Tag: Suncorp Stadium

Broncos vs Roosters: Brisbane Boosted by Cobbo and Mam Returns for Vegas Rematch

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.

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Brisbane reinforcements

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.

Winning rhythm

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.

Broncos vs Roosters, Vegas rematch

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.”

Read: Reunion at Suncorp Stadium in Milton: Footy Fan Meets Staff Who Saved His Life

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.

Round 8 replay

Published 30-April-2024

Reds vs Blues: Queensland Ring in Changes for Anzac Clash

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.

Read: Goodwill Projects Sweeps Event Management Category at Business Awards

Personnel shuffle 

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.

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.”

Read: Reunion at Suncorp Stadium in Milton: Footy Fan Meets Staff Who Saved His Life

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.

Published 26-April-2024

Reunion at Suncorp Stadium in Milton: Footy Fan Meets Staff Who Saved His Life

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.

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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.

Recognition and Recovery

The Suncorp Stadium staff, including Deb and Errol, received a Beyond Expectations Award from the venue for their heroic actions. 

Suncorp Stadium
Photo Credit: Suncorp Stadium

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.

Read: Olympic Plans Reimagined: Brisbane Arena Plans Overhauled After Review

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. 

Published 22-April-2024

Broncos vs Raiders: Unchanged for Canberra Grind, Stars to Return Next Week

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.

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Broncos take the Battle

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.

Brace for a Broncos vs Raiders grindfest

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

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.

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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.

Published 17-April-2024

Reds vs Highlanders: Queensland Forced to Reshuffle Lineup Ahead of Clash

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.

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Injuries and suspensions plague the Reds

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.

Reds vs Highlanders lineup changes

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.

“Fans have come out to support us really well at Suncorp Stadium and we’ll want to atone for sure,” Kiss declared after the loss.

The team will now face a tough stretch of matches against New Zealand opposition, starting with the Highlanders this Friday.

Read: From Classroom to Cafeteria: Milton Kids Reinvent Snack Time

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.

Published 17-April-2024

Broncos vs Dolphins: Contract Wars Add Spice to the Battle of Brisbane

The Battle of Brisbane will have an extra layer of intrigue this week, as the Broncos and Dolphins clash with salary cap pressures adding extra spice to the cross-town rivalry. Broncos vs Dolphins kickoff 6:00 p.m. on Friday, April 12 at Suncorp Stadium.

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Broncos boosted by Walsh return, face tough contract decisions

The Broncos have received a major boost with the return of star fullback Reece Walsh from a facial fracture. He joins Jordan Riki (ankle) in making a timely comeback for the home side.

Their returns are a major boost for the team, especially since captain Adam Reynolds (hamstring) and Payne Haas are still sidelined.

The wealth of talent in the Brisbane side and a looming salary cap crunch could mean tough decisions lie ahead.

The Dolphins have several million dollars in cap space, giving them the financial firepower to target top Broncos players who may not fit under the tightening Brisbane budget. This could reignite contract wars between the two clubs, with names like Selwyn Cobbo and Kotoni Staggs potentially in the Dolphins’ sights.

Two former Broncos, Herbie Farnworth and Tom Flegler, have already joined the Dolphins for this year. However, a late injury setback has forced Flegler to withdraw from the match against his former side.

Staggs doubles down on “our house” claim

Kotoni Staggs
Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos

Broncos centre Kotoni Staggs has already fired the first shot, doubling down on his emotional “this is our house” declaration after scoring the match-winning try against the Dolphins last season.

“It wasn’t really planned,” Staggs said. “Once I scored that try it just came to me. It was the first game we ever played against the Dolphins and I just wanted to let them know who owned Suncorp.”

Broncos vs Dolphins, the battle for Suncorp

The Dolphins share Suncorp Stadium as a home ground with the Broncos, but Staggs made it clear he sees the venue as belonging to the Brisbane club. This is sure to add further spice to Friday night’s encounter.

On the field, the Broncos (2-3) will be looking to bounce back from a narrow loss to the Storm. Meanwhile, the Dolphins (3-1) are flying high at the top of the ladder after three wins out of four.

Read: Pink in Brisbane: Record-Breaking Summer Carnival Tour Culminates in Milton

The Broncos have won both their matches at Suncorp this season. The Dolphins have won one and lost one away from home. This Battle of Brisbane will be the first test of who can assert their dominance over The Cauldron in 2024.

Published 11-April-2024

Reds vs Brumbies: A Blockbuster Backrow Battle Awaits

A blockbuster backrow battle awaits as the Queensland Reds prepare to host the ACT Brumbies this Saturday, March 30. The Reds vs Brumbies Super Rugby double-header kickoff 4:05 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

Read: Olympic Plans Reimagined: Brisbane Arena Plans Overhauled After Review

McReight focused on improvement after Reds’ collapse

Reds vs Force 2024
Photo Credit: Facebook/Queensland Reds

Reds flanker Fraser McReight is determined to put last week’s error-riddled 40-31 upset loss to the Western Force behind him as the Reds aim to rebound from disappointing defeats for both their men’s and women’s teams.

McReight acknowledged that Queensland were far from their best in Perth. He identified their set-piece play and preparation for away games as key areas for improvement.

“It’s on the road where it’s going to be very challenging,” he says.

“We’ve got some tough opponents coming up on the road, going to NZ, going to Fiji. It’s a great test, and we’ve just got to learn how the group goes together on away trips, how we can better prepare ourselves.”

He is also eagerly anticipating the matchup against the Brumbies’ in-form loose forward unit.

