Anticipation is building, with wrestling legend Paul “Big Show” Wight promising a spectacle featuring the “best in-ring grapplers in the world.”
A crowd exceeding 40,000 is expected to fill the stadium, creating an electric atmosphere for the event. Wight recently transitioned from WWE to AEW and is enthusiastic about performing in Brisbane’s renowned “Cauldron.” He’s confident that AEW’s roster, which boasts a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, will deliver an unforgettable show.
The AEW lineup includes familiar faces like Chris Jericho, Christian Cage, Adam Copeland (Edge), Bryan Danielson (Daniel Bryan), and Gold Coast native Toni Storm. Wight believes AEW’s emphasis on in-ring talent and commitment to nurturing young wrestlers sets it apart.
He sees the competition between wrestling promotions as a positive sign for the industry, generating excitement and opportunities for performers and fans alike.
Storm, eager to perform in her home country, predicts “absolute mayhem” at the Brisbane event. She recognises the significance of AEW’s return to Australia and anticipates a memorable night for wrestling fans.
Tickets for AEW Grand Slam: Australia will go on sale at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, 13 September, via Ticketek. Fans can also sign up for the TEG Sport pre-sale waitlist at tegsport.com.au and secure early access from Tuesday, 10 September.
As Travis Scott is slated to ignite Suncorp Stadium, fans are gearing up for a hip-hop extravaganza. This electrifying concert is part of Scott’s highly anticipated Circus Maximus Tour, captivating audiences across Australia and New Zealand.
Tickets for the concert on 26 October became available in a phased release, starting with partner and venue presales and ending with a general public sale on 2 August. With Scott’s critically acclaimed album “UTOPIA” boasting over 49 billion streams globally, fans are advised to secure their tickets through official channels like Ticketek to avoid scams.
“UTOPIA”, hailed as one of the most successful hip-hop releases of 2023, is expected to take centre stage during Scott’s Brisbane performance. The album’s innovative soundscapes and lyrical depth promise an unforgettable experience for concert-goers. Circus Maximus Tour is renowned for its cutting-edge audiovisual production, setting the stage for an unparalleled spectacle.
Travis Scott’s musical career began in Houston, Texas, where he grew up in a musically inclined family. His surroundings shaped his artistic identity from his early days in South Park to his move to Missouri City. Scott’s music is a captivating fusion of traditional hip-hop with ambient and psychedelic elements, drawing inspiration from legends like Kid Cudi.
Scott’s ascent to stardom began after he left college to pursue music full-time. He quickly secured major-label deals and collaborations, releasing mixtapes that garnered attention and acclaim. His debut album, “Rodeo” (2015), propelled him to the forefront of the hip-hop scene, followed by chart-topping successes like “Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight” (2016) and “Astroworld” (2018).
His latest offering, “Utopia” (2023), solidified his position as a musical powerhouse, securing his fourth consecutive number-one album on the Billboard 200.
A prominent Brisbane restaurant chain, City Winery Brisbane Pty Ltd, has entered voluntary liquidation, leading to the closure of six venues across the city, including popular spots in Fortitude Valley, Newstead, and Milton. This sudden shutdown affected locations that had become beloved fixtures in Brisbane’s dining scene.
Dave Cush, CEO of City Winery Brisbane, expressed his devastation over the decision to close the venues, citing a significant drop in consumer spending influenced by current economic pressures such as the cost of living and high interest rates. Increases in labour and operational costs, compounded by the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated lockdowns, have dramatically impacted the business’s viability.
The opening of The Star at Queen’s Wharf last week posed a final challenge, as Cush noted that competing with such a large-scale operation was beyond their capacity.
“We simply cannot compete with an operation of that scale,” he explained, highlighting the challenges small businesses face against larger conglomerates.
Photo Credit: City Winery/Google Maps
City Winery opened its doors in 2019 in Fortitude Valley and was notable for being Brisbane’s first inner-city winery since the 19th century. It offered unique experiences, such as wine-making masterclasses, and expanded rapidly before its closure.
The newer Ardo’s venues, launched just earlier this year, followed a similar trajectory of quick expansion before the abrupt cessation.
