Brisbane Roar will aim to secure the elusive first win of the season when they host Melbourne City on Friday, 6 December, following a thrilling 4-4 draw with Macarthur FC last weekend. Roar vs Melbourne City kick off 7:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
The Roar returns to home turf with renewed determination after securing their first point of the season in a pulsating encounter at Campbelltown Sports Stadium. Head coach Ruben Zadkovich’s side showcased moments of attacking brilliance but also revealed defensive frailties in a match that swung wildly with four lead changes.
Rising star Thomas Waddingham continues to shine brightly in Brisbane’s campaign. The 19-year-old striker’s clinical first-half brace against Macarthur highlighted his growing importance to the team. As Roar prepare to take on a disciplined Melbourne City defence, Brisbane faithful will be counting on Waddingham to find the back of the net once more.
Roar vs Melbourne City
Melbourne City arrives at Suncorp Stadium sitting fifth on the ladder with nine points from five matches. While Brisbane’s attack has kept pace with City’s, matching their eight goals this season, defensive woes tell a very different story. Conceding 14 goals in just five matches—in stark contrast to City’s five—Brisbane’s backline faces a formidable challenge.
The return of experienced defender Scott Neville could not have come at a better time. Making his first appearance since recovering from an ACL injury, Neville completed a solid 65 minutes against Macarthur, offering much-needed stability to Brisbane’s defence. His return after a 312-day absence adds depth and leadership to a backline in need of fortification.
For Brisbane, maintaining their attacking momentum while finding defensive stability will be critical in securing their elusive first victory of the campaign. With home support roaring from the stands, could Friday night lights at Suncorp Stadium mark the turning point of their season?
Have you ever wondered what may have led Taylor Swift, Coldplay, and Oasis to pass on performing in Brisbane, leaving Brisbane fans with no option but to travel out-of-state for their shows?
Case in point: Suncorp Stadium in Milton is Queensland’s only large-scale concert venue; and industry insiders say its limited capacity and outdated event policies are causing major artists or organisers of massive crowd-drawing events to bypass Brisbane.
International acts have increasingly excluded Brisbane from their tour schedules, citing factors such as rising touring costs and the logistical challenges of performing at a venue that insiders describe as inadequate for modern, large-scale productions.
When Taylor Swift performed at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the local economy experienced a definite boost. Restaurants experienced a 99% increase in customer patronage. Clothing store sales rose by 67%. Pubs and bars posted a 146% increase in business and accommodation bookings swelled by 238%.
Music promoter Tony Cochrane, who has worked with acts like The Rolling Stones, says Queensland’s approach to securing international talent is “outdated” and fragmented.
According to him, attracting major acts requires a cohesive strategy that includes Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), Stadiums Queensland, and various agencies. Without this, he warns, Brisbane will continue to be overlooked in favour of Sydney and Melbourne.
Call for New Infrastructure and Support
Key Brisbane personalities and and many industry figures have voiced the need for updated facilities and more centralised planning.
John Collins, former bassist of Powderfinger and the newly appointed Night-Life Economy Commissioner, says the city lacks a “world-class stadium” that could attract big acts. He believes such a venue is essential for Brisbane’s cultural and economic growth. He suggests that a new stadium, connected to Brisbane’s key precincts, would make the city more appealing to promoters and artists alike.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Mr Collins and other industry voices have also pointed out the challenges posed by the city’s limited venue options. Besides Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane’s only other large concert space is the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall, which is over 30 years old and unable to accommodate the needs of some modern productions.
Queensland’s Strategy Lags Behind Other States
Meanwhile, other Australian states have invested heavily in attracting big names. Western Australia recently spent $8 million to secure Coldplay for a Perth concert, yielding a reported $43 million in economic benefits. This approach has significantly boosted state tourism and the local economy, and WA has committed to securing exclusive events that bring large visitor numbers.
In contrast, Queensland has been less proactive in offering similar incentives to attract high-profile artists, shows or sporting events.
The need for planned improvements has never been more apparent that in the wake of missed tour opportunities by acts such as Taylor Swift and Oasis. As a result, Queensland is now open to considering proposals for improving Brisbane’s concert infrastructure and creating a more unified approach among stakeholders.