“They’re very athletic, aren’t they? Brumbies have a great backrow, they always have. I think it’s going to be a great match-up on the weekend,” McReight says.

Reds vs Brumbies : Queensland seek redemption after previous blowout defeat

Reds vs Brumbies 2023
Photo Credit: QLD Reds Rugby

With the memory of last year’s 24-52 home loss to the Brumbies still fresh, the Reds are determined to exact revenge.

“It’s always been such a close game, fortunately for them they were able to knock us over last year at Suncorp which is probably still hurting a few of us, so really really looking forward to this weekend.”

Read: Broncos vs Cowboys: Brisbane Look to Spoil Undefeated Queensland Rivals

The double-header kicks off with the Super Rugby Women’s clash at 4:05 pm, followed by the Super Rugby Pacific match at 6:35 pm.

Published 23-March-2024

Pink in Brisbane: Record-Breaking Summer Carnival Tour Culminates in Milton

American singer Pink, also known as Alecia Beth Moore, has expressed profound gratitude towards her Australian fans as her 20-day Summer Carnival tour in Australia shatters records and concludes in Brisbane with a grand finale at Suncorp Stadium in Milton.

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Pink, 44, took to Instagram to thank her fans for their unwavering support over the past two decades, as her tour set new benchmarks in Australian music history. 

Among the achievements, Pink’s tour boasted the highest ticket sales for any tour by a female artist in Australia. Notably, Pink’s tour comprised the most stadium shows ever performed by any regional artist, solidifying her status as a powerhouse performer.

With over 3.1 million tickets sold, she became the first singer to perform 20 stadium shows across Australia and New Zealand in a single tour, cementing her status as one of the most iconic international performers Down Under.

The tour also marked significant attendance records at iconic venues, including Allianz Stadium in Sydney, Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, and Eden Park in Auckland. Michael Coppel, Chairman of Live Nation Australasia, lauded Pink’s unparalleled talent and enduring connection with her Australasian audience, predicting even greater success in her illustrious career.

A Family Day Out at Koala Sanctuary

After her monumental success on stage, Pink shared glimpses of her offstage adventures with her family. Joined by her husband Carey Hart and their two children, Pink enjoyed a memorable day at a koala sanctuary. 

The family indulged in close encounters with Australian wildlife, with Pink documenting the experience on social media. The visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Fig Tree Pocket offered Pink’s children, Willow and Jameson, aged 12 and 7 respectively, an enriching opportunity to interact with native animals, including feeding kangaroos and holding owls.

Australian Lifestyle

Pink’s affection for Australia extends beyond her musical accomplishments. In February 2023, she hinted at the possibility of obtaining Australian citizenship, emphasising her deep connection to the country. 

Her recent visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary further underscores her admiration for Australian culture and wildlife. As she considers Australia her second home, Pink’s integration into the local community reflects a genuine appreciation for the country’s diverse landscapes and vibrant atmosphere.

A Testament to Resilience and Motherhood

Pink’s tour showcases her musical prowess and highlights her resilience as a working mother. Despite the challenges of touring with a family, Pink has deftly balanced her professional commitments with her roles as a wife and mother.

 Her candid reflections on motherhood during interviews provide insight into the complexities of her life on the road. As she navigates the demands of stardom and family life, Pink inspires women worldwide, demonstrating that dedication and perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Pink In Brisbane
Photo Credit: Pink/Instgram

As Pink bids farewell to her Australian fans after a whirlwind tour, anticipation mounts for her future endeavors. With two decades of career, Pink continues to captivate audiences with her dynamic performances and unwavering passion for music.

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As she embarks on the next chapters of her career, fans eagerly await her return to Brisbane.

Published 25-March-2024

Broncos vs Cowboys: Brisbane Look to Spoil Undefeated Queensland Rivals

The Broncos are eager to shake off their early-season woes as they prepare to face the North Queensland Cowboys in the highly anticipated Queensland Derby on Friday, March 29. Broncos vs Cowboys kick off 5:00 p.m. at Suncorp Stadium.

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Struggles in grand finals rematch

Broncos vs Panthers
Photo Credit: Facebook/Brisbane Broncos

The Broncos are coming off a disappointing 34-12 loss to the Penrith Panthers. The team’s woes were compounded by the absence of Captain Adam Reynolds and forward leader Payne Haas. An early injury to fullback Reece Walsh, also forced him off the field after a head clash with Taylan May.

Their last game also served as a rematch of last year’s Grand Final. The Broncos experienced heartbreak as the Panthers pulled off an all-time comeback, overturning a 12-24 deficit to win 26-24 and secure their third straight premiership.

Broncos vs Cowboys, the Queensland derby

Brisbane Broncos Round 3 ladder
It is still early days, but at the moment a large gap separates the Queensland derby sides. Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos

While the Broncos (1-2) are licking their wounds, the North Queensland Cowboys (3-0) have been in scintillating form. The Cowboys remain the only undefeated team in the league through three rounds.

The Broncos will aim to get their season back on track and claim bragging rights in the Queensland Derby.

For the Broncos to emerge victorious, they will need to tighten their defensive efforts and minimise missed tackles, which proved costly against the Panthers.

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The stage is set for an enthralling encounter between two fierce Queensland rivals, with the Broncos looking to bounce back and the Cowboys aiming to maintain their unblemished start to the season.

Published 25-March-2024

Broncos vs Rabbitohs: Revamped Lineups After Vegas Disappointments

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

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

Broncos vs Rabbitohs lineup changes

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

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

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

Recent matchups

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

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

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

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

Published 13-March-2024