The liquidation process is set to unfold soon, with a spokeswoman for City Winery stating that liquidators will contact creditors soon. It remains unclear how many employees will be affected by the job losses or the total debts owed by the company.
The collapse of City Winery and its associated venues marks a significant loss for Brisbane’s culinary landscape. It reflects broader challenges within the hospitality industry, which is facing economic and competitive pressures.
With their playoff hopes hanging by a thread, the Brisbane Broncos gear up for a pivotal clash against Dolphins this Saturday, 31 August, bolstered by the timely return of young prop Ben Te Kura.
Promising 20-year-old front-rower Ben Te Kura has been named in Brisbane’s 17-man squad for the upcoming Battle for Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium. After spending six weeks recovering from foot surgery, Te Kura’s return comes at a crucial juncture for the Broncos.
The towering prop made waves in his NRL debut against the Melbourne Storm in Round 5, showcasing his potential with an impressive 115-metre run, three tackle breaks, and a try. His inclusion in the squad comes at the expense of Kobe Hetherington, who is sidelined due to concussion protocols.
Playoff push
The Broncos currently sit in ninth place on the ladder with 26 points and a +2 point differential—a slim margin that could be the deciding factor in their race for the eighth playoff spot.
With only two games left, the Broncos’ playoff hopes hinge on winning both remaining matches and outpacing the St. George Illawarra Dragons, who currently hold the final spot.
Broncos fans will be hoping the Dragons lose at least one game, while Brisbane secures two, as their positive point differential could give them the edge in the tie-breaker.
Following the Dolphins clash, the Broncos face the minor premiers Melbourne Storm, who are poised to rest key players in their final game of the home-and-away season.
While Te Kura’s return provides a boost, the Broncos are still monitoring the status of Origin prop Payne Haas. Named on an extended bench, Haas is recovering from a foot injury, and his availability could significantly influence the Broncos’ chances in these final matches.
As the NRL season reaches its dramatic finale, the Broncos’ fate lies in their own hands—and in the Dragons’. The return of Ben Te Kura adds much-needed strength, but only their performance on the field will determine if they secure a coveted playoff spot. Broncos fans, prepare for a thrilling end to the season.
The Brisbane Broncos face a do-or-die clash against the Dolphins this Saturday, 31 August as both teams vie for a crucial spot in the NRL finals—this fourth instalment of the Brisbane derby could determine which team’s season will continue. Dolphins vs Broncos kick off 5:30 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
With the NRL season approaching its climax, every point counts in the race for a top-eight finish. The Broncos and Dolphins, locked on 26 points each, find themselves in a fierce battle not just against each other, but also against the Knights and Raiders, for the last available playoff spot.
Currently, the Broncos hold a slight edge, sitting in ninth place due to a superior point differential.
With only two rounds remaining, Saturday’s derby could effectively end the losing team’s season. As both teams fight for survival, every match in this late-season push becomes crucial.
Following this Battle for Brisbane, the Broncos will shift their focus to the Melbourne Storm, who clinched the minor premiership with a win over the Dolphins last week. Storm coach Craig Bellamy has suggested that he might rest some key players in the final two games to keep them fresh for the finals series—a potential boon for the Broncos.
Broncos vs Dolphins
The Broncos enter the match with momentum on their side. They’ve steadied their campaign in recent weeks, most notably securing a commanding 30-24 victory over the Eels last Friday. This win has kept their playoff aspirations intact and boosted team morale.
In contrast, the Dolphins are grappling with a concerning form slump, having managed just three wins in their last 12 outings and conceding 150 points in their past four. This downturn has coincided with the absence of key player Jeremy Marshall-King, who has missed the past seven matches due to a foot injury. There’s hope he may return for this critical fixture, providing the Dolphins with a much-needed boost.
All eyes will be on Broncos stars Reece Walsh and Payne Haas as they look to return from injury. Centre Kotoni Staggs is in excellent form, having scored six tries in his past six games. Meanwhile, the ever-consistent lock Patrick Carrigan is expected to deliver another impactful performance.
