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

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

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

A Tour Like No Other

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

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

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

Set List Sneak Peek

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

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

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

Metallica: A Legacy Forged in Metal

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

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

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

When Were They Last Here?

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

Notable Anecdotes and Moments

Photo credit: metallica.com/ Brett Murray

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

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

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

Tickets and Info

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

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

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

Published 16-April-2025

Milton Residents Encouraged to Attend Sustainable BNE Festival

Photo Credit: Sustainable BNE Festival/Facebook

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

Sustainability in Action Returns to Roma Street Parkland

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

Origins and Purpose of the Festival

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

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

Activities and Zones Across the Parkland

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

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

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

Environmental Commitment and Waste Reduction

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

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

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

Access and Amenities

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

RSVP HERE

Community Participation Opportunities

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

Volunteer Application Form

Published 11-Apr-2025

Reds Without Wilson and Daugunu Hoping to Overcome Brumbies

A tough loss at the Chiefs last weekend interrupted a three-win streak and dislodged Les Kiss’s men from the top of the Super Rugby Pacific ladder, but the Reds will take a lot of positives from the battle across the Tasman. The team’s Talisman, Harry Wilson, however, will be on the sidelines for six weeks after sustaining an arm fracture in the game.

The game in Hamilton has been mentioned by many as a potential preview of the final in a few months, the home advantage nudged the Chiefs over the line. The desperately close slide in unawarded try by Harry McLaughlin-Phillips after a fantastic weaving run by the former Brisbane Boys College student, was a big turning point that, on another day, could have given the Reds the momentum they needed to forge ahead.

Harry Wilson’s grubber for Tom Lynagh’s try was a touch of class from the Wallabies skipper, after the game revolved around huge defence from both sides with multiple arm wrestles on each goal line on a wet track. Eventually the Chiefs got on top in the final quarter, the penalties conceded count for the game 12-7 to the Reds was an area that Les Kiss will want to tighten up for the Brumbies clash.

The Reds will be missing Wilson and Filipo Daugunu, who sustained a minor leg injury in the Brumbies clash.

Joe Brial will replace Wilson in the back row and Tim Ryan comes in for Daugunu on the wing.

Les Kiss says that the centres pairing of Hunter Paisami and Dre Pakeho are developing a very strong partnership.

The game will have two centurions as Brisbane-born Brumbies winger Andy Muirhead (after his deft half volley grubber against the Highlanders to score a try) and Tate McDermott will play their 100th game in Super Rugby. Matt Faessler and Zane Nonggorr will hit their 50th Super Rugby milestone.

Whilst the Brumbies are on top in the recent head to head, winning seven out of the last 12 games between the two sides, Les Kiss will feel the Reds (even without Wilson and Daugunu), can beat a Brumbies side who have won twice away from home this season, at the Blues and the Drua (currently sit in the last two spots of the ladder). An unconvincing win against the struggling Highlanders at home last week makes them underdogs.

The game kicks off at Suncorp at 7:35 p.m. on Friday night.

Global Tour Brings Lady Gaga’s MAYHEM Ball to Milton

Photo Credit: Suncorp Stadium

Lady Gaga will perform at Suncorp Stadium in Milton as part of her global MAYHEM Ball tour, marking her first live Australian appearance in over a decade.

A Decade Away: Gaga’s First Aussie Shows Since 2014

Lady Gaga is returning to Australia for the first time in 11 years with three stadium performances, including a show in Milton at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium. Her last visit in 2014 featured arena shows only, with the ARTPOP Ball tour. The 2025 visit includes stadiums for the first time in her Australian touring history.

Her new album, “Mayhem,” which the tour supports, debuted at number one on the ARIA Albums Chart and the US Billboard 200. It also marked her biggest streaming debut, recording 240 million streams globally in its first week.

The Mayhem Ball Milton — *Photo Credit: Lady Gaga/Instagram*

Beyond the Stage: Lady Gaga’s Global Profile

Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, known professionally as Lady Gaga, has established a multi-dimensional career spanning music, film, business, and activism. With estimated global record sales of 170 million, she remains one of the world’s best-selling artists.

Gaga is also recognised for her philanthropic efforts, having contributed to relief campaigns following major global crises including the 2010 Haiti earthquake, the 2011 Tōhoku tsunami, and Hurricane Sandy. Her televised 2020 fundraiser, “One World: Together at Home,” raised $127 million for COVID-19 response efforts.

