A mural honouring late Brisbane entertainer Jamie Dunn appeared overnight at Paddington Skate Park, drawing locals to the site on Wednesday, 11 March. One of the skate park’s concrete walls had been transformed into a black-and-white portrait of Dunn alongside his famous puppet Agro, created overnight following news of his death on the weekend.
The mural, the work of well-known Brisbane street artist Drapl, drew a steady stream of locals through the morning. Images of the artwork spread quickly across social media following news of Dunn’s death.
The man behind the microphone
Photo credit: mytributes.com.au
Long before Agro became a household name, Dunn was cutting his teeth in the Brisbane music scene of the 1970s. He worked as a drummer and singer-songwriter, performing with local band Hands Down, building the improvisational skills and timing that have been credited as foundational to his later media career.
His path into TV was, by his own account, something of a fluke. In 1982, following a dispute between the original creator of the Agro character and the Seven Network, Dunn recorded a song demo that included a vocal impression of the puppet. The network hired him on a Friday, and he debuted the following Saturday morning after a marathon night of practice.
What followed was three decades at the heart of Australian children’s entertainment. Agro’s Cartoon Connection became a morning ritual for a generation of kids, racking up seven Logie Awards and turning the wisecracking puppet into one of the country’s most recognisable characters. Dunn’s quick wit and cheeky humour were widely credited with driving the show’s success. He also built a long and popular radio career that kept him connected to Queensland audiences.
A platform used for good
Beyond his entertainment career, Dunn was known for his community work.
Through his “Agro to the Rescue” segment on B105, he provided direct financial resources and support to Queensland families and individuals facing hardship. He served as a patron of the Shandar Smith Foundation, which supports children with cancer, and was a regular participant in annual appeals for the Royal Children’s Hospital in Brisbane. He also took part in the ‘K’s for Kids’ charity walks and served as an ambassador for Wildlife Warriors.
Brisbane says goodbye
Photo credit: Instagram/Drapl
Dunn’s death prompted tributes from across the entertainment industry and the wider community.
Cr Adrian Schrinner described Dunn as a brilliant media personality whose quick wit and comic timing turned a puppet into a cultural icon that entertained a generation.
“For so many Queensland kids like me growing up in the 80s and 90s, Agro’s Cartoon Connection was a daily dose of chaos, laughter and cheeky humour,” said Cr Schrinner.
“Jamie was a proud Brisbane talent who brought joy to millions of homes across the country. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and the many fans who grew up with Jamie and his iconic sense of humour.”
The connection to Paddington ran closer to home than many may have realised. Former official for Paddington Ward Clare Jenkinson revealed on Instagram that Drapl is her nephew, and shared her own childhood memories of attending the Agro’s Cartoon Connection studio audience at Channel 7 as a child of around eight, where she was given the small job of handing out chips and drinks and answering the phone.
Ann-Maree Biggar, one of Agro’s earliest co-hosts, was visibly emotional in paying tribute, expressing her gratitude for having known and worked alongside him.
At Paddington Skate Park, Drapl — real name Travis Vinson — said he felt moved to create something he knew people would appreciate, having grown up watching Dunn on television and following his radio career for years. Brisbane confirmed the work was painted on a designated legal wall, meaning it will remain in place unless another artist eventually paints over it.
Jamie Dunn passed away at his family home north of Brisbane, aged 76.
Let’s not sugarcoat it — that one was there to be won.
For 25 minutes, the Broncos looked like the premiers again. Fast through the middle, line speed up, Walsh carving them up out the back. 20–6 up at Suncorp and the Eels looked on the ropes.
Then Brisbane lost their way.
Missed tackles, penalties, defensive disconnects and a complete momentum swing turned a comfortable lead into a 40–32 loss. Two rounds into the season and the defending premiers are 0–2, still searching for the defensive steel that carried them to the title.
Good teams can lose. Champions sometimes start slow. But blowing a game like this at home is the sort of collapse that forces a hard look in the mirror.
The Broncos can still turn this around. But right now, the truth is simple: they’re not playing like a premiership side for 80 minutes.
The opening half hour showed exactly what Brisbane can be when things click.
The Broncos dominated field position early, forcing repeat sets before Reece Walsh sliced through in the fifth minute for the first try of the season. Kotoni Staggs soon followed off a pinpoint Adam Reynolds grubber, and when Payne Haas crashed through in the 26th minute, Brisbane were cruising at 20–6.
Then it unravelled.
Parramatta found momentum and Brisbane’s left edge couldn’t hold. In the space of five minutes before halftime, the Eels crossed three times, flipping the game completely and taking a 22–20 lead into the sheds.
The second half turned into a shootout.
Staggs scored again off an Ezra Mam chip kick to level things up, and Walsh produced a piece of magic with a chip-and-chase try to put Brisbane back in front.
But every Broncos surge was answered.