Economic and Logistical Realities
Rising costs associated with fuel and international airfares have led promoters to concentrate their Australian tours in cities with the highest population densities, making it cost-effective for artists to perform in one or two locations. Venue managers say Brisbane’s current concert infrastructure limits the appeal for international acts who can otherwise rely on fans travelling to larger venues in Sydney or Melbourne.
Harvey Lister, chair of venue management group ASM Global, said that Brisbane’s event strategies are failing to keep pace with international standards, leaving local fans in the lurch as artists increasingly pass over Queensland.
Brisbane’s hopes for attracting big acts or high-profile sporting events rest partially on the Brisbane Live Arena, a 17,000-capacity venue planned for the 2032 Olympics.
Supporters of the new venue say it will bring much-needed infrastructure to the city and “turbocharge” Brisbane’s entertainment landscape. For its part, Tourism and Events Queensland said that while the decision to include Brisbane on tour schedules lies with artists and their promoters, it remains committed to working with event organisers to strengthen Brisbane’s place as a concert destination.
An unforgettable night at Suncorp Stadium celebrated the illustrious career of Clare Polkinghorne, Australia’s most-capped player, as over 47,000 fans gathered to send off the Brisbane-born defender in style. Despite the Matildas falling 3-1 to Brazil, the evening was a tribute to Polkinghorne’s remarkable 18 years in international football.
The match began with high intensity as Brazil’s Amanda Gutierres made an immediate impact, scoring twice in the opening 13 minutes. Gutierres showcased her class with a composed finish in the sixth minute, followed by a perfectly executed strike off an assist from Aline Gomes. The early deficit tested the Matildas’ resolve, but they remained determined to fight back in front of their home crowd.
The breakthrough came late in the first half, igniting hope among the fans. Ellie Carpenter delivered a pinpoint cross, and Emily van Egmond’s clever dummy allowed Caitlin Foord to power the ball past Brazilian keeper Natascha Honegger. The well-executed goal brought the Matildas within striking distance at halftime, energising the packed stadium.
Queiroz quashes Matildas’ momentum
However, any resurgence was short-lived. In the 52nd minute, Giovana Queiroz capitalised on an error by Alanna Kennedy to restore Brazil’s two-goal advantage. The match, which featured nearly 22 minutes of stoppage time, was marred by frequent interruptions and physical confrontations, further frustrating the Matildas’ efforts to mount a comeback.
While the scoreboard didn’t favour the Matildas, the evening was defined by a moment of pure celebration. Clare Polkinghorne left the pitch in the 63rd minute to a standing ovation from the Suncorp faithful, with cheers echoing in recognition of her unparalleled contribution to Australian football. Adding to the occasion, she received a pre-match tribute, including a framed jersey presented by Queensland rugby legend Darren Lockyer.
The match also marked a major milestone for Emily van Egmond, who became only the fourth Australian to achieve 150 international appearances. Moments like these highlighted the pride and resilience of the Matildas, even as Brazil’s tactical execution saw them hold on for the win.
Despite the result, the Matildas showed flashes of brilliance and will be eager to bounce back in their rematch against Brazil on Sunday, 1 December, at the Gold Coast. Polkinghorne’s farewell may not have ended with a victory, but her legacy leaves an indelible mark on Australian football.
A unique and interactive comedy show exploring the quirky teachings of New Age speaker “Esther Hicks” is set to entertain audiences at PIP Theatre’s Toucan Club Festival in Milton.
The show, titled “Esther Hicks is Vibrationally Speaking,” running from 27 to 30 November, is the brainchild of local writer and performer Claire Pearson, who brings her 20 years of theatre experience back to Brisbane after a stint in Melbourne. The production has gained popularity for its humorous take on the teachings of real-life figures Esther and Jerry Hicks, known for promoting ideas around the “Law of Attraction” and manifesting one’s desires through positive thinking.
Originally staged in Melbourne, where it garnered strong reviews for its originality and humour, “Esther Hicks is Vibrationally Speaking” will now make its Brisbane debut at the PIP Theatre as part of the annual Toucan Club Live Arts & Cabaret Festival. Ms Pearson, an Indooroopilly-based talent, stars in the show alongside comedian Kyle Walmsley, a RAW National finalist from 2012.
