A New Gem in the City: Ardo’s Wine Now Pouring in Milton

Ardo’s Wine has opened a trendy wine bar and cellar door in Milton’s vibrant neighbourhood. This new establishment enhances the local wine scene and provides a modern, industrial atmosphere for the community to enjoy Brisbane-made wines.



Since launching its flagship location in Newstead in March 2023, Ardo’s Wine has rapidly expanded its footprint across Brisbane.

In just 12 months, it has burgeoned into a significant presence with three additional locations in Graceville, Hawthorne, and now Milton, which opened its doors on 9th of March 2024. 

Ardo’s signature design features a sleek combination of rosy marble tops and polished concrete, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere for wine enthusiasts at each venue, including the latest in Milton.

A Shift Towards Local Excellence

Milton’s cellar door opening marks a significant shift for Ardo’s Wine, highlighting City Winery’s customised wines. Ardo’s now serves as a direct gateway to City Winery’s cellar, easily accessible from one’s neighbourhood. 

This move aligns with City Winery’s philosophy of supporting local communities and independent vineyards, strengthening the relationship between local winemakers and their customers.

One notable addition is the expanded selection of City Winery’s own artisan wines, made from carefully selected Australian grapes that highlight the country’s diverse viticultural landscape. Ardo’s Milton also features a self-service wine tap for carafes, as well as a unique wine-blending experience that allows customers to create their own customised wines.

Beyond Wine: A Gastronomic Delight

Ardo’s has expanded its food options beyond pintxos-style snacks and now offers a more diverse selection of cheeses, charcuterie, and accompaniments to complement its extensive wine selection.

This change is aimed at providing guests with an ideal setting to create their ideal grazing board and enhance their overall Ardo’s experience.



Ardo’s Wine’s expansion, culminating in the opening of its Milton location, marks a significant moment for Brisbane’s wine culture. By creating a space that is as much about community as it is about wine, Ardo’s invites locals and visitors alike to explore the rich tapestry of Australian wines in a setting that feels both elevated and accessible.

Follow them on Instagram for updates.

Olympic Plans Reimagined: Brisbane Arena Plans Overhauled After Review

The independent review into the venue plans for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics and Paralympics has been completed and it recommended major changes to the flagship Brisbane Arena project.


Read: Brisbane Broncos Faithful in for Thrilling Ride with 2024 NRL Fixtures


The long-awaited $2.5 billion arena, designed by Populous, was originally proposed to be built over the Roma Street rail lines in Brisbane’s inner city. However, the review panel has advised against proceeding with that location due to significant costs and disruptions it would cause to rail services.

Key Findings:

  • Building over the Roma Street rail corridor would result in a “significant and costly impact” on the rail signalling system.
  • Around 40 percent of rail services through Roma Street Station would need to be suspended for over two years during construction.
  • An additional 200 buses, not accounted for in the $2.5B budget, would be required to provide rail replacement services.
  • The projected construction timeline leaves little buffer for potential delays on such a complex site.
Photo credit: Populous

Instead, the review recommends relocating the Brisbane Arena, also known as Brisbane Live, about 500 metres away to a site currently occupied by a car park and maintenance depot, just north of the Roma Street Parkland. This would avoid the major rail disruptions whilst still positioning the arena in a central transport hub location.

The review panel considered several alternative sites for the Brisbane Arena, including Roma Street car park/depot, Parmalat, Visy, Queensland Police HQ, River Stage Precinct, Spring Hill, and Victoria Park. Most were deemed unviable due to issues like land acquisition costs, need to relocate existing operations causing program risks, flooding risks, site constraints, and inadequate size or proximity to transit. 

Photo credit: Nils van Wanderberts/Google Maps

Based on the analysis provided, the panel concluded the Roma Street car park/depot site north of Roma Street Parkland is the only viable option that can deliver the arena in time for the 2032 Games. This location also provides an opportunity to better integrate the arena with the surrounding urban environment compared to the original over-rail plan.

