Homepage Latest News Archives

Suncorp Stadium to Make History with Double NRL Blockbuster

On June 28, Suncorp Stadium in Milton will make Australian sporting history as it transforms into the stage for not one, but two standalone NRL matches in a single day – a logistical and cultural first in the nation’s sporting landscape.

Read: Broncos Without Walsh Need to End the Bulldogs Run

In what promises to be a day to remember for rugby league fans, the Brisbane Broncos will take on the New Zealand Warriors at 3:00 pm, followed by a full stadium reset before the Dolphins meet the South Sydney Rabbitohs at 7.50 p.m.

While back-to-back footy action at the same ground isn’t uncommon during events like Magic Round, the difference here is significant: two separate ticketed events, two individual crowds, and a complete venue turnaround in between.

The occasion marks an ambitious and unprecedented effort from the NRL, Suncorp Stadium, the participating clubs, and broadcasters. It also provides a creative solution to a season disruption: the Dolphins’ original round one home game against the Rabbitohs had to be relocated to Sydney due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Now, fans in Queensland will get their chance to see the fixture on home turf – albeit in a highly unconventional format.

Following the Broncos-Warriors clash, the stadium will be entirely cleared, allowing for a meticulous rebrand of the venue. From sponsor banners to locker room signage and team-specific dressing, every detail will be updated to reflect the identity of the incoming match. Dolphins members with game access will return to their familiar seats once the stadium reopens.

Photo credit: Suncorp Stadium/Google Maps

The dual-game format will also turn the wider Caxton Street precinct into an all-day festival of rugby league. Whether fans opt for just one match or go all in with tickets to both, the area surrounding the stadium is expected to buzz with activity, food, entertainment, and a uniquely Brisbane atmosphere.

Behind the scenes, the operational challenge is immense. Stadium staff, suppliers, and event partners will be working against the clock to reset the venue. Yet, there is a strong sense of excitement and confidence that Suncorp – no stranger to major sporting spectacles – is up to the task. From previous Magic Rounds to navigating natural disasters and hosting global boxing events, the venue has built a reputation for rising to the occasion.

Read: Broncos Looking to Take Care of Struggling Roosters With or Without Reynolds

For members and ticket holders, flexibility has been a key part of the plan. Season members will retain their usual seating entitlements, while partial season holders and those with game-specific tickets have been offered options to secure access through their MyDolphins accounts. General public tickets are also set to go on sale soon, offering fans a chance to witness a milestone in the evolution of live sport in Australia.

June 28 won’t just be another day of rugby league – it will be a bold experiment in event planning, fan engagement, and sporting entertainment. And if all goes to plan, it could pave the way for future multi-game spectacles across the country.

Published 25-April-2025

Anglican Church Challenges XXXX Expansion Plans in Milton

Photo Credit: Anita Massih/Google Maps

A legal battle in Milton continues as the Anglican Church contests BCC’s approval of ethanol storage tanks at the XXXX brewery.

Church and Brewery in Ongoing Dispute

A development dispute (DA A006226036) in Milton has escalated with the Anglican Church and XXXX Brewery continuing their legal contest in the Planning and Environment Court. The case follows BCC’s decision to approve the installation of three 40,000-litre ethanol storage tanks at the brewery, operated by Lion.

The approval, granted in early 2023, was intended to support the production of non-beer alcoholic beverages, including seltzers. The brewery produced around 190 million litres of alcoholic beverages in 2023.

ethanol storage tanks — *Photo Credit: DA A006226036*

Expansion Plans and Explosion Concerns

The Anglican Church, which owns 38,000 square metres of land west of the brewery, raised concerns about public safety, air quality, and the risk of explosion. The tanks would store up to 120,000 litres of ethanol, a flammable liquid, at a site approximately eight metres from residential accommodation and 19 metres from a college library.

