Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 2 of 43

ALIA Gelato Brings Traditional Italian Scoops to Milton

Milton residents and visitors have a new dessert option, with ALIA Gelato opening in the heart of the suburb’s dining strip. Founded by Alessia Anibaldi, this store offers small-batch gelato made using traditional Italian techniques, with classic flavours and seasonal ingredients.

The store is in the Park Road precinct, directly across from the entrance to Milton Station and close to established local businesses, including Arrivederci Pizza. Its location places it among one of Milton’s best-known food and dining areas.

The gelato shop had its soft opening in February 2026, and it has been full steam ahead for March.

Ms Anibaldi previously worked internationally in development and humanitarian roles before turning her attention to gelato-making. She later trained in Sicily under pastry and gelato maestro Nino De Pasquale before opening the Milton store.

The menu centres on traditional Italian techniques combined with local ingredients and seasonal flavours. Classic options such as pistachio, stracciatella and strawberry are available, alongside rotating specials that change with the seasons. The shop also offers fruit sorbets made with real fruit.

Local produce plays a key role in the business’s approach. Ms Anibaldi says they work with local producers and prioritise seasonal ingredients in their recipes. The business also promotes sustainability measures, including home-compostable packaging.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Alia Gelato (@alia.gelato)

On its website, the company describes the shop as a neighbourhood meeting place where locals and visitors can drop in for a scoop, linger over dessert or share a treat with friends. The business has also flagged future collaborations and community initiatives as it grows.

With its traditional Italian gelato methods and focus on local, seasonal ingredients, ALIA Gelato adds another dessert stop to Milton’s Park Road precinct.

Published 12-March-2026

Reality Check at Red Hill: 5 Surprising Truths from the Broncos’ Tough Round 1 Start

A historic shutout, 18 errors and a tactical gamble that misfired — Brisbane’s title defence began with a harsh reality check.

The stage was set for a coronation at Suncorp Stadium. On a humid Friday night, 45,566 fans packed the stands to welcome the 2025 premiers back home, expecting the Brisbane Broncos to reinforce their status as the NRL’s new gold standard. Instead, it turned into a sobering reminder of how hard defending a title really is.

In a performance described by a veteran observer as “shambolic,” a side that etched its name in history only months ago suddenly looked out of sync. The hunters may have become the hunted overnight, and the transition from chasing the crown to defending it is proving anything but simple.

The heaviest fall of the modern era

The 26-0 scoreline was more than just a loss; it was a statistical shock. By failing to register a single point in front of their home crowd, the Broncos suffered the heaviest Round 1 defeat of a defending premier in the history of the NRL. A shutout of this magnitude hurts because it exposes problems on both sides of the ball at once.

As noted in the official NRL record, the result echoed a moment from nearly four decades ago: “It was the biggest win against a premier in the opening round of the season since 1988 when the Broncos beat Manly 44-10 in the club’s first game in the NSWRL Premiership.”

For Brisbane to find themselves on the other side of that statistic 38 years later is a reminder that premiership hangovers can be real. The good news for Broncos fans is that Round 1 doesn’t define a season.

Madge’s ‘Super Sub’ plan didn’t quite land

In a late tactical gamble, Michael Maguire attempted to replicate part of the 2025 Grand Final blueprint. Veteran Ben Hunt was elevated to the starting five-eighth role, with Ezra Mam shifted to the bench just an hour before kickoff. With Cory Paix starting at hooker, the plan appeared to be using Hunt’s control early before unleashing Mam later as a spark against a tiring defensive line.

But the Broncos never quite generated the platform needed to make it work. Without sustained field position or pressure, Penrith’s defence stayed fresh. When Mam entered in the 30th minute with Brisbane trailing 10-0, he had little space to work with.

It was less a failure of the idea and more a reminder that even clever tactics rely on a forward pack winning the early exchanges.

A messy night for the spine

Perhaps the most frustrating part for Broncos fans was seeing a usually electric spine struggle to click.

Reece Walsh, often capable of turning a match in seconds, endured one of those nights when nothing quite falls your way. The most memorable moment came in the 27th minute when a clearing kick ricocheted off teammate Xavier Willison in an accidental-offside moment that summed up Brisbane’s luck.

Overall the Broncos made 18 errors and completed at just 61 percent. As Maguire noted post-match, when you hand over that much possession, fatigue inevitably follows.