The rivalry between these Brisbane teams has been intense, with the Broncos dominating their encounters. Since the Dolphins’ return to the NRL, the Broncos have won all three matchups. In their last meeting, Brisbane overcame a slow start to secure a 28-14 victory, marked by a decisive second-half surge that saw them score four tries in just 14 minutes.
As the tension builds towards Saturday’s clash, Broncos and Dolphins faithful know that this derby will define their season. With finals aspirations and local pride on the line, this showdown is set to be one of the most pivotal moments of the 2024 home-and-away competition.
The Brisbane Broncos will face the Parramatta Eels in a must-win match for their finals aspirations. Currently four points outside the finals spots with three matches to go, the Broncos are eager to build on last week’s success as they push for a place in the playoffs. Broncos vs Eels kick off 8:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
Brisbane enters this fixture with confidence following two significant victories. Their comeback win against the Cowboys last week and a strong performance against the Eels earlier in the season have the Broncos faithful expecting another win.
In the away match against the Cowboys, the Broncos overcame a significant deficit and a hostile environment to claim a decisive victory. Initially struggling, Brisbane found themselves trailing 18-6 early in the game.
However, the leadership of skipper Adam Reynolds, alongside standout performances from Corey Jensen, Pat Carrigan, and Kotoni Staggs, saw the team rally to secure a 42-18 victory.
“There’s always faith from all the coaching staff and players that we could somewhat turn it around,” Broncos coach Kevin Walters said after the Cowboys clash.
Broncos vs Eels
In their previous encounter with the Eels on May 10, the Broncos demonstrated their ability to adapt to challenging conditions. Despite harsh weather and early setbacks, including an injury to hooker Billy Walters, Brisbane secured a 30-14 victory away at CommBank Stadium.
Deine Mariner scored two tries, including an impressive 80-metre run off an intercept. Ezra Mam added a try with a brilliant chip and chase in the wet conditions, while Selwyn Cobbo executed a skillful try, grounding a cross-field kick from Reece Walsh.
The Broncos defence, aided strongly by the ever-consistent Staggs, held strong against repeated Eels attacks, particularly in the second half.
Following this match, the Broncos face the Dolphins in what is undoubtedly a season-defining Battle of Brisbane. A victory here could significantly boost their momentum heading into their final game against the Melbourne Storm—a team that has all but secured the minor premiership.
As the Broncos prepare to take on the 16th-placed Eels, they’ll be looking to capitalise on their recent form and continue their push for a spot in the playoffs. Four points out and three matches to go, every match is a must-win for Brisbane to qualify in the final eight.
As Suncorp Stadium celebrates its 30th naming anniversary this year, it has also built a reputation as a premier concert venue, hosting legendary musicians and unforgettable performances. From its early days as Lang Park to its current state-of-the-art incarnation, the stadium has witnessed the evolution of music and the passion of countless fans.
In the 1980s, Lang Park, the predecessor to Suncorp Stadium, welcomed rock royalty to its stage. Kiss, David Bowie, Simon & Garfunkel, and the iconic pairing of Bob Dylan and Tom Petty graced the hallowed grounds, leaving an enduring mark on the stadium’s musical legacy.
Kiss, known for their elaborate stage shows and pyrotechnics, brought their brand of theatrical rock to Lang Park in 1980, performing hits like “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “Detroit Rock City,” “Shout It Out Loud,” and “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.”
David Bowie’s 1983 performance, part of his Serious Moonlight Tour, showcased his innovative sound and captivating stage presence with a setlist including “Let’s Dance,” “China Girl,” “Modern Love,” and “Heroes.”
The folk-rock duo Simon & Garfunkel mesmerised audiences with their harmonious vocals and timeless classics like “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Mrs. Robinson,” “The Sound of Silence,” and “The Boxer.”
In 1986, Bob Dylan and Tom Petty joined forces for a tour de force of folk-rock anthems, including “Like a Rolling Stone,” “Free Fallin’,” “Refugee,” and “I Won’t Back Down.”
