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Red Hill Wellness Centre Pioneers Thermal Therapy for Community Health

Red Hill residents and those across Brisbane are experiencing a significant shift in their well-being thanks to a unique wellness facility where cold plunges and magnesium pools are helping individuals boost their physical and mental health.

The centre, Vikasati, located in both Brisbane and Southport, was founded eight years ago by fitness veterans Ben Murphy and Will Stodulka. Their journey into holistic wellness began modestly with improvised ice baths in a basement car park, stemming from over two decades of combined experience in fitness and performance coaching.

They realised that recovery was a crucial component of enhancing client performance, leading them to explore physiology, breathwork, and thermal contrast therapy in depth.

The Science Behind Thermal Therapy

Thermal therapy is a scientifically supported method that exposes the body to controlled periods of hot and cold temperatures. This process triggers several physiological benefits, including reduced inflammation, quicker muscle recovery, improved circulation, a boosted metabolism, better sleep quality, enhanced mental clarity, and even relief from menopause symptoms.

Co-founder Ben Murphy explained that the approach is about using short, manageable stressors to build physical, mental, and emotional strength. Research from experts such as Stanford neuroscientist Andrew Huberman and “Thermalist” Susanna Søberg supports these findings, positioning Vikasati at the forefront of Australia’s thermal wellness movement long before the therapies gained widespread popularity.

A Focus on Community Well-being

Beyond its state-of-the-art facilities, Vikasati places a strong emphasis on community. Co-founder Will Stodulka stated that while facilities are important, it is the community that truly transforms people. The centre cultivates an environment where members, from first-timers to elite athletes, are encouraged and guided on their wellness journeys.

This holistic approach integrates movement, restoration, and relationship building, creating a space that fosters genuine connections and shared experiences. Laughter and friendships often develop during post-sauna chats, and the challenge of ice plunging becomes a shared accomplishment.

Mainstream Appeal and Accessibility

Once primarily a practice for elite athletes and biohackers, ice baths and thermal therapies have gained global attention, with celebrities and sports personalities like LeBron James, Lady Gaga, and The Matildas embracing their benefits.

Vikasati, however, aims to make these tools accessible to everyone, providing a practical framework for incorporating them into daily life. The team invites those who might be sceptical of social media trends to experience the scientific benefits directly. Ben Murphy noted that their purpose is not to simply sell wellness, but to help people genuinely experience it.

Broader Impact on Life

The founders describe their mission as “human optimisation,” though their aim is more fundamentally about restoring vitality for the positive impact it has on families, relationships, and the wider community. Will Stodulka believes that when individuals feel better, they perform better in all aspects of their lives, influencing how they parent, lead, and live.

A 90-minute session at Vikasati, available for $46 at their Brisbane and Gold Coast locations, offers Finnish Sauna, Ice Baths at 5°C, and Magnesium Pools, designed to help individuals reconnect with their body, breath, and purpose.

Published Date 28-May-2025

Pizza Champion from Paddington Earns Top World Rankings in Italy

Photo Credit: Elementi/Instagram

A chef from Paddington has been named Australia’s best pizza chef and ranked in the top tier across multiple categories at the 2025 World Pizza Championships in Italy.

Paddington pizza chef — *Photo Credit: Elementi/Instagram*

Global Recognition for Paddington Chef

Stefano Spataro, chef at Elementi in Paddington, has received major recognition at the 2025 World Pizza Championships held in Parma, Italy. The competition took place from 8 to 10 April 2025, attracting more than 770 participants from over 50 countries. Mr Spataro competed in three categories: classic, gluten-free, and Neapolitan-style pizza.

Elementi Paddington — *Photo Credit: Elementi/Instagram*

Previous Achievements Set the Stage

In 2023, Mr Spataro earned a place among the top 100 pizza chefs at the same global event. Competing for the first time that year, he finished in the top tier of the classic pizza division and placed within the top 40 for his gluten-free pizza, despite not offering that option on his restaurant’s menu at the time. His 2023 performance earned him national attention and experience on the international stage.