That fatigue showed up defensively with 40 missed tackles, and Penrith’s edges took advantage. Thomas Jenkins’ double highlighted just how sharp the Panthers can be when given space.

Penrith remind everyone who they are

While Brisbane looked like a side still finding its rhythm, Penrith looked like a team determined to remind the competition they remain a force.

Nathan Cleary marked his 100th game as captain in style, while Dylan Edwards delivered a commanding performance from fullback. Edwards finished with 166 metres and a try, repeatedly inserting himself into attacking movements.

The Panthers’ defensive grit was just as telling. Their effort to hold Kotoni Staggs over the line late in the half became one of the defining moments of the night and underlined the discipline that has defined Penrith’s success in recent seasons.

A worrying pattern, but not panic stations yet

This loss also follows the 30-24 defeat to Hull KR in the World Club Challenge, where Brisbane trailed 18-4 at halftime. Slow starts are starting to form a pattern, and that is something the coaching staff will want to address quickly.

There are also longer-term questions looming with Payne Haas confirmed to join the South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2027. For now, however, Haas remains a key part of the Broncos’ engine room, and the squad still contains plenty of elite talent.

Right now it feels less like a structural crisis and more like a team still adjusting to the pressures of defending a premiership.

The road ahead

The Broncos now return to the Clive Berghofer Centre to review the tape before a challenging run against the Eels, Storm and Dolphins.

The standard set in 2025 was always going to be hard to maintain. Round 1 was a harsh reminder of that.

Is the Broncos’ lack of cohesion a fixable coaching tweak, or have the Panthers just exposed an architectural flaw in the champions’ armor?

For now, the core of this side seems to still be strong. If the discipline and cohesion return quickly, the Broncos have more than enough talent to steady the ship and remind everyone why they lifted the trophy only months ago.

Published 3-March-2029

Queensland Reds Face Crucial Early Test Against the Highlanders in Milton

Photo Credit: Adapted from an image from the Reds Media Team

This isn’t just Round 2. This is where seasons either steady, or start to slip.

After a 36–12 season-opening loss to the Waratahs, a game that remained within reach past the hour mark, the Queensland Reds return for a Friday night match to their spiritual and competitive centre, the Suncorp Stadium in Milton.

With key Wallabies returning, combinations re-forming and a home crowd behind them, this is Queensland’s first real chance to define 2026 on their terms.

Match details
Friday, 27 February 2026
6:35pm AEST (Brisbane time)
Suncorp Stadium, Milton
Watch live on Stan Sport

The Caxton Street walk will feel different this week. Sharper. More urgent. The noise won’t be hopeful. It will be expectant.

The Context: Lessons From Sydney

The scoreline in Sydney flattered the Waratahs late. For over an hour, the Reds were in the contest. But at this level, margins harden quickly.

Captain Fraser McReight has spoken about two priorities since that night:

managing referee dialogue in high-pressure moments
tightening the “little moments” that accumulate over 80 minutes

There has been no talk of overhaul at Ballymore — only improvement.

Across the competition, the benchmark has already been set. The Brumbies’ 50–24 dismantling of the Crusaders in Christchurch signalled that Australian sides can dictate terms. McReight has acknowledged it as a standard to chase, but without emotional overreach.

The Reds’ focus remains internal.

Reinforcements: Experience Returns

In Round 1, Queensland carried an injury list of 11 players, including influential Wallabies skipper Harry Wilson and both frontline flyhalves, Tom Lynagh and Carter Gordon.

This week looks different.

Wilson returns at No.8 in his seventh Super Rugby season, fresh from inclusion in World Rugby’s 2025 Dream Team of the Year. His presence restores balance to the back row.

Gordon starts at flyhalf for his Reds Super Rugby debut, as a player who first signed with the club at 17 and now gets his moment under lights at Suncorp. He partners Sunshine Coast product Louis Werchon in the halves.

Lynagh remains sidelined as coach Les Kiss maintains a measured approach following a disrupted 2025 season that included concussions and hamstring issues. The club is prioritising longevity over urgency.

Four additional Wallabies strengthen the 23-man squad, including Filipo Daugunu, Josh Nasser and Kalani Thomas off the bench.

Team List Breakdown

Queensland Reds Feb 27 lineup at Suncorp Stadium — As of Feb 25. Photo Credit: Facebook/Queensland Reds

This is a side selected for control and physical authority.

