Eagle Farm Archives - Ascot News

A New Star Shines: Elvis Smylie Wins at Royal Queensland

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.

Read: Brisbane Heat’s Hot Streak Burns Bright: WBBL10 Final Showdown Awaits

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.

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“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.

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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.”

Read: Jason Day’s Homecoming Headlines Star-Studded 2024 BMW Australian PGA Championship

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.

Published 30-November-2024

Jason Day’s Homecoming Headlines Star-Studded 2024 BMW Australian PGA Championship

The BMW Australian PGA Championship returns to Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm from 21 to 24 November, launching the 2024–25 DP World Tour with a prestigious $2 million purse.

Read: Last Undeveloped Site in Hendra Earmarked for Major Housing Project

International stars join local heroes

Defending champion Min Woo Lee headlines a powerful Australian contingent, following his dramatic 2023 victory highlighted by a spectacular hole-out eagle in the final round.

The home nation’s chances are further strengthened by former world No.1 Jason Day, who makes an emotional return to Australia after a seven-year absence. Day, who developed his game just an hour west in Beaudesert, seeks his first Joe Kirkwood Cup since 2011.

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“I can’t believe it’s been seven years; it’s gone by too quick,” Day told Australian Golf Digest. “It’d be nice to be able to take my whole family and show them where I’m from.”

“I’ll take the family to ‘Beau-ey’.”

The pair are joined by Australian stars Cam Smith, Cam Davis, Lucas Herbert, and Marc Leishman in a bid to keep the trophy on home soil.

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The tournament’s international appeal continues to grow, with PGA TOUR member Victor Perez leading a strong European contingent. Notable challengers include Jordan Smith, Yannick Paul, Rafa Cabrera-Bello, and Nico Colsaerts. Adding to the global flavour, rising Chinese professional Wenyi Ding makes his anticipated DP World Tour debut at the tournament.

Enhanced spectator experience

The championship’s signature entertainment hub returns at the 17th Dabble Party Hole. Spectators can enjoy a unique golf atmosphere featuring a resident DJ, hospitality suites, food vendors, and public bars—making the tournament accessible to families and casual fans alike.

The tournament is projected to generate $17 million for Queensland’s visitor economy, providing a significant boost to local businesses as golf enthusiasts and tourists converge on Eagle Farm.

Read: Street Spotlight: Kidston Street, Ascot

How to watch the BMW Australian PGA Championship

Comprehensive broadcast coverage is available on Fox Sports, Kayo, and the NINE Network; however, organisers encourage local attendance to experience the full tournament atmosphere and the opportunity to witness elite professional golf in their own backyard.

Visit the Ticketek website for more details regarding hospitality and admission.

Published 14-November-2024

Crime Wave Hits North Brisbane Businesses Including Eagle Farm

Police are investigating the crime wave of multiple break-ins and attempted break-ins between October 13 and 16, 2024, impacting North Brisbane businesses including Eagle Farm.

The crime spree began in Eagle Farm, where four businesses along Kingsford Smith Drive fell victim to break-ins between 11:45 PM on October 13 and 1:15 AM on October 14. This cluster of incidents appears to be the starting point of a broader pattern of criminal activity spanning several suburbs.

This recent surge has hit Eagle Farm the hardest in criminal activity. Local business owners are understandably concerned about the security of their premises and the potential impact on their operations.

Following the Eagle Farm incidents, the perpetrators appear to have moved to other areas. A petrol station in Deagon suffered property damage around 2 AM on October 14, with its glass doors smashed. However, no entry was made to the premises. The same night, a possible attempted break-in was reported at a business in Pinkenba.

The crime wave continued with an attempted break-in at a Lutwyche business on October 15, followed by six more break-ins along Racecourse Road in Hamilton between 3 AM and 4 AM on October 16.

Police have emphasised that while property has been damaged and stolen, no physical injuries have been reported in connection with these incidents.

Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information that might assist in their investigations. They are particularly interested in relevant video footage or eyewitness accounts that could help identify the perpetrators.

Local business owners are advised to review their security measures and remain vigilant. The police have not yet released details about potential suspects or the exact nature of the items stolen.

As the investigation unfolds, the business community in North Brisbane, particularly in Eagle Farm, remains on high alert.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Quote these reference numbers: QP2401771633, QP2401771733

Published 16-October-2024

Cirque du Soleil’s “LUZIA” Makes Australian Debut at Eagle Farm

Photo Credit: Cirque de Soleil

Cirque du Soleil’s critically acclaimed production “LUZIA” is set to premiere under the Big Top at Eagle Farm, offering Brisbane audiences a visually stunning journey through an imaginary Mexico.

