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Student from Kelvin Grove Astronomic Ambitions Catapult Him to National Scholarship

Photo Credit: Queensland Academy for Creative Industries/ Facebook

A Kelvin Grove student’s childhood fascination with space has propelled him to new heights, earning him a coveted national scholarship.

Nayl Fassi Fihri, a Year 12 student at the Queensland Academy for Creative Industries, has been selected as one of only 25 recipients of the prestigious Tuckwell Scholarship for 2025.

QACI, a selective entry senior state high school located in Kelvin Grove, is renowned for its innovative educational environment and focus on creative disciplines. Established in 2007 as part of the Queensland Academies network, it is Queensland’s first vertical school, designed to accommodate a modern educational framework within a compact urban setting.

The academy offers the globally recognised International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, attracting academically gifted students from across the state and internationally.

*Photo Credit:* *ANU Tuckwell Scholarships/ Facebook*

This remarkable achievement will pave the way for Nayl’s relocation to Canberra next year. He will embark on a Bachelor of Science in Astrophysics at the Australian National University. The scholarship, valued between $76,000 and $136,000, will provide comprehensive financial support for three to five years of his undergraduate studies.

Nayl’s journey exemplifies the power of unwavering determination in pursuing one’s dreams. He has always harboured a profound passion for space exploration and has consistently demonstrated the academic rigour necessary to realise his aspirations.

The road to success, however, was challenging. Nayl faced a steep learning curve when he commenced the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Year 11. Despite initial difficulties, he exhibited remarkable resilience and rapidly improved his grades, a testament to his work ethic and commitment to excellence.

Nayl’s selection for the Tuckwell Scholarship underscores his exceptional potential and inspires aspiring astronauts and scientists nationwide.

As he prepares to embark on the next chapter of his academic journey, Nayl’s story reminds him that even the most ambitious dreams can be within reach with dedication and perseverance.

Published Date 18-September-2024

Star Chef Dario Manca Opens Attimi, His Dream Restaurant in Paddington

Photo Credit: Attimi/ Instagram

After a decade of anticipation and planning, renowned chef Dario Manca has finally unveiled his passion project, Attimi, in the heart of Paddington. A month after possessing the former NOTA space on Given Terrace, Manca is ready to showcase his culinary vision.

Attimi, meaning ‘moments’ in Italian, promises to be a haven for those seeking unique dining experiences. The 28-seater restaurant offers a dual concept, with a set menu degustation on weekends and a la carte dining from Tuesday to Friday.

Manca’s degustation menu, available in eight or 12 courses (or ten with dietary requirements), invites guests on a culinary journey through his native Italy. Each dish comes with a personal explanation, highlighting its regional significance.

The eight-course menu provides a “quick Italian tour.” At the same time, the extended option offers a “sensory exploration of Italy,” blending traditional Italian cuisine with innovative twists inspired by Michelin-starred European and Nordic dining.

For those seeking a more casual dining experience, the a la carte menu promises exceptional quality without the formality of the degustation. Manca aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for locals and regulars to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.

Manca’s vision for Attimi extends beyond the food. He emphasises sustainability, particularly with the degustation menu, and draws inspiration from ‘cucina povera’ or ‘poor food.’ His trout from Abruzzo, featuring a sauce made from repurposed prosciutto scraps, exemplifies this philosophy.

Attimi also showcases Manca’s artistic flair. He hand-painted the menus, created the artwork adorning the walls, and commissioned whimsical Italian expression statues for each table.

An extensive wine list featuring over 100 selections from Italy and worldwide complements the dining experience. In-house gelato and sorbet made in Attimi’s gelataria provide a sweet finish.

Manca’s passion for his craft and dedication to offering something unique shine through in every aspect of Attimi. He believes in celebrating diversity within Italian cuisine and hopes to provide Brisbane with an unforgettable dining experience.

Published Date 10-September-2024

New Chapter for Given Terrace: Proposal for Mixed-Use Development Announced

Given Terrace in Paddington is set for a dramatic transformation with a proposal submitted for a new mixed-use precinct.

Read: Given Terrace Estate in Paddington is 100 Years Old!

The proposal aims to rejuvenate a 2,830 square metre site at 208-220 Given Terrace, blending restored heritage charm with modern amenities to breathe new life into this iconic high street.

The development application by Core Property Partners and P&MV Constructions aims to strike a balance between restoration and innovation. It seeks to revitalise the existing character retail strip while introducing 12 luxury apartments and 31 short-stay accommodation suites.