Front Row:
Aidan Ross, Matt Faessler and Zane Nonggorr form an all-Wallabies trio capable of setting scrum tone early. Jeffery Toomaga-Allen reinforces the platform late.

Second Row:
Josh Canham and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto provide height and edge at lineout and in contact.

Back Row:
Joe Brial, Fraser McReight (c) and Harry Wilson — breakdown pressure, defensive volume and carry power in balance.

Halves:
Werchon’s tempo and Gordon’s tactical kicking will dictate field position.

Midfield and Backfield:
Hunter Paisami and Josh Flook provide directness through the middle, while Jock Campbell’s composure at fullback remains essential against a Highlanders side known for variation.

Impact Bench:
Daugunu offers finishing strike. Harry McLaughlin-Phillips provides flexibility at No.10. Kalani Thomas is capable of shifting momentum late.

This is not experimentation. It is reinforcement.

Highlanders Bring Continuity and Experience Off the Bench

The Highlanders arrive in Brisbane backing continuity for their first away game of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.

Head coach Jamie Joseph has made just two changes to the starting XV that fell four points short in a narrow loss to the Chiefs in Round Two.

Will Stodart has been promoted to the starting side with Oliver Haig shifting to the bench, while Adam Lennox comes into the No.9 jersey and Folau Fakatava moves to the reserves.

The bigger story may be on the bench.

After Henry Bell and Josh Bartlett filled reserve front-row roles last week, Soane Vikena and Daniel Lienert-Brown are set to provide impact against Queensland. This is a clear injection of experience as Joseph looks to ensure his side finishes stronger than it started.

The Highlanders coach acknowledged the challenge awaiting in Milton.

“The Reds are coming off a bye and they’ve got a proud record at home,” Joseph said.

“Our game is growing, and we’re working hard on the small details that will help us deliver a more complete 80-minute performance. We’ll need that level of accuracy and intensity if we’re going to get the job done on Friday,” he added.

For a side that pushed the Chiefs deep into the contest, the message is clear: Brisbane is about precision across the full 80.

Why Suncorp Matters

The Reds have won 10 of their 14 matches at Suncorp Stadium across the 2024 and 2025 seasons in Super Rugby Pacific.

The venue compresses noise. Momentum builds quickly. Visiting teams feel pressure compound.

Hooker Matt Faessler described it this week as a “unique ecosystem” — the Caxton Street run-in, the proximity of the crowd, the surge once Queensland gain ascendancy.

For both sides seeking early-season traction, there is no better stage.

The Run Ahead

Friday is the immediate focus, but the schedule sharpens quickly: (All schedules as of press time)

ACT Brumbies (away) – Saturday, 7 March, 6:35pm
Waratahs (home) – Friday, 14 March, 6:35pm
Fijian Drua (away) – 21 March, 1:35pm

That stretch will shape the narrative of the opening month.

A win over the Highlanders does more than level the ledger. It builds authority before facing Australian heavyweights again.

The Stakes

The Reds have reached the semi-finals in each of the past two seasons. The ambition in 2026 is to go further.

The Waratahs sit unbeaten. The Brumbies have fired an early statement.

Queensland’s response begins in Milton.

Kick-off is 6:35pm AEST at Suncorp Stadium, streaming live on Stan Sport.

By full-time on Friday night, we’ll know whether this was simply a home fixture, or the moment the Reds re-established their edge.

Under lights. At Suncorp. With the season waiting.

Published 26-February-2026

Milton Suncorp Stadium Concert Cap Lifted To 21 Under One-Year Trial

Photo Credit: Suncorp Stadium

Milton’s Suncorp Stadium will be permitted to host up to 21 concerts in 2026 under a one-year trial, increasing the number of live music dates at the inner-city venue.

Cap Increase At Milton Suncorp Stadium

The annual concert limit at Suncorp Stadium has risen from 12 to 21 for 2026 following a temporary amendment to the Major Sports Facilities Regulation 2014.

The cap had previously doubled from six to 12 after an earlier trial period. The latest change is set to operate for one year, after which it may be reviewed.

Suncorp Stadium is expected to welcome around 250,000 patrons across approximately one and a half weeks as it hosts the Australian exclusive of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and three concerts by Ed Sheeran.

Impact On Sporting Fixtures

The expanded Milton Suncorp concerts schedule coincides with major sporting competitions held at the venue.

