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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
Residents of Milton still remember the devastation caused by the 2022 floods when the Brisbane River surged beyond its banks, inundating homes, submerging streets, and displacing thousands. Now, with Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaching, authorities are ramping up emergency measures, including halting ferry services. Many in the community are hopeful that improved preparations will help prevent another disaster.
Tropical Cyclone Alfred is set to be the first cyclone in over fifty years to hit southeastern Queensland. The last storm to directly impact this area was Cyclone Zoe in 1974. The arrival of Alfred is a rare and concerning situation for emergency planners and residents, who are preparing for its potential effects.
Northern Queensland often faces tropical cyclones, while the southeast usually avoids them due to atmospheric conditions. However, Alfred’s unexpected westward shift has put it on a collision course with the coast between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.
Milton & the February 2022 Floods
In February 2022, Milton was significantly impacted by severe flooding caused by extreme rainfall and the overflowing Brisbane River. The floods, part of a broader disaster across southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales, inundated homes, businesses, and infrastructure.
The suburb experienced significant flooding, particularly in low-lying areas near the river. Streets and properties were submerged, with water levels rising quickly. Milton Road, a major thoroughfare, was partially submerged, disrupting transport. Floodwaters also impacted Milton Railway Station.
Many businesses suffered significant water damage, especially those along Park Road and Coronation Drive. Some residents had to evacuate as water entered homes and apartment buildings. Suncorp Stadium’s surrounding areas were affected by flooding, although the venue itself remained largely intact.
The 2022 flood event was compared to the devastating 2011 Brisbane floods, with authorities noting that flood mitigation efforts, such as the Wivenhoe Dam’s controlled releases, helped reduce the disaster’s scale. However, heavy rainfall and catchment overflow still led to widespread destruction.
Transport Disruptions and Flooding Risks
Officials warn that extreme weather could bring intense winds, coastal erosion, and heavy rainfall to Brisbane and its suburbs. As a safety measure, all CityCat and ferry services have been suspended to prevent potential damage from debris and swift river currents.
Ferry Closures
The final CityCat ran at 10:15 p.m. on 3 March, while the last cross-river ferry departed at 11:40 p.m. All terminals shut from midnight until further notice. With no clear timeline for resumption, commuters in Milton and other riverside areas should prepare for increased congestion on roads and public transport.
Brisbane has activated severe weather preparations:
Emergency Alerts
Resource Recovery Centres
As of 6 March 2025:
Free green waste tipping at the Chandler Resource Recovery Center
Sandbag Distribution Points
As of 6 March 2025:
Residents are also being urged to secure loose outdoor items, trim overhanging branches, prepare for potential power outages and pack an Emergency Kit.
During an event, the map will display the predicted flood extent based on advice issued by the Bureau of Meteorology. The advice will comprise the date, time and height (in metres) for the predicted flood peak at the Brisbane River City Gauge (Kangaroo Point).
School Closures
According to Premier David Crisafulli, airports and public schools will remain open at this stage. However, he noted that the situation is unfolding quickly, and authorities are assessing developments in real time. Parents, students, and school staff are advised to follow official channels for the latest updates.
As the cyclone’s path becomes clearer, authorities will provide further guidance. Residents are encouraged to prepare for severe weather conditions and follow instructions from local officials.
Concerned environmentalists and residents gathered along Coronation Drive and Regatta Wharf in Milton to mark the third anniversary of the 2022 floods and show solidarity in demanding positive climate action. The February 27 rally highlighted ongoing concerns about extreme weather resilience and Australia’s high carbon emissions.
2022 Floods: One of Australia’s Worst Natural Disasters
The 2022 Eastern Australia floods were among the most devastating in history. It affected multiple regions, including Brisbane, the Wide Bay–Burnett, Northern Rivers, and Sydney. Heavy rainfall caused the Brisbane River to peak at 3.8 metres. It inundated over 20,000 homes across South East Queensland. The disaster led to 27 deaths. Property damage exceeded $2.5 billion in Queensland alone.
Milton was significantly impacted, with Coronation Drive and surrounding areas submerged. Public transport services were halted. Major highways were shut, and thousands of residents faced power outages. Three years later, concerns remain over Brisbane’s preparedness for future extreme weather events.
Participants at the Milton rally pointed out that despite the scale of devastation in 2022, a comprehensive plan has not been introduced to cut emissions or improve climate resilience. Australia remains one of the world’s highest per capita carbon emitters. The fossil fuel exports produce three times the country’s domestic emissions.
What Locals Are Demanding
Milton protesters called for clear commitments from all political parties to:
Reduce greenhouse gas emissions through stricter regulations on polluters.
Invest in renewable energy and green industries to transition away from fossil fuels.
Improve infrastructure resilience to minimise future flood damage.
Hold corporations accountable for their environmental impact.
How the Community Can Get Involved
Advocates encourage Queenslanders to take action by:
Emailing election candidates to demand stronger climate policies.