Through the Born This Way Foundation, launched in 2012, Gaga has led initiatives supporting youth mental health, emotional intelligence, and kindness campaigns.

Mayhem tour — *Photo Credit: Lady Gaga/Instagram*

A long-time advocate for LGBTQ rights, Gaga has actively supported anti-bullying legislation, spoken out against discriminatory policies, and amplified LGBTQ representation globally. She has been recognised by several organisations for her advocacy, including receiving the LennonOno Grant for Peace and the Yolanda Denise King High Ground Award.

Gaga’s influence is also evident in fashion, digital media, and higher education, with multiple institutions offering academic courses analysing her impact on culture, gender, and identity. Her legacy includes being the only female artist with four singles selling over 10 million copies each, and having six of her studio albums debut at number one in the US.

Milton Goes Monster: What to Know About the Show

Gaga’s Milton performance is scheduled at Suncorp Stadium on Tuesday, 9 December 2025, from 7:30 p.m. The venue will operate under its standard event policies, including mandatory tickets for all attendees and supervision requirements for children under 12.

Standing areas are available, though not recommended for patrons under 15 due to sightline and crowd density issues. The ticket limit per customer is four for presales and eight for general release, which opens Thursday, 17 April.

BUY TICKET

SET LIST

From Vegas to Milton: The MAYHEM Ball Tour Expands

The MAYHEM Ball officially begins on 16 July 2025 in Paradise, Nevada. Nine promotional performances in international cities will precede the full tour launch. A total of 48 shows will run through to 12 December, concluding in Sydney.

Announced on 26 March 2025, the tour rapidly expanded from an initial 32 shows due to strong demand. Billboard projects the tour could gross between $100 million and $125 million.

Though originally favouring arena venues to maintain production control, Gaga added the Australian stadium shows following the success of “Mayhem” and fan demand.

The Final Note

Milton’s Suncorp Stadium show will be one of three major Australian events marking Lady Gaga’s return to local stages. As her only Queensland appearance, the Milton show is expected to draw fans from across the region. With the broader tour receiving strong commercial backing, the Australian leg highlights the artist’s enduring reach.

Published 10-Apr-2025

Dolphins Hope to End Suncorp Hoodoo Against Struggling Panthers

Last week’s convincing first win of the season at the Titans 36-10 will bring the Dolphins renewed energy when they run out at Suncorp on Thursday night to host the disastrous Panthers.

Kristian Woolf did a great job of mental preparation that led to four unanswered tries in the first 63 minutes of the game. The Dolphins defence only being breached for the first time in the 69th minute when the game had already been decided.

The Dolphins as a unit made more tackles (352) than the Titans (337), despite dominating on attack. Max Plath led the way with 44 tackles.

Meanwhile the Dolphins ran 1974m to the Titans 1451m, an emphatic difference that ground the Titans defence to a pulp.

The five Dolphins tries came from Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow on nine mins, Daniel Saifiti on 24 mins, Max Plath on 58 mins, Connelly Lemuelu on 63 mins and Jamayne Isaako on 78 mins.

Coming off the back of Herbie Farnworth’s 63m made post contact along with the Hammer and Isaiya Katoa taking strong ground, Katoa making a combined 193m and the Hammer making a combined 190m.

Now did the Panthers ever envisage they would be joint wooden spooners after five games of the 2025 season?

Four consecutive losses (first such run since 2019) to the Roosters (32-38), the Storm (30-24), the Rabbitohs (28-18) and last week hosting the Cowboys (18-22), would seem to be a great time to be playing them. However, the narrow losses suggest that a small improvement by Ivan Cleary’s men would make them favourites at Suncorp, so Woolf will need to have the Phins ready for a massive first half. The Panthers have won nine of their last 10 games at Suncorp.

Ray Stone accepted an early guilty plea for a high tackle so will miss the game and Tom Gilbert comes back in for the Dolphins.

Mark Nichols will move to the Interchange. Max Plath will play Lock and Felise Kaufusi will start in the front row.

Dylan Edwards, Luke Sommerton and Scott Sorensen return for the Panthers.

In his last three games against the Panthers, the Hammer has scored 4 tries.

