Eagle Farm Factory Delivers 2,000th Queensland Bus to Local Operator

The Eagle Farm manufacturing plant, a key player in Queensland’s transport industry, celebrated the delivery of its 2,000th locally built bus to Kangaroo Bus Lines, marking a significant milestone for the region’s manufacturing sector.



Significant Milestone

Eagle Farm
Photo Credit: Volgren

Volgren, the bus and coach body manufacturer, reached a significant production milestone at its Eagle Farm facility. The company handed over its 2,000th Queensland-built bus to Kangaroo Bus Lines, a local bus operator. This achievement highlights the factory’s role in the region’s transport infrastructure.

Established in 2009, the Eagle Farm plant has been central to bus production in Queensland, supplying over 1,000 buses to Brisbane City Council. The factory also set a new production record in 2024, manufacturing over 180 buses.

Industry Recognition

Eagle Farm
Photo Credit: Volgren

Volgren’s senior management, representatives from Volvo Buses, the Department of Transport and Main Roads, the Queensland Bus Industry Council, and Kangaroo Bus Lines attended the handover ceremony at the Eagle Farm facility. To commemorate the event, Volgren’s CEO presented a plaque and key to Kangaroo Bus Lines, acknowledging their contribution to this achievement. The event also included a celebratory cake, shaped like the 2,000th bus.

Company Statements

Eagle Farm
Photo Credit: Volgren

Volgren’s CEO stated that the delivery of the 2,000th bus represents 45 years of hard work and strong partnerships with operators. He emphasised Queensland’s crucial role in Volgren’s national success and the company’s commitment to local manufacturing. He also credited the dedication and expertise of the company’s staff for the success.

Volgren’s CCO noted the importance of partnerships with industry leaders like Volvo and Kangaroo Bus Lines, which have enabled the company to achieve such milestones. He expressed gratitude to all customers and partners who have supported Volgren.



Economic Impact

Volgren has been operating in Australia for 45 years and has built over 10,000 buses. The company’s operations support local jobs and contribute to the Queensland economy. The delivery of this is seen as a significant achievement, but the company intends to continue production.

Published Date 25-March-2025

Inside Volgren Factory in Eagle Farm: The Heart of Brisbane’s Bus Production

The manufacturing facility of Volgren in Eagle Farm continues to play a key role in local transport innovation, producing buses that support public transport across the city. 


Read: Eagle Farm Racecourse Faces Urgent Redevelopment Deadline


The site was in the spotlight this week as Treasurer Jim Chalmers, alongside Ministers Anika Wells and Murray Watt, visited the facility to discuss economic updates and the future of Australian manufacturing.

Photo credit: Volgren/Facebook

Volgren’s Eagle Farm site, which has been in operation since 2010, spans 2.65 hectares and produces around 150 buses each year. It supplies vehicles primarily for Council but also works with other clients. The facility plays an important role in local employment, supporting skilled jobs in the manufacturing sector.

Photo credit: Volgren/Facebook

Minister Wells highlighted the impact of businesses like Volgren on local workers and industries. “It’s always great to be home and here at Volgren, where for the past 15 years in part of our manufacturing hub here on the Northside, Volgren has been not just helping commuters get to places on public transport but providing great secure jobs for auto electricians, for welders, for spray painters who live and love working here on the northside of Brisbane,” she said.

During the visit, Treasurer Chalmers also addressed broader economic developments, including the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) recent interest rate cut. “We welcome the news that interest rates are being cut in Australia. This is the rate relief that Australians desperately need and deserve after all of the progress that we’ve made together on inflation,” he said.

Photo credit: Volgren/Facebook

Chalmers also noted positive wage growth trends, with data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) showing five consecutive quarters of real wage increases. “What the data shows is that we have now had 5 consecutive quarters of wages growing above inflation in Australia under the Albanese Labor government. The last quarter, the December quarter 2024, showed real wage growth. So, wages growing above inflation by 0.5 per cent. And if you look at the whole year of 2024, we saw real wage growth of 0.8 per cent, leading to 5 consecutive quarters of real wage growth in Australia,” he added.