Recent council-commissioned analysis from risk expert Dr Raghu Raman found that, in the event of a vapour cloud explosion, the pressure wave would reach up to 1.1 metres but remain within the Milton Road property boundary. However, this differed from the methodology used by the brewery’s expert, Dr Frank Mendham, prompting further legal responses.

legal dispute in Milton — *Photo Credit: DA A006226036*

Requests for Additional Expert Review

The church’s legal team argued that Raman’s 50-page report introduced new modelling evidence that had not previously been reviewed by any party. The court later vacated the planned hearing to allow the church to nominate its own expert.

Judge Nicole Kefford ordered the experts representing the brewery, the church, and the BCC to meet and deliver a joint report. The three-day hearing was postponed pending this review.

Health and Emissions Concerns

The Anglican Church referenced the National Pollutant Inventory, stating ethanol exposure could lead to symptoms such as nausea, stupor, and respiratory irritation. The church also raised concerns about emissions from the venting system, which would release ethanol fumes at 14 metres above ground level.

The site houses St Francis Theological College, which has operated since 1936. The church’s submission noted the presence of heritage-listed facilities, residential buildings, and educational infrastructure in close proximity to the proposed ethanol store.

XXXX brewery — *Photo Credit: DA A006226036*

Suggested Alternatives and Safety Proposals

The church argued the brewery’s 58,270-square-metre site had other suitable areas for the ethanol tanks, further away from sensitive facilities. They contended the chosen location unnecessarily increased risk to residents and students.

In its application process, Lion advised BCC that the ethanol would be chilled below the threshold classified as a dangerous good and piped to the brewery.

Next Steps in the Milton Case

The experts’ joint report is expected to be presented to the court by late April. The court will resume proceedings the following week to determine the validity of the development approval based on the combined evidence.

Published 25-Apr-2025

Reds Hoping First Anzac Day Game at Suncorp Will Bring New Momentum for Play-Offs

For the first time in the club’s history, the Queensland Reds will play at Suncorp on Anzac Day.

A massively symbolic game and a significant opportunity for the Reds to get their season back on track, currently sitting 4th in the Super Rugby Pacifica Ladder.

Losing at home to the Brumbies two weeks ago was a blow that followed up a loss at the Chiefs and Les Kiss will be wanting the Reds to bounce back against a Blues squad not firing on all cylinders but almost getting the upperhand at the Crusaders last week, going down to an 82nd minute penalty by James O’Connor.

For the Reds, Jock Campbell will make his first start of the season at full back, after coming off the bench twice since he fractured his arm. Masssimo De Lutiis comes onto the bench as does Heremaia Murray.

The Reds injury list is starting to look troublesome: Filipo Daugunu, Matt Faessler, Josh Flook, Josh Nasser, Harry Wilson and Liam Wright.

The Blues will have Beauden Barrett on the bench, Dalton Papali’i and Caleb Clarke are out.

History is against the Reds in this clash. The Blues have won the last fourt games between the two teams including the last three at Suncorp.

In 2025, however, Australian teams have defended their castle in every game against visitors from across the ditch.

Fresh off a bye, six rounds to play and play off places up for grabs, let’s hope a massive Suncorp crowd can fire up the Anzac spirit for the Reds and get the w in what looks like a certain arm wrestle.

The game kicks off at 7:35 p.m. and if you can’t get to Suncorp, it will be broadcast live on Stan.

Broncos Without Walsh Need to End the Bulldogs Run

The visit of the currently unbeaten Canterbury Bulldogs to Suncorp on Thursday night has become a “must win” for the Broncos who are looking to regain momentum after back-to-back losses.

The 20-18 loss to the Warriors last Saturday in Auckland, was the result of leaking three tries in 13 minutes of the second-half.

Paddy Carrigan with 53 tackles and Payne Haas running 219 metres were the highlights for the Broncos but the 69% completion rate against the Warriors 84% wasn’t going to get it done.

Madge Maguire’s men will be without Reece Walsh, who has a knee injury. Selwyn Cobbo will move to fullback and Deine Marriner will play on the wing. Brendan Piakura will be on the bench after his two match suspension for a high tackle charge.