With the game in the balance, Jonah Pezet controlled the key moments — setting up Sean Russell with a grubber before sealing the result himself when he chased down his own kick in the dying minutes.
The final score: Parramatta 40, Brisbane 32 in a chaotic 12-try contest.
Round 2 Analysis: What Went Wrong (and Right)
For the Broncos
Edge defence exposed
Parramatta repeatedly attacked Brisbane’s left side and found space between Ezra Mam, Jack Gosiewski and Aublix Tawha. Once the Eels got momentum, they scored quickly and easily through that channel.
Walsh: brilliance and errors
Walsh produced moments only he can — two spectacular tries and several dangerous runs; but there were costly mistakes too, including an airswing on a bomb that led directly to an Eels try.
It was a classic rocks-and-diamonds night. Discipline killing them.
Brisbane conceded eight penalties and multiple ruck infringements, repeatedly handing Parramatta field position and back-to-back sets.
In the faster 2026 game, those momentum swings are brutal. Teams defending repeat sets eventually crack.
For the Eels
Pezet ran the show
The Eels five-eighth had a breakout game — two tries and several try assists, constantly targeting the Broncos defensive line with grubbers and short balls.
In an ironic twist, he will be wearing Broncos colours in 2027.
On Thursday night, he picked them apart.
The Historical Lens: Is the Season Over?
It is still March — but Brisbane have given themselves work to do.
Two rounds in and the Broncos have already conceded 66 points, a sign their defensive structure and discipline are not where they need to be.
The attack still has strike — they proved that by scoring 32 points against Parramatta — but premiership sides do not concede 40 and expect to win.
Can they still win the premiership? That’s the question on everyone’s minds.
The case for optimism
There are still reasons to believe the Broncos can steady the ship.
Coach Michael Maguire pointed to the opening 20 minutes as proof of what the side is capable of when they execute their game plan.
“We showed for 20 minutes what we’re capable of doing… but it’s an 80-minute game,” Maguire said, post-match.
Prop Payne Haas delivered a similar message of perspective.
“You don’t win premierships in March,” he said, while acknowledging the team must fix its bad habits quickly.
Reinforcements are also on the horizon, with back-rower Brendan Piakura expected to return soon to help stabilise the edge defence.
What must change
The fixes are not complicated; but they are urgent.
First, the Broncos must find 80-minute toughness. Strong starts are meaningless if the intensity drops once momentum swings. That has happened in both games to start the season.
Second, the defence has to tighten, particularly on the edges. Parramatta repeatedly targeted Brisbane’s left side and found space far too easily. Premiership teams don’t concede points in bunches like that.
Finally, game management will be critical, especially if Adam Reynolds misses time with a rib injury. Without their on-field organiser late against Parramatta, Brisbane looked short on direction. If Reynolds is sidelined, another voice — likely Ben Hunt — will need to steer the side through the high-tempo pace of the modern NRL.
Heading into Round 3: The Path to Redemption
Next up is a grand final rematch against Melbourne.
It is about as tough a response game as you can get.
For the Broncos the formula is simple.
Tighten the defence. Cut the penalties. Play the full 80 minutes.
Because if Brisbane keep giving teams momentum the way they did against Parramatta, the hole will only get deeper.
Published 13-March-2026
PRE-GAME PREVIEW
Broncos Return to the Cauldron Seeking Redemption Against the Eels
Published 11-March-2026
The schlacking by the Panthers was a massive wake up call for the Broncos but let’s not kid ourselves, they were very ordinary for 30% of last season and gradually found their 5th gear to beat all-comers.
The eery silence that filled the ground towards the end of the game, is not something Madge and the boys will ever want to hear again.
The Parramatta Eels arrive in Brisbane carrying wounds of their own after a heavy Round 1 loss to Melbourne, meaning both sides enter the contest desperate for their first win of the 2026 season.
In front of another expectant Suncorp Stadium crowd, the match has quickly become more than just another early-round fixture. It is a test of response, resilience and pride.
Match Snapshot
Broncos vs Eels Round 2 — Thursday, March 12 7:00pm AEST | Suncorp Stadium Channel 9 / Fox League / Kayo
Coach Michael Maguire has resisted the urge to panic after the Round 1 defeat, naming largely the same 17 to face Parramatta. Ezra Mam has again been listed at five-eighth with veteran Ben Hunt on the bench in a flexible playmaking rotation that could shift during the match.
The Broncos remain without back-rower Brendan Piakura as he continues recovering from a knee injury.
Blake Mozer, Delouise Hoeter and Thomas Duffy have been added to the extended squad as the club maintains depth across the roster heading into the short turnaround.
Despite the disappointment against Penrith, Maguire’s message has been clear: improvement will come through execution rather than sweeping changes.
Paramatta Eels
Parramatta travel north boosted by the return of winger Josh Addo-Carr from a thumb injury. His inclusion pushes Sean Russell into the centres and adds pace to the Eels’ backline.