Read: Interest Builds as Former Albion Flour Mill Site Hits the Market


Volgren’s Brisbane site is part of a broader push to strengthen Australia’s manufacturing sector, particularly in sustainable transport. With increasing demand for locally made buses, facilities like the Eagle Farm plant are expected to remain central to the industry’s growth.

The Eagle Farm facility is one of several sites operated by Volgren across Australia, supporting both local jobs and the country’s transition to more efficient public transport solutions.

Published 21-February-2025

Brisbane Racing Club Halfway Through $1.5 Billion Revamp to Secure Future

The Brisbane Racing Club (BRC) is halfway through its ambitious $1.5 billion master plan aimed at securing its long-term future by developing excess land and diversifying revenue streams. 


Read: Eagle Farm Racecourse Faces Urgent Redevelopment Deadline


The project, launched in 2012, seeks to preserve the club’s racing heritage while generating new income through real estate and commercial ventures.

BRC was formed in 2009 following the merger of the Queensland Turf Club and Brisbane Turf Club, two historically rival organisations that were land-rich but financially struggling. The merger was essential for survival, as revenue from race meetings increasingly flowed to the government rather than the clubs.

Photo credit: Brisbane Racing Club/Google Maps

New chairman Richard Morrison emphasised the club’s continued commitment to thoroughbred racing, stating that they host about 80 races annually, including Queensland’s prestigious Star Stradbroke Handicap. He also highlighted the importance of maximizing underutilised land for sustainable growth, noting that while core racing areas would remain untouched, other sections of real estate could be repurposed.

Brisbane Racing Club
Eagle Farm Infield Stabling and Training Facilities (Photo credit: brc.com.au)

Over the past decade, BRC has successfully completed major developments, including the $50 million Eagle Farm Infield Stabling and Training Facilities, two Ascot Green residential towers, Racecourse Village Shopping Centre, and Bernborough Ascot Retirement Living. The club has also expanded into licensed venues, revitalizing Gallopers Sports Club at Ascot, Souths Sports Club at Acacia Ridge, and The Gibson at Stafford.

This year, the third residential tower at Ascot Green, Charlton House, is set for completion, with five more buildings planned. Despite these achievements, challenges remain, particularly regarding aging infrastructure at Eagle Farm. The Dr John Power Stand, built in 1958, is set to be condemned in August 2026, while the heritage-listed St Ledger Stand remains unsafe for patrons. Restoring these facilities would require significant investment, with an estimated $130 million needed for upgrades.

Photo credit: Brisbane Racing Club/Google Maps

BRC chief executive Karl deKroo acknowledged the financial hurdles ahead and emphasised the need for government support. He explained that the club is working closely with Racing Queensland and the new government to explore viable solutions. One potential opportunity includes utilizing Doomben’s infield for Olympic equestrian events.


Read: A Day of Racing, Fashion, & Fun: Girls Day Out Returns to Eagle Farm


Despite financial pressures, BRC remains in a stronger position than some other major Australian racing clubs, such as the Victoria Racing Club and the Australian Turf Club, both of which reported losses last financial year. With ongoing developments and strategic planning, the club aims to sustain its status as a premier metropolitan racing venue while securing a stable financial future.

Published 15-February-2025

Homegrown Legacy: Greg Norman and Royal Queensland’s Road to Brisbane 2032

A historic full-circle moment is unfolding at Eagle Farm’s Royal Queensland Golf Club, as former shop assistant turned global golfing icon Greg Norman AO joins the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organising Committee (OCOG). For local residents, this appointment carries special significance as their neighbourhood golf club prepares for its Olympic destiny.


Read: Summer Surge: How the North Brisbane Property Market is Heating Up in 2025


From Pro Shop to Olympic Leadership

Greg Norman, who once worked in Royal Queensland’s pro shop during the 1970s, now returns in a pivotal role, helping to shape the club’s transformation into an Olympic venue. Reflecting on this journey, Norman remarked, “In my youth in the 70’s I worked in the golf shop at Royal Queensland and now that course will be the home of golf at Brisbane 2032.”