While recovery efforts have helped rebuild Brisbane’s flood-affected areas, experts warn that climate-related disasters will become more frequent and severe without immediate action. The Milton rally is a reminder that Queenslanders are not willing to wait another three years for progress.
The Queensland Reds are set to kick off their 2025 Super Rugby Pacific campaign with a formidable lineup. Head coach Les Kiss has named ten Wallabies in the starting XV for Friday, 21 February, night’s clash against Moana Pasifika at Suncorp Stadium. Reds vs Moana Pasifika kick off 6:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
Moana Pasifika will be led by 94-Test All Black Ardie Savea, whose leadership and experience in high-pressure matches will be crucial for the visitors. The Reds will need to be at their best to counter a side that showcased its attacking firepower last weekend, crossing for six tries against the Western Force.
In an exciting development for Queensland rugby, 21-year-old prop Massimo De Lutiis will make his Super Rugby debut. The 128kg tighthead has impressed in the Reds International Program, earning six Queensland caps against international opposition. Reflecting on his journey, De Lutiis expressed his gratitude for the mentorship he has received from the Reds’ experienced front-rowers. “It’s been a long journey, and it’s satisfying to see the hard work pay off,” he said. “I’ve learned so much from the experienced front-rowers here.”
The Reds’ backline will be guided by the dynamic combination of captain Tate McDermott at scrumhalf and Tom Lynagh at flyhalf. In the forward pack, the established trio of Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson, and Seru Uru will be key to setting the platform for success.
Head coach Les Kiss is confident in his squad’s preparation following their pre-season tour in the UK. “The boys are eager to play in front of family, friends and fans at Suncorp Stadium after months of hard work,” he said. “We’ve refined our game plan and strengthened our attack. Now, we need to execute and play to our strengths.”
Depth To Be Tested Amid Key Absences
The Reds will be without key forwards Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and co-captain Liam Wright due to injury, testing their squad depth early in the season. However, the strength of the bench highlights the squad’s resilience, with Wallabies representatives Matt Faessler, Zane Nonggorr, and Angus Blyth ready to make an impact.
With the passionate home crowd behind them, the Reds will be eager to start their campaign with a statement victory and build on their finals appearances from the past two seasons. The season opener promises to be an intense and entertaining contest, setting the tone for what lies ahead in 2025.
Beyoncé‘s highly anticipated “Cowboy Carter” tour has been announced, but Australian fans have been left wondering whether Suncorp Stadium in Milton will be included in the lineup. While no Australian dates are confirmed, industry insiders suggest a late-2025 or even 2026 stop in Brisbane could still be on the cards.
It has been over a decade since Beyoncé last performed in Australia, with her 2013 “The Mrs. Carter Show” tour grossing $40 million. Brisbane has historically been a key stop, with her 2009 “I Am… World” tour. Despite skipping Australia entirely on her 2023 “Renaissance” tour, Beyoncé’s touring pattern suggests that a Q3/Q4 2025 Australian leg is possible. If the tour extends into 2026, a Milton concert at Suncorp Stadium could be a reality.
Why Suncorp Stadium in Milton is the Top Contender
As Brisbane’s premier stadium venue, Suncorp Stadium has hosted major international acts, including U2, Ed Sheeran, and Taylor Swift. With its 52,500-person capacity and central location in Milton, it remains the top choice should Beyoncé extend her tour to Australia.
Currently, Suncorp Stadium has limited major events confirmed for late 2025, leaving prime dates open. The only major concerts locked in are Metallica’s M72 show on November 12 and a Broncos home game on September 4. If Beyoncé announces Australian dates, Milton is well-positioned to host her return.
Australia’s Country Music Boom & Beyoncé’s Market Appeal
One of the strongest indicators for an Australian leg of the “Cowboy Carter” tour is the growth of country music in Australia. Data from Spotify confirms that Australia is now the third-largest country music market in the world, behind the U.S. and Canada.
Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” album debuted at No.1 on the ARIA Albums Chart in April 2024, demonstrating strong demand for her country-inspired music in the region. By July 2024, the album remained on the ARIA Top 40 Country Albums Chart, showing continued local interest.
Given this success, an Australian tour stop aligns with market trends, making a 2025 or 2026 Brisbane concert highly probable.
While Beyoncé has not yet confirmed Australian dates, experts believe there is still a strong chance of a late-2025 or early-2026 tour extension. The current tour schedule is only a few months long, which leaves room for additional international stops.
Given past patterns, demand in the Australian market, and Suncorp Stadium’s availability, Milton could very well be part of Beyoncé’s next major tour announcement.
On 7 February the offensive material was found at the corner of Baroona, Milton, and Park roads.
Shocking Hate Posters Discovered at Busy Milton Intersection
The posters, which included a hateful message targeting multiple ethnic groups, were swiftly removed by Brisbane City Council after concerned locals reported them.
They read: “Anzacs died for a white Australia, Jews, ch–ks, Arabs and blacks f … off.”
Queensland Police, including counter-terrorism officers, launched an investigation to identify those responsible.
