Milton Residents Encouraged to Attend Sustainable BNE Festival

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.


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

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

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.



Cyclone Alfred Breaks 50-Year Calm

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.

Emergency Preparations Ramps Up 

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.

    Published 4-March-2025

    Milton Residents Demand Climate Action on Third Anniversary of 2022 Floods

    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.

    Milton climate action rally
    Photo Credit: QueenslandConservationCouncil

    Residents Criticise Lack of Climate Action

    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.
    • Displaying ‘Climate Action Now’ signs to raise awareness.
    • Volunteering with local climate organisations to spread the message.
    Climate Action Now
    Photo Credit: QueenslandConservationCouncil

    Looking Ahead: The Need for Urgent Policy Change



    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.

    Published 27-Feb-2025

    Reds vs Moana Pasifika: Queensland Fires Up for Super Rugby 2025 Season Opener

    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.


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


    Reds vs Moana Pasifika

    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.


    Read: Anti-Semitic, Racist Posters Found in Milton, Prompting Police Investigation


    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.

    Published 19-February-2025