Premiering on Thursday, 26 September 2024, the show will feature a red carpet event at 6:00 pm, with the performance starting at 8:00 pm. This latest production marks 25 years since Cirque du Soleil first brought its performances to Australia.

Luzia at Eagle Farm — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

What Audiences Can Expect

Brisbane audiences can look forward to a mesmerising combination of acrobatics, visual art, and a celebration of Mexican culture when “LUZIA” opens at Eagle Farm. The show, which blends reality with imagination, features awe-inspiring stunts and a unique artistic style that will captivate all ages.

One of the most exciting aspects of “LUZIA” is the incorporation of real rain into several of its acrobatic and artistic scenes, something never before seen in a Cirque du Soleil touring production. This, combined with dazzling costumes and set designs, promises spectators a unique experience.

Fun Facts Behind the Show

The production of “LUZIA” involves some truly remarkable details that add to its spectacle. Over 4.5 million people around the world have witnessed the show since its debut in 2016. Travelling with a team of 120 people, including 47 artists from 26 different countries, the show is a global effort. On stage, the cast members wear over 1,000 different costume pieces, adding colour and variety to each performance.

Setting up the “LUZIA” Big Top is no small feat, either. The massive tent, standing 19 metres high and 52 metres in diameter, takes a full eight days to erect. It is supported by four steel masts standing 25 metres each and secured by 550 pegs, making sure it can withstand winds of up to 75 mph. The white canvas of the tent is designed to reduce energy consumption, demonstrating Cirque du Soleil’s commitment to minimising its environmental impact.

The production scale is enormous, with nearly 2,000 tons of equipment transported for each tour stop. The Big Top itself seats more than 2,500 people, ensuring that large audiences can experience the magic of “LUZIA” at every show.

LUZIA’s Legacy in Australia

“LUZIA” comes to Australia as part of a celebration of Cirque du Soleil’s 25-year history in the country, having first toured with “Saltimbanco” in 1999. Over the years, Cirque du Soleil has brought ten Big Top shows to Australia, with “LUZIA” being the latest in this tradition. The show’s combination of cutting-edge performance techniques and cultural storytelling has cemented Cirque du Soleil’s reputation as one of the world’s leading entertainment companies.

This premiere at Eagle Farm continues that legacy, offering Brisbane locals a chance to see the latest Cirque du Soleil production in their own backyard.

Event Details

The “LUZIA” premiere in Brisbane will take place at Eagle Farm on Thursday, 26 September 2024. Red carpet arrivals will begin at 6:00 p.m., and the show is scheduled to start at 8:00 p.m. It promises to be an exciting night for both attendees and those looking to witness Cirque du Soleil’s return to Australia after 25 years of memorable performances.

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Brisbane’s Own Robbie Wilson Plays Key Role in LUZIA from Cirque De Soleil at Eagle Farm

Robbie Wilson, a Brisbane-born acrobatic rigger, is one of the key figures behind Cirque du Soleil’s latest show, LUZIA, which opens next to the Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm.

Robbie, who has worked with Cirque du Soleil for over 20 years, won’t be on stage in the elaborate costumes typical of the company’s performers. Instead, he’ll be high above the action, rigging the acrobatic equipment for the “fly” acts that are a hallmark of LUZIA, which will start its run on 25 September.

This show is exceptional for Robbie as it marks the first time he’s returned to his hometown with the globally renowned circus. Cirque du Soleil has always been a part of Robbie’s life, and bringing this show home is a dream come true.

Robbie’s colleague, Denise Wal, also plays a pivotal role in the production. A former performer in Cirque du Soleil’s Quidam, she now works alongside Robbie as an acrobatic rigger.

Robbie Wilson Luzia Cirque de Soleil — *Photo Credit: Screengrab/Supplied/Luzia BRIS VNR Interview*

Behind the Magic

While the spotlight often shines on the performers, the effort behind the scenes is just as impressive. Robbie and his team are responsible for ensuring the safety and seamless execution of the acrobatic acts that define LUZIA. This includes rigging over two tonnes of equipment and maintaining the Big Top, which takes eight days to set up. With four steel masts standing 25 metres tall and a white canvas designed to reduce energy consumption, the Big Top is as much a marvel as the performance itself.