Anti-Semitic and Racist Posters Condemned
Brisbane’s Acting Mayor, Fiona Cunningham, strongly condemned the posters saying to “stomp it out when we see it.”
She also criticised those responsible for the “repulsive” action to exploit the Anzacs during council meeting on 11 February. All of that “to spread hate and create division within the community.”
Mayor Cunningham pointed out that the timing of the incident—just after the 80th anniversary of Auschwitz’s liberation—made it even more distressing.
This isn’t an isolated case. Between October 2023 and 9 February this year, council received 93 reports of racist and anti-Semitic incidents. The highest number came from West End, Toowong, and South Brisbane.
Similar hate-filled material was recently distributed in letterboxes in Moorooka and Annerley. Meanwhile, Paddington saw a similar incident last year.
To counter rising concerns, interfaith church groups recently issued an open letter expressing solidarity with Brisbane’s Jewish community.
The rise in anti-Semitic and racist incidents across Brisbane highlights a growing concern for the community. These posters in Milton are just one example of the disturbing trend seen in multiple suburbs over the years.
With police investigating and local leaders condemning the act, there is a strong push for greater vigilance and action against those spreading hate.
Milton’s historic Lang Park is set to become Brisbane’s heartbeat at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, with the iconic stadium hosting ten international matches, including six pool games, two round-of-16 clashes, and two quarter-finals.
This highly anticipated tournament will bring world-class rugby action right at our doorstep, transforming the suburb into a global sporting destination. With Lang Park hosting more matches than any other venue except Sydney’s Olympic Stadium, the tournament will cement its status as one of the premier locations for the competition.
Beyond the thrill of the games, the economic impact is expected to be significant. Local businesses in Milton and surrounds are preparing to welcome an influx of international visitors over the six-week event. Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell projects that Queensland will see over $212 million in visitor spending, with a substantial share flowing into cafés, restaurants, and accommodation providers. The tournament will not only showcase world-class rugby but also highlight Brisbane’s hospitality and vibrancy on the global stage.
Lang Park : The Perfect Stage for an Expanded Tournament Format
The 2027 tournament introduces an expanded format featuring 24 teams, up from the traditional 20-team structure. This expansion means more matches, more visiting teams, and extended opportunities for Brisbane locals to experience international rugby culture. The new format introduces a round-of-16 phase, adding another layer of excitement to the knockout stages.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner has emphasised Brisbane’s reputation as Australia’s lifestyle capital, affirming that Lang Park will provide “the perfect stage for an unforgettable tournament experience.”
Building Towards Brisbane’s Golden Decade of Sport
The Rugby World Cup is a pivotal milestone in Brisbane’s path to hosting the 2032 Olympic Games. From 1 October to 13 November 2027, Lang Park will be transformed into the epicentre of rugby celebrations, drawing fans from around the world. As Brisbane prepares for a golden decade of international sporting events, this tournament will offer a glimpse into the city’s ability to successfully host major global competitions.
An emotional night awaits at home as Brisbane Roar not only aim for back-to-back victories but also prepare to bid farewell to club legend Scott Neville on Friday, 31 January, in a milestone match that will mark the end of his illustrious 18-year career. Roar vs Western Sydney Wanderers kick off 6:35 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.
The 36-year-old defender is set to become just the eleventh player in A-League history to reach the prestigious 300-game milestone. Earlier this month, Neville celebrated his 100th appearance for Brisbane Roar, an achievement made even more remarkable by his resilience in returning from an eleven-month ACL injury layoff. His farewell fixture adds another layer of significance to what is already a crucial contest for the Roar.
Brisbane enter the clash with renewed confidence after securing a thrilling 4-3 victory over Sydney FC, their first away triumph against the Sky Blues since 2018. The performance highlighted the team’s attacking prowess, with Ben Halloran, Henry Hore, Adam Zimarino, and Lucas Herrington all finding the net in a memorable display. That win ended a five-game winless streak and injected fresh momentum into the squad ahead of Neville’s farewell.
Head coach Ruben Zadkovich’s squad could see an exciting addition, with Young Socceroos forward Nathan Amanatidis in contention to make his Roar debut. The 19-year-old, awaiting domestic transfer clearance, is known for his sharp attacking instincts and could provide an immediate boost to Brisbane’s frontline. Meanwhile, Hore’s return to Suncorp Stadium following his K League stint with Gangwon FC adds another dimension to the team’s attacking options.
The ninth-placed Wanderers arrive in Brisbane determined to spoil Neville’s farewell after suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to league leaders Auckland. With the A-League table still tightly contested, they will be eager to turn their fortunes around and climb higher up the ladder.
For Neville, the occasion carries a touch of irony. “It’s kind of a full-tilt moment that my last game will be against Western Sydney Wanderers,” he reflected. “But the main priority is the three points.”
As the Roar faithful prepare to say goodbye to one of the A-League’s most enduring figures, Friday night’s clash transcends the usual fixture list. It’s a moment to celebrate resilience, loyalty, and the pursuit of victory—one final chance to honour a club legend while maintaining crucial momentum in the season.