However, the Eels will be without forward J’maine Hopgood, who is serving a suspension following the opening-round defeat to Melbourne.
Coach Jason Ryles has reshuffled his pack accordingly, with Jack Williams moving into the starting front-row and Kelma Tuilagi promoted to the starting side.
Broncos Reality Check
Broncos fans know last week simply wasn’t good enough.
Brisbane completed just 61 percent of their sets and produced 19 errors against Penrith — numbers that made sustained attacking pressure almost impossible.
For a side built on momentum through the middle and quick attacking shifts from players like Reece Walsh and Ezra Mam, that lack of control proved fatal.
The encouraging sign for Brisbane supporters is that premiership teams rarely stay down for long. Thursday night now becomes an opportunity to reset their standards.
Key Match-Up
Adam Reynolds vs Mitchell Moses
The tactical battle between the two veteran halfbacks could ultimately shape the contest.
Reynolds controls Brisbane’s tempo with precise kicking and field positioning, while Moses provides Parramatta with one of the NRL’s most dangerous long-range kicking games.
Whichever playmaker wins the territorial battle will give their side the platform to attack.
Players to Watch
Several Broncos will be under the spotlight as Brisbane looks to reignite its attack.
Reece Walsh
The Broncos fullback is rarely quiet two weeks in a row. Expect Walsh to be heavily involved as Brisbane look to ignite their attack through broken play and quick shifts.
Adam Reynolds
The veteran halfback remains the organiser of Brisbane’s attack. His kicking game and calm decision-making will be critical against an Eels side led by Mitchell Moses.
Xavier Willison
With Payne Haas set to depart the club in the future, young forward Xavier Willison is increasingly viewed as part of Brisbane’s long-term middle-forward leadership. The New Zealand representative has credited Haas as a key mentor as he continues to develop his game.
3 Questions for the Broncos
Can the discipline improve?
Brisbane’s 19 errors and low completion rate against Penrith prevented the Broncos from building any sustained pressure. Reducing those mistakes will be the first step toward rediscovering their attacking rhythm.
Will the Reynolds–Mam combination click?
The halves pairing remains central to Brisbane’s structure. If Adam Reynolds can control territory and Ezra Mam finds space to attack, the Broncos’ backline suddenly becomes far more dangerous.
How will the forwards respond?
The Broncos’ premiership run was built on dominance through the middle. Payne Haas, Patrick Carrigan and the forward pack will be expected to set the tone early against a Parramatta side missing key enforcer J’maine Hopgood.
Broncos vs Eels: What are the odds?
Bookmakers have installed Brisbane as strong favourites heading into Thursday night, reflecting the Broncos’ home advantage and overall roster strength.
Several analysts expect the defending premiers to respond strongly, predicting a comfortable victory if Brisbane rediscover their discipline and attacking rhythm.
The Stakes
For the Broncos, Thursday night is about more than two competition points.
It is about restoring confidence, re-establishing standards and reminding the competition why Brisbane lifted the premiership trophy only months ago.
The Cauldron has seen countless Broncos redemption stories over the years.
On Thursday night, Suncorp Stadium will be expecting another one.
A parliamentary inquiry into e-mobility safety has recommended that riders under 16 be banned from operating e-bikes and e-scooters in Queensland, that all riders hold at least a learner’s licence, and that devices capable of exceeding 25km/h be reclassified as motorcycles — recommendations that AMA Queensland, whose head office sits in Kelvin Grove, has formally welcomed as measures that will save lives.
The inquiry, tasked in May last year with investigating safety issues including increasing crashes, injuries and fatalities, released its report in early March 2026 containing 28 recommendations across safety, lithium-ion battery fire risk, retail of devices, enforcement and community education. The recommendations represent what the inquiry described as a new national standard for the management of e-scooters and e-bikes.
What Prompted the Inquiry
The scale of the problem drove the inquiry’s formation. In 2025, 12 Queenslanders died in e-mobility-related incidents, including children, and more than 6,300 people presented to emergency departments with injuries. AMA Queensland described most of those incidents as likely preventable.
The human cost of the current regulatory environment is reflected in the inquiry report itself, which personally names eight-year-old Zeke Hondow, who died in October 2025 after being struck by a high-powered e-motorcycle while riding home from school on the Sunshine Coast. His mother Kloe Weedon began advocating for age limits within weeks of his death and welcomed the report’s recommendations, describing the proposed changes as significant and expressing hope they would be adopted swiftly.
The 28 Recommendations at a Glance
The inquiry’s central recommendation is that e-bikes and personal mobility devices be restricted to riders aged 16 and over. Alongside the age restriction, all riders would be required to hold at least a Queensland Class C learner licence, which requires completion of an online learning programme. The age and licence requirements would not apply to e-wheelchair users.