“An acrobatic rigger is concerned mainly with anything that’s suspended from the roof, whether it be people or props. So we look after the maintenance of their equipment, some of the building of their equipment, and then during the show we’ll assist the artists with their apparatus and keep an eye on them for their safety,” Robbie said.

The Big Top, located beside the famous Gateway Bridge and the Royal Queensland Golf Club, stands 19 metres high and seats over 2,500 spectators. It’s a familiar sight for locals, but the show’s blend of cutting-edge design and spectacular artistry promises something entirely new.

“I don’t think I can find words to describe it and now I feel like the way people appreciate life entertainment has changed as well. We really see it of how the audience react to the show that we put on.”

Luzia Cirque de Soleil — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

LUZIA: A Celebration of 25 Years in Queensland

This year, Cirque du Soleil celebrates 25 years of performances in Queensland, with LUZIA being the 10th show to visit Brisbane since 1999. The show, directed by Daniele Finzi Pasca, takes audiences on a surreal journey through an imaginary version of Mexico, blending light, rain, and stunning acrobatics in a visually captivating performance. LUZIA is the first touring production to incorporate rain into its scenes, creating an awe-inspiring visual experience for the audience.

This year also marks a milestone for Cirque du Soleil’s relationship with Queensland, which began in 1999 with the show “Saltimbanco.” Over the years, productions such as “Quidam,” “Alegría,” and “Kurios: Cabinet of Curiosities” have captivated Brisbane audiences.

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A Show That Resonates

LUZIA has already been seen by over 4.5 million people worldwide and continues to resonate with audiences due to its vibrant portrayal of Mexican culture, blending tradition and modernity. The show features 47 artists from 26 different countries, making it a truly international spectacle.

The show runs from 25 September to 10 November at the Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm. Tickets are available online, and demand is high as fans eagerly anticipate this unique production, which combines the magic of Cirque du Soleil with the energy of Brisbane’s cultural landscape.

Cirque du Soleil’s connection with Brisbane is stronger than ever, and with local talents like Robbie Wilson playing key roles, LUZIA promises to be a highlight of the city’s arts calendar.

Published 16-Sept-2024

Road to Recovery at Eagle Farm: Racing Set to Resume in September

Photo Credit: Brisbane Racing Club

After a month of uncertainty following a jockey walk-off in July over safety concerns, Brisbane’s premier racecourse, Eagle Farm, is set to welcome back racing by mid-September.

A collaborative effort between the Brisbane Racing Club, Racing Queensland, the Queensland Jockeys Association, and the Australian Trainers Association has paved the way for the track’s revival.

The controversial mesh covering the construction site, identified as the primary cause of safety issues, will gradually be removed this week. As builders install glass panels, each floor will be uncovered progressively. While the entire covering won’t be removed by the targeted September 14th race date, it will be lowered significantly, addressing the jockeys’ concerns.

Additionally, a protective sightscreen will be erected around the exterior of the building to mitigate any potential distractions or disruptions for the horses and jockeys. Racing Queensland chief executive Jason Scott expressed optimism that these measures will be in place for the September 14th meeting.

Recognising that many horses have yet to have recent exposure to Eagle Farm, officials are collaborating with the Trainers Association to facilitate familiarisation sessions. This may involve opening the course proper midweek for horses to acclimatise themselves, potentially accompanied by compensation schemes for trainers.

Resuming this event at Eagle Farm is crucial to resolving the safety concerns that led to the July walk-off. It signifies a renewed commitment to ensuring the well-being of horses and jockeys while maintaining the track’s premier status in the Australian racing scene.

Published Date 12-August-2024

Historic John Power Grandstand Faces Demolition in Eagle Farm Racecourse Revamp

The Brisbane Racing Club (BRC) has submitted a development application for a major redevelopment at Eagle Farm Racecourse in Ascot, aiming to replace the ageing John Power Grandstand with a modern four-storey facility dubbed ‘The Terraces.’

Read: Royal QLD Golf Club in Eagle Farm Eyeing New Short Courses, Practice Facilities

The proposal, designed by architects from Hassell and RWA, features a new grandstand with glazing on all sides to provide panoramic views of the racetrack, including corporate and patron viewing amenities, as well as a community hub designed to enhance local involvement in racing events.

‘The Terraces’ is a four-storey building designed to optimise racetrack views and community engagement. It features a ground-floor plaza, public and patron areas on the first two floors, and a rooftop restaurant and bar.