About the Show
In “Esther Hicks is Vibrationally Speaking,” Ms Pearson plays “Esther,” who channels a non-physical entity called “Abraham” and imparts New Age wisdom in a comedic, workshop-like setting. Her husband, “Jerry,” portrayed by Mr Walmsley, adds to the absurdity as they guide the audience through the strange concepts of the vortex, manifestation, and other beliefs associated with the Law of Attraction. The show’s humour is rooted in its satirical approach to these teachings, engaging the audience with interactive elements that make each performance unique and unpredictable.
Directed by award-winning director Elizabeth Millington, the performance promises laughs and an immersive experience as the audience is encouraged to dive into the bizarre world of “vibrational speaking.” Past viewers have described the show as “absurd, unpredictable, and utterly hilarious,” with Ms Pearson’s comedic timing and Walmsley’s quick wit keeping the energy high throughout.
Ms Pearson is thrilled to bring this show to Brisbane, highlighting the local communities of Milton, Indooroopilly, and Toowong. Having performed in Melbourne for over a decade, Ms Pearson is now based in Brisbane and eager to reconnect with audiences in her home city.
She expressed excitement about the opportunity to showcase her work at PIP Theatre, known for supporting independent artists and promoting live performances in the local community. With Brisbane audiences set to experience the show for the first time, Ms Pearson hopes to introduce them to the humour and insight that made the Melbourne shows such a hit.
The Toucan Club Festival, held annually at PIP Theatre in Milton, celebrates live arts and cabaret that attracts diverse local talent and audiences. This year’s festival is expected to draw interest from residents and comedy fans alike, especially those intrigued by New Age culture and the humour of self-help parodies.
The Goldfields Group’s proposal, dubbed Goldfields House, will feature 304 apartments, including a significant 15% affordable housing component comprising 46 dwellings. These affordable units will be rented at a 25% discount to market rates, targeting low to moderate-income households and essential workers.
The 1,620 square metre site in the heart of Milton is strategically positioned within a Regional Activity Centre, aiming to address the area’s housing demand. The tower will offer a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with most affordable housing allocated to one-bedroom units.
The development’s design incorporates sustainable features like deep planting zones, vertical greenery, and shaded outdoor spaces. It will also include extensive resident amenities like a rooftop pool, lounges, and landscaped gardens.
A key aspect of the project is its alignment with the Queensland Government’s State Facilitated Development (SFD) framework. This streamlined approval process aims to expedite infill developments, including a mandatory 15% affordable or social housing component. Goldfields House is part of the Inclusionary Planning Pilot under the Homes for Queenslanders plan, which seeks to deliver one million new homes by 2046.
By leveraging the SFD framework and the Inclusionary Planning Pilot, the project aims to contribute to Brisbane’s housing supply while ensuring long-term affordability and accessibility.
Ticketek has officially renewed its long-standing partnership with Suncorp Stadium in Milton, solidifying its position as the exclusive ticketing provider for one of Australia’s premier sporting and entertainment venues.
The renewal follows a competitive tender process led by Stadiums Queensland, demonstrating the trust and confidence in Ticketek’s capabilities to deliver “best-in-class” ticketing technology for the stadium’s diverse array of events.
Photo credit: Suncorp Stadium/Google Maps
With over 40 years of experience in ticketing and event management across Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and the UK, Ticketek is part of TEG, the Asia Pacific’s leading ticketing, live entertainment, and data analytics company.
This extensive background enables Ticketek to offer innovative solutions that enhance the fan experience at Suncorp Stadium, which has hosted some of Queensland’s largest events for more than two decades.
Geoff Jones, CEO of TEG Group, expressed enthusiasm about the renewed partnership, stating, “We are delighted to renew our partnership with Suncorp Stadium. For over 20 years, we have ticketed some of the largest events in Queensland.”
“Together, we look forward to setting new benchmarks in ticketing and fan engagement, ensuring that every event at Suncorp Stadium is an unforgettable experience for all fans.” This commitment underscores Ticketek’s dedication to not only maintaining but also enhancing the quality of service provided to attendees.