Brisbane Roar relocated its February 28 A-League Men match against Perth Glory to Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe following concerns about pitch recovery after recent major events and ahead of the Ed Sheeran shows.

A stadium spokesperson previously stated that while the field would be prepared in time for the Queensland Reds v Highlanders match, extended flooring coverage can affect grass coverage and appearance in ways that may impact certain football codes differently.

Brisbane Roar has experienced fixture adjustments in previous seasons, including missing the opportunity to host a home Australia Cup final in 2023 due to venue availability.

The Super Rugby season also overlaps with the peak concert period. However, the Queensland Reds have indicated they do not intend to shift fixtures away from Suncorp Stadium.

Milton Suncorp concert — Photo Credit: Suncorp Stadium

Operations And Community Response

Concert staging at Lang Park can involve temporary generators, significant bump-in and bump-out processes and street closures to support production requirements.

Sample polling conducted last year found 56 per cent of nearby residents were open to raising the concert cap. Public comments have also highlighted concerns about sound levels, consultation processes and public transport access.

The one-year Milton Suncorp concerts trial will apply throughout 2026, with the arrangement subject to review after evaluation.

Published 22-Feb-2026

Broncos Players Back $750,000 Fundraiser For Sunshine Coast Child

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

Brisbane Broncos players Reece Walsh and Ezra Mam have used their platforms to support a $750,000 fundraising campaign for a Sunshine Coast child seeking cancer treatment overseas. The Brisbane Broncos play their home games at Suncorp Stadium in Milton.

Appeal For Overseas Treatment

Tessa Perry, from Palmview on the Sunshine Coast, is living with relapsed Stage 4 neuroblastoma. She was first diagnosed in November 2023 and has undergone chemotherapy and two bone marrow transplants. After initially being cleared, the cancer later returned.

Her family has said they were advised there are no remaining curative options available in Australia and are now pursuing specialist treatment in the United States.

A GoFundMe campaign titled “75,000 People to SAVE Tessa” was created with a target of $750,000. The page shows $464,802 raised from about 14,500 donations, alongside calls for 75,000 people to contribute $10 each to reach the goal.

donate now

Broncos Players Promote Fundraiser

The Brisbane Broncos players promoted the appeal on social media, encouraging donations and raising awareness of the family’s situation. The posts linked donations over $25 to entry into a prize draw.

The incentive structure outlined that the highest verified single donation received before 6 p.m. AEST on Sunday 1 March 2026 would receive a major prize. Additional prizes, including match-worn items and game-day experiences, were to be drawn from eligible donors who contributed $25 or more. Winners were set to be announced at 6 p.m. AEST on Monday 2 March 2026.

childhood cancer fundraiser — *Photo Credit: Nash Dawson/Instagram*

Recent Updates And Community Support

A campaign update dated 13 February said Tessa and her mother were admitted to Queensland Children’s Hospital after she experienced two fevers. The update said she was started on intravenous piperacillin while tests were conducted, with an MIBG scan scheduled to monitor the disease.

On 21 February, Make-A-Wish Australia arranged a snow-themed experience for Tessa at Area 51 in South Brisbane, noting she was not medically cleared to fly interstate.

Organisers continue to call for donations and sharing as efforts progress towards the $750,000 target for overseas treatment.

Published 25-Feb-2026

Brisbane Broncos 2026 Season Preview: Suncorp Set to Ignite the Broncos’ Title Defence

In Milton, the NRL season starts before the first whistle.

On Friday night, March 6, the lights will rise over Suncorp Stadium as the Brisbane Broncos launch their premiership defence against the Penrith Panthers — and once again, the spiritual home of rugby league in Queensland will sit at the centre of the NRL world.

The Broncos arrive as defending 2025 premiers, having broken their title drought last season with a grand final win over the Melbourne Storm. Now, the challenge is sustaining that success under head coach Michael Maguire, who enters his second season in charge after delivering silverware in his first year at the helm.

A Champion Core Returns to Milton

Much of the premiership spine remains intact.

Captain Adam Reynolds continues to steer the side with experience and composure, while dynamic fullback Reece Walsh returns after a Clive Churchill Medal performance in the 2025 Grand Final.

In the halves, Reynolds combines with Ezra Mam to give Brisbane speed and unpredictability on the edges, while the forward platform built around Patrick Carrigan remains central to the club’s defensive identity.

