As Suncorp Stadium braces for a potentially rain-soaked Magic Round, Queensland Rugby League chairman Bruce Hatcher has reignited calls for a roof to be installed on the iconic Brisbane venue.
With the stadium shortlisted as a potential host for the 2032 Olympic opening and closing ceremonies, Hatcher believes a roof would safeguard future events from the city’s unpredictable weather.
Hatcher, a pivotal figure in Suncorp’s last major upgrade, emphasised the need for Brisbane to have a world-class, all-weather venue to attract international events and competitions. He highlighted that a roof would not only shield major sporting events from the elements but also create opportunities for concerts, boxing matches, and various other activities throughout the year.
The stadium’s turf will face a stern test this week, hosting the women’s State of Origin match on Thursday before the eight-game NRL Magic Round extravaganza. With rain predicted across multiple days, concerns have been raised about the playing surface’s ability to withstand the deluge.
While Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium remains the sole major Australian football stadium with a roof, plans for Tasmania’s new AFL team include a retractable roof.
Hatcher views the potential Olympic renovation as an ideal chance for Brisbane to elevate Suncorp Stadium to new heights. He envisions an expanded capacity of approximately 65,000, making it a fitting stage for global events.
The decision on the Olympic opening ceremony venue will follow the October state election, with both major parties hesitant to make a definitive call beforehand due to the divisive nature of the issue. Suncorp Stadium has emerged as the frontrunner after both parties ruled out major redevelopments at the Gabba or a new stadium at Victoria Park.
Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett has also voiced his support for Suncorp Stadium, emphasising the benefits a renovation would bring to various sports and sectors beyond athletics. He sees this as a golden opportunity to enhance Brisbane’s sporting infrastructure and create a multi-purpose venue for soccer, rugby union, concerts, and other events.
Fifth-placed Queensland Reds will be looking to maintain their winning ways when they host the sixth-placed Melbourne Rebels on Friday, May 10. Reds vs Rebels kickoff 7:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
The Queensland Reds (5-5) are riding high after an impressive 33-28 away victory over the Crusaders last week. That famous win in Christchurch was their first since 1999 and a major confidence booster as they push for a finals spot.
Les Kiss’ side have been propelled by the stellar form of flanker Fraser McReight, who tops the turnovers chart despite a two-game suspension earlier in the season. The returning McReight was instrumental against the Crusaders with a tireless breakdown performance.
The Rebels (5-5), meanwhile, were beaten 53-26 at home by these same Reds back in March. They showed fight with a second-half comeback but were ultimately undone by their poor start.
Much could depend on the Reds ability to replicate their fast starts. Against their last outing against the Rebels, their forward pack laid the platform with a dominant first-half display, offloading frequently to create repeated chances.
Locks Seru Uru and Peni Ravai were destructive carriers that night. If they can provide front-foot ball again, the Reds’ backline of Lawson Creighton, Jock Campbell and the in-form Tim Ryan have the talent to capitalise.
The Reds face their next crucial test in the 5th vs 6th showdown, taking on a desperate Rebels team in a fight for finals survival. Expect fireworks at Suncorp in this high-stakes clash.
Football fans at Suncorp Stadium now have a savoury reason to cheer louder and linger longer, with the opening of The Muster Grill, the latest addition to the stadium’s culinary lineup.
Located on Level 3, opposite Aisle 324, The Muster Grill represents a notable addition to the culinary landscape of Suncorp Stadium. Operated in collaboration with O’Brien Group Australia and Meat & Livestock Australia, this themed dining establishment offers patrons a distinctively Australian gastronomic experience.
Central to the Muster Grill’s ethos is its emphasis on showcasing the finest 100 percent Australian beef selections. In alignment with the stadium’s commitment to culinary diversity, the Muster Grill complements existing concessions, such as the Vegan outlet at Aisle 305, ensuring a comprehensive array of dining options for attendees.
Photo credit: suncorpstadium.com.au
The menu at the Muster Grill features three primary offerings, each highlighting the robust flavours of Australian beef:
Aussie Works Burger: Featuring a succulent 100 percent Australian Beef Pattie complemented by sliced beetroot, crisp cos lettuce, ripe tomato, melted cheese, and hickory smoked BBQ sauce, the Aussie Works Burger is a testament to traditional Australian fare with a contemporary twist.
Beef Tejano Loaded Fries: An amalgamation of TexMex-inspired flavours, the Beef Tejano Loaded Fries present slow-cooked pulled brisket atop a bed of hot chips, accompanied by smoked BBQ sauce, black bean salsa, sour cream, diced tomato, and melted tasty cheese, delivering a harmonious blend of savoury and spicy elements.