Modern Musical Era
The redevelopment of Lang Park into Suncorp Stadium in the early 2000s ushered in a new era of concerts, attracting a diverse array of global superstars. Pink, Bon Jovi, U2, Coldplay, Taylor Swift, Eminem, Ed Sheeran, Guns N’ Roses, Elton John, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers are just a few of the luminaries who have graced the stadium’s stage in recent years.
Pink’s electrifying performances, featuring aerial acrobatics and high-energy choreography, have become a Suncorp Stadium staple, with multiple sold-out shows over the years. Her setlists have evolved, including hits like “Get the Party Started,” “So What,” “Just Give Me a Reason,” and “Raise Your Glass.”
Bon Jovi’s anthemic rock anthems, such as “Livin’ on a Prayer,” “It’s My Life,” “You Give Love a Bad Name,” and “Wanted Dead or Alive,” have consistently filled the stadium with energy and passion.
U2’s iconic 360° Tour stop at Suncorp Stadium in 2010 featured a massive claw-shaped stage and a setlist packed with hits like “Where the Streets Have No Name,” “Beautiful Day,” “With or Without You,” and “One.”
Coldplay’s dazzling light shows and sing-along anthems like “Yellow,” “Clocks,” “Viva la Vida,” and “Fix You” have created unforgettable moments for fans.
Taylor Swift’s record-breaking concerts have drawn devoted fans. They feature elaborate sets and costume changes. Her setlists have spanned her entire discography, including hits like “Love Story,” “Shake It Off,” “Blank Space,” and “Delicate.”
Ed Sheeran’s heartfelt ballads, such as “Shape of You,” “Thinking Out Loud,” “Photograph,” and “Perfect,” have created intimate moments within the vast stadium setting.
Generations of fans have come together thanks to the hard rock energy of Guns N’ Roses, who are known for songs like “Welcome to the Jungle,” “Sweet Child o’ Mine,” “Paradise City,” and “November Rain.”
Elton John’s farewell tour stopped at Suncorp Stadium to celebrate his illustrious career. The setlist featured hits like “Rocket Man,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Your Song,” and “Candle in the Wind.”
The Red Hot Chili Peppers brought their funk-rock fusion to life with their infectious energy, performing fan favourites like “Californication,” “Under the Bridge,” “Can’t Stop,” and “Give It Away.”
For many concertgoers, Suncorp Stadium holds a special place in their hearts, filled with cherished memories of unforgettable performances and specific songs. Fans recall the roar of the crowd, the thrill of singing along to their favourite songs, and the camaraderie of sharing the experience with fellow music lovers.
From the intimate moments of a singer-songwriter’s acoustic set to the explosive energy of a rock band’s pyrotechnic display, Suncorp Stadium has provided a backdrop for a wide range of musical experiences. The stadium’s state-of-the-art sound system and expansive stage have allowed artists to bring their visions to life, creating immersive and unforgettable concerts.
As Suncorp Stadium continues to evolve, its commitment to hosting world-class concerts remains unwavering. The stadium’s reputation as a premier venue for sport and music has solidified its place in Brisbane’s cultural landscape. Suncorp Stadium adds another chapter to its storied history with each new concert, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual concertgoer, Suncorp Stadium offers an experience unlike any other. The crowd’s energy, the music’s magic, and the shared passion for live performance create a truly unforgettable atmosphere. Suncorp Stadium is not just a venue; it’s a destination for music lovers of all genres.
The Wallabies are gearing up for the Rugby Championship opener against the reigning World Cup champions South Africa on Saturday, August 10. With the match approaching sell-out status, anticipation is building for this crucial encounter. Wallabies vs Springboks kick off 2:30 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
Australia enters the contest with a strong record at Suncorp Stadium, where South Africa has historically struggled. The Springboks have lost 11 out of 12 games at the Brisbane ground since 1996, giving the Wallabies a psychological edge and a sixteenth man advantage heading into the match.
“The players enjoyed the vocal support we received during the July Tests, and they will be looking to earn continued public support over the coming weeks,” Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt encouraged.
Schmidt has named a 36-man squad for the upcoming Tests, featuring a mix of experienced players and new talent.
Two-time John Eales medallist Marika Koroibete headlines the returnees, alongside World Cup teammates Angus Bell and Max Jorgensen.