Paddington chef — *Photo Credit: Elementi/Instagram*

Top Rankings in 2025

At the 2025 competition, Mr Spataro improved further. His gluten-free pizza ranked equal 7th out of 79 competitors, and his entries also placed 51st out of 353 in the classic category and 40th out of 99 in the Neapolitan STG division.

The pizza he presented was inspired by Sicilian ingredients and culture. All components were sourced from his uncle’s farm, including ancient grains, homemade prosciutto, turnip stalks, and caramelised leeks. Mr Spataro explained that his focus remains on seasonal produce and balance in flavour.

Stefano Spataro — *Photo Credit: Elementi/Instagram*

Recognition at Home

Following his return, Mr Spataro was acknowledged on local media for being named Australia’s Best Pizza Chef. His win has brought national attention to Elementi, the Paddington venue he co-owns with business partners Mauricio Zarate Castillo and Pedro Hugo Lima Sanson.

Looking Ahead

Mr Spataro’s consistent performance over the years highlights a strong foundation for continued international success. Still, his Paddington kitchen remains the heart of his culinary approach.

Published 22-May-2025

How a Kelvin Grove Group Helps Newcomers Stitch Into Community Life

Photo Credit: Communify

A knitting group in Kelvin Grove has brought together women from 26 different countries, demonstrating how local volunteering can foster strong community bonds and support newcomers to Australia.

The “Knitting English” program began in 2010 and was recently recognised as a finalist for the Queensland Volunteering Impact Award at the Queensland Volunteering Awards.

The awards, now in their tenth year, celebrate the significant contributions of volunteers and organisations across Queensland. The 2025 ceremony, which took place on Friday, 16 May, at Brisbane City Hall, honoured individuals and organisations making a difference in their communities.

A Thread of Connection

Kelvin Grove — *Photo Credit:* *Communify*

The Knitting English group started with a simple act of kindness: knitting blankets for children affected by the Haiti earthquake. Over the past 15 years, it has grown into a vibrant initiative that creates blankets, toys, beanies, and teddies for children impacted by natural disasters, poverty, domestic violence, and displacement, including refugee families and First Nations communities. Beyond local efforts, their creations have even reached baby penguins affected by oil spills.

At its core, the program combines English conversation practice with knitting. This approach creates a welcoming space where women from diverse backgrounds can improve their language skills, build friendships, and offer support to one another.

Organisers say it helps promote cultural exchange, reduce social isolation, and provide a strong sense of belonging for women whose first language is not English. Every item made by the group is seen as more than just a handmade gift; it represents a connection, a conversation, and an act of care shared across different communities.

Celebrating Volunteer Contributions

The Queensland Volunteering Awards acknowledge the tireless work of volunteers from all walks of life. A new category, the Queensland New Volunteer Award, was introduced this year to recognise adult volunteers new to Australia and have been volunteering for less than two years, highlighting how fresh perspectives and enthusiasm from newcomers enrich Queensland communities.

Other award categories include the Queensland Lifetime Contribution to Volunteering Award, Queensland Youth Volunteer of the Year Award, Queensland Excellence in Volunteer Management Award, and Queensland Volunteer of the Year Award. These categories aim to ensure that volunteers from all sectors and backgrounds receive recognition for their efforts.

The Queensland Volunteering Impact Award

The Queensland Volunteering Impact Award specifically recognises volunteering programs or activities that have made a positive, measurable, and lasting social and/or economic impact on the Queensland community.

This award is divided into three sub-categories: Community, Government, and Corporate. The Kelvin Grove Knitting English group was a finalist in the Community category. This award celebrates volunteer initiatives’ broad and positive effects on people’s lives and the wider community.

The Power of Connecting Communities

Volunteering is also celebrated during National Volunteer Week, which runs from 19 to 25 May. This year’s theme, “Connecting Communities,” highlights how volunteering brings people together, builds social cohesion, and strengthens communities nationwide.

Volunteering Australia’s CEO, Mark Pearce, stated that volunteers are essential for inclusive communities, especially during difficult times like natural disasters and rising living costs. He explained that volunteers offer crucial support during emergencies, help people access vital services, strengthen community connections, and support local events.

