavour commenced in December 2021, with the acquisition of the site for a substantial $9.75 million. In 2022, preliminary designs indicated the site’s future as a commercial establishment.

However, Silverstone’s Managing Director, Troy Daffy, has since unveiled a refined vision – an Ascot-centric village, harmoniously blending retail and dining spaces with upscale apartments tailored to the discerning owner-occupier market. The development application (DA A006428025) was filed in December 2023.

“As an Ascot resident, I see a fantastic opportunity to create a special precinct that will invigorate Ascot and Racecourse Road,” stated Daffy. “We believe this project has the ability to satisfy the demand for exclusive, owner-occupier living spaces, as well as a luxury retail experience outside the city.”

Thoughtful Integration and Aesthetic Appeal

Central to the project’s vision is an unwavering commitment to seamlessly integrate with the existing Racecourse Road streetscape. Planning documents affirm that the design prioritises a sympathetic coexistence with the surroundings.

Three residential levels will gracefully ascend above a ground-floor dining precinct, culminating in a rooftop adorned with an infinity-edge pool and outdoor oasis, exclusive to residents.

The architectural statement intends to leverage the building’s prominent corner position at Kent Street, breathing new life into the area’s shopping and dining offerings. Notably, the structure will boast deep planting and vertical atriums, crafting an articulated façade adorned with concrete, trellis, and timber soffits.

Silverstone’s commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in this development, emphasising sustainability. The project will incorporate low-waste services, a solar energy system, low-emission construction materials, and a dedication to harnessing natural light and ventilation throughout its expanse.

A Glimpse into the Future

The timeline for this transformative project indicates construction commencement by mid-2024, contingent on development approval of the code-assessable project. Silverstone’s remarkable track record includes the construction of over 500 residential apartments in inner-city Brisbane, notably the Alto apartments at Toowong.

The developer has an impressive portfolio, having delivered more than $900 million worth of developments spanning healthcare, commercial, residential, and retail domains.

Published 2-Jan-2024

Student from St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Ascot Takes Top Prize at 2023 IEU-QNT Literary Competition

Photo Credit: IEUQNT

Ellouise Tkaczyk from St Margaret’s Anglican Girls’ School in Ascot stood out as a shining star at the 2023 IEU-QNT Literary Competition, winning the Year 9 and Year 10 category with her short story, “Blood and Ribbon.”

Now in its 64th year, the IEU-QNT Literary Competition is the longest-running writing competition in Queensland.

Organised in partnership with the English Teachers’ Association of Queensland (ETAQ), the competition seeks to inspire and recognise the talents of students and staff from state and non-government schools, promoting the growth of literary development and creative expression in young minds.

St Margaret Anglican School Ellouise Tkaczyk — Photo Credit: IEU-QNT

Terry Burke, the IEU-QNT Branch Secretary, highlighted the value of the Literary Competition in fostering young writers’ creativity and honing their writing skills.

He expressed his delight at the diversity and exceptional quality of this year’s submissions from all across the state, affirming that the judges were greatly impressed by the exceptional talent on display.

“I congratulate those outstanding writers who were awarded prizes and thank all the recipients who entered the 2023 Literary Competition,” Mr Burke said, emphasizing the importance of nurturing a love for literature and creative expression among the youth.

List of Literary Competition winners for 2023

Open

• Short story: David Coleman-Mann, Chancellor State College, Sippy Downs, Sunshine Cost

Year 11 and 12

• Short story: Milli Gornik, St Thomas More College, Sunnybank

• Poem: Salem Williams, Kelvin Grove State College, Kelvin Grove

• Non-fiction prose: Felicity Williams, All Saints Anglican School, Merrimac

Year 9 and 10

• Short story: Ellouise Tkaczyk, St Margaret’s Anglican Girls’ School, Ascot

• Poem: Huntar Paterson, St Thomas More College, Sunnybank

Year 7 and 8

• Short story: Estella Dobbins, St Patrick’s College Townsville, The Strand, North Ward

• Poem: Dominic Palmani, St Thomas More College, Sunnybank

Year 5 and 6

• Short story: Isaac Furlong, Kelvin Grove State College, Kelvin Grove

• Poem: Lawson Plumbe, Toowoomba East State School, East Toowoomba

Published 25-Aug-2023

Community Engagement and Crime Prevention Take Center Stage in Ascot

Photo Credit: QPS

High-visibility policing is being carried out by the Queensland Police Service (QPS) in Ascot and other areas of North Brisbane, with residents and even children interacting with and getting to know law enforcement officers in their neighbourhood, as part of a focused initiative to prevent and diminish property crime.

Beginning the second week of August, officers from various QPS units, including the Highway Patrol, Tactical Crime Squad, General Duties, and Crime Prevention, collaborated to undertake patrols aimed at deterring potential offenders and engaging with the community to discuss crime prevention and safety strategies.

Ascot residents gathered around police motorcycles, engaging in discussions about crime prevention and community safety. Children were particularly enthusiastic, with some even taking turns pretending to ride the police motorcycles under the watchful eyes of officers.

Ascot Queensland Police Service — Photo Credit: QPS

This interaction sparked excitement among the young ones, with the police emphasizing that it’s never too early to instill a sense of responsibility and respect for the law.

Ascot and its neighbouring suburbs have often fallen victim to high-end motor vehicle thefts, which prompted the QPS to offer a range of practical tips to mitigate the risk of such incidents.

Data from the QPS Crime Map show that there were 52 Unlawful Entry offences, or breaking into a property without consent, and 42 Theft incidents, or taking a person’s property with intention, in Ascot in the last six months.

Officers advised vehicle owners to utilise off-street parking, locked gates, or garages whenever possible, as parking on the street increases the vulnerability to theft. Basic measures, such as locking doors, closing windows, and keeping valuables out of sight, were emphasised as well as effective deterrents to opportunistic thefts.

To bolster protection, the QPS encouraged the installation of engine immobilisers that adhere to Australian Standard 4601:1999. These devices provide a robust defence against opportunistic vehicle thefts, but their effectiveness is compromised if car keys are easily accessible to thieves.

The community’s active participation and dedication to safety were commended by the police. Residents, particularly children, were recognized for wearing safety helmets while cycling around the area, demonstrating a commitment to their well-being.

Meanwhile, for individuals with information relevant to ongoing theft investigations, Policelink can be contacted through the online suspicious activity form available 24/7 on the Queensland Police website. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be reported to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or visiting www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 14-Aug-2023