Buckle up as Ray Hadley would say!

Kick off is at 7:50 p.m.

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

“Firebringer” Brings Prehistoric Comedy to Pip Theatre in Milton

The Pip Theatre in Milton will transform into a prehistoric landscape this April as “Firebringer,” a musical comedy from StarKid Productions, brings its cult-followed story of early humans discovering fire to Brisbane audiences.

The production, from 3 to 12 April, is a collaboration between independent producer Isabelle Quayle and Pip Theatre. It aims to provide a unique and accessible theatrical experience for the local community.

A Prehistoric Story on the Milton Stage

"Firebringer" Brings Prehistoric Comedy to Pip Theatre in Milton — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

“Firebringer” tells the tale of a group of early humans and their chaotic journey after the accidental discovery of fire. The show, known for its humour and catchy songs, has gained a large online following, with original recordings attracting millions of views.

The production team aims to bring this popular story to life with a cast of Brisbane-based actors. The show’s narrative, created by StarKid Productions, known for its viral musical hits, explores themes of community and unexpected leadership within a comedic prehistoric setting. The original production’s song “We Got Work To Do” also became a viral hit on the TikTok platform.

Community and Accessibility at the Forefront

The production strongly emphasises inclusivity, seeking to make theatre accessible to a wider audience. In partnership with Triple E Services, a relaxed performance will cater to individuals with sensory sensitivities and neurodivergent audiences. The production team wanted to provide attendees a welcoming and comfortable environment.

Additionally, an Auslan-interpreted performance will be held on 11 April, in collaboration with Fab Interpreters, to ensure Deaf and hard-of-hearing audiences can fully enjoy the show. These inclusive performances were included to broaden theatre access within the Brisbane community. The production team has also highlighted its focus on showcasing Brisbane’s local talents.

Local Talent Takes the Stage

The production features a cast and crew of Brisbane-based artists, allowing them to showcase their skills. The co-producers have expressed their commitment to supporting independent theatre and highlighting the talent within the local arts scene. The production team highlighted that the show will offer a blend of comedy and music, appealing to a wide range of theatre-goers.

Published Date 19-March-2025

Broncos Look to Maintain Momentum at Suncorp Against Wests

The Broncos will run out at Suncorp on Saturday night, feeling they are looking like championship contenders under Madge Maguire but also knowing that there’s plenty of scope for improvement.

The 12-20 win last week against the Dolphins in front of a soggy 44,278 fans, was the result of one try for each team in the second half — Gehemat Shibasaki grabbing his second after opening the scoring in the 11th minute, Jake Averillo going over with five minutes to go for the Dolphins.

Kotoni Staggs made a big impression on his first game back, running 122 metres from 15 possessions and scoring a crucial try. Haas and Carrigan ran 142m and 114m respectively. But Shibasaki’s 158m from 17 possessions was a massive shift. Payne Haas led the tackle count with 41, Jensen 38, Paix had 36 and Carrigan had 35.

The Broncos carry a very strong record against the Wests Tigers, 23 wins with 9 losses and 1 draw over the 33 matches played, and currently sit third with a 3 wins, 1 loss record. The Wests Tigers have shown better form this season than recent years and carry a 2-2 record, including a very narrow loss last week to the Warriors, 24-26. In that game Terrell May’s try with 20 minutes left was ruled out by the bunker for dropping the ball over the line, that would have put them two scores ahead with 20 minutes left.

Wests will miss Jarome Luai who got a one match suspension from a Grade 2 careless high tackle charge against the Warriors last week. Adam Doeihi comes back after a groin injury.

Last week Terrell May ran 152 metres and delivered three offloads as well as making 48 tackles for Wests.

It’s a game the Broncos will expect to win, but Benji Marshall will feel his side have a sniff.

Reds Dig Deep to Overcome Force and Top the Table — A Statement Win in Brisbane

The Queensland Reds gave their fans something to cheer about on March 29, grinding out a thrilling 28-24 victory over the Western Force at Suncorp Stadium in a performance that was equal parts grit, flair and composure under pressure.

It wasn’t always pretty. In fact, at times, it was downright scrappy. But in a match full of twists, momentum shifts and standout individual efforts, the Reds showed the sort of resilience that hasn’t always been their hallmark in recent years. The reward? Top spot on the Super Rugby Pacific ladder for the first time since 2012 — a milestone that carries real weight for this resurgent side.