Mr Pearce added that volunteering benefits others and deeply impacts the volunteers themselves, fostering lasting relationships, community engagement, and a feeling of belonging. He also noted that volunteering is about building connections, sharing knowledge, and creating spaces where people feel they belong.

Published Date 21-May-2025

Street Spotlight: Blamey Street, Kelvin Grove

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Blamey Street in Kelvin Grove stands as a vibrant testament to modern urban development while carrying the distinguished name of one of Australia’s most celebrated military leaders. This contemporary street, dominated by modern apartment complexes and units, represents the evolving face of inner Brisbane living with its high-density residential character.

The street demonstrates a unique ownership pattern with an impressive 85% of properties being owner-occupied, suggesting strong investment confidence despite the relatively shorter average residency of 7 years and 7 months. With 787 total properties including just 12 houses among 775 units and apartments, Blamey Street reflects Brisbane’s modern urban densification trends. The fact that 38% of residents have lived here for more than a decade indicates a growing sense of community stability in this high-rise environment.

Remembrance: Honouring Field Marshall Sir Thomas Albert Blamey

Blamey Street pays tribute to Field Marshall Sir Thomas Albert Blamey (1884-1951), one of Australia’s most distinguished military commanders and the only Australian to achieve the rank of Field Marshall. While best known as Commander-in-Chief of the Australian Military Forces during World War Two, Blamey’s military career began much earlier.

When World War One was declared in 1914, Captain Blamey was already serving in the Australian Military Forces. He became part of the ANZAC legend when he landed at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915, courageously leading a patrol behind enemy lines to locate Turkish gun positions. His exceptional leadership saw him promoted to temporary lieutenant-colonel before returning to Egypt to help establish the 2nd Australian Division in 1915.

Blamey’s strategic brilliance shone on the Western Front, where he was promoted to Chief of Staff on the Somme in 1916. Further promotion to temporary brigadier and Chief of Staff of the Australian Corps followed, and he played a crucial role alongside Lieutenant General Sir John Monash in planning the pivotal Battle of Hamel in 1918, which helped break the formidable Hindenburg Line.

This street’s name ensures that the courage, leadership, and strategic mind of Field Marshall Blamey continues to be remembered by the residents and visitors of Kelvin Grove, connecting them to the ANZAC spirit and Australia’s proud military heritage.

Blamey St, Kelvin Grove Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 787 (12 houses, 775 units)
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 85%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 7 years, 7 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 38%

Blamey St, Kelvin Grove – As It Looked in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON BLAMEY ST, KELVIN GROVE

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
30904/63 Blamey Street, Kelvin Grove	$620,000	May 2025
20604/63 Blamey Street, Kelvin Grove	$546,000	Apr 2025
2702/59 Blamey Street, Kelvin Grove	$545,000	Mar 2025
20506/63 Blamey Street, Kelvin Grove	$750,000	Mar 2025
30911/67 Blamey Street, Kelvin Grove	$581,100	Feb 2025
30213/67 Blamey Street, Kelvin Grove	$580,000	Feb 2025

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON BLAMEY ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
12 Blamey Street, Kelvin Grove	$17,000	Jul 1979
2/26 Blamey Street, Kelvin Grove	$62,500	Apr 1988
10/16 Blamey Street, Kelvin Grove	$65,000	Oct 1988

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kelvin Grove in 2025 was $1,337,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kelvin Grove in 2021 was $837,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3-BEDROOM HOUSE IN KELVIN GROVE SINCE 2021: $500,000

The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Kelvin Grove in 2025 was $490,000
The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Kelvin Grove in 2021 was $330,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 1 BEDROOM UNIT IN KELVIN GROVE SINCE 2021: $160,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Kelvin Grove in 2025 was $697,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Kelvin Grove in 2021 was $403,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN KELVIN GROVE SINCE 2021: $294,000

If you know Blamey St, Kelvin Grove well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Interest Builds Around The Barracks As Historic Precinct Hits the Market

The Barracks, one of Brisbane’s most prominent mixed-use precincts, is now on the market, offering a rare opportunity to secure a premium asset positioned to benefit from the city’s rapid transformation and infrastructure-driven growth.