The building includes spaces for viewing, dining, events, and socialising, aiming to serve both racing enthusiasts and the broader community with modern amenities throughout its levels.

John Power Grandstand History

Originally constructed in 1958 and named after former Queensland Turf Club President Dr John Power, the existing grandstand has undergone several modifications over the years. The John Power Stand was designed by architect Martin Conrad and built by KD Morris & Sons, Pty Ltd, at a cost of £450,000.

However, its deteriorating condition and limited cultural significance compared to other on-site structures have led to the decision for its demolition.

The development application has been lodged under Ministerial Infrastructure Designations with the Department of Housing, Local Government, Planning and Public Works. If approved, the project will also involve the removal of existing trees and the Steward’s Tower.

“The decision to demolish the existing John Power Stand to establish The Terraces development has been made for a number of reasons, predominantly in relation of the poor condition of the current John Power Stand, but also its limited cultural significance when compared to the other buildings at the site,” planners at Urbis stated on behalf of BRC.

“The location of the new facility has been chosen in relation to the best possible viewing areas for racing at the site, the general lack of alternative locations at the site for a new grandstand facility,” they continued.

Read: Racecourse Road Precinct Getting Back On Track

This redevelopment is part of a larger initiative to modernise Eagle Farm Racecourse, which has been operating since 1863. The BRC, formed in 2008 from a merger of the Queensland Turf Club and Brisbane Turf Club, aims to ensure the venue remains a high-quality racing facility for years to come.

Published 19-July-2024

Cirque du Soleil’s ‘LUZIA’ Debuts in Eagle Farm with a Splash of Rain

Cirque du Soleil introduces its first-ever rain-themed touring performance, “LUZIA,” next to the Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm, offering a unique spectacle that blends acrobatics with rain effects.

From Wednesday, the 25th of September 2024, “LUZIA” will be showcased until the 3rd of November 2024 at a specific site in the Curtin Avenue venue.

Marking 40 years since its inception, Cirque du Soleil continues to innovate with “LUZIA,” a performance inspired by Mexico’s vibrant culture and natural elements. This production is notable for incorporating rain into its array of acrobatic and artistic sequences, a first for the touring company.

Luzia in Eagle Farm — *Photo Credit: Cirque du Soleil*

This year not only celebrates the 40th anniversary of Cirque du Soleil but also commemorates 25 years of performances in Australia, making “LUZIA” the 10th big-top show from the troupe to tour the country. The production is an elaborate celebration of Mexican themes, conveyed through a blend of light (‘lux’) and rain (‘lluvia’).

“LUZIA” boasts a significant undertaking with a travelling team of 120 individuals, including 47 artists from 26 nations, all bringing imaginary Mexico to life for Australian audiences.

Audiences can expect to see various performances set against surreal backdrops such as an old movie set and a desert, featuring acrobatics, trapeze acts through showers, and more. The production utilises 1000-plus costumes, enhancing the visual splendour of each act.

Written and directed by Daniele Finzi Pasca, “LUZIA” starts with a parachutist’s descent into an imaginative realm. This initiates a magical journey through various whimsical and dynamic scenes, highlighting the unique flair Cirque du Soleil is known for.

“LUZIA” incorporates elements like hoop diving on giant treadmills and acrobatics involving footballs and bikes. Unique to this production is the use of rain in dynamic sequences such as Cyr wheel acts and trapeze performances, providing a fresh and immersive experience to the circus arts.

Since its premiere in 2016, “LUZIA” has attracted over 4.5 million viewers globally. It continues to captivate with its blend of traditional circus arts and innovative staging, promising to be a memorable event for Brisbane’s audiences in 2024.

Tickets are now on sale.

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$40 Million Eagle Farm TAFE Robotics and Advanced Manufacturing Centre Begins Construction

Construction work has officially begun on the $40-million Big Build project at Eagle Farm TAFE.

This project is set to establish a state-of-the-art Robotics and Advanced Manufacturing Centre (RAMC) that will be a pivotal addition to the field of advanced manufacturing and technology education.

New Centre’s Impressive Features

The Eagle Farm TAFE Robotics and Advanced Manufacturing Centre will house a range of specialised workshops dedicated to robotics, hydrogen, renewable energy, and electrotechnology. Moreover, the facility will include digital laboratories, dedicated learning spaces, as well as staff and student amenities.

The new building is projected to provide employment for 93 individuals during its construction phase.

This transformative initiative is part of the Queensland Government’s $100 million ‘Equipping TAFE for our Future’ (ETFOF) programme, which aims to revamp and construct TAFE infrastructure, providing training opportunities for emerging and growth industries.