Photo credit: Suncorp Stadium/Google Maps
Stadiums Queensland’s Chief Executive, Todd Harris, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of innovative technology in delivering world-class events. “We needed an innovative ticketing services partner to provide world-leading technology for our amazing Suncorp Stadium events,” he said.
“After a very competitive tender process, we are extremely pleased to be renewing our partnership with Ticketek. Stadiums Queensland looks forward to working closely with Ticketek to continually evolve and enhance the fan experience, providing accessible, inclusive, safe, and enjoyable events at Suncorp Stadium.”
In addition to the renewed partnership, Suncorp Stadium will benefit from TEG’s advanced data insights and marketing research platform, Ovation. This powerful tool allows venues to better understand their audience, tailoring future events to meet the preferences and expectations of fans. By leveraging data analytics, Ticketek and Suncorp Stadium are poised to create experiences that resonate deeply with attendees, ensuring each event is not only memorable but also reflective of fan desires.
The renewed partnership between Ticketek and Suncorp Stadium marks a significant step forward in the evolution of ticketing services in Australia, setting the stage for unforgettable events that bring communities together and create lasting memories.
Oatly is hosting a community-focused “Makers Market” in Milton this weekend, bringing together local baristas and artisans to showcase their talents in crafts and coffee.
Set to take place on Sunday, 10 November, the market will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Warehouse 25 on Finchley Street in Milton.
Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere with handmade jewellery, ceramics, original artworks, and a variety of Oatly coffee drinks served by some of Brisbane’s finest baristas. This event combines the local coffee culture with artisan crafts, allowing the community to explore creative products from skilled locals while enjoying Oatly-based coffee.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Supporting Brisbane’s Barista and Artisan Community
Hazelle Klønhammer, Oatly’s Brand Director for the APAC region, explained that the event aims to celebrate Brisbane’s coffee community and the diverse skills of local baristas. According to Klønhammer, Oatly’s intent is not only to highlight the baristas’ coffee-making skills but also to showcase their abilities in crafting unique pieces, from artwork to jewellery, adding that this event offers a special way to connect over coffee and creativity.
Photo Credit: Supplied
About Oatly and Its Local Efforts
Oatly is recognised as the world’s original and largest oat drink company, with over 30 years of experience developing oat-based products that serve as alternatives to traditional dairy items. With its headquarters in Malmö, Sweden, Oatly is present in over 20 countries, including Australia. Known for its commitment to sustainability and plant-based options, Oatly’s community-focused approach seeks to engage local talent and support creativity through events like the Makers Market.
The Oatly Makers Market will feature a live DJ and serve a variety of oat-milk coffees, inviting visitors to enjoy a festive atmosphere while supporting local artists and baristas. Organisers aim to make the market an inclusive, enjoyable outing for all ages, from families to coffee lovers.
Brisbane Roar will seek redemption in their home opener this Friday, November 1, as they face Sydney FC looking to recover from their season-opening defeat. Roar vs Sydney FC kick off 6:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
The Roar began their 2024/25 campaign with a 2-0 loss to competition newcomers Auckland FC at a packed Go Media Stadium. An eighth-minute own goal from debutant Harry Van Der Saag set the tone, with Logan Rogerson’s 75th-minute strike sealing the result for the hosts.
Despite the setback, the match showcased promising signs for the club’s future, featuring seven players in their Roar debuts. Newcomers Neicer Acosta and Thomas Waddingham demonstrated their potential, forcing Auckland goalkeeper Alex Paulsen into crucial saves. The squad received an additional boost from the return of Ben Halloran, while Sam Klein’s integration added fresh tactical options to the team’s approach.
Head coach Ruben Zadkovich maintains a positive outlook despite the opening day result. “It was an even game, very patchy,” Zadkovich says. “There were some moments for us where I thought we did really well and started to control it.”
“It was a very even game but a couple of moments that went against us.”
The coach’s commitment to youth development remains a cornerstone of his strategy, evidenced by the debuts of Sam Klein and local Queensland product Ivan Ozzi. “There’s nothing better in my position than being able to reward young players that are fighting to become professional footballers,” Zadkovich notes.
Brisbane now turn their attention to Friday’s crucial clash against Sydney FC, who enter the match following a 1-nil loss to Auckland FC. The fixture presents an early opportunity for the Roar to demonstrate their resilience and secure their first points of the season in front of their home supporters.