Photo Credit: Andrew Quilty
On speed, the inquiry recommends reducing the footpath speed limit for all e-mobility devices to 10km/h. Devices with a top speed above 25km/h would be reclassified as motorcycles or mopeds, requiring riders to hold an appropriate driver’s licence, the vehicle to be registered, and use restricted to roads only. The inquiry also recommends that all e-mobility devices with an electrical power source be defined as motor vehicles under legislation, simplifying enforcement.
Additional recommendations include giving police the power to seize and impound illegal e-mobility devices on a first offence, including the ability to dispose of or destroy a device. Parents and guardians would be liable for penalties when children under 16 breach e-mobility regulations. Riders would also be subject to the same alcohol and drug rules that apply to other road users.
On infrastructure, the inquiry recommends embedding e-mobility into strategic transport planning through high-quality, connected and separated pathway networks, and a community safety campaign rollout for riders, drivers and the broader community.
AMA Queensland’s Response
AMA Queensland, based at Kelvin Grove, made a formal submission to the inquiry in June 2025 and appeared at hearings in August last year. The organisation had been advocating for an under-16 ban well before the report’s release, writing to transport authorities in November 2025 urging action ahead of the inquiry’s findings.
AMA Queensland president Dr Nick Yim said the recommended age restriction was a sensible and responsible outcome. He noted that 16 is the age at which Queenslanders begin learning to drive, acquiring road rules knowledge and developing the awareness needed to share roads safely. Yim said emergency doctors had treated significant injuries in paediatric and adolescent patients whose consequences extended beyond the individuals to their families, friends and treating clinicians over the long term.
Yim also welcomed the recommended speed reclassification threshold, the alcohol and drug rules alignment and the infrastructure recommendations. AMA Queensland has advocated for active travel infrastructure improvements, particularly around schools, parks and hospitals, and sees e-mobility as having a genuine role in affordable transport access, physical activity and emissions reduction — provided it operates within a safe regulatory framework.
Bicycle Queensland chief executive Matt Burke supported the age restriction but raised concerns about the licence requirement, arguing it was without precedent internationally and would significantly affect food delivery riders and tourists using hire schemes.
Why These Restrictions Benefit the Paddington and Kelvin Grove Community
The Paddington and Kelvin Grove area sits within a dense inner-Brisbane corridor where e-scooters and e-bikes share footpaths, bike lanes and roads with pedestrians, cyclists and school students. The proposed restrictions address the specific conditions that produce the most serious injuries: young riders without road rules training, devices travelling at speeds incompatible with shared path use, and no enforceable consequence for illegal devices.
A footpath speed limit of 10km/h, combined with the reclassification of high-powered devices as motorcycles, directly reduces the risk to pedestrians on the busy shared paths that run through Paddington, Kelvin Grove and the surrounding inner west. The licence requirement, if adopted, ensures that riders on local streets have at minimum completed Queensland’s online road rules programme before operating a device in traffic.
For families in the area, the parental liability provisions mean that the consequences of a child riding illegally extend to adults in a position to prevent it — creating a practical incentive for households to understand and follow the new rules. For the broader community, reinvestment in dedicated cycleways and separated pathways, as recommended by the inquiry, would reduce the conflict points between e-mobility users and pedestrians that currently make shared paths hazardous.
What Happens Next
The recommendations are not yet law. The report has been tabled and is under review, with implementation of paid parking and resident permits possible in late 2026 and into 2027 subject to that process. The full report and its 28 recommendations are available through the Queensland Parliament website. AMA Queensland’s statement on the report is available here.
A historic shutout, 18 errors and a tactical gamble that misfired — Brisbane’s title defence began with a harsh reality check.
The stage was set for a coronation at Suncorp Stadium. On a humid Friday night, 45,566 fans packed the stands to welcome the 2025 premiers back home, expecting the Brisbane Broncos to reinforce their status as the NRL’s new gold standard. Instead, it turned into a sobering reminder of how hard defending a title really is.
In a performance described by a veteran observer as “shambolic,” a side that etched its name in history only months ago suddenly looked out of sync. The hunters may have become the hunted overnight, and the transition from chasing the crown to defending it is proving anything but simple.
The heaviest fall of the modern era
The 26-0 scoreline was more than just a loss; it was a statistical shock. By failing to register a single point in front of their home crowd, the Broncos suffered the heaviest Round 1 defeat of a defending premier in the history of the NRL. A shutout of this magnitude hurts because it exposes problems on both sides of the ball at once.
As noted in the official NRL record, the result echoed a moment from nearly four decades ago: “It was the biggest win against a premier in the opening round of the season since 1988 when the Broncos beat Manly 44-10 in the club’s first game in the NSWRL Premiership.”
For Brisbane to find themselves on the other side of that statistic 38 years later is a reminder that premiership hangovers can be real. The good news for Broncos fans is that Round 1 doesn’t define a season.