Photo credit: Google Street View

The panel advised that appropriate vehicular access, pedestrian links, and underground parking need to be incorporated into the new arena design on the alternative site. Upgrades would also be required to widen and improve accessibility along the pedestrian pathway linking the site to Roma Street Station.

Perhaps most significantly, the review estimates the total cost of the revamped project is “anticipated to be in excess of $4 billion” once all the associated works are factored in. This is well above the $2.5 billion budget previously agreed with the Australian government for Olympic funding.

A decision on investing in the project is required by early 2025 to ensure the Arena’s completion by early 2031, providing adequate time for pre-Games test events.


Read: Matildas Create History with Thrilling Penalty Shootout Win Over France


The Queensland government will now need to decide whether to proceed with the recommendations and find a way to fund the higher price tag for this major 2032 Games venue. With just over a decade until the Opening Ceremony, getting the Brisbane Arena plans finalised is a critical early step.

Published 19-March-2024

Broncos vs Rabbitohs: Revamped Lineups After Vegas Disappointments

The Brisbane Broncos and the South Sydney Rabbitohs, both coming off disappointing Round 1 losses in Vegas, are set to make changes to their respective lineups as they prepare to face each other in Round 2. Broncos vs Rabbitohs kickoff at 7:00 p.m. AEST at Suncorp Stadium on March 14.

Read: Brisbane Broncos Faithful in for Thrilling Ride with 2024 NRL Fixtures

Broncos vs Rabbitohs lineup changes

For the Broncos, Brendan Piakura, who was ruled out of their season opener against the Roosters after failing his Head Injury Assessment, has been named in the back row. Corey Jensen receives a promotion to the starting lineup, bumping Martin Taupau to the bench.

Captain Adam Reynolds will also suit up despite a knee issue sustained in Round 1.

The Rabbitohs, on the other hand, will be without Jai Arrow, who sustained a shoulder injury. Starting in his place will be Tallis Duncan. Shaquille Mitchell will also make his first appearance of the 2024 season, coming onto the bench to replace Jacob Host.

Recent matchups

Selywn Cobbo
Selywn Cobbo scored 20 tries in 24 games for Brisbane in 2023. Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos

The Broncos have the recent edge, winning three of the last four clashes against the Rabbitohs. Centre Kotoni Staggs continues to dominate the Bunnies, scoring six tries in seven games.

On the other hand, the Rabbitohs have won their last four games at Suncorp. The Broncos will aim to shatter this streak, leaning on winger Selwyn Cobbo’s impressive record of 20 tries in his last 18 appearances at the venue.

Read: Uncovering Clovelly: A Journey through Time in Auchenflower

With both teams carrying the disappointment of Round 1 losses in Las Vegas, the match promises to be a closely contested affair.

Published 13-March-2024

Dolphins vs Cowboys: Bromwich Talks Lineup Choices for Season Opener at Suncorp Stadium

The Dolphins prepare to kick off their NRL season opener against the North Queensland Cowboys at Suncorp Stadium this Sunday, March 10 at 3:05 p.m. Dolphins skipper Jesse Bromwich sheds light on the team’s lineup choices for the highly anticipated matchup.

Read: Brisbane Broncos Faithful in for Thrilling Ride with 2024 NRL Fixtures

Jesse Bromwich on the lineup

Tesi Niu
 Tesi Niu lost 8 kilograms during his impressive pre-season. Photo Credit: The Dolphins

Dolphins captain Jesse Bromwich provides insights into the selections and omissions for Sunday’s clash against the Cowboys at Suncorp Stadium.

Bromwich praises Tesi Niu’s determination and impressive pre-season efforts, which have earned him a place in the starting side. “He’s impressed not only the coaching staff but all the players as well – the determination to get those things done,” Bromwich says.

Kodi Nikorima’s utility and consistent performances last season have secured his spot, according to the captain. “He fixed a lot of positions for us last year and he’s another one… he’s had a really good pre-season.”

Bromwich also commends Nikorima’s leadership qualities, noting his willingness to share his knowledge with younger players.