There are changes around the edges. Selwyn Cobbo has moved to the Dolphins for 2026, Kobe Hetherington has joined Manly, and veteran Martin Taupau retired at season’s end. New additions including Grant Anderson, Tom Duffy and Aublix Tawha add depth as Brisbane reshapes its rotation.

Hooker Billy Walters is recovering from an ACL injury and is expected to miss the early rounds, while Brendan Piakura is listed as targeting a Round 3 return.

Round 1: Under Lights at Lang Park

The 2026 campaign opens with a preliminary final rematch that already carries narrative weight.

Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy said in a club statement last year the club could not have scripted a better start.

“There’s no better way to start 2026 than under lights at Suncorp Stadium, in front of our members and fans,” Donaghy said.

“No one could forget that energy and atmosphere at home against Penrith in the prelim – it was one of those defining Broncos’ moments.

“To open the new season against Penrith, at home, that’s the kind of stage we want and will set the tone for 2026.”

Penrith also enter the season among the premiership contenders, with halfback Nathan Cleary cleared to play in the season opener following a successful judiciary challenge earlier this month.

For Milton, it means a Friday night crowd, a national television audience, and the first major sporting event of the NRL calendar played on home soil.

Three of Four at Home

Brisbane’s early draw ensures Suncorp Stadium will feature heavily in the opening month:

Round 1 – Friday, March 6: Panthers (Suncorp Stadium)
Round 2 – Thursday, March 12: Eels (Suncorp Stadium)
Round 3 – Friday, March 20: Storm (AAMI Park)
Round 4 – Friday, March 27: Dolphins (Suncorp Stadium)

Three home games in the first four rounds provide the Broncos with a chance to establish momentum in front of strong attendances — and for the Milton precinct to settle back into its familiar game-day pulse.

Projected Round 1 Outlook

Official team lists are confirmed in the week of each match, but based on trial form and 2025 combinations, a projected Round 1 line-up could resemble last year’s premiership backbone.

Walsh at fullback, Reynolds and Mam in the halves, Carrigan anchoring the middle, and a forward rotation including Payne Haas, Corey Jensen and Jordan Riki would represent continuity rather than overhaul. Interchange roles may feature emerging forwards such as Xavier Willison and Ben Talty alongside new recruit Aublix Tawha.

The emphasis is stability — not reinvention.

A Big Year for Suncorp

Beyond Round 1, Suncorp Stadium will again host some of the sport’s biggest fixtures in 2026. For Milton, that means a sustained calendar of major events stretching well beyond the premiership season.

Magic Round returns from May 15–17. State of Origin Game III is scheduled for July 8 at Suncorp, with Women’s State of Origin Game II to be played in Brisbane on May 14. The Broncos NRLW side opens its home campaign at Suncorp on July 4 as part of a double-header. Later in the year, Brisbane will host the Men’s and Women’s Rugby League World Cup Finals on November 15.

Milton’s Front-Row Seat

For residents and business owners around Castlemaine Street and Caxton Street, the Broncos’ title defence isn’t a distant storyline — it plays out at the end of the road, amidst a weekly rhythm that defines Brisbane’s winter sporting calendar.

The Broncos are favourites — and deservedly so after 2025.

But in rugby league, favourites are hunted.

On March 6, under lights at Suncorp, Milton will once again become the epicentre of Queensland rugby league as the chase for back-to-back titles begins.

Published 24-February-2026

West Brisbane Sports Results Feb 20-22

Sat, February 21, 2026 (Allianz Stadium) – A-League – Men – Round 18
• Sydney FC 1 | Brisbane Roar FC 0

Sun, February 22, 2026 (Spencer Park) – A-League – Women – Round 18
• Brisbane Roar FC 0 | Adelaide United FC 2

Sat, February 21, 2026 (St Georges Park – St George Willawong FC – Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 1
• St George Willawong 1 | Broadbeach United 5

Fri, February 20, 2026 (Bulimba Memorial Park – Southside Eagles FC – Field 1) – Kappa Pro Series – Women – Regional Round 1
• Southside Eagles 0 | UQFC 0

Fri, February 20, 2026 (Walton Bridge Reserve – The Gap FC – Field 1) – Kappa Pro Series – Women – Regional Round 1
• The Gap FC 0 | Logan Lightning 2

Sat, February 21, 2026 (Goodwin Park – Olympic FC – Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 1
• Olympic FC 2 | Lions FC 1