The Bulldogs are aiming for their first “7 match winning streak” since 2014, and will field the same starting 13 as last week’s win against the Rabbitohs. Harry Hayes will replace Jack Todd on the bench, Todd out with a fractured arm.

After shutting out the Knights (20-0) and the Rabbitohs (32-0) in the last two games, the Bulldogs defence is building a big reputation, partly down to their strong line speed, they concede on average only 9 points per game. Their left-edge attack is their offensive edge. Second half stamina is also proving an area of dominance, having held several teams scoreless in the second stanza this year. After seven years straight of missing the playoffs, the Bulldogs broke that run last year and in 2025 have taken their performance to a new level under Cameron Ciraldo, in his third season.

The Broncos will really need the Suncorp crowd to lift them over the line, the game kicks off at 7.50 p.m.

Published 23-April-2025

China Sea Restaurant in Milton Offers Fine Dining and Unique History

Photo Credit: China Sea Milton

Highly regarded Cantonese restaurant China Sea, known for consistent quality seafood and an unexpected link to a famous Australian meme, operates from its elegant Park Road premises in Milton.

Culinary Reputation

Under the guidance of respected restaurateur Stanley Cheung, China Sea specialises in fine Cantonese cuisine. Sources describe the food as consistently excellent, with seafood being central.

Diners praise dishes like whole steamed fish with ginger and shallots, lobster noodles, salt and pepper calamari, fresh chili mud crab, and large steamed NZ oysters. The restaurant prides itself on freshness, with dishes arriving steaming hot, perfectly presented, and tasting as if sourced directly from the ocean that morning.

Beyond seafood, other dishes receive high marks in customer reviews. Peking duck, often served two ways, is noted as a standout, alongside crispy skin roast pork, described as consistently excellent.

Honey chicken with thin, crunchy batter, deep-fried squid, sweet and sour pork, and Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings) are also popular choices mentioned in reviews. Even desserts, like panna cotta, have been called perfect by diners. While widely considered authentic Cantonese, some feedback suggests the flavours might be slightly adapted for Australian tastes. Preparation takes place in an open kitchen staffed by qualified chefs.

Location and Atmosphere

China Sea is situated on the ground floor of the Cosmo Hotel and Apartments building at 60 Park Road, Milton, offering diners beautiful river views. This location is conveniently only a short drive from the Brisbane CBD and the Queensland Transit Centre. The restaurant’s interior provides an old-school but elegant setting, featuring carpeted dining areas, lazy Susan tables, and padded booths, making it feel suitable for special occasions. Outdoor seating is also available.

Despite the elegant feel, the dependable quality makes it a favourite for regular visits. Reports mention seamless service, with the owner often present, overseeing the dining room to ensure everything runs smoothly. The venue also caters to functions and parties for groups ranging from 20 to 50 people.

A Noteworthy History

Before establishing the restaurant in Milton, Stanley Cheung ran a successful eatery in Brisbane’s Chinatown (Fortitude Valley) for approximately 25 years. The restaurant relocated to the elite Park Road dining precinct, bringing its established reputation along.

The original Chinatown location gained unexpected notoriety in 1991 following the dramatic arrest of Jack Karlson while he was dining there. His bewildered protests during the arrest, including phrases like “What is the charge? Eating a meal? A succulent Chinese meal?” and “This is democracy manifest!”, were captured on camera and have since become iconic Australian memes. The restaurant reportedly acknowledges this quirky part of its past life in Chinatown.

Published Date 21-April-2025

Mystery Solved: QLD Governor’s Crown Plate Seen on Milton Road

Photo Credit: Reddit

A Lexus seen recently in Milton with only a silver crown on its black number plate caused some confusion. The unusual plate is the legal and official license plate assigned for the use of Queensland’s Governor, Dr Jeannette Young.