Designed by DAH Architecture, a key feature of the plan is an activated laneway, designed to enhance connectivity and foot traffic in the area.

given terrace — Proposed laneway (Photo credit: DAH Architecture)

Nick Vidakovic of P&MV Constructions expressed enthusiasm for the project, describing it as a rare opportunity to reinvigorate Paddington’s retail heart. He emphasised that transforming this section into a precinct rather than a mere destination would boost foot traffic not only on Given Terrace but also on nearby Latrobe Terrace.

Proposed communal space (Photo credit: DAH Architecture)

Vidakovic highlighted the proposed laneway, which will connect the precinct to a neighbouring childcare centre. This civic space is set to feature a timeline of the area’s history dating back to 1881, potentially catalysing broader rejuvenation efforts in the surrounding businesses.

Core Property’s development manager, Bikram Kaler, underscored the project’s focus on restoring the character retail strip. He noted that while Given Terrace was once the epicentre of Brisbane’s high fashion and cafe culture, it had lost some of its allure in recent years.

Kaler expressed hope that the development would help attract more food and fashion enthusiasts back to the high street, thereby preserving Paddington’s unique character.

Read: Developer Targets Paddington for 48-Unit Residential Care Facility

Looking ahead, Kaler pointed out the strategic importance of the site’s location, particularly in light of the upcoming 2032 Olympics. He emphasised Paddington’s excellent connectivity to key sporting and entertainment venues, including Suncorp Stadium and the proposed Brisbane Arena precinct at Roma Street.

The development, he suggested, would not only enhance existing retail spaces but also provide a mix of residential and short-stay options, potentially boosting visitation and creating new job opportunities in the lead-up to the Olympics and beyond.

Published 11-September-2024

Petrie Terrace to Host Screening of “The Koalas” Documentary

Photo Credit: humanitix

On September 4th, 2024, Bush Heritage Australia will present a special screening of the documentary film “The Koalas” at Palace Barracks Cinema in Petrie Terrace. The event, scheduled from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, aims to raise awareness about the plight of Australia’s iconic marsupials.

“The Koalas” offers an intimate look into the lives of individual koalas, including characters named Wonnie, Bexley, Tom, Baz, Coral, and joeys Hope and Pala. The film explores the unique characteristics of koalas, their relationships with their young, and the dedicated wildlife carers who work tirelessly to protect them.

Central to the documentary’s narrative is the alarming decline in koala populations across Australia’s East Coast. The film investigates how habitat loss, weak environmental laws, and the impacts of climate change are pushing these beloved animals towards potential extinction in the wild.

The documentary doesn’t shy away from controversial topics, questioning why koala populations continue to decline despite government protection strategies. It also examines specific cases, such as a key koala colony in southwest Sydney threatened by proposed housing developments, and the challenges faced by translocated koalas in Victoria’s timber plantations.

While the film presents a sobering look at the threats facing koalas, it also emphasises resilience and hope. “The Koalas” aims to inspire viewers to become more aware of local wildlife, support conservation efforts, and take action to preserve native habitats.

Following the screening, Bush Heritage Australia’s Michelle Stook will host a Q&A panel, providing attendees with an opportunity to delve deeper into the issues raised by the film.

save your seats here!

This event offers Petrie Terrace residents a unique chance to engage with critical environmental issues and learn about the challenges facing one of Australia’s most iconic species.

Published 29-August-2024

Kelvin Grove State College Students Triumph in 2024 Literary Competition

Two students from Kelvin Grove State College have claimed top honours in the 2024 Literary Competition, Queensland’s oldest continuous writing contest for school students.

Read: Kelvin Grove State College Joins Elite in 2023 School Rankings

Now in its 65th year, the 2024 Literary Competition saw over 1,300 submissions across various categories, showcasing the state’s young literary talent.

Leonard Cavallaro, representing Years 9 and 10, secured first place in the short story category, while Elisabeth Yeo took the top spot for Years 7 and 8, also in the short story division. Their success highlights the strength of Kelvin Grove State College’s English and creative writing programs.

The English Teachers Association of Queensland (ETAQ) President Anne Wood noted that the competition received high-quality entries from schools across Queensland. She emphasised that the Literary Competition continues to be a significant event for nurturing young writers in the state. Established in 1959, the competition has become a launching pad for many budding authors over the decades.