Sun, February 22, 2026 (Meakin Park – Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 1
• Brisbane Roar B 1 | Brisbane City 3

Sat, February 21, 2026 (Heath Park – Eastern Suburbs FC – Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 3
• Eastern Suburbs 4 | Brisbane City 2

Sat, February 21, 2026 (Goodwin Park – Olympic FC – Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 3
• Olympic FC 0 | Lions FC 0

Fri, February 20, 2026 (Brisbane Entertainment Centre) – NBL – Men – Round 22
• Brisbane Bullets 77 | Sydney Kings 117

Sat, February 21, 2026 (The Gabba) – One Day Cup 2025-26 – Men – Match 6
• Queensland Bulls 260 | South Australia Men 135

Sat, February 14, 2026 & Sat, February 21, 2026 (2 Day – Wep Harris Oval) – Queensland Premier Cricket – Men 1st Grade – Round 14
• University of Queensland Mens 1st Grade 6-251 | Valley Mens 1st Grade 8-262

Sun, February 22, 2026 (Kerry Emery Oval – One Day) – Queensland Premier Cricket – Women 1st Grade – Round 21
• Sunshine Coast Womens 1st Grade 111 | Valley Womens 1st Grade 9-235

Sat, February 14, 2026 & Sat, February 21, 2026 (2 Day – Trevor Hohns Field) – Queensland Premier Cricket – Men 1st Grade – Round 14
• Sandgate-Redcliffe Mens 1st Grade 6-322 | Western Suburbs Mens 1st Grade 3-324

Brisbane Roar Defender Angie Beard Chasing Historic World Cup Double with Philippines

Pro footballer Angie Beard is preparing for what could be the most significant chapter of her international career – a chance to make history for an entire nation by helping the Philippines secure back-to-back FIFA Women’s World Cup appearances for the first time.

Read: Brisbane Roar Books Three-Year Kit Deal With Spanish Brand Kelme

The Brisbane local has returned to Brisbane Roar, which calls Milton’s iconic Suncorp Stadium home, after an impressive European stint that included matches in Sweden’s top flight and a memorable UEFA Women’s Champions League campaign. Currently training at Spencer Park in Newmarket as the A-League Women’s side prepares for their push toward finals, Beard faces a monumental challenge on the international stage.

In March, Beard will line up for the Philippines at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, with a place at the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil up for grabs. For the Southeast Asian nation, reaching consecutive World Cups would be groundbreaking territory.

Beard said the squad’s determination to qualify for their second straight World Cup, highlighting that such an achievement would be a first in the country’s football history.

A Career Across Continents

The defender’s professional journey has taken her from Brisbane to some of Europe’s most competitive leagues. Beginning with three seasons at the Roar from 2014 to 2017, Beard then moved to Melbourne Victory before heading overseas to Iceland’s KR and Denmark’s Fortuna Hjørring. Her career reached new heights in Sweden’s Damallsvenskan with Linköping FC and AIK.

Playing in the UEFA Women’s Champions League against Arsenal during her Linköping stint stands out as one of the defining moments of her club career, she has said.

Still, the pull of home proved strong. Beard shared with Brisbane Roar media that returning to play in Roar colours had been a long-held ambition, expressing her happiness at finally being back home.

On 13 February, Beard stepped onto Spencer Park for her first start with the Roar in nearly a decade – a match against Sydney FC that ended in defeat. Despite the setback, the defender’s attention remains split between club ambitions and international objectives.

Read: Kayo Stadium to Host Brisbane Roar Match Following Suncorp Stadium Concerns

The Breakthrough

Beard’s international path took a significant turn when she switched from representing Australia – where she had played at under-17 and under-20 levels plus three senior caps for the Matildas – to the Philippines, the country of her mother’s birth. That decision has reshaped both her career and Philippine women’s football.

With 25 international appearances for the Philippines, Beard was instrumental in the team’s groundbreaking journey to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup – the first time the nation had qualified for the tournament.

The Philippines delivered a stunning upset at that World Cup, defeating co-hosts New Zealand 1-0 in Wellington. Sarina Bolden found the net in the 24th minute with a header, giving the Philippines their maiden World Cup goal and victory, while Beard helped anchor a defence that withstood sustained pressure to preserve the clean sheet.