Max Plath’s versatility and exceptional work ethic during the pre-season have earned him a place in Bennett’s side. Bromwich likens Plath’s style of play to Tom Gilbert, praising his energetic approach and ability to link the backs and forwards.

Sights set on another strong start

Bromwich, who plans to retire at the end of the season, has never lost a round one game in his NRL career. The skipper is is keen to maintain that record against the Cowboys.

He expects a similar level never-give-up attitude from the team that propelled them to a strong inaugural season.

Read: Developer Brings Rooftop Vision to Life with ‘Ruby Ruby’

The Dolphins captain is also looking forward to the continued support from the fans, recalling the energy and enthusiasm they brought to the stands last season.

Published 08-March-2024

Brisbane Broncos Faithful in for Thrilling Ride with 2024 NRL Fixtures

The Brisbane Broncos will embark on a historic 2024 NRL Telstra Premiership season, with games scheduled in the United States, Australia and New Zealand. The Broncos home season begins against the Rabbitohs in Round 2 at Suncorp Stadium in Milton.

Read: Pink’s Electrifying Show at Suncorp Stadium: Your Ultimate Guide

Vegas opener sets stage for homecoming blockbusters

The Broncos will face the Sydney Roosters in Las Vegas in the “main event” season opener double header on March 2. They will make history as one of just two NRL sides to play in Australia, New Zealand and the United States in one season

After a bye week, Brisbane will welcome fellow USA travellers the South Sydney Rabbitohs on March 14. The Broncos then travel to Penrith for a Grand Final rematch before the Queensland XXXX Derby against the Cowboys on March 29 — with the game being a tribute to legend Carl Webb.

Opens 2024 ‘Battle’ against Dolphins at home

The Broncos’ first three home games conclude with a bang when they host the Dolphins on April 12 for the first “Battle of Brisbane” matchup of 2024. This rivalry will be put on hold after Round 6, as the Queensland foes will not meet again until the penultimate round of the regular season.

To add fuel to the fire, Herbie Farnworth and Thomas Flegler will now suit up for the Dolphins after joining them in the offseason. Both will aim to prove themselves against their ex-club, while former teammates are eager to show the Farnworth and Flegler what they’re missing.

Reynolds re-signs through 2025

Adam Reynolds
Captain Adam Reynolds before their flight to Vegas. Photo Credit: Facebook/Brisbane Broncos

In other news, the Broncos have just secured a major coup with star halfback and team captain Adam Reynolds inking a one-year extension through 2025.

The veteran playmaker will finish his illustrious career in Brisbane at age 35 after re-upping his contract prior to the 2024 Vegas opener.

Read: Brisbane Lions Poised for Another Strong Regular Season

Friday Night Lights and strong home stretch

The Broncos are scheduled for the most Friday night home games in 2024, with five Friday night matches set for Suncorp Stadium.

They will also play most of their last ten matches in Queensland, with just one out-of-state trip to Newcastle scheduled during the run home. See their full schedule here.

Published 24-February-2024

Tom Lynagh to Start at Flyhalf As Reds Name Team For Waratahs Clash

Amid fierce competition, Tom Lynagh earns a start at the No.10 position as the Queensland Reds announce their starting lineup for their highly anticipated Round 1 match against the NSW Waratahs at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night.

Read: Pink’s Electrifying Show at Suncorp Stadium: Your Ultimate Guide

Nine Wallabies named

QLD Reds vs NSW Waratah
Here’s how the team will lineup against the Waratahs. Photo Credit: Instagram/Queensland Reds

Head coach Les Kiss has named nine players with Wallabies experience in the starting lineup, including co-captains Tate McDermott and Liam Wright. 

Twenty-year-old Tom Lynagh has been given the nod to start at flyhalf ahead of Saturday’s clash. Lynagh gained valuable Super Rugby experience last season and will look to use that in steering the Reds around the park.

“I’ve got good options at No.10 and this week it is Tom Lynagh’s opportunity.”