“As a proud Queenslander it is an honour and privilege to help shape the Brisbane Games.”

Greg Norman Shapes Olympic Future of Royal Queensland

Since its founding in 1920, Royal Queensland has been a cornerstone of the Eagle Farm community, hosting numerous prestigious tournaments. Now, it stands on the cusp of an unprecedented evolution. As the venue prepares to welcome the world’s best golfers in 2032, Norman’s deep-rooted connection to the club adds an invaluable perspective to its Olympic planning.

Photo Credit: CC-BY 2.0 / Ted Van Pelt / Flickr

OCOG President Andrew Liveris reinforced the significance of his involvement, stating, “What better Queensland sports brand than Greg Norman? He will help elevate our state and our city on the global stage over the next seven years.”


Read: Olympic Stadium Debate Heats Up in Ascot: Doomben Racecourse at Risk


Beyond his sporting achievements, Norman brings substantial business expertise to the role. As chairman and CEO of the Greg Norman Company, he has overseen successful ventures in apparel, interior design, real estate, and golf course design—experience that could prove invaluable in Brisbane’s Olympic development.

As Royal Queensland Golf Club prepares to welcome the world’s best golfers in 2032, the community can take pride in knowing that one of their own is helping guide the way.

Published 31-January-2025

The Eagle Farm Siege: A Historical Look at Courage and Crisis

The usually calm atmosphere of Eagle Farm Airport was shattered by an unexpected crisis.



On 26 July, 1985, Michael Petrovic, a 41-year-old man from Alexandra Hills, boarded a sightseeing helicopter flight with his two young children. What began as a routine family outing quickly escalated into one of Queensland’s most tense hostage situations.

 Eagle Farm Siege
Photo Credit: National Library Australia

While mid-air over Currumbin, Mr Petrovic brandished a sawn-off shotgun, demanding the pilot fly them to a US airbase in Japan. Unable to meet the demand, the helicopter made an emergency landing at Eagle Farm Airport under the guise of refuelling. Once on the tarmac, Mr Petrovic seized control of a fuel tanker, spreading aviation fuel across the ground and even onto his children, all while firing two warning shots into the air.

A Man in Crisis

The events at Eagle Farm were deeply rooted in personal anguish. Mr Petrovic had recently gone through a difficult divorce, and the emotional toll seemed to drive his desperate actions. His children, aged just 8 and 9, remained startlingly calm throughout, seen playing on the fuel tanker and near the helicopter as their father held authorities at bay.

The Negotiators Step In

The Queensland Police Emergency Squad arrived on the scene, tasked with preventing tragedy. Among them were Sergeant Ron Strong and Constable Denver Monley. Negotiations began under immense pressure, with Sgt Strong addressing Mr Petrovic by his Slavic name, ‘Mischa,’ in an effort to build trust. Over four tense hours, Sgt Strong carefully reassured Mr Petrovic, promising to ensure the safety of his children.

Finally, after hours of patient negotiation, Mr Petrovic surrendered peacefully. No lives were lost, and the children were unharmed—an outcome that stood as a testament to the skill and resolve of the negotiators.

Honouring Bravery

In the years that followed, Sgt Strong and Cst Monley were recognised for their heroism. In 1989, Sgt Strong received the Australia Bravery Medal, and in 1994, he was awarded the National Medal for his dedication to duty in hazardous circumstances. Sgt Strong eventually retired in 2003 at the rank of Inspector.

Lessons from Eagle Farm

The Eagle Farm siege remains a poignant chapter in Brisbane’s history. It serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between authority and empathy in crisis situations. The incident is often studied as a model of successful negotiation under extreme pressure.



Though decades have passed, the story of Eagle Farm continues to resonate—a moment where calm words, trust, and courage prevailed over chaos.

Published 2-Jan-2024

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.

“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.”


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.

“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.

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

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. 

Luzia at Eagle Farm
Photo Credit: Cirque de Soleil

Fun Facts Behind the Show

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

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

Luzia at Eagle Farm
Photo Credit: Cirque de Soleil

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

LUZIA’s Legacy in Australia

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

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



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.

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.

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