Local Sighting Sparks Questions

The sight of the distinctive Lexus without standard letters or numbers caught a motorist’s attention as they drove through the inner Brisbane suburb of Milton earlier this week. The driver captured an image using their dashcam and shared it online, asking fellow Queenslanders if such a number plate was permitted on the roads.

The query prompted discussion and some lighthearted jokes online, with one person humorously suggesting it belonged to the “Queen of Brisbane,” while others correctly identified its official nature.

Plate Confirmed as Governor’s Official Symbol

Community members commenting online confirmed that the number plate displaying only a crown is reserved for the Governor of Queensland. Several users pointed out that this specific plate signifies the official vehicle used by Dr Jeannette Young. One commenter noted the car was spotted on Fernberg Road, where the Governor’s official residence is.

Meaning Behind the Crown

The crown emblem is not just decorative; it holds significant meaning. It shows the Governor’s position as the monarch’s representative in Queensland. This plate type is part of a long tradition in Australia, where symbols denote high office. Like royal symbols on official documents or uniforms, the crown on the number plate is a clear mark of governmental authority and status.

Security, Protocol, and Official Vehicles

Using these exclusive plates helps with security arrangements and formal procedures, especially during state functions or official events. Online contributors familiar with protocol added context, explaining that official flags are usually mounted on the front bumper when the governor is travelling in the car.

For formal ceremonies, the Governor’s car is typically escorted by three police motorcycles. On less formal trips, an unmarked police vehicle often accompanies the Governor’s car for discreet security. The online discussion also mentioned that while the Lexus is likely the Governor’s daily transport, a Rolls Royce is kept for ceremonial duties, though both may carry the crown plate.

Exclusive Plates Mark Official Status

Unlike personalised plates, these special crown plates are not available for purchase by the general public. They are considered part of Queensland’s state heritage and administrative identity.

This practice isn’t unique to Queensland; other states, like Victoria where a similar BMW SUV with a crown plate was seen earlier this year, also reserve special plates for their Governors. The system ensures that vehicles carrying high-ranking officials representing the Crown are easily identifiable for protocol and security reasons.

Published Date 16-April-2025

Brace for Impact: Metallica Set to Ignite Suncorp Stadium in 2025

Brisbane, mark your calendars. Metallica is bringing its colossal M72 World Tour to Suncorp Stadium this November, as part of their long-awaited return to Australian and New Zealand shores. Known for blistering sets, unmatched energy, and jaw-dropping production, this will be a night to remember for rock and metal fans alike.

Read: Global Tour Brings Lady Gaga’s MAYHEM Ball to Milton

A Tour Like No Other

The M72 World Tour is no ordinary run of shows. Since launching in Amsterdam in April 2023, the tour has already attracted over three million fans across Europe and North America, drawing rave reviews from every corner of the globe.

Critics have called it everything from “a stone-cold stunner of a show” (Detroit News) to “as tight and furious as Metallica has sounded in ages” (Los Angeles Times). The band’s innovative stage setup features a 360-degree experience, with the stage at one end and a sprawling Snake Pit stretching deep into the audience — putting fans at the heart of the thunder.

And this time, the Aussie leg is getting the full Metallica treatment: six stadium shows, exclusive Enhanced Experiences (including meet and greets, backstage tours, and VIP lounges), and the coveted “I Disappear Ticket,” granting superfans access to all Australian and New Zealand dates. Support comes from two powerhouse acts — Evanescence and Suicidal Tendencies.

Set List Sneak Peek

While Metallica keeps fans guessing with variations night to night, expect a career-spanning set packed with the following crowd favourites:

Seek & Destroy
Master of Puppets
Nothing Else Matters
Enter Sandman
For Whom the Bell Tolls
The Unforgiven
Sad But True
Fade to Black
One
Moth Into Flame
Lux Æterna (from their latest album “72 Seasons”)

Expect around 16–18 songs per night, often changing across shows to give fans a fresh experience every time.