The awards ceremony, held at the Queensland Multicultural Centre, saw winners receive certificates and book prizes donated by Penguin Random House Australia. First-place recipients had the opportunity to read their winning pieces to an appreciative audience.

Guest speaker Zanni Louise, a children’s book author from Byron Bay, delivered an engaging lecture, sharing insights from her writing career and inspiring the young talents in attendance.

2024 Literary Competition — Zanni Louise (Photo credit: Independent Education Union)

Terry Burke, Branch Secretary of the Independent Education Union of Australia (Qld & NT), highlighted the competition’s role in developing students’ writing skills and creativity. He explained that their goal is to foster literary development and freedom of expression among young people.

The competition, jointly sponsored by the IEUA-QNT, ETAQ, and Penguin Random House, is open to students from Years 5 to 12, as well as teachers. It offers categories for poetry, short stories, and non-fiction prose across different age groups, with cash prizes for the top three places in each section.

Read: Bluey Leaves Paddington: Iconic Show Home Embodies Spirit of West Brisbane

As Kelvin Grove State College celebrates its students’ achievements, the Literary Competition continues to play a vital role in nurturing Queensland’s next generation of writers, proving that the art of storytelling is alive and well in the Sunshine State.

Published 16-August-2024

Caxton Street Comedy Festival to Bring All-Day Laughs to Petrie Terrace

Caxton Street is set to roar with laughter as it hosts its first-ever comedy festival on October 19. The Caxton Street Comedy Festival promises to be an all-day celebration of Queensland’s thriving comedy scene, bringing together top-tier Australian talent and local favourites across four venues in Petrie Terrace.

Read: From Final Bow to New Act: Brisbane Arts Theatre Says Goodbye to Their Historic Petrie Terrace Headquarters

A Star-Studded Lineup

Photo credit: Caxton Street Comedy Festival/Instagram

Presented by Good Chat Comedy Club, this pioneering event aims to showcase the street’s artistic side, complementing its well-known reputation as a sports fan haven. From noon until evening, comedy enthusiasts can indulge in a diverse lineup of stand-up acts, interactive shows, and live podcasts.

Here’s the list of all the performance venues:

The Lord Alfred Hotel
Lefty’s Music Hall
Alfie’s
The Haunt

The festival kicks off with “Death by Birding,” a humorous and informative live podcast about bird watching, setting the tone for a day filled with wit and whimsy. Following this, comedy heavyweights Nick Cody and Luke Heggie will take the stage with their “Mid Flight Brawl LIVE!” show.

Throughout the day, attendees can catch performances from a mix of established and up-and-coming comedians. The star-studded lineup includes Amy Hetherington, Matt Stewart, Lloyd Langford, Emma Zammit, Geraldine Hickey, Bronwyn Kuss, and Michael Hing, among others. For reality TV fans, “Game On Mole Live!” featuring Aimon, Dicko, and special guests promises to be a highlight.

More Than Just Stand-Up

Photo credit: Caxton St Brewing Co/Google Maps

In addition to stand-up acts, the festival offers interactive experiences and street-side entertainment, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Comedy podcast enthusiasts can look forward to a live recording of “Who Knew It” with Matt Stewart.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, Caxton St Brewing Co, a major venue partner, has crafted a special brew for the occasion. “The Tight Five,” an easy-drinking lager, will be available for punters to enjoy as they hop between shows.

Read: ARLC Buys Gambaro Hotel Brisbane in Petrie Terrace

With its impressive lineup and vibrant atmosphere, the inaugural Caxton Street Comedy Festival is poised to become a standout event in Brisbane’s cultural calendar. Don’t miss this chance to be part of comedy history in the making. Visit their website for more details.

Published 8-August-2024

Red Hill Renovation Wins Australian House of the Year

Photo Credit: zuzana&nicholas

A Red Hill couple’s decade-long renovation project has been crowned Australian House of the Year at the 2024 Houses Awards.

Zuzana Kovar and Nicholas Skepper transformed a 113-year-old worker’s cottage into a modern, multi-functional home that impressed judges with its innovative use of space and environmental considerations.

The couple purchased the two-storey property on a corner block in 2011, attracted by its potential for both living and working spaces. “We always imagined that’d be a great spot for an architecture studio,” Skepper said, referring to the revealed understorey on the side street.

Working within a compact 200 square metres, Kovar and Skepper made clever design choices to maximise the home’s functionality. They swapped living and bedroom areas to optimise natural light and ventilation, a simple yet effective change that significantly improved the home’s livability.