Beef Brisket Hoagie: Crafted with tender slow-roasted Beef Brisket, smothered in smokey BBQ sauce, and nestled within chipotle coleslaw, all ensconced within a freshly baked hoagie roll, the Beef Brisket Hoagie offers a satisfying culinary experience reminiscent of classic comfort food.
Complementing these main offerings, the Muster Grill provides a selection of refreshments and snacks, including gluten-free pies, soft drinks, water, chips, lollies, and crisps, catering to a diverse range of preferences.
Photo credit: Nick Haines/Google Maps
A notable feature of the Muster Grill is its dedication to quality and authenticity. The 12-hour slow-cooking process employed for the Australian Beef Brisket underscores the commitment to delivering superior flavour and tenderness, reflecting the culinary team’s unwavering standards of excellence.
Whether attending a sporting event or seeking to savour the essence of Australian cuisine, patrons are invited to experience the culinary delights of the Muster Grill. With its discerning menu, attentive service, and distinctly Australian ambiance, it promises to be a destination of choice for discerning diners at Suncorp Stadium.
The Brisbane Broncos receive a significant boost for Friday night’s blockbuster clash against the Sydney Roosters, with Ezra Mam and Selwyn Cobbo returning from injury to slot into the starting line-up. Broncos vs Roosters kicks off 8:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
The club’s six-game winning streak at home will be on the line as they seek redemption against the side that defeated them in the historic Vegas opener.
Cobbo’s comeback from a shoulder issue sees him reclaim the centre position, pushing Jesse Arthars back to the wing and omitting Corey Oates from the 17-man squad. Meanwhile, Mam’s recovery from a finger injury allows him to slot back into the pivotal number six jersey, replacing Jock Madden.
The Broncos enter the contest brimming with confidence after their 34-10 thumping of the Wests Tigers last weekend. Captain Adam Reynolds displayed a masterclass in playmaking, while the forward pack led by Pat Carrigan, Payne Haas, and Kobe Hetherington laid the platform.
Despite the Tigers’ sin-binning and sustained pressure, Brisbane’s resolve was unwavering. Their efforts were rewarded with two tries on both sides of the break, including Reece Walsh’s long-range effort after a pinpoint Reynolds kick.
The Broncos have made Suncorp Stadium a formidable fortress, winning their last six games at the venue. However, they faced a stern test against the Roosters in the season’s curtain-raiser in Las Vegas, going down 20-10 in a clash mired with controversy.
While emotions could run high given the racial abuse incident in the previous game, Reynolds insists the Broncos have moved past it. “It’s another game for us,” he said. “We have moved past it and addressed it as a club. I’m sure [the Roosters] have too. It is another opportunity to play our brand of football and get better.”
As the home fans rally behind their side, the stage is set for an enthralling encounter, with the Broncos eager to maintain their winning ways and avenge their opening loss to the Roosters.
The Queensland Reds have made three changes to their starting XV for the Anzac Weekend Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Blues on Saturday, April 26. Josh Flook’s timely return at outside centre is the headliner, with the experienced campaigner replacing the injured Jordan Petaia. Reds vs Blues kickoff 5:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
In addition to Flook’s inclusion, Angus Blyth comes into the second row for Cormac Daly. Daly is sidelined with minor soreness following the 31-0 win over the Highlanders.
Head coach Les Kiss has also handed 20-year-old speedster Tim Ryan his first run-on opportunity on the wing, with Mac Grealy making way.
Connor Vest and Floyd Aubrey are set for potential debuts, providing cover in the forwards and backs.
Anzac Weekend commemorations
The team will don their special khaki Anzac jerseys for the occasion, paying tribute to the 60 Queensland Reds who served in five wars, with 11 making the ultimate sacrifice.
Introducing the 2024 Queensland Reds Anzac commemorative jersey
The jersey commemorates the strong connections between the Reds and the Australian men and women who served in our armed forces.
Limited stock is available for this one-of-a-kind jersey. Don't miss out, get yours… pic.twitter.com/xiXRiWZXsq
An Anzac service featuring military personnel will be held pre-match, with the Ode read by Wallaroos prop Bree-Anna Browne.
“The boys love the jersey…there is depth of understanding of something bigger than the game,” Kiss said.
Reds vs Blues battle for momentum
Kiss knows his side faces a formidable challenge against the in-form Blues, who thumped the Brumbies last round. “We know the task ahead of us on Saturday,” he said.