Three potential debutants named on bench

Three players are in line to make their Super Rugby Pacific debuts if called upon from the bench – flyhalf Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, backrower John Bryant and Irish lock Cormac Daly.

McLaughlin-Phillips and Bryant are Queensland juniors who earned their first Reds caps against Japan last year. Daly joined the Reds from Sydney club Randwick and previously represented Ireland Under-20s.

Queensland v NSW, a classic rivalry

Saturday’s match reignites one of rugby’s great rivalries between the Queensland Reds and NSW Waratahs. Both sides will be eager to start their Super Rugby Pacific campaigns with a win.

Read: ‘Art of Courage’ in Milton Illuminates the Unyielding Spirit of Ukraine

According to Coach Kiss, Reds versus Waratahs matches bring out the best in the rivalry between the states. The Reds have won the past three games against the Waratahs at Suncorp Stadium and will look to continue that streak.

Published 22-February-2024

Pink’s Electrifying Show at Suncorp Stadium: Your Ultimate Guide

Did you know that long before Pink became a singer-songwriter and attained pop music icon status as the first non-British to have won the 2019 Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to British Music, she was at various times in her life a skateboarder, hip-hopper, and gymnast? The colourful, multi-faceted artist is currently in Brisbane to perform a series of electrifying performances before packed crowds at the Suncorp Stadium.



The superstar, aged 44, is expected to mesmerise around 40,000 fans with her two-hour shows on Friday and Saturday, 16 and 17 February 2024. She will return at the Suncorp Stadium on 19 March 2024 for the final leg of her tour in Australia.

The shows this February weekend in Milton are expected to commence at 8:30 p.m., with the opening act by Tones and I.

Pink’s last visit to Brisbane was in 2018 as part of her “Beautiful Trauma” World Tour, making this concert a long-awaited event for her loyal Australian fans. Joined by her husband Carey Hart and their two children, Willow, 12, and Jameson (7), Pink promises a spectacular show filled with her greatest hits, aerial performances, and her trademark infectious energy.

Pink at the Suncorp Stadium
Photo Credit: Pink/Instagram

About Pink

Born Alecia Beth Moore on 8 September 1979, in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, U.S., Pink is an American singer and songwriter renowned for her rock-influenced pop songs, powerful voice, and dynamic concerts filled with gymnastics. Raised amidst her parents’ divorce, Pink harboured dreams of becoming a singer from an early age. She began performing in Philadelphia clubs as a young teenager and later sang backup for a hip-hop band. 

Eventually, she ventured into songwriting and joined the R&B band Basic Instinct before transitioning to the all-female R&B group Choice. It was during this time that she adopted the stage name P!nk, partly inspired by the character Mr. Pink from Quentin Tarantino’s film “Reservoir Dogs” (1992). 

After Choice disbanded, Pink embarked on a successful solo career, releasing her debut album “Can’t Take Me Home” in 2000, followed by albums like “M!ssundaztood” (2001) and “I’m Not Dead” (2006). Her hit singles include “Get the Party Started,” “Just Give Me a Reason,” and “What About Us.” Beyond music, Pink has appeared in films, supported various causes, and served as a UNICEF ambassador. 

She married Hart, a motocross racer, in 2006.

Setlist

Here’s the expected setlist:

  • Intro Montage
  • Get the Party Started
  • Raise Your Glass
  • Who Knew
  • Just Like a Pill
  • Try
  • What About Us
  • Heartbeat
  • Turbulence
  • Glitter in the Air
  • Make You Feel My Love
  • Our Song
  • Just Give Me a Reason
  • F**kin’ Perfect
  • Just Like Fire / Heartbreaker
  • Please Don’t Leave Me
  • Cover Me in Sunshine
  • When I Get There
  • I Am Here
  • Irrelevant
  • Are You Gonna Fall?
  • TRUSTFALL
  • Blow Me (One Last Kiss)
  • Never Gonna Not Dance Again
  • aerial stunt; extended intro & outro
  • So What


Tickets

Ticket sales opened in August 2023 but those late to the party still have a chance to grab seats. Whilst VIP packages for Brisbane’s show are already sold-out, fans can choose from general admission tickets, especially for the 19 March 2024 show, starting at $178.50, to the premium Gold Circle Standing tickets at a steeper $311.00. 