Metallica: A Legacy Forged in Metal

Photo credit: CC0/Library of Congress Life/Wikimedia Commons

Formed in Los Angeles in 1981, Metallica is widely considered one of the most influential heavy metal bands of all time. With frontman James Hetfield, drummer Lars Ulrich, guitarist Kirk Hammett, and bassist Robert Trujillo, the band has sold over 125 million albums worldwide.

Their seminal 1991 self-titled release (commonly known as The Black Album) brought hits like “Enter Sandman” and “The Unforgiven” to mainstream radio and remains one of the best-selling albums of all time. They’ve taken home nine Grammy Awards, multiple MTV and American Music Awards, and were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2009.

When Were They Last Here?

Metallica last toured Australia in 2019 as part of their WorldWired Tour, though the Oceania leg was cut short due to James Hetfield’s re-entering rehab. Prior to that, they performed across the country in 2013 and 2010, consistently selling out arenas and stadiums with ease. Brisbane’s metal faithful have waited over six years for their return — and the M72 Tour promises to reward that patience in epic fashion.

Notable Anecdotes and Moments

Photo credit: metallica.com/ Brett Murray

James Hetfield has previously described Australia as one of his favourite places to tour, citing the “diehard energy” of Aussie crowds. During their 2010 Brisbane show, they famously let a fan play drums during “Seek & Destroy” — a moment still talked about among the local fanbase.

Metallica’s All Within My Hands charity initiative, which continues through this tour, has raised over $15 million USD since 2017, supporting everything from technical education to disaster relief and food insecurity efforts. A portion of every ticket sold in Brisbane will benefit local charities.

Read: Beyoncé Cowboy Carter Tour: Will Milton See Queen Bey Live in 2025?

Tickets and Info

Tickets go on general sale Monday, 4 November at 12 PM AEST, with multiple pre-sales kicking off earlier. Suncorp Stadium members and local residents will have a head start from 2 PM Friday, 1 November.

For all ticket packages, pre-sale links, and enhanced experience details, visit livenation.com.au.

Whether you’re a diehard member of the Metallica Family or just want to experience one of the greatest live shows in rock history, 12 November 2025 at Suncorp Stadium is the date you don’t want to miss. With Evanescence and Suicidal Tendencies opening the night, and Metallica delivering two hours of pure heavy metal mastery, Brisbane is set to shake like never before.

Published 16-April-2025

Milton Residents Encouraged to Attend Sustainable BNE Festival

Photo Credit: Sustainable BNE Festival/Facebook

Residents of Milton are being encouraged to attend the Sustainable BNE Festival at Roma Street Parkland, offering a free community event focused on practical ways to live more sustainably.

Sustainability in Action Returns to Roma Street Parkland

Milton residents can once again look forward to Brisbane’s leading eco-living event as the Sustainable BNE Festival makes its annual return Sunday, 25 May 2025. Formerly known as the Green Heart Fair, the festival will take place at Roma Street Parkland and aims to inspire individuals and families to adopt more sustainable lifestyles through engaging activities and expert-led sessions.

Origins and Purpose of the Festival

Launched by BCC in 2009 as the Green Heart Fair, the festival was rebranded to the Sustainable BNE Festival and is now delivered in partnership with Brisbane Sustainability Agency. It remains the city’s largest sustainability event, designed to demonstrate low-emission, circular living practices and foster a resilient community.

The festival reflects Brisbane’s wider environmental goals by focusing on three long-term outcomes: restoring natural environments, demonstrating sustainability in everyday life, and building climate resilience.