In addition, the squad introduces six uncapped players, including Corey Toole, fresh from his Olympic rugby sevens campaign in Paris. Other newcomers like Hamish Stewart, Max Jorgensen, and Luke Reimer add depth and potential to the team.
Uncapped Carlo Tizzano and Seru Uru join Angus Bell and Luke Reimer as reinforcements to the forward pack.
The Wallabies enter the Rugby Championship with momentum, having secured three victories in the July International Tests. This recent success provides a confidence boost as they prepare to face the formidable Springboks.
Following the Brisbane Test, the Wallabies will travel to Perth for a second clash against the Springboks at Optus Stadium on August 17. This back-to-back series against the world champions presents a significant challenge and opportunity for the Australian side.
Wallabies faithful can catch the action on Channel Nine or stream it for free on 9Now. For comprehensive Rugby Championship coverage, Stan Sport offers live streaming and on-demand access to every match.
Suncorp Stadium in Milton marks a significant milestone this year – the 30th anniversary of its naming partnership. This iconic venue, with a history stretching back to the 19th century, has evolved from a cemetery to a world-class arena, shaping Queensland’s sporting and cultural landscape for generations.
The stadium’s 30-year naming anniversary falls in July, marking a significant milestone in its rich history.
Evolution of an Icon
The site’s history dates back to the mid-1800s when it served as Brisbane’s largest cemetery. In 1914, it was transformed into a recreational area named Lang Park, hosting various sports and events. The venue’s journey from a final resting place to a vibrant sporting hub reflects Brisbane’s growth and changing needs.
In 1994, after extensive renovations, the venue was officially renamed Suncorp-Metway Stadium, marking the beginning of Suncorp’s enduring partnership. This rebranding signalled a new era for the stadium, positioning it as a premier sporting venue in Queensland.
Further upgrades in 1999 elevated the stadium to world-class status, preparing it to host international events and attract global attention. The renovations included improved facilities, increased seating capacity, and enhanced spectator experiences.
Overcoming Natural Disasters
The stadium’s resilience was tested during the 2011 Brisbane floods when water levels rose to the sixth row of seats. The venue ran on generators for six months, with changerooms temporarily relocated to the car park. This challenging period demonstrated the stadium’s importance to the community and the determination to preserve it.
Learning from this experience, improved flood mitigation procedures were implemented. The effectiveness of these measures was evident during the 2022 floods when the stadium resumed normal operations within just eight days, showcasing its adaptability and commitment to serving the community.
Sporting Achievements
Suncorp Stadium has been a stronghold for rugby, hosting numerous national and international events. Notable milestones include:
Nine games of the 2003 Rugby World Cup, bringing international attention to Brisbane
Both the semi-final and final of the 2008 Rugby League World Cup, cementing the stadium’s reputation as a premier rugby venue
The inaugural Super Rugby AU Championship win by the Queensland Reds in 2021, a triumphant moment for local fans
The stadium has witnessed countless memorable State of Origin clashes, with the Queensland Maroons and New South Wales Blues battling for supremacy. These matches have become an integral part of Queensland’s sporting culture.
Other Sporting Highlights The venue’s versatility has been demonstrated through various sporting events:
AFC Asian Cup matches in 2015, broadening its appeal to football fans
A record-breaking boxing event in 2017, featuring local hero Jeff Horn
The first NRL Magic Round in 2019, bringing all 16 NRL teams to Brisbane for a weekend extravaganza
Photo Credit: Google Maps/Suncorp Stadium
Entertainment and Cultural Impact
Suncorp Stadium has evolved into a premier entertainment venue, welcoming global acts and providing unforgettable experiences for music fans. Notable performances include:
Robbie Williams (2006), marking the stadium’s first major concert after redevelopment
U2, bringing their iconic sound to Brisbane
Ed Sheeran (2018), breaking attendance records with 53,272 fans
Taylor Swift (2021), captivating audiences with her star power
P!nk (2024), continuing the tradition of world-class entertainment
These events have not only entertained locals but also attracted visitors to Brisbane, boosting tourism and the local economy.