While satisfied with recent efforts against Kiwi opposition, Kiss wants an 80-minute display at Suncorp Stadium, where “the boys love it.”
How the Reds will fare against the high-flying Blues remains to be seen, but the substitutions have injected freshness into the starting side for a pivotal Anzac encounter.
Goodwill Projects, the organisation behind popular local markets like the Milton Markets, has been honoured with a prestigious award recognising their excellence in event management.
The Australian Small Business Champion Awards celebrate the vital role that small businesses play in driving the nation’s economy and enriching local communities.
Photo supplied
With over 2.5 million small businesses operating across Australia, comprising a staggering 95 percent of the country’s economy, these awards showcase the outstanding achievements of the entrepreneurs and companies at the heart of this vibrant sector.
Mark Power, Event Coordinator at Goodwill Projects, expressed immense pride in receiving this distinguished accolade.
Photo supplied
“We are honoured to be recognised as the winner in the Event Management category at the 2024 Australian Small Business Champion Awards.”
“This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and vendors, who consistently strive to deliver exceptional events that leave a lasting impression.”
Since being established in 2006, Goodwill Projects has been at the forefront of organising and hosting some of Brisbane’s most beloved community markets, from electrifying live music festivals to culinary extravaganzas like the Food and Wine Festivals.
Photo supplied
Notable highlights include the beloved Teneriffe Festival, the exhilarating Redcliffe Night Fever, the spooky Redcliffe Festival of Frights, and the mouthwatering Kilcoy BBQ & Beer Street Festival, where visitors can indulge in smoky delights and frosty brews. Their expertise even extends to the delightful Barktoberfest, a celebration of our four-legged companions.
Photo supplied
These vibrant events have become a staple in the city’s cultural fabric, offering locals and visitors alike a unique opportunity to explore a diverse array of artisanal goods, gourmet delicacies, and live entertainment.
The Milton Markets, in particular, have garnered a loyal following, attracting thousands of visitors every weekend who flock to the bustling stalls to discover handcrafted treasures, savour delectable street food, and soak in the lively atmosphere. The market’s success is a testament to Goodwill Projects’ meticulous planning, seamless execution, and commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for all who attend.
As Goodwill Projects basks in the glow of this prestigious recognition, they remain steadfast in their mission to continue delivering exceptional events that bring joy, foster community connections, and showcase the very best that Brisbane’s vibrant small business landscape has to offer.
A year after collapsing from a heart attack at an NRL game, a footy fan has emotionally reunited with the Suncorp Stadium staff whose timely intervention and first aid skills saved his life.
In 2023, Douglas Burke, a devoted fan of the Redcliffe Dolphins, experienced a life-threatening emergency during a game against the Melbourne Storm at Suncorp Stadium. Mr Burke was on his way to the restrooms when he collapsed at the bottom of a stairway.
Medical Emergency Response
Stadium staff, including Stand Manager Deb and Errol Phillips, responded quickly. Realising the severity of the situation, they administered CPR and used a defibrillator until emergency services arrived.
The medical response lasted several critical minutes before Mr Burke was transported to Royal Brisbane Hospital.
The staff’s recent first aid training was crucial on the day of the incident. Errol Phillips, who played a significant role in the resuscitation effort, noted that although it was his first real-life application of CPR, the training they had refreshed just weeks earlier prepared them well.
The team’s efforts were so forceful that Mr Burke sustained a broken sternum and ribs, indicative of the vigorous and lifesaving CPR provided.
Mr Burke’s recovery was complete, and he expressed profound gratitude towards the staff for their actions that day, emphasizing the impact of their training and quick response.
After his recovery, Mr Burke returned to Suncorp Stadium to personally thank the staff who saved his life. This reunion, filled with gratitude and emotional exchanges, underscored the importance of trained first responders in public venues.
The emergence of using Recovery Boots after intense physical exercise by professional athletes has now moved into the realms of everyday people in the Milton area. It’s now rare to find pro sports teams not focusing on the recovery process and the science behind recovery boot technology has developed hugely over the last few years.
Fitstop Milton co-owners Mic Linfoot and Gigi Johnson established the first recovery room in the area to enable their clients to benefit from this technology.
“The Normantec Recovery Boots offer the very best massage you will ever have. They are proven to help lymphatic drainage, decreasing pain and soreness, allowing the lower body to recuperate far quicker. The recovery room also has an Infrared Sauna which has an abundance of health benefits and is ideal for that post work-out recovery.”