Madge’s ‘Super Sub’ plan didn’t quite land
In a late tactical gamble, Michael Maguire attempted to replicate part of the 2025 Grand Final blueprint. Veteran Ben Hunt was elevated to the starting five-eighth role, with Ezra Mam shifted to the bench just an hour before kickoff. With Cory Paix starting at hooker, the plan appeared to be using Hunt’s control early before unleashing Mam later as a spark against a tiring defensive line.
But the Broncos never quite generated the platform needed to make it work. Without sustained field position or pressure, Penrith’s defence stayed fresh. When Mam entered in the 30th minute with Brisbane trailing 10-0, he had little space to work with.
It was less a failure of the idea and more a reminder that even clever tactics rely on a forward pack winning the early exchanges.
A messy night for the spine
Perhaps the most frustrating part for Broncos fans was seeing a usually electric spine struggle to click.
Reece Walsh, often capable of turning a match in seconds, endured one of those nights when nothing quite falls your way. The most memorable moment came in the 27th minute when a clearing kick ricocheted off teammate Xavier Willison in an accidental-offside moment that summed up Brisbane’s luck.
Overall the Broncos made 18 errors and completed at just 61 percent. As Maguire noted post-match, when you hand over that much possession, fatigue inevitably follows.
That fatigue showed up defensively with 40 missed tackles, and Penrith’s edges took advantage. Thomas Jenkins’ double highlighted just how sharp the Panthers can be when given space.
Penrith remind everyone who they are
While Brisbane looked like a side still finding its rhythm, Penrith looked like a team determined to remind the competition they remain a force.
Nathan Cleary marked his 100th game as captain in style, while Dylan Edwards delivered a commanding performance from fullback. Edwards finished with 166 metres and a try, repeatedly inserting himself into attacking movements.
The Panthers’ defensive grit was just as telling. Their effort to hold Kotoni Staggs over the line late in the half became one of the defining moments of the night and underlined the discipline that has defined Penrith’s success in recent seasons.
A worrying pattern, but not panic stations yet
This loss also follows the 30-24 defeat to Hull KR in the World Club Challenge, where Brisbane trailed 18-4 at halftime. Slow starts are starting to form a pattern, and that is something the coaching staff will want to address quickly.
There are also longer-term questions looming with Payne Haas confirmed to join the South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2027. For now, however, Haas remains a key part of the Broncos’ engine room, and the squad still contains plenty of elite talent.
Right now it feels less like a structural crisis and more like a team still adjusting to the pressures of defending a premiership.
The road ahead
The Broncos now return to the Clive Berghofer Centre to review the tape before a challenging run against the Eels, Storm and Dolphins.
The standard set in 2025 was always going to be hard to maintain. Round 1 was a harsh reminder of that.
Is the Broncos’ lack of cohesion a fixable coaching tweak, or have the Panthers just exposed an architectural flaw in the champions’ armor?
For now, the core of this side seems to still be strong. If the discipline and cohesion return quickly, the Broncos have more than enough talent to steady the ship and remind everyone why they lifted the trophy only months ago.
The champions return to centre stage on Friday night.
The Brisbane Broncos open their premiership defence against the Penrith Panthers at Suncorp Stadium, launching the 2026 NRL season with one of the competition’s biggest matchups.
It is the kind of opener that leaves no room for easing into the year. Brisbane begin their title defence against the same opponent they eliminated during last season’s finals run, with Penrith arriving eager to turn the rivalry back in their favour.
Kick-off is 7:00pm AEST (Brisbane time) on Friday, March 6, with gates opening at 5:00pm AEST and the Broncos expected to take the field for warm-ups around 6:30pm AEST.
The Broncos and Panthers have built one of the NRL’s defining matchups in recent seasons.
Last year’s preliminary final at Suncorp saw Brisbane outmuscle Penrith to reach the grand final, a performance built on ruck dominance and disciplined game control. The Panthers will arrive determined to ensure the premiers do not start the new season with another statement result.
Penrith remain one of the competition’s most structured teams, led by halfback Nathan Cleary, whose kicking game and tactical organisation shape almost everything the Panthers do with the ball.
Broncos Team News
Brisbane enter Round 1 with most of the core group that powered last season’s premiership still intact, though the long-term shape of the forward pack has already begun to change.
Middle forward Payne Haas will leave the Brisbane Broncos at the end of the 2026 season after confirming a move to the South Sydney Rabbitohs for 2027. The decision, announced earlier this month, was influenced by family considerations and the opportunity to reunite with coach Wayne Bennett.
Haas remains a central figure in Brisbane’s pack for the season ahead, continuing to partner with captain Patrick Carrigan through the middle as the Broncos begin their title defence.
The hooking role is one of the key selection talking points heading into the opener. Cory Paix was named to start at dummy-half, but experienced recruit Ben Hunt has spent time training in the position during preparations, giving coach Michael Maguire flexibility in how the rotation may unfold during the match.