Photo Credit: Google Maps/Suncorp Stadium
Community Connection
Alan Graham, Suncorp Stadium General Manager, highlighted the venue’s importance: “There’s a whole generation who have never known the stadium by any other name than Suncorp Stadium. Suncorp’s sponsorship has helped ensure the stadium retains its status as one of the most exciting and entertaining stadiums on the planet.”
The stadium’s impact extends beyond sports and entertainment. It has become a symbol of Queensland’s resilience, a gathering place for communities, and a source of pride for locals. From hosting charity events to providing a platform for local talents, Suncorp Stadium continues to play a vital role in the social fabric of Brisbane.
Professional football clubs begin using the ground
1953
Rugby becomes the dominant sport at Lang Park
1962
Construction of Frank Burke Stand begins
1994
Renamed Suncorp-Metway Stadium after renovations
1999
Major upgrades to achieve world-class status
2003
Hosts Rugby World Cup matches
2006
First major concert (Robbie Williams) after redevelopment
2008
Hosts Rugby League World Cup semi-final and final
2011
Severely impacted by Brisbane floods
2015
Hosts AFC Asian Cup matches
2017
Record attendance for boxing event
2018
Ed Sheeran breaks attendance record
2019
Hosts inaugural NRL Magic Round
2021
Extends naming rights agreement with Suncorp
2022
Quickly recovers from floods, hosting events within two weeks
2024
Celebrates 30-year naming anniversary
As Suncorp Stadium celebrates its 30-year naming anniversary, it continues to be a beloved icon, bringing together Queenslanders for unforgettable sporting and entertainment experiences. The venue mirrors Queensland’s growth and ambition, making it an integral part of the state’s identity.
Suncorp Stadium, formerly known as Lang Park, celebrated its 30-year naming anniversary this year, marking three decades of partnership between Suncorp Group, Stadiums Queensland, and operator ASM Global.
This collaboration, which began in 1994, stands as one of the longest-lasting stadium partnerships both in Australia and globally.
From Cemetery to Sporting Ground
The cemetery in 1917, now underneath Lang Park or Suncorp Stadium (Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)
The stadium’s rich history stretches back to 1914 when it was established on the site of the former North Brisbane Cemetery, also called Paddington Cemetery and Milton Cemetery. In its early days, Lang Park hosted a diverse array of sports, including cycling, athletics, and soccer.
The venue’s original name paid homage to John Dunmore Lang, a Scottish-born Australian Presbyterian minister renowned for his advocacy of Australian independence and republicanism, and who was instrumental in bringing migrants directly to Brisbane.
The Birth of Suncorp Stadium
Photo credit: Justin Fattorini/Google Maps
The stadium underwent a significant transformation in the 1990s. Following major renovations, the venue once known as “The Cauldron” was rebranded as Suncorp-Metway Stadium, later simplified to Suncorp Stadium. This change marked the beginning of a new era for the iconic Queensland venue.
The Battle of Brisbane: A Historic Event
Throughout its history, Suncorp Stadium has played host to numerous memorable events, but perhaps none more significant than the “Battle of Brisbane” in 2017.
This boxing match between Manny Pacquiao and Jeff Horn is widely regarded as the biggest in Australian history. The fight drew a crowd of 51,052 spectators, with stadium officials securing a special exemption to increase seating capacity to 60,000 for the event.
The bout itself was a closely contested affair. Horn, the local underdog with a record of 16-0-1 (11 KOs), faced off against the legendary Pacquiao, who entered the ring with an impressive 59-6-2 (38 KOs) record.
Photo credit: Jeff Horn/Facebook
In a controversial decision, Horn was declared the winner by unanimous decision, with judges scoring the fight 117-111, 115-113, and 115-113 in his favour. Despite the contentious outcome, the event solidified Suncorp Stadium’s place in sporting history.
As Suncorp Group reflects on three decades of significant events that have impacted the Queensland community, they have also reaffirmed their commitment to the venue. This dedication ensures that Suncorp Stadium will continue to be at the heart of Queensland’s sporting and cultural life for years to come, hosting events that bring the community together and create lasting memories.