Activities and Zones Across the Parkland

The event will feature several themed areas tailored to different sustainability topics and community interests. Highlights include:

BCC Zone – free native plants and tips on waterway health
Healthy Cities Zone – yoga, silent discos, coffee incentives, and urban gardening
Green Home Living Zone – composting, solar energy, and low-waste living
Preserve Every Drop Zone – water-saving advice and resources
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Zone – waste reduction with OzHarvest and more
Eco Kids’ Zone – nature-based crafts, games, and painting
Move for Less Zone – e-bike trials and electric vehicle education
Sustainable Shopping Zone – preloved fashion and handmade local goods
Feast Street – food trucks offering compostable serveware and diverse cuisines
Resilient Home Zone – flood-resilient building tips
Community Corner – showcasing local sustainability initiatives
Everground by QUT – art installations by university students
Green Heart Ranger – crafts and hands-on sustainability activities

Sustainable BNE Festival — *Photo Credit: LMAdrianSchrinner/Instagram*

Environmental Commitment and Waste Reduction

The event is designed as a zero-waste festival. Measures include:

No sale of single-use plastic water bottles
Water refill stations and reusable cup incentives
A mug library for those without reusable coffee cups
Dedicated waste stations with general, recycling, and organic bins
Volunteers acting as Waste Warriors to guide proper disposal
Repurposed and second-hand furniture for event use
Sustainable practices adopted by all food vendors

Brisbane sustainable festival — *Photo Credit: LMAdrianSchrinner/Instagram*

Access and Amenities

Entry to the festival is free. All workshops and activities are included. The event will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and is open to all ages. Attendees are encouraged to walk, cycle, or use public transport. Facilities will include accessible paths, toilets, ATM access, first aid services, and hydration stations. Dogs are allowed on leads. Designated water areas will be provided.

RSVP HERE

Community Participation Opportunities

Milton residents can also get involved as volunteers or exhibitors. Applications remain open for individuals and organisations interested in contributing to the festival’s delivery. The event is managed by the Brisbane Sustainability Agency on behalf of BCC.

Volunteer Application Form

Published 11-Apr-2025

3 Ways Milton Keeps the Anzac Spirit Alive

Photo Credit: Britannica Kids

Milton holds three unique Anzac memorials that connect generations of military service—from the soldiers of World War I to those who served in Afghanistan. Just a few streets apart, these spaces each offer a different way to remember, reflect and learn.

Honouring Modern Service — The 42 for 42 Afghanistan Memorial Garden

Tucked alongside Suncorp Stadium on Chippendall Street, the 42 for 42 Afghanistan Memorial Garden stands as a quiet place for personal reflection. The garden features 42 black granite plaques arranged in a circle—41 of them carry the names of Australian soldiers who died during the Afghanistan campaign. The 42nd is for those lost to suicide and mental health issues after returning home.

Built by a group of veterans and supported by their families and community members, the garden offers an interactive experience. Each plaque includes a QR code, allowing visitors to access individual stories and photos on their phones. At the centre of the space is a life-size bronze statue of an Australian soldier kneeling beside an Afghan child—an image chosen to represent the humanitarian side of military service.

The garden was developed with care and involvement from those who served. It has become a place not only of memory but also of healing for many families and veterans across the country. It remains open to the public and is especially visited in the lead-up to Anzac Day.

A Church’s Record of the Past — Christ Church Honour Board

Just a few steps away is Christ Church, a heritage-listed Anglican church established in 1876. Inside the church is a wooden Honour Board listing the names of parish members who served in World War I.

The board is simple but powerful. Unlike more modern memorials, it reflects the early 20th century approach to remembrance—formal, grounded in the local parish, and focused on community connection. Each name represents someone from the Milton area who left home to serve overseas during one of history’s most devastating conflicts.

Today, Christ Church continues to serve the community. It remains a space where history is honoured and where many residents return each year to reflect and pay their respects.

A National Resource with Local Connections — The Virtual War Memorial

While the first two memorials are physical, the third is entirely digital. The Virtual War Memorial Australia (VWMA) is an online platform that documents the lives and service of Australian military personnel across all major conflicts.

Although not physically based in Milton, this digital resource links closely with the suburb’s two existing memorials. Visitors to the 42 for 42 garden or Christ Church can later search the VWMA website to find more information about a specific soldier, unit or conflict. The platform features records, photos, personal letters, and even classroom resources for students and educators.