The recovery room is bolted onto the back-end of their training system which offers a unique program within a supportive community.
The Fitstop system revolves around 4 training blocks per year, each 12-week training block breaking down into 4 phases of 3 weeks each:
Base – Focus is getting back to basics and building or rebuilding a solid base and allowing a little bit of a deload and recovery.
Build – Focuses on starting to build on the foundations of the previous phase and starts to see an increase in the strength part of the programming.
Performance – This is where members start to be tested in terms of fitness and strength capacity through the trackable workouts and lifts.
Peak – The last 3 weeks are where members push their fitness, strength and endurance and see their progress over the previous 9 weeks.
Photo Credit: Fitstop Milton
Members love the Fitstop Milton Community
Mic is very proud of the community he and Gigi have built.
“We know all of the names of our members and their stories and care about what is happening in their lives. People don’t just come here and workout, they come here and make friends that will be with them for a lifetime. We take their fitness very seriously and love the privilege of helping them with their goals,” he says.
The 7.30 Run Club takes place on Sunday mornings “focus on intervals to help people improve their running through shorter run efforts.”
“We open this up to everyone in the community, not just our members as it is a great social Sunday and then we hit the markets after. Just like our gym, run club is for everyone, the pro runners, parents with prams, beginner runners, members who want a Sunday morning jog with their pups – everyone is welcome,” says Mic.
Meanwhile, the Saturday Sweat Pairs are also open to the public, enabling the community to experience firsthand what the workouts entail and join in on the fun.
An example of how much the members love Fitstop Milton was on display a few months ago, when the community bootcamp organised by Mic and Gigi, attracted 240 people, the largest turnout in the Franchise across Australia.
Photo Credit: Fitstop Milton
“All of our members are our ambassadors and have stories of how they have made improvements in their life from not exercising to now running marathons, competing in their 1st powerlifting competition, doing their first triathlon or just being able to chase their kids around and not get out of breath,” says Gigi.
Photo Credit: Fitstop Milton
Gigi was voted Business Woman of the Year for the Cooper area, receiving the award from Jonty Bush, Member for Cooper and Fitstop Milton was also voted the best gym in Inner Brisbane.
Photo Credit: Supplied
How would Mic suggest using the gym?
Mic was asked how he would best use the current special offer of 2 weeks membership for $54.
“The best way to get the most value from our two-week offer is always to start by downloading the Fitstop app and doing a free session first so they can come and meet the team, the community and check out the gym before starting the two-week trial.”
“The goal during the two-week trial would always be to get to gym at least 3 times per week and if people have had a little bit of a break we would suggest having a day off between gym days to allow for them to recover. Monday, Wednesday, Friday is a great start as this lets people see all three styles of training we run and allows that rest in between.”
“We also always let people go at their own pace initially and we use the first few weeks to mainly get them back into a routine of training again and let them settle in as they learn how our sessions work.”
Darren’s Story
Darren is a 55-year-old manager in the scientific industry. He loves Fitstop Milton and what it has done for him. He answered a few questions about his journey:
What was your exercise routine 3 years ago and prior?
“I got a trainer 10 years ago for ‘middle aged spread,’ eventually migrating to group fitness in a park. The trainer was very good and I certainly increased my fitness but it’s limited in what you can do; what exercises are available and muscle groups you can work. Mainly cardio.”
What made you go to the doctors 3 years ago, and what did they find?
“Actually, the whole thing is a journey – I have a condition that was diagnosed 15 years ago. It’s fine but research indicated a potential concern of bone density so my doctor ordered a test in 2019. In a scan of my spine, it showed that I had a bad score, and was in a low bone density range, indicating a potential fracture risk, and would be defined as having osteopenia (next step below osteoporosis). So I was probably fighting the usual bone density decreases of age plus this condition.”
How did you find out about Fitstop?
“Word of mouth. In order to do more lifting and so help with the bone density issue I joined one of the large gym chains. It was OK but I found very limited support in technique or even lifting safety boring and I wasn’t getting much out of it. I was telling a friend at the same gym and she said she was leaving it to join a Fitstop in Milton and I should try out a special they had on. I hadn’t heard of Fitstop before that.”
What was the journey to recovery in terms of bone density?
“It’s great. I have been able to add squats and deadlifts and have significantly increased my lift weights. Not being silly but getting myself to work harder over the last few years.”
“This has meant that in a recent spine scan this year I no longer fell in the low bone density range and my score indicated that I would no longer be defined as having osteopenia. I was in the ‘normal’ range for my age. I am going to keep working to get it up even higher but I was stoked of course. I am not on any drugs to address this issue – it’s been driven by the gym work.”