Read: Discover the Rich History of The Barracks in Paddington

Situated at 61 Petrie Terrace on the fringe of the CBD, The Barracks spans 19,432 square metres and features a dynamic blend of retail, office, and entertainment spaces. The precinct is anchored by a Coles supermarket and Palace Cinemas, supported by 23 food and retail tenancies, and boasts more than 10,000 sqm of A-Grade office space, fully leased to major corporate tenants.

In 2022, Growthpoint Properties Australia acquired Fortius Funds Management and with it, The Barracks—marking a significant addition to its national portfolio of commercial property assets.

Beyond its commercial appeal, The Barracks site has an interesting and rich history. It retains three heritage-listed buildings from its time as a police facility: the original stables built in 1912, a three-storey brick barracks from 1939, and the radio communications centre, constructed in 1941. These historical features add cultural significance and architectural character to the modern precinct.

The sale comes at a time when Brisbane’s inner-west is undergoing significant change, driven by major infrastructure projects such as the Cross River Rail and the upcoming Victoria Park stadium, both part of the city’s preparations for the 2032 Olympic Games. These developments are expected to boost connectivity and foot traffic, enhancing The Barracks’ long-term value.

The precinct is set within a catchment forecast to experience steady population growth, reaching around 269,000 by 2046. Retail spending in the main trade area is also projected to climb to $9.9 billion, underlining the area’s rising commercial appeal.

Read: Paddington Gaol Turned Lifestyle Barracks Still a Landmark

As one of just three comparable assets in Brisbane’s CBD fringe, The Barracks stands out in a market marked by limited supply and growing demand for high-quality mixed-use investments. With strong existing occupancy, heritage charm, and future upside from surrounding residential development, the property is expected to attract strong national and international interest when the international expressions of interest campaign launches in mid-May 2025.

Published 21-May-2025

The West Brisbane Property Showcase: 34 Carroll Street

34 Carroll Street, Bardon

A beautiful Art Deco home in Bardon comes onto the market at 34 Carroll Street.
Marianne Hewitt of Place Paddington presents this home for sale, asking for Expressions of Interest
by Monday 2nd June, 5pm.

The property has undergone a complete luxury renovation, having been architecturally designed by Suzanne Bosanquet and includes many unique and stylish touches.

This Saturday, May 24, Marianne will have the home, open for inspection at 10:00 a.m.

Positioned on a generous 987m² across two lots in a quiet, leafy pocket of Bardon.

The expansive multi-level residence masterfully blends original decorative features with a sophisticated modern design.

Bespoke kitchen with marble slab benchtops, luxury high-end European appliances, and a galley style butler’s pantry with extensive shelving.

Quaint balcony adjoining the dining space captures city glimpses and the morning sun.

34 Carroll Street, Bardon, Qld 4065

Float amongst the treetops in the swimming pool with tiered outdoor entertainment and relaxation spaces.

Home office with built-in desk and custom cabinetry.

Designer master suite with hand-woven sisal flooring, partitioned wardrobe, and opulent ensuite with free-standing bath, separate toilet and shower.

The home also features:

An Upper-level media room with built-in entertainment unit.
Lower level incorporates a rumpus, kitchenette, 2 oversized bedrooms with built-in robes and study desks, and bathroom. Could be utilised as dual living quarters.
Full height glass doors and windows open to create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.

See more details of this unique property here.

About The Architect of 34 Carroll Street

This stunning home has been architurally designed by the renowned architect, Suzanne Bosanquet who has been involved in the design of many high profile homes (including across Brisbane and on Hayman Island) as well as Olympic stadiums (Athens, Beijing and London).

About the Interior Designer of 34 Carroll Street

Sannah Pratt of Sannah and Co has recently been involved in a range of high-end projects including Project Breezeway in Noosa and the Penthouse at The Oxlade in New Farm.

Marianne Hewitt The West Brisbane Property Showcase

PETA Urges Broncos at Red Hill to Retire Live Mascot Buck

Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos

An animal rights organisation has launched a campaign directed at the Brisbane Broncos, urging the team to retire Buck their live horse mascot, and asking the team to reconsider the team name due to concerns about animal welfare and what some perceive to be the glorification of rodeo practices.