Preparation for the Future of Manufacturing

The Robotics and Advanced Manufacturing Centre at Eagle Farm TAFE is aligned with the Queensland Government’s commitment to empower and prepare the state’s manufacturing workforce for the challenges of automation and Industry 4.0. Industry 4.0 represents the fourth industrial revolution, characterised by the integration of digital technologies, big data, and automation into manufacturing processes.

The facility is a response to the surging demand for advanced manufacturing skills and education. The Advanced Manufacturing Gateway to Industry Schools (GISP) programme, which initially started with seven participating schools in 2017, has now expanded to encompass 46 participating schools in 2023. This success shows that the initiative is on track to meet its target of participating schools for 2023.

In the previous year, over 2,200 students actively engaged in GISP advanced manufacturing-related activities, illustrating the growing interest and enthusiasm for this field among Queensland’s youth.

With an expected practical completion date in late 2024, the centre is poised to elevate the quality of training in several fields, including robotics, advanced manufacturing, process instrumentation, renewable technologies (such as hydrogen and solar power), and telecommunications.

One of the highlights of this project is its commitment to environmental sustainability. The Centre is set to achieve a 5-Star Green Buildings rating, a testament to its environmentally conscious design and construction. The Queensland Government’s dedication to green and sustainable building practices is clear in this effort.

Government Commitment and Investment

Minister for Training and Skills Development, Di Farmer, expressed her enthusiasm for this groundbreaking project.

“Today this Big Build project takes us one step closer to ushering in an exciting new era for robotics and advanced manufacturing training in south-east Queensland,” she said.

She further elaborated on the types of courses and training the facility will provide.

“The Eagle Farm TAFE campus specialises in trade-related courses such as automation, instrumentation and control, renewables, plumbing and electrotechnology, telecommunication, and utilities.”

Ms Farmer underlined the importance of the Centre in preparing the state’s workforce for the Fourth Industrial Revolution, highlighting that “we want Queensland to be at the forefront of the revolution already underway in the manufacturing sector, which is all about providing sustainable jobs while improving cost, productivity, profitability and operations.”

For those interested in the facilities and courses available at the Eagle Farm TAFE campus, more information can be found on the official TAFE Queensland website.

Published 18-Oct-2023

Public Views on Eagle Farm Affordable Housing Plan Sought

Brisbane locals are being asked to weigh in on an ambitious proposal to transform part of the Eagle Farm racecourse into much-needed affordable housing.

Read: Racecourse Road Precinct Getting Back On Track

Under the plan, around 10 hectares of the 40-hectare racecourse site would be used to construct up to 4,000 publicly-owned homes. These would include 2,000 public housing units along with 2,000 rent-capped apartments assigned via lottery to Brisbane residents.

The proposed medium-density neighbourhood would feature five-story apartment blocks with ground floor retail spaces. It would be built next to the upgraded Ascot train station and have a new high-frequency bus route running through the site.

Rough artist impression of Greens’ proposal for Eagle Farm Race Track (Photo credit: www.jonathansri.com)

Jonathan Sriranganathan (Greens) said the project would create the largest amount of affordable housing in Queensland’s history. He emphasises that public ownership can help lower costs and prevent units being snapped up by investors.

Photo credit: Picture Purrfect/Google Maps

“The homes would be developed by Council or other public agencies using public or private building contractors, and would remain in public ownership thereafter. This would allow Council and the State government to keep costs down by cutting out profit-hungry private developers,” he said.

Photo credit: Billy Melville/Google Maps

“By standing up to big business, we can rectify decades of poor urban planning, start tackling the housing crisis and transform this city for the better,” he added.

“Inner-city racecourses are a ridiculous waste of land, and Eagle Farm Racecourse is a massive 49-hectare, flood-free site, just 5km from the city and located directly beside Ascot train station. It’s the ideal place for new medium-density publicly-owned housing.”

An additional five hectares of Eagle Farm would go towards new schools, a publicly-run health clinic and public swimming pool, whilst the remaining 25 ha is earmarked for public green space, which includes parks and sport fields.

With Brisbane facing an affordable housing shortage, the Eagle Farm racecourse site presents an opportunity for thousands of low-cost homes near the city. But the plan also means a long-standing racing venue repurposed.

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Read: Get to Know Windermere and the People Who Once Lived in this Ascot Heritage Home

Published 7-September-2023