Why do you think the Fitstop method has helped in that recovery?
“The difference was totally Fitstop. As you age, being able to lift is crucial and not just for bone density. At a regular gym, I knew basically what I wanted to do, but didn’t have the confidence or the knowledge to do the lifts and exercises I wanted safely with decent weight.”
“With the small group size of Fitstop sessions, I got genuinely useful technique instruction on doing my lifts safely. The variability in Fitstop session types and the different stations means it’s never boring so I tend to go more often.”
Are there any other improvements you have found since starting working out with Fitstop?
“Previously having just focused on boot camp/cardio I hadn’t seen much impact on body shape or muscle mass. I find the variability of exercise types and adding the lifting has meant my body shape and posture has improved dramatically and I have added a decent amount of lean muscle mass. But I haven’t neglected cardio – those condition sessions can be tough but are great.”
The Brisbane Broncos will field an unchanged lineup for Saturday’s Round 7 clash against the Canberra Raiders. Jock Madden, Fletcher Baker, Corey Oates, and Jaiyden Hunt retain their starting spots after stellar performances in last week’s win over Redcliffe. Broncos vs Raiders kickoff 5:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
The Broncos had to dig deep against their Queensland rivals, overcoming a sloppy first half to prevail 28-14 over the Dolphins in front of a packed Suncorp. The Broncos were simply too strong, led by monumental efforts from Pat Carrigan (46 tackles, 207 metres) and Selwyn Cobbo.
Prop Corey Jensen says the Broncos are prepared for a physical battle against the Raiders (4-2, third in the league). “They’re a side that plays the long game, they don’t mind getting into a grind.” Jensen stated.
“They love getting down and dirty with teams and that’s something we’re going to have to be ready for.”
Jensen also praised the impact of Broncos (3-3, 10th) young forwards Xavier Willison and Ben Te Kura off the bench. “He’s [Willison] an awesome prospect, same with Benny Te Kura. The sky’s the limit for both those guys with their willingness to learn and get better.”
ANZAC round up next
Introducing our 2024 Anzac Round Commemorative Jersey 🧡
Inspired by Anzac Square, the Queensland State War Memorial, we remember all those who have served abroad and at home in conflict and peacekeeping.
Ahead of next week’s ANZAC round, coach Kevin Walters confirms a quartet of stars will return from injury for the Round 8 match against Wests Tigers.
While not ready this week, prop Payne Haas (knee), winger Deine Mariner (back), captain Adam Reynolds (hamstring), and second-rower Brendan Piakura (ankle) are all expected to play against the Tigers.
The Broncos, gunning for a sixth-straight home win, will need to be at their physical best against Canberra’s grind game. They need to hold on to the home crowd’s support before reinforcements arrive for the ANZAC round.
The Queensland Reds are dealing with a rash of injuries and suspensions as they prepare to host the Highlanders this Friday, April 19. After a narrow 17-14 loss to Moana Pasifika last weekend, the Reds have lost several key players, putting their depth to the test. Reds vs Highlanders kickoff 5:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
Co-captain Tate McDermott and flanker Fraser McReight both received red cards in the match against Moana Pasifika, ruling them out for the upcoming game. Adding to the Reds’ woes, promising forward Seru Uru will be sidelined for up to six weeks after undergoing thumb surgery. Outside Josh Flook (shoulder) will also miss the match.
Head coach Les Kiss acknowledged the challenges his team is facing, calling the situation “not ideal.” However, he remains optimistic about the opportunity to test the depth of the Reds’ roster.
With the absences, Kiss is likely to shuffle his lineup for the crucial clash against the Highlanders. Jordan Petaia could move to outside centre to cover for Flook’s injury, while Mac Grealy is expected to return to the wing.
In the forward pack, Angus Blyth could start in place of the injured Uru, while Cormac Daly is another option to bolster the squad. Kiss may also promote Junior Wallabies back-rower John Bryant to replace the suspended McReight, or shift co-captain Liam Wright to his preferred position at openside flanker.
Reds look to bounce back against New Zealand opposition
The Reds will be eager to bounce back from their surprise defeat against Moana Pasifika, where Queensland lost the lead with less than two minutes to go.
Despite the challenges, Kiss remains confident in his team’s ability to respond and regain their early-season form.
“The opportunity in this now is to give a little bit more exposure to players who were playing off the bench and other players in the program to step up too,” he said.