The renovation focused on flexible spaces, with the largest room serving as both an office and additional living area. “Our studio table doubles as a dining table for a large group,” Skepper explained, highlighting the home’s adaptability for various occasions.

Houses Awards head juror Alexa Kempton praised the design for its efficient use of space and its response to the evolving nature of work. The home successfully integrates professional and personal life while maintaining appropriate separation between spaces.

Contrary to the trend of maximising built area, the Red Hill renovation preserved the backyard, offering a valuable outdoor space for the couple’s young children. Large sliding glass doors create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection without sacrificing garden area.

The project also emphasised sustainable practices, retaining original materials and recycling items where possible. This approach, combined with the preservation of green space, addresses growing concerns about urban density and environmental impact in Brisbane’s inner suburbs.

Published 2-August-2024

Sibling Chefs Bring Authentic Thai Flavours to Paddington with Ma Chim

Paddington’s food landscape just got a flavourful boost with the opening of Ma Chim, a new Thai restaurant that promises to tantalise taste buds with fresh, zesty, and authentic cuisine.

Read: Sunny Side Sandwiches: Paddington’s Tasty New Arrival

This locally family-owned and operated business is the brainchild of siblings Bowyo and Yew Muangsong, who aim to bring a taste of their homeland to Brisbane’s vibrant community.

The name “Ma Chim” is a playful invitation in Thai, translating to “come and taste it” – an apt moniker for a venue that prides itself on its enticing menu.

While Bowyo Muangsong has made a name for herself as a renowned head chef in some of Brisbane’s famous venues like Pingpong and Morning After Cafe, it’s her brother Yew who takes the helm in the kitchen at Ma Chim.

Bowyo’s journey in Brisbane’s culinary scene began when she arrived in the city at 18, fresh from completing her Year 12 in Thailand. Her first foray into the local food industry was at her aunt’s restaurant in Milton, laying the groundwork for what would become a successful career in the kitchen.

Photo credit: MA CHIM THAI Brisbane/Facebook

Ma Chim’s menu is a love letter to Thai cuisine, featuring family recipes and regional specialties passed down through generations. Many of these cherished dishes come from the siblings’ mother, herself a chef with a passion for cooking.

The authenticity extends beyond the food – even some of the plates and cutlery have been sourced directly from Thailand, adding an extra layer of cultural immersion to the dining experience.

Diners can look forward to signature dishes such as the popular Wagyu Boat Noodle and the homegrown Kapow with fried egg and real Thai basil. For those seeking to explore Thai flavours, the Nam Tok Pork Jowl offers a unique take on a famous recipe, while the Street Fish Cakes with sweet chilli sauce and roasted peanuts provide a perfect starter. To quench your thirst, Ma Chim also serves up homemade Thai milk tea.

“We embarked on this journey to create a restaurant that not only serves the most delicious Thai dishes but also offers a warm and welcoming dining experience that leaves a lasting impression on our customers,” the Muangsong siblings shared through their website.

Read: Rosalie Village: New Public Artwork Unveiled Celebrating Community and Culture

Ma Chim is located at 4/165 Baroona Road, Paddington, and is now open for dine-in and online orders. Whether you’re a Thai food aficionado or a curious first-timer, Ma Chim invites you to come and taste the vibrant flavours of Thailand right in the heart of Paddington.

Published 23-July-2024

Auchenflower to the World Stage: Charlotte Caslick’s Journey to Rugby Sevens Greatness

As the 2024 Paris Olympics approach, Rugby Sevens superstar Charlotte Caslick prepares to embark on her third Olympic game, a testament to her enduring excellence and impact on the sport.

Read: Red Hill Sensation Thomas Neill Eyes Paris Glory With the Dolphins

Born in Auchenflower but raised in Stanthorpe, Caslick’s journey to international stardom began on the touch football fields, where her exceptional skills earned her the prestigious Player of the Series title at the 2012 National Youth Championships. This early recognition was just a glimpse of the accolades that would follow in her illustrious career.

The transition to Rugby Sevens came naturally for Caslick, who made her debut in 2013. Her impact was immediate and profound. For three consecutive seasons from 2014 to 2016, she was named in the World Series Dream Team, cementing her status as one of the sport’s elite players.

Photo credit: Charlotte Caslick/Instagram

Caslick’s trajectory continued to soar as she played a pivotal role in Australia’s first World Series victory. Her combination of speed, agility, and tactical awareness made her a nightmare for opponents and a joy for teammates and fans alike.