Transport and Parking

Suncorp Stadium recommends arriving early to avoid last-minute rush.

Ticket holders are encouraged to utilise free public transport on Brisbane bus and train services. Special Event shuttles will also commence at 4:30 p.m. from various city and suburban hubs. 

Attendees are advised to plan their journey using the TransLink website and be mindful of parking restrictions in the surrounding Lang Park Traffic Area. 

Secure Parking at The Barracks on Petrie Terrace offers parking spots available from $75 on Friday and Saturday nights.

‘Art of Courage’ in Milton Illuminates the Unyielding Spirit of Ukraine

“Art of Courage,” an immersive theatre experience that depicts hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Ukrainian people, is nearing its conclusion at the PIP Theatre in Milton.



Running until the 17th of February 2024, this not-for-profit production promises to take viewers on a profound journey through the heart and soul of Ukraine.

Inspiring Empathy and Solidarity Through Storytelling

Through the art of storytelling, the creators of “Art of Courage” aim to inspire empathy, understanding, and solidarity among audiences, fostering a deeper connection with the rich culture and history of Ukraine. The performance serves as a reminder of the profound impact of theatre as a medium for introspection, learning, and cultural exchange.

The idea for “Art of Courage Ukraine” emerged from the personal devastation experienced by creator Sophia Hodych and all Ukrainians during the full-scale invasion by Russia in February 2022. Faced with the question of how to respond, Hodych sought to channel her skills and resources into a meaningful initiative to support children affected by the conflict. The journey from conception to fruition involved years of dedication, collaboration, and the unwavering generosity of Brisbane’s artistic community.

“After an invitation to perform the show at a Meeting of European Theatrical Academies in Florence, Italy, we staged our first iteration of the play. It was a great success with the applause calling actors for encore bows. It took us two years, two directors, five writers, andan exceptional production team of Brisbane’s best emerging artists to put the final version ofthe show together.

All along, creatives were signing up for an overwhelming workload, without any expectation of compensation. This incredible generosity of Brisbane’s artists should instil hope for not only the future of Ukraine but the future of Australia also.

Art of Courage is a wonderfully ambitious undertaking. It’s ambitious in its use of technology and the film theatre fusion. It’s ambitious in its political messaging and the wide array of
historical topics it covers. The cultural and emotional journey promises a unique experience for any audience member. With an interactive set, audiences can choose their own
adventure and which storyline to follow. They’ll be able to come multiple times and witness different human circumstances in times of war.”

Sophia Hodych

Unveiling a Profound Exploration

“Art of Courage” offers a captivating narrative that delves deep into the history, tradition, and indomitable courage of Ukraine. Audiences are meant to be transported through time, experiencing ancient pagan traditions, witnessing haunting readings, and immersing themselves in the bloom of young romances. The quest for the elusive fern flower, symbolizing hope in despair, serves as a central motif, intertwining with tales of resistance against oppression.

All profits from this show will be donated to RAZOM for Ukraine. RAZOM’s initiatives, including toy drives and therapy programs, aim to provide support and aid to children impacted by the ongoing war. 

The collaboration between “Art of Courage” and RAZOM underscores the commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by conflict.



Published 13-Feb-2024

Milton House View Protection Snags Kings Row Approval

The ambitious four-tower Kings Row project proposed for the Milton riverfront has hit a roadblock over protecting sightlines to the heritage-listed Milton House. 


Read: Milton Residents Voice Concerns Over Billionaire Developer’s Ambitious Project


Developer Shayher Alliance seeks to transform the Coronation Drive site into a mixed urban village, but the plan’s scale has drawn scrutiny from state and local entities.

The State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA) postponed its ruling on the 37-storey towers until April amidst worries of obstructed views of the Milton House from the Brisbane River. 