With Brisbane’s spine led by Reece Walsh, Adam Reynolds and Ezra Mam, the Broncos will again rely on strong ruck control and quick service from dummy-half to create space around the Panthers’ defensive line.
New Faces in the Broncos Line-Up
Several additions to the Brisbane roster could feature during the opening rounds.
Outside back Grant Anderson adds defensive reliability and aerial strength to the edge, while young playmaker Tom Duffy provides depth in the halves.
Forward recruit Aublix Tawha also strengthens the middle rotation, giving Brisbane additional size when the bench is deployed.
Those arrivals help offset several departures from the premiership squad, including outside back Selwyn Cobbo, who moved to the Dolphins.
Panthers Line-Up and Threats
Penrith again arrive with a roster built on continuity and discipline.
Cleary remains the controlling influence in the halves, while lock Isaah Yeo anchors the middle with his work rate and link play. The Panthers’ system places heavy emphasis on field position, defensive pressure and forcing opponents into errors.
Against Brisbane’s attacking strike, Penrith will likely aim to slow the ruck and build territorial pressure through their kicking game.
Tactical Battle
The outcome will likely hinge on the middle of the field.
If Carrigan and Haas can generate quick play-the-balls, Brisbane’s attacking spine becomes extremely difficult to contain. Walsh’s speed around broken defensive lines and Reynolds’ kicking game can quickly swing momentum.
Penrith’s approach will likely focus on controlling tempo through Cleary, forcing Brisbane to work out of their own half and limiting the space Walsh and Mam can attack.
A Big Night at Suncorp
Friday night will also introduce a redesigned Broncos gameday experience aimed at amplifying the Suncorp atmosphere throughout the season.
Atelier Mimi is operated by husband-and-wife team Paul and Miki. The business name reflects a focus on craftsmanship, while “Mimi” references their daughter’s nickname.
Paul is a French pastry chef with over 15 years of experience across Australia and Japan. His background includes work at Noisette and Laurent Bakery in Melbourne, followed by roles in Tokyo at Ladurée, Pierre Hermé and Sadaharu Aoki. After returning to Brisbane in 2022, he worked as head pastry chef at Brisbane City Hall before establishing the Red Hill shop.
The patisserie opened in January, taking over the site previously occupied by One Eighty Six Espresso Bar on Arthur Terrace.
Photo Caption: Tarte Passion – A crisp shortbread shell filled with smooth passionfruit curd, finished with toasted Italian meringue for a balanced blend of acidity and sweetness. Photo Credit: Atelier Mimi/Instagram
Small-Batch Production In Red Hill
The Red Hill patisserie operates from a compact in-house kitchen, shaping a deliberately limited menu made fresh each day. The selection centres on French classics including macarons, biscuits, flans, tarts and traditional cakes, with occasional Japanese influences such as matcha flavours.
Seasonal adjustments are planned, and native ingredients including Davidson plums have been identified as a potential future inclusion.
Photo Caption: Matcha and raspberry macarons, handcrafted by a French pastry chef, with a crisp shell and soft centre filled with smooth ganache. Photo Credit: Atelier Mimi/Instagram
Savoury offerings include mini gourmet sandwiches and selected pastries. Croissants are available but are not the primary focus compared with macarons, biscuits and cakes.
Macarons are described as gluten-free, and customised macarons and biscuits are available for special events. Some gluten-free cake options are also offered.
Photo Caption: “Nuage” – A macaron-based creation layered with raspberry gel, bourbon vanilla cream, soft meringue pieces and finished with fresh berries. Photo Credit: Atelier Mimi/Instagram
Coffee And Community Response
Coffee is supplied by Seven Miles Coffee Roasters. The drinks menu also includes juices and chocolate beverages made using house-made ganache.
In local community discussion following the opening, customers reported positive experiences with the coffee and pastries. One commenter raised concerns regarding limited seating inside the shop.
Atelier Mimi adds another independent food business to Red Hill, combining French technique, Japanese influence and family ownership within a neighbourhood setting.
A Paddington home that became the subject of a protracted legal dispute between neighbours has changed hands for a suburb record of $12.075 million, bringing closure to a five-year saga that involved court injunctions and allegations of unlawful construction.
The five-bedroom property at 9 Reading Street, known as ‘Skyline’, was at the heart of a neighbourly disagreement that began in 2021 when construction commenced on the steep 810-square-metre block.
According to court documents, technology entrepreneur Steve Baxter, founder of digital signage company Mandoe Media, initiated legal proceedings against the property owners Anthony and Kylie Preston, along with builder Graya, over concerns regarding retaining walls being built next to his neighbouring $8 million home to support a swimming pool and outdoor entertaining area.
In April 2021, an injunction was filed citing safety concerns and allegations that works were being undertaken unlawfully. The Planning and Environment Court ordered a temporary suspension of construction work on the home.