Fans can secure their tickets here to witness the Roar’s first home fixture of the 2024/25 season as they aim to get their campaign back on track against Sydney FC.
Suncorp Stadium in Milton will host American heavy metal legends Metallica on 12 November 2025 as part of their M72 World Tour, marking the band’s first Australian visit in over a decade.
Metallica will be returning to Australia for their first tour since 2013. After cancelling their 2020 Australian stadium tour due to frontman James Hetfield’s return to rehab, fans have eagerly awaited the band’s return. This tour will take place in five major cities across Australia, including Brisbane, and a final stop in Auckland, New Zealand.
The tour will kick off at Perth’s Optus Stadium on 1 November 2025, with performances following at Adelaide Oval, Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium, and Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium. It will conclude at Sydney’s Accor Stadium. Auckland’s Eden Park will host the final show on 19 November.
Supporting Acts and Tour Features
Joining Metallica on this Australian leg of the tour are Evanescence, famous for hits like “Bring Me to Life”, and “Suicidal Tendencies,” best known for “Institutionalized.” This combination of metal and rock bands is expected to draw fans of all ages.
The tour will feature Metallica’s renowned “Snake Pit,” a fan-favourite stage setup that allows some audience members to be close to the action in the centre of the stage.
In addition, there will be opportunities for meet-and-greets, backstage tours, and other exclusive ticket experiences such as the “I Disappear Ticket,” which gives die-hard fans access to all six shows in Australia and New Zealand. Travel packages including tickets and accommodation will be available in most cities.
Pre-sale tickets will be available for Live Nation members, Vodafone, and CommBank Mastercard holders starting 1 November 2024. General ticket sales will begin on 4 November 2024 at noon Brisbane local time.
For Brisbane fans, residents and 2024 Suncorp Stadium members will have early access to purchase tickets from 2:00 pm on 1 November until 11:00 am on 4 November.
Formed in 1981, Metallica is one of the world’s most successful heavy metal bands, with over 120 million albums sold globally and nine Grammy Awards. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009, cementing their status as metal icons. Their 11th studio album, 72 Seasons was released in 2023 and reached number one on the ARIA chart.
Metallica’s last tour in Brisbane was during the Soundwave Festival on 23 February 2013 at the Brisbane Showgrounds. This was part of the larger Soundwave 2013 festival, where Metallica headlined alongside bands like Linkin Park and Blink-182. They performed a setlist packed with fan favourites, including “Master of Puppets,” “Enter Sandman,” and “One.” The show spanned their career, opening with their iconic intro cover of “The Ecstasy of Gold” and ending with a powerful encore featuring “Creeping Death,” “Battery,” and “Seek & Destroy.”
Milton is among the inner-city suburbs where plans are progressing to change parking requirements for new developments, potentially leading to fewer parking spaces in residential buildings.
The move aims to increase housing affordability by allowing developers to construct buildings with reduced parking provisions, encouraging residents to embrace alternative transport options and potentially forgo car ownership altogether.
Under the proposed changes, suburbs like Milton, Bowen Hills, West End, and Newstead would be subject to the same planning regulations as the Brisbane CBD. This would effectively cut the mandatory parking spaces for new apartments by approximately half.
Photo Credit: Pexels
Council argues that this shift will help address housing affordability issues in the inner city. By reducing the cost of construction associated with building car parks, developers could potentially pass on savings to buyers and renters. This could make inner-city living a more viable option for those currently priced out of the market.
However, the proposal has sparked concerns from some community groups who worry about the potential strain on existing public transport and active transport infrastructure. They argue that the inner city’s current transport network might not be adequate to accommodate a potential influx of new residents who may rely more heavily on public transport, cycling, and walking.
Photo Credit: Pexels
This is not the first time these changes have been tabled. Council initially presented the plan in May, gaining the support of the State Government. However, community concerns prompted this latest public consultation round, set to close on 5 November.
Following the community consultation period, the plan will undergo final reviews before potentially being adopted early next year. If approved, the changes could significantly reshape the urban landscape of suburbs like Milton and influence the future of inner-city living in Brisbane.