The pinnacle of Caslick’s career came at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where Rugby Sevens made its debut as an Olympic sport. In a performance that will be remembered for generations, Caslick scored seven tries throughout the tournament, including one in the gold medal match against New Zealand. Her efforts were instrumental in securing Australia’s historic gold medal.

Recognition for her extraordinary talents came in the form of the 2016 World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year award, a testament to her dominance on the global stage.

Despite facing setbacks, including a brief foray into rugby league that was cut short by injury, Caslick’s resilience has been remarkable. She bounced back to lead Australia to a triple crown in 2022, winning the World Rugby Sevens Series, Commonwealth Games gold, and the Rugby Sevens World Cup.

Now, with over 300 caps to her name, Caslick stands as the most experienced player in sevens history.

Read: Kelvin Grove State College Joins Elite in 2023 School Rankings

As Caslick continues to dazzle on the international circuit, she remains grounded, sharing her life off the field with fiance Lewis Holland on their cattle property in Stanthorpe. Her story is not just one of personal triumph, but an inspiration to young athletes across Australia and beyond, proving that with talent and determination, the journey from suburban fields to Olympic podiums is possible.

Published 16-July-2024

Red Hill Sensation Thomas Neill Eyes Paris Glory With the Dolphins

Red Hill swimming sensation Thomas Neill is poised to make his mark at the Paris Olympics, securing his spot in both the 200m freestyle and 200m individual medley events. At just 22 years old, Neill is preparing for his second Olympic appearance, building on a career that has shown promise since his junior days.

Read: Paddington Jewellery Icon to Sell After Two Decades

From Rugby to Swimming

Rugby had been his obsession since childhood, consuming his thoughts and adorning his bedroom walls. Posters of his idols – Quade Cooper, Will Genia, and the entire 2011 Reds squad – served as daily inspiration. On the other hand, swimming was a chore he endured with gritted teeth, Neill admitted.

Fate had different plans for the young athlete, steering him away from the rugby field. At 14, Neill shattered both his leg and his aspirations during an intense match. The sickening crack of bone echoed his vanishing dreams of rugby stardom.

Ironically, it was the very sport he did not love (at first) that offered salvation after his injury. The doctor’s prescription for swimming for rehabilitation was met with initial skepticism. Deep down, he had always sensed his true potential lay in the pool, not on the pitch and this became the catalyst for embracing a new passion, as the competitive spirit of swimming began to ignite a fire within him.

Early success and rapid rise

Neill first caught attention in 2019 at the Australian age titles, claiming gold in multiple events including the 200m, 400m, 800m, and 1500m freestyle, as well as the 200m individual medley. This impressive performance earned him a place on the Australian Team for the junior world titles in Budapest, where he continued to excel, securing two silvers and two bronzes.

Transitioning to senior competition, Neill quickly proved his mettle. At the 2021 Australian championships, he claimed gold in the 800m freestyle and silver in the 400m freestyle, narrowly missing a medal in the 200m freestyle.

Thomas Neill debuts at the Tokyo Olympics

Neill’s Olympic journey began at the 2021 trials in Adelaide, where he secured a spot on the 4x200m freestyle relay team for Tokyo. In his Olympic debut, Neill narrowly missed the 200m freestyle final but played a crucial role in the relay event. Assigned the anchor leg, he delivered the fastest split among his Australian teammates, helping secure a bronze medal for the team.

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A post shared by Tommy Neill (@tommy.neill)

Following a period focused on his Advanced Business (Honours) degree at the University of Queensland, Neill returned to full-time training in 2023. He contributed to Australia’s bronze in the 4x200m freestyle relay at the 2023 World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, Japan, and showed improvement in individual medley events.

Neill’s recent performances have solidified his position as a dual-event Olympian for Paris. At the Australian Olympic trials held in the Brisbane Aquatic Centre, he claimed second place in the 200m freestyle with a time of 1:46.02, securing his individual spot. Additionally, Neill will compete in the 200m individual medley in Paris.

Read: King’s Birthday Honours Recognise AMA Queensland Doctors

Known for his friendly personality, Neill has gained attention for his post-race quips. After winning bronze in Tokyo, he told TV cameras, “A bronze medal at the Olympics, as Matty Johns said in 1997, it’s better than Lego.” With one Games under his belt and another yet to come, Thomas Neill offers an intriguing preview of Australia’s swimming future.

Published 08-July-2024