The Prestons subsequently obtained both an exemption certificate and development approval for operational work from Brisbane City Council by July 2021. However, Mr Baxter raised additional allegations, prolonging the legal proceedings.
The court ultimately determined that continuing the application from July onwards was productive of serious and unjustified trouble and harassment, and had the effect of prolonging the trial. Mr Baxter was ordered to pay costs to the Prestons and Graya from 15 July 2021 through to 9 December 2021.
The Prestons had purchased the original property for $3.15 million in 2018 before demolishing the existing structure and embarking on what became one of the suburb’s most ambitious residential projects.
Designed by Brisbane-based Joe Adsett Architects, the completed home showcases a flat, fully integrated floor plan with a 20-metre frontage and commanding views across Brisbane’s CBD. Joe Adsett Architects is a national award-winning studio known for luxury residential architecture and subscribes to a design philosophy of subtropical modernism.
The property includes two separate living areas, an upstairs balcony, and a pilates studio. Each of the five bedrooms features an ensuite bathroom. External amenities include the heated infinity pool and spa that were central to the original dispute, along with an outdoor kitchen, gazebo, and sunken fire pit.
Ray White agents Matt Lancashire and Josh Brown handled the sale, which surpassed the previous Paddington record of $11.8 million set last year for a 653-square-metre property at 45 Garfield Drive.
The sale demonstrates continued strong demand for premium residential property in Paddington, despite the construction project’s contentious beginnings. The suburb, characterised by its hilly terrain and proximity to the Brisbane CBD, has seen increasing interest from buyers seeking luxury homes with city views.
Defending a premiership isn’t a victory lap. It’s more like taking the first carry of the season straight into three defenders — no space, no sympathy, no excuses.
That’s where the Broncos find themselves in 2026.
At the Clive Berghofer Centre in Red Hill, they’re not the hunters anymore. They’re the standard. The premiers. And every side in the competition has circled them on the draw.
There’s reason for confidence — and reason for caution.
After throwing the kitchen sink at Hull KR in the last 20 minutes last week to go down 30-24 in the World Club Challenge but scoring at a point per minute in those last 20, Madge may feel a bit of deja-vous.
This team has required some revving up in the last year, it does not purr like a well tuned engine, it produces large doses of fumes and spits and then powers down the track and sets a new dragster record.
The big names out are real. Selwyn Cobbo’s strike has gone to the Dolphins. Kobe Hetherington’s work rate now belongs to Manly. Martin Taupau’s experience is no longer there when things get tight. Those aren’t small departures.
The ins matter too. Grant Anderson adds reliability and defensive polish. Tom Duffy gives depth in the halves. Aublix Tawha brings size and aggression through the middle. None are headline-grabbing splashes — but premiership sides aren’t built on headlines. They’re built on balance.
This isn’t a rebuild. But it’s not complacency either.
The Broncos enter 2026 as reigning premiers after that hard-earned grand final win over the Melbourne Storm. That title wasn’t flashy. It was disciplined. It was physical. It was controlled by captain Adam Reynolds when the pressure peaked.
As fans, we know this: if the spine fires, Brisbane are dangerous.
Reece Walsh isn’t just electric — he changes defensive structures. Reynolds and Ezra Mam give the side composure and spark in equal measure. When they’re connected, Brisbane can score from anywhere.
Through the middle, Patrick Carrigan remains the defensive heartbeat, while Payne Haas continues to set the benchmark for power and work rate in the engine room. Haas confirmed this week he will join South Sydney ahead of the 2027 season, but for now the focus is firmly on one more campaign in Broncos colours.
If Carrigan and Haas win the ruck, Brisbane win momentum. When they don’t, the edges get exposed. That’s the simple truth.
Head coach Michael Maguire deserves credit for embedding defensive discipline in 2025. But year two is always different. The edge comes from within now, not from proving a point.
Early Tests
Billy Walters’ ACL recovery leaves questions around the hooking rotation early. Brendan Piakura’s Round 3 target return helps, but depth will be tested immediately.
And the 30–24 World Club Challenge loss to Hull KR? That wasn’t catastrophic — but it was instructive. Champions can’t afford to drift out of contests. The defensive standard has to be there from Round 1.
Round 1: No Grace Period
The title defence begins March 6 under lights at Suncorp Stadium against the Penrith Panthers.
That’s not easing into a season. That’s diving straight into it.
Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy said last year there was no better way to open — and he’s right. This is the stage you want as champions.
“There’s no better way to start 2026 than under lights at Suncorp Stadium, in front of our members and fans,” Donaghy said in a club statement last year.
“No one could forget that energy and atmosphere at home against Penrith in the prelim – it was one of those defining Broncos’ moments. To open the new season against Penrith, at home, that’s the kind of stage we want and will set the tone for 2026,” he added.