A See-Sawing First Half

The Reds burst out of the blocks with a try to Filipo Daugunu inside the opening five minutes, capitalising on a smart lineout play and catching the Force flat-footed. But the visitors answered in spectacular fashion through front-rower Tom Robertson, who galloped nearly half the field like a runaway back-rower to level the scores and silence the Brisbane faithful.

From there, it was end-to-end action. Young flyer Heremaia Murray crossed next for the Reds, only for Carlo Tizzano — rapidly becoming one of the competition’s most consistent performers — to dot down twice for the Force and push his season tally to a record-breaking 10 tries for a flanker.

Dre Pakeho also found the line for Queensland in an impressive outing, standing in for the injured Hunter Paisami, and Tom Lynagh’s flawless goal-kicking saw the sides locked 21-all at halftime.

The Second-Half Slog

The fireworks slowed in the second stanza as both sides tightened up defensively. A penalty goal from Force playmaker Ben Donaldson nudged the visitors ahead 24-21 with just over 20 minutes to play.

Things looked shaky for the Reds when they lost John Bryant to the bin in the 67th minute, reducing them to 14 men. But rather than wilt, they found another gear — and their general, Tate McDermott, was the man to step up.

Returning from the bench, McDermott sniped off a rolling maul in the 72nd minute to cross for what proved to be the match-winner. Lynagh’s conversion iced the game, and the Reds closed out the final minutes with poise and discipline.

What It Means

This was more than just a win. It was a statement.

Without several of their regular leaders — Harry Wilson and Fraser McReight were rested, and Liam Wright remains sidelined with a shoulder injury — the Reds still managed to steady the ship. Ryan Smith, handed the captain’s armband for the first time, was a calming presence in the pack and stood tall when the side needed direction.

The win also showcased the Reds’ depth. Pakeho impressed with both ball in hand and in defence, while Lynagh’s radar boot was vital in such a tight contest. It’s becoming increasingly clear that this isn’t a team relying on a handful of stars — it’s a squad with options, hunger, and belief.

Still Work to Do

Of course, not everything went to plan. The lineout was a glaring issue, with at least 10 opportunities either lost or misfiring. Against stronger sides, those mistakes will hurt. Coach Les Kiss will be keen to address that before they face stiffer tests in the coming rounds.

But when it mattered, the Reds found a way to win — and that’s something they’ve struggled with in seasons past. There’s a steel to this group now, and that bodes well as they head into the back half of the season.

For the Fans

For long-suffering Reds supporters, this season is beginning to feel like a return to the glory days. The team has a spark again — a blend of youth and experience, a game plan that suits their strengths, and players who are standing up in big moments.

Sitting on top of the table isn’t just symbolic — it’s a reminder that the Reds can be contenders again.

And with McDermott back in form, Lynagh kicking with confidence, and a forward pack that doesn’t mind getting dirty, there’s every reason for Queensland fans to believe this side is only just getting started.

Street Spotlight: Wight St, Milton

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Wight Street in Milton stands as a testament to Brisbane’s enduring residential appeal, with its rich history dating back to 1946 when the streetscape was already substantially developed, save for a few vacant parcels.

Today, the street is fully occupied and enhanced by nearby amenities such as Milton Village and Frew Park, adding to its suburban charm. Historical sales data provides interesting insights into the area’s evolution, with records showing 17 Wight Street changing hands for $79,000 in April 1983. The street’s current demographic composition reveals a balanced mix of residents. 55% owner-occupiers typically stay for nearly 8 years, while a notable 28% of residents have called Wight Street home for over a decade, demonstrating the area’s lasting appeal to both long-term residents and newcomers alike.