PETA’s Concerns and Proposed Changes

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) Asia-Pacific Campaign Manager, Abigail Forsyth, stated that using live animals at sporting events is inappropriate, describing the experience for a horse like Buck in a stadium filled with bright lights, loud noises, and cheering fans as terrifying and distressing.

The organisation has directly appealed to the Broncos, suggesting that while retiring Buck is their primary request, the team should also consider the implications of their name and imagery, arguing that it promotes rodeos, an industry they believe is built on animal fear and pain.

Furthermore, PETA has proposed that the Brisbane Broncos adopt a new name that does not involve animal cruelty, suggesting “Brisbane Boomerangs” as a potential alternative. This name would meaningfully acknowledge the club’s history of fostering Indigenous talent and its commitment to equality.

PETA representatives, including Vice-President Mimi Bekhechi, have echoed this sentiment, suggesting that other sporting teams have already embraced the Boomerangs moniker and would present a more progressive image for the NRL club. They even offered a new logo design to support this potential rebranding.

Broncos’ Response and Community Sentiments

The Brisbane Broncos have publicly responded to PETA’s campaign, firmly stating they have no plans to retire Buck. The club emphasised that Buck is an iconic, much-loved, and well-cared-for member of the Broncos family, a tradition that has existed for a significant period.

They assured the community that their game-day staff consistently work with Buck’s rider and the stadium management to ensure the highest level of safety for both the horse and the fans attending matches at Suncorp Stadium.

The PETA suggestion has also drawn a reaction from within the Broncos community. Club legend Chris Johns dismissed the idea as “the most ridiculous suggestion of all time.” Current Broncos forward Payne Haas also supported Buck, reassuring fans that the mascot is “safe” and “with us.”

This indicates a strong connection and affection for Buck within the team and its supporter base. Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy confirmed that while he had not received direct correspondence from PETA, the club’s position on Buck’s future remains unchanged.

Rodeo Imagery and Animal Welfare Arguments

A key aspect of PETA’s campaign is its criticism of the Broncos’ “bucking bronco” imagery, which it argues glorifies rodeos. It describes rodeos as one of Queensland’s cruellest and most backward undertakings, detailing the use of spurs, electric prods, and ropes to provoke a fight-or-flight response in animals for entertainment.

PETA also highlighted the risks to young calves in roping events, where they can suffer serious injury or death. They contend that these animals are unwilling participants in such spectacles.

In contrast, PETA suggests that a human mascot in a costume could fulfil the role without any ethical concerns. They pointed out that a person inside a costume can consent to performing in front of crowds and does not require the extensive care and consideration needed for a live animal. PETA believes that removing the live Buck from the field would be the best ethical decision the Broncos could make.

Despite PETA’s strong stance, the Brisbane Broncos appear resolute in keeping their current mascot and team name. Buck the horse is expected to continue his role at future games.

The debate, however, raises important questions within the community about the ethics of using live animals for entertainment and the broader implications of sports team branding.

Published Date 16-May-2025

Ezra Mam Back as Broncos Need to Bounce Back from Being Latrelled

OK, so let’s address the elephant in the room. It’s Origin time, and 12 months ago, Madge Maguire pulled off an unexpected turnaround for the Blues with a series decider at Suncorp. Madge is 1 from 1 in Origin and has made way for Laurie Daly, maintaining the perfect record.

Now the Broncos season has got a bit rocky of late. Madge is under pressure. The new discipline which had the Broncos off to the races until a few weeks ago has given way to giving up good leads and, frankly, not looking as consistently dangerous in attack.

The game stats against the Rabbits look great on the surface. The Broncos, having 9 line breaks and 29 tackle breaks, but most of that was the first half where they dominated.

The crime last week was letting the Rabbits back into the game and not scoring in the second half. Getting Latrelled was an uncontrollable.

Is this a temporary blip or a virus slowly spreading at Red Hill?

The Dragons will be a good litmus test for whether the Broncos are genuine contenders this year. Losing their nailbiter to the Warriors last week suggests that they are competitive. Warriors are now 2nd on the ladder though the Dragons in 13th spot makes this a must win for the Broncos.