Penrith arrive with Nathan Cleary cleared to play. They won’t blink. Neither can Brisbane.
Three of the first four at home is an opportunity — but it’s also pressure. If Brisbane start flat, the noise will come quickly.
Projected Round 1 Outlook
Official teams are confirmed during match week, but expect continuity.
Walsh at fullback. Reynolds and Mam steering the attack. Carrigan and Haas setting the tone in the middle. Corey Jensen and Jordan Riki working the edges. Ben Hunt’s versatility stabilising the spine.
The likely bench rotation — Xavier Willison, Ben Talty, Aublix Tawha and Grant Anderson — offers size and adaptability.
Sat, February 21, 2026 (Allianz Stadium) – A-League – Men – Round 18 • Sydney FC 1 | Brisbane Roar FC 0
Sun, February 22, 2026 (Spencer Park) – A-League – Women – Round 18 • Brisbane Roar FC 0 | Adelaide United FC 2
Sat, February 21, 2026 (St Georges Park – St George Willawong FC – Field 1) – FQPL1 – Men – Round 1 • St George Willawong 1 | Broadbeach United 5
Fri, February 20, 2026 (Bulimba Memorial Park – Southside Eagles FC – Field 1) – Kappa Pro Series – Women – Regional Round 1 • Southside Eagles 0 | UQFC 0
Fri, February 20, 2026 (Walton Bridge Reserve – The Gap FC – Field 1) – Kappa Pro Series – Women – Regional Round 1 • The Gap FC 0 | Logan Lightning 2
Sat, February 21, 2026 (Goodwin Park – Olympic FC – Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 1 • Olympic FC 2 | Lions FC 1
Sun, February 22, 2026 (Meakin Park – Field 1) – NPL – Men – Round 1 • Brisbane Roar B 1 | Brisbane City 3
Sat, February 21, 2026 (Heath Park – Eastern Suburbs FC – Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 3 • Eastern Suburbs 4 | Brisbane City 2
Sat, February 21, 2026 (Goodwin Park – Olympic FC – Field 1) – NPL – Women – Round 3 • Olympic FC 0 | Lions FC 0
Fri, February 20, 2026 (Brisbane Entertainment Centre) – NBL – Men – Round 22 • Brisbane Bullets 77 | Sydney Kings 117
Sat, February 21, 2026 (The Gabba) – One Day Cup 2025-26 – Men – Match 6 • Queensland Bulls 260 | South Australia Men 135
Sat, February 14, 2026 & Sat, February 21, 2026 (2 Day – Wep Harris Oval) – Queensland Premier Cricket – Men 1st Grade – Round 14 • University of Queensland Mens 1st Grade 6-251 | Valley Mens 1st Grade 8-262
Sun, February 22, 2026 (Kerry Emery Oval – One Day) – Queensland Premier Cricket – Women 1st Grade – Round 21 • Sunshine Coast Womens 1st Grade 111 | Valley Womens 1st Grade 9-235
Sat, February 14, 2026 & Sat, February 21, 2026 (2 Day – Trevor Hohns Field) – Queensland Premier Cricket – Men 1st Grade – Round 14 • Sandgate-Redcliffe Mens 1st Grade 6-322 | Western Suburbs Mens 1st Grade 3-324
Two Brisbane Broncos players have thrown their support behind a major fundraising campaign to help a six-year-old Sunshine Coast girl access specialist cancer treatment in the United States.
Reece Walsh and Ezra Mam have promoted a GoFundMe appeal for Tessa Perry, who is living with relapsed Stage 4 neuroblastoma.
Diagnosis And Relapse
Tessa, from Palmview on the Sunshine Coast, was first diagnosed in November 2023. She underwent chemotherapy and two bone marrow transplants and was later cleared of the disease before the cancer returned at the end of frontline treatment.
Her family has been advised there are no remaining curative options available in Australia.
Tessa has been receiving treatment at Queensland Children’s Hospital.
Photo Credit: GoFundMe
$750,000 Goal For Overseas Treatment
The family is now seeking access to specialist treatment in the United States, with the fundraising target set at $750,000. Campaign organisers have called for 75,000 people to contribute $10 each to help reach the target. Donations remain open as the family continues to seek the remaining funds required.
Prize Details For Donors
As part of the awareness campaign, donations of $25 or more are eligible for prize draws promoted by the players.
The highest verified single donation received before 6 p.m. AEST on Sunday, March 1, 2026, will receive a signed pair of game-worn boots, six home game tickets for one match this year and an opportunity to meet some of the team on the day.
Additional prizes include a signed match-worn jersey and a separate four-ticket home game experience with an opportunity to meet some of the team. Winners are scheduled to be announced at 6 p.m. AEST on Monday, March 2, 2026.
A recent update on the fundraising outlined a Make-A-Wish Australia experience for Tessa in South Brisbane, where her request to see snow was recreated locally due to medical travel restrictions.