Speaking to Brisbane Roar media, Beard reflected on representing a developing football nation, explaining that the women’s team works hard to generate interest and raise the profile of the sport. She pointed out that their successes highlight what becomes achievable when proper support structures exist.

Facing the Asian Elite

Brazil 2027 will be decided at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, scheduled from 1-21 March across Perth, the Gold Coast and Sydney. The competition serves as the Asian qualifying pathway, with the top six nations earning direct qualification and the seventh and eighth-placed teams advancing to inter-confederation playoffs.

The Philippines find themselves in what many consider the tournament’s most difficult group – Group A – alongside Australia, South Korea and Iran. Their opening fixture pits them against the host Matildas on 1 March at Perth Stadium, once again casting them as underdogs against a tournament powerhouse.

Beard welcomes the test rather than shying from it. She noted that experiencing matches of this magnitude against teams like Australia represents exactly why players pursue the sport, saying footballers aim to compete at the highest level against the strongest opposition, not simply to participate.

According to Beard, the Philippines’ qualification hopes will depend heavily on solid defensive displays and keeping goal margins respectable when facing Asia’s top sides.

Juggling Domestic and International Goals

Despite the looming international tournament, Beard maintains her commitment to Brisbane Roar’s finals aspirations in the A-League Women competition. Coach Alex Smith has publicly praised the signing, crediting Beard with bringing valuable experience and a winning mindset to the team.

This balancing act showcases Beard’s professionalism. She continues her training regime at Spencer Park while working to mesh with a Roar squad that plays its primary home fixtures at Milton’s Suncorp Stadium. In the coming weeks, she’ll head to the Asian Cup – a tournament that could define her place in Philippine football folklore.

Milton’s football supporters who fill Suncorp Stadium for Brisbane Roar matches are backing a player with ambitions beyond personal glory. Beard is working to lift women’s football in a nation still establishing itself on the world stage. Should the Philippines successfully navigate the Asian Cup, it would confirm that their 2023 World Cup appearance marked not a one-off achievement, but the start of sustained growth for Philippine women’s football.

Published 16-February-2026

Kayo Stadium to Host Brisbane Roar Match Following Suncorp Stadium Concerns

Austadiums

Brisbane Roar has relocated its February 28 A-League Men’s match against Perth Glory from Milton’s Suncorp Stadium to Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe after authorities determined the playing surface would not recover sufficiently following an intensive February concert season.

Suncorp Stadium management approached the club to discuss the relocation decision due to shortened recovery time after hosting the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and other major events where patrons and performers require field access. A rugby match scheduled for the evening before the original fixture date added further strain to the surface, with substantial turf replacement required in a compressed timeframe.

The venue relocation announcement comes despite Suncorp Stadium’s confidence the field will be safe and playable for the Queensland Reds match. However, authorities acknowledged from previous feedback that the cosmetic appearance and reduced grass coverage resulting from extended flooring coverage can impact A-League matches more significantly than other football codes.

Kayo Stadium Steps In for Redcliffe Match

After discussions between Brisbane Roar, Suncorp Stadium, Kayo Stadium, the Australian Professional Leagues and Perth Glory, the clubs agreed to proactively relocate the match as the most appropriate course of action. Maintaining pitch quality in line with A-League standards, and meeting player and fan expectations, was central to the decision.

Kayo Stadium in Kippa-Ring has capacity for approximately 10,000 spectators and previously served as Brisbane Roar’s home venue from the 2020-21 season through 2023-24, when the club reduced operational costs by ending its Suncorp Stadium lease. The Redcliffe venue features grandstand seating for 8,975 spectators, 445 corporate seats and standing room, with modern facilities including broadcast-grade lighting installed in 2023.

The stadium is owned by the Redcliffe Dolphins Rugby League Club and serves as home ground for the Dolphins NRL team and Redcliffe Dolphins Queensland Cup side. Brisbane Roar returned to Suncorp Stadium for men’s matches in the 2023-24 season after three years at the Redcliffe base, though announced in September 2025 it would play three home games at Kayo Stadium during the 2025-26 season.

Access and Ticket Information

Brisbane Roar will contact supporters who purchased tickets for the Suncorp Stadium match directly about refund arrangements. Members will also receive details on how to access the relocated fixture at Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe.

Tickets for the Redcliffe match went on sale at 1pm on Monday, 9 February, through the club’s official ticketing channels.