Wight St, Milton Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 65
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 55%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 7 years and 9 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 28%

Wight St, Milton – As It Looked in 1946

Wight St, Milton in 1946

SOME RECENT SALES ON WIGHT ST, MILTON

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
42 Wight St, Milton	$1,120,000	Oct 2024
36 Wight St, Milton	$1,460,000	Oct 2024
14A Wight St, Milton	$840,000	May 2024
38 Wight St, Milton	$1,300,00	Mar 2024
22 Wight St, Milton	$1,600,000	Mar 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON WIGHT ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
17 Wight St, Milton	$79,000	Apr 1983
18 Wight St, Milton	$258,300	Dec 1999
19 Wight St, Milton	$480,000	May 1996

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Milton in 2024 was $935,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Milton in 2020 was $625,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN MILTON SINCE 2020 : $310,000

The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Milton in 2024 was $403,000
The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Milton in 2020 was $330,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 1 BEDROOM UNIT IN MILTON SINCE 2020 : $73,000

If you know Wight St, Milton well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Broncos vs Cowboys: Madge’s Men Seek Redemption in Home Opener After Mixed Start

The Brisbane Broncos open their home season this Friday, 21 March, against the North Queensland Cowboys, carrying the weight of two performances that have left fans questioning the team’s true identity. Madge’s side enter the encounter with a point to prove after their promising start was derailed in the nation’s capital. Broncos vs Cowboys kick off 7:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Milton Office Building Could Make Way for 30-Storey Residential Tower

Electrifying Start Raises Expectations

Michael Maguire’s Red Hill revolution began with a bang in round one, as Brisbane dismantled the Sydney Roosters 50-14 in a statement performance at Allianz Stadium. The Broncos’ new-look outfit fired on all cylinders, overcoming an early deficit to run in nine tries against one of the competition’s traditional powerhouses.

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The revamped Brisbane midfield showcased a perfect blend of power and precision, with Payne Haas proving unstoppable. Despite observing Ramadan, the front-rower tore through the Roosters’ defence, amassing 145 metres and 11 tackle busts while providing a clever assist for Cory Paix’s try. Alongside Haas, Pat Carrigan excelled in his switch from lock to prop, chalking up 202 metres and setting up Jack Gosiewski with a deft short ball.

The veteran halves combination of Ben Hunt and Adam Reynolds controlled the game with composure and guile. Hunt, in his first appearance back in Broncos colours, orchestrated Brisbane’s opening try and crossed for one himself, while Reynolds’ precision kicking game tormented the Roosters’ outside backs.

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Perhaps most impressive was the performance of Cory Paix, who ended a 553-day NRL exile with a standout showing in the number nine jersey. The hooker’s enterprising play around the ruck provided Brisbane with the zip they needed, while Selwyn Cobbo’s hat-trick out wide put an exclamation mark on a commanding display.

Reality Check in Canberra Exposes Vulnerabilities

The euphoria of round one quickly evaporated as the Broncos came crashing back to earth with a 32-22 defeat against Canberra Raiders.

Brisbane’s imposing forward pack found themselves outmuscled by the Raiders’ duo of Corey Horsburgh and Josh Papali’i. The pair set the tone early with ferocious charges and stinging defence, limiting the influence of Haas and Carrigan. The Broncos’ enforcers were beaten to the punch by a hungrier Raiders outfit, with Brisbane’s completion rate plummeting to just 65% compared to their clinical execution against the Roosters.

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The halves pairing of Reynolds and Hunt struggled to stamp their authority on the game, with Reynolds failing to register a single run in the first half. While Hunt created two tries with pinpoint cut-out passes to Jesse Arthars, he was badly exposed defensively when Canberra’s Matty Nicholson bumped him off en route to the try line.

Most concerning for Broncos fans was the neutralisation of fullback Reece Walsh. The electric number one, who had terrorised Canberra in previous encounters, was restricted to just 51 metres from five runs as the Raiders kicked to open spaces and denied him quality possession. Walsh’s defensive frailties were also exposed, with four missed tackles compounded by four handling errors in a night to forget.

Read: Milton on Alert: Severe Weather and Flood Risks Loom as Cyclone Approaches

Broncos vs Cowboys

The Friday night clash against the Cowboys now takes on heightened significance as the Broncos look to establish consistency under their new coach. For Brisbane to prevail in front of their home faithful, they’ll need to recapture the midfield dominance that laid the platform for their round one success.

Haas and Carrigan must win the crucial battle of the engine room, while Reynolds and Hunt will be eager to demonstrate their combination can flourish even when facing defensive pressure and limited time with the ball.

As they prepare to run out at Suncorp Stadium for the first time in 2025, the Broncos stand at a crossroads in their early-season journey. Will supporters witness the ruthless machine that demolished the Roosters, or the vulnerable outfit that was outmuscled in Canberra?

Published 17-March-2025