Milton House (Photo credit: Heritage Branch/Queensland Heritage Register)

Constructed from 1852-1853, Milton House served as the residence of pioneering Brisbane chemist Ambrose Eldridge and his politically active family until 1855. 

The landmark home located at McDougall St, was then sold to pastoralist John Frederick McDougall, who expanded the estate and leased it out to a series of prominent tenants, such as Arthur Manning, the Colonial Under-Secretary, Henry Walsh, MLC and speaker of the Legislative Assembly, and James Crombie.

Milton House, Milton, ca. 1870. Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland 

SARA asked Shayher for more time to evaluate compliance with heritage codes safeguarding the colonial homestead’s visibility.

Meanwhile, Brisbane City Council has resumed discussions with Shayher after the company paused the development application process in late December. Over 120 public submissions objected to the proposal’s size, lack of greenspace, traffic impacts and interference with views.

Artist’s impression of heritage view from Coronation Drive (Photo credit: Urbis)

Greens MP Stephen Bates echoed similar community concerns, applauding council officers for highlighting issues like obscured sightlines to Mount Coot-tha. 

Residents also argued that the 30 to 37-storey height violates the City Plan and the Milton Neighbourhood Plan, conflicting with zoning intentions. 

Photo credit: Urbis

Responding to such objections, Urbis, on behalf of the developer, conceded exceeding area building limits but rationalised the towers as suitably bridging Brisbane’s CBD with outer regions amidst the city’s housing shortage.

Photo credit: Urbis

Shayher defended the project in the application as a landmark design suitably transitioning from Brisbane’s CBD whilst providing needed housing.


Read: Historic Homes in Brisbane: Milton House


The $300 million vision would transform 14,780 sqm into a retail plaza surrounded by 30-37 storey towers combining public riverfront access with units, sports facilities and shops. But unlocking Milton’s river edge hinges on satisfying worries about dwarfed heritage vistas. After almost a year in review, the future of the Kings Row project remains clouded by the past.

Published 12-February-2024 

Investigations Underway After Dead Fish Wash Up in Milton, Other Suburbs Near Brisbane River

Hundreds of dead fish have mysteriously appeared along the banks of the Brisbane River over the past few days, including in Milton, sparking an investigation by authorities.


Read: Milton’s Missing Ibis: Bin Chicken Statue Stolen


The dead fish, including species such as mullet, bream, catfish and mud crabs, have also been spotted by residents and passersby in locations along the river including West End, Kangaroo Point, and Indooroopilly.

Experts are studying the exact cause of the mass fish deaths, which have prompted warnings from authorities for people to avoid the affected areas.

Photo credit: Jonathan Sriranganathan/Facebook 

“We’ve received reports of dead fish and crabs in the city reaches of the Brisbane River, spanning from Jindalee to Kangaroo Point. Our environmental officers are on the case and have taken water and fish samples to investigate the cause of these deaths,” the Queensland Department of Environment and Science stated

Whilst some suspect the deaths may be linked to recent flooding in the region, a university professor believes it is unlikely to be caused by freshwater alone. The species found dead are known to be quite resilient in freshwater. The professor believes It could likely be caused by localised spill or some sort of toxic event in the area.

Dead fish at the banks of the river in West End (Photo credit: Jenne Roberts/Facebook)

Some local West End residents agree, saying there was nothing like this after major floods in 2022. However, other long-time residents disagree, recalling mass fish deaths in the river after previous flood events.

Jonathan Sriranganathan, Greens’ candidate for Lord Mayor of Brisbane, stated in a social media post that he observed the river looking very oily over the past few days. He suspects the mass death of fish is connected to an oil spill rather than just stormwater runoff. 


Read: The West End-Milton (Park Road) Ferry Service: A Slice of History


Authorities continue to investigate the cause and have warned people to avoid touching or eating the dead fish as tests are conducted for potential contaminants.

Residents have expressed alarm at the unusual and unexplained fish kill spreading along sections of the river. Queensland Environment says it is collaborating with technical specialists to identify any pollutants that may have caused the sudden deaths.

Published 6-February-2024