The club apologised to members and fans for any inconvenience caused by the venue change, noting it worked to reach the best possible outcome under the circumstances and appreciates the understanding and continued support of the Roar community.

Kayo Stadium is located at Klingner Road and Ashmole Road in Kippa-Ring, accessible by car or public transport. Kippa-Ring Station on the Redcliffe Peninsula Line sits approximately 2.2 kilometers from the venue, with bus routes 690, 696, 698 and 699 providing connections from the station to stops near the stadium.

Published 12-February-2026.

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Marks 75th Anniversary With Historic Four-Night Run at Milton’s Suncorp Stadium

RACQ

More than 1,000 performers from 13 countries have descended on Milton this week as the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo brings its 75th anniversary milestone show exclusively to Suncorp Stadium from February 12 to 15, marking the first time any act has delivered four consecutive nights at the iconic venue.

Over 800 musicians flew into Brisbane over the weekend to join the globally diverse cast for “The Heroes Who Made Us,” the Tattoo’s 75th anniversary production celebrating the heroes who have shaped and supported the iconic performance over 75 years. The four-night exclusive Brisbane season represents the Tattoo’s first visit to Queensland and one of its most ambitious international stadium productions to date.

Creative Director Alan Lane said transforming over 1,000 cast members into one seamless production in just a few days is the unique challenge that defines the Tattoo. The cast has been undertaking intensive full-scale rehearsals at Suncorp Stadium this week, bringing together military bands, cultural groups, dancers, drummers and pipers, many performing together for the very first time.

Record-Breaking Economic Impact for Milton and Brisbane

The 75th anniversary event is expected to deliver an estimated $39 million economic impact to Queensland, with over 38,000 Tattoo fans traveling from interstate and overseas to attend the Milton performances. Demand has remained exceptionally high, with new ticket releases made available as the show dates approach.

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo to Perform in Milton for 75th Anniversary — Photo Credit: RACQ

Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said the airport has never seen this much tartan on its tarmac, with the gateway playing a vital role in welcoming performers and supporting the logistics that make world-class cultural events possible.

Caxton Street Transforms Into Royal Mile

On Friday, February 13 at 5pm, Brisbane’s Caxton Street will transform into the Royal Mile as marchers from across Brisbane join pipers and drummers from the Tattoo in a ceremonial march down to Suncorp Stadium. The event kicks off at the top of Caxton Street with a big blow by the bagpipers at 6pm, creating a proper welcome for the 75th anniversary performances.

The march celebrates Brisbane hosting a world-record four shows of the Tattoo at Suncorp Stadium, an achievement that organisers say deserves proper fanfare. Residents and visitors are invited to bring energy and noise to make history alongside the international performers.

Globally Diverse Cast Brings 75th Anniversary Show to Life

More than 30 bands and cultural groups will perform in “The Heroes Who Made Us,” including UK Military Bands from the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force, the Combined Military Bands of the Australian Defence Force, Queensland Police Pipe Band, Western Australia Police Pipe Band, Australia’s Federation Guard, His Majesty the King of Norway’s Guard Band and Drill Team, Japan Air Self-Defense Force Central Band, His Majesty’s Armed Forces The Royal Corps of Musicians Tonga, Top Secret Drum Corps, United States Marine Drum and Bugle Corps, and Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band.

Representing Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, Norway, Switzerland, Tonga, the United Kingdom, the United States and more, the cast creates one of the most globally diverse lineups ever assembled for an international Tattoo production.

Brisbane’s First Hosting of Iconic Scottish Tradition

Renowned for stirring music, military precision, cultural displays and dramatic performances set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo draws over 230,000 spectators annually in Scotland and over 100 million more worldwide through international broadcasts. Hundreds of thousands attended previous Australian editions in Sydney (2005, 2010, 2019) and Melbourne (2016).

The 75th anniversary performances will draw visitors from across the country, deliver a boost for Milton businesses, and shine a global spotlight on Brisbane as Australia’s lifestyle capital.

The Brisbane season represents the Tattoo’s return to Australia for the first time since 2019. Cutting-edge lighting, immersive sound design and large-scale visual effects will elevate the performance, blending the timeless traditions of the British Armed Forces with modern storytelling and world-class production innovation.

Final tickets for the 75th anniversary performances on 12 February (Thursday), 13 February (Friday), 14 February (Saturday) and 15 February (Sunday) are available through Ticketek.

Published 11-February-2026.