It offers a broader view of Australia’s military history while still allowing for a personal, local focus—especially useful for those researching family connections or preparing for commemorations like Anzac Day.

One Suburb, Many Generations of Service

Together, these three forms of memorial—garden, honour board and digital archive—show how one Brisbane suburb continues to carry the legacy of Anzac service. In Milton, remembrance isn’t limited to a single day or a single war. It spans generations and grows with new tools, new stories and new ways to engage.

The 42 for 42 garden brings attention to the modern costs of war, while the Honour Board at Christ Church grounds that memory in a deep local tradition. Meanwhile, the Virtual War Memorial offers a bridge between the past and the present, giving people across Australia a way to connect to service and sacrifice from their own home.

Tips for a Meaningful Visit

The best way to experience all three memorials in Milton is to start with a quiet walk through the 42 for 42 Afghanistan Memorial Garden. Reading the plaques and scanning the QR codes offers a deeply personal connection to each soldier. Visitors often leave a flower or poppy by a plaque, or simply stand in silence.

From there, a short stroll takes you to Christ Church. If the church is open, take a moment to view the World War I Honour Board. Look at the names, consider their age, and think about the community that once knew them.

Later, from home or on your phone, you can visit the Virtual War Memorial website and explore more about the individuals you encountered. You might discover additional stories, photographs or connections to your own family.

Early morning or late afternoon visits to the physical memorials are often the most peaceful. Around Anzac Day, the area is more active, with small gatherings and community tributes. Whether you go alone or with others, these spaces offer different but meaningful ways to honour service and memory in the heart of Brisbane.

Published 11-April-2024

Broncos Looking to Take Care of Struggling Roosters With or Without Reynolds

When the Broncos run out onto Suncorp on Friday night to host the Roosters, with only the unbeaten Bulldogs above them in the 2025 NRL Premiership Ladder, they will do so with a growing confidence that Madge Maguire’s newly injected discipline is building momentum and delivering results. Yet there is still plenty of scope in the tank.

The Roosters however are stuck in the quagmire of wooden spoon contention with only 1 win from their first five games.

The Broncos delivered five tries in the second half last week against the improved Wests Tigers in front of 41,012 at Suncorp but 14-12 at half-time was not the dominant start they were hoping for. The half-time lead only secured by a Xavier Willison try on 37 minutes, a feat he repeated just after half time to extend the lead.

Bronco’s General, Adam Reynolds, came off injured with a tweaked hamstring, after kicking a goal on 45 minutes which he said he only put 40% of power into, as his leg was not right.

“I was looking for someone else to take the kick, but they all had their back turned,” he said.

Darren Lockyer has advocated for resting Reynolds against the Roosters despite Madge naming him in the staring lineup. Having only played 13 games last season, the 34 year old’s rest management could turn out to be key to maintain momentum for the Broncos and with Billy Walters having a strong start to the season, Lockyer’s view seems the sensible option.

Ben Hunt’s 40-20 was a big moment last week and the classic Reynolds chip-chase try were key momentum builders. Madge called out another massive shift from Paddy Carrigan, with Willison taking advantage of the Haas/Carrigan efforts.

Brendan Piakura will sit the next two games out, a suspension for a high tackle charge. Piakura, binned in the 19th minute, was also on a concussion protocol from the Wests Tigers game. Jaiyden Hunt takes his place in the backrow.

For the Roosters, debutant halfback Hugo Savala replaces Chad Townsend and Nat Butcher replaces the injured Maroons legend, Lindsay Collins, at prop. Savala, a 194cm and 96kg unit having come through the Roosters academy, gives the Roosters a new look, with a strong rep for his show and go.

Madge will be focused on maintaining the momentum and hoping the Broncos firepower with or without Reynolds will be enough to overcome a struggling Roosters. Kick-off is at 8:00 p.m. at Suncorp.

The game will be broadcast live on Nine, Kayo and Foxtel.