Ezra Mam returns to the Broncos side, a forced early recall to replace Ben Hunt, who’s hamstring injury rules him out at a crucial time for the Broncos. The former Ambrose Treacy College student has been slaughtered on social media for his off-the-field troubles but the Suncorp faithful will forgive everything if he can deliver on Sunday afternoon.

Xavier Willison will start. His tackle breaks are becoming valuable. Now, he just needs to learn how to offload like Kitione Kautoga of the Eels (what an offload to Inongi against the Dolphins for Dylan Brown’s try last week!).

Toby Couchman is replaced by Jack de Belin in the Dragons starting side. Blake Lawrie comes into the Interchange.

The game at Suncorp on Sunday, 18 May, kicks off at 2:00 p.m. If you can’t get there Kayo and Foxtel will broadcast the game live.

Magic Round Brings a Buzz to Caxton Street

Photo Credit: Brisbane Economic Development Agency

From 2 May to 5 May 2025, Petrie Terrace will host major festivities as Caxton Street transforms into a pedestrian-only fan zone for the NRL Magic Round, with live entertainment and street activations.

Background: A Tradition of Sport and Celebration

Caxton Street in Petrie Terrace has long been a hub for sport and entertainment, particularly on weekends when crowds descend on Suncorp Stadium for NRL, rugby union, or soccer matches. The area’s vibrant atmosphere, supported by venues such as the Caxton Hotel, Lord Alfred Hotel, and Gambaro’s seafood restaurant, makes it a natural fit for large-scale fan activations.

After the success of previous years, Brisbane retained hosting rights for Magic Round, strengthened by proposals such as establishing a dedicated fan zone in Petrie Terrace.

NRL Magic Round 2025 — *Photo Credit: Rabbitoh Warrior/YouTube*

Event Overview: Fan Zone Activation and Traffic Changes

During the 2025 NRL Magic Round, Caxton Street will be fully closed to vehicles between Petrie Terrace and Hale Street. The full road closure will be in place from 10:00 a.m. Friday, 2 May to 3:00 a.m. Monday, 5 May. Police, traffic controllers, and clear signage will manage detours and assist pedestrians and motorists.

The Caxton Street fan zone, delivered by the NRL with support from BCC, Brisbane Economic Development Agency, and Tourism and Events Queensland, will feature DJs, beer pong, dance parties, live entertainment, interactive games, mascots, food trucks, and giveaways.

Fans will also encounter appearances from former NRL players Todd Carney, Chris Walker, and Joel Thompson, along with Mad Monday promotional models and full bar facilities.

Nightclub passes for Brisbane venues will be available each night, adding to the entertainment offerings across the Magic Round weekend.

NRL Magic Round 2025 Caxton street — *Photo Credit: Rabbitoh Warrior/YouTube*

Economic Impact and Community Engagement

Magic Round 2024 injected almost $40 million into Brisbane’s economy, with more than 48,000 interstate visitors attending. Hotel bookings for the 2025 event are already above 75 per cent occupancy, an increase of nearly 30 per cent compared to non-event weekends. The local business community, including popular venues on Caxton Street and Given Terrace in Paddington, is preparing for another record-breaking weekend.

The activation is expected to drive significant foot traffic to nearby restaurants such as Gambaro, Black Hide Steakhouse, Fritzenberger, and Libertine at The Barracks, along with cafés and pubs across Paddington and South Bank.

Caxton Street closure — *Photo Credit: Rabbitoh Warrior/YouTube*

Community Sentiment and Organisational Support

City official Adrian Schrinner and NRL CEO Andrew Abdo highlighted the event’s importance to Brisbane’s major events calendar. Local business representatives, such as the President of the Caxton Street Development Association, Sarosh Mehta, also expressed support for the street closures, viewing them as an opportunity to boost trade and showcase Brisbane’s hospitality sector.

Organisers have expanded the entertainment program following earlier criticisms that past fan zones offered limited activities. Additions for 2025 include more live music, promotional competitions, and interactive fan experiences.

A Growing Festival for Petrie Terrace

With fresh additions and strong support from organisers, the Caxton Street fan zone in Petrie Terrace is set to offer an even bigger Magic Round experience. The activation is expected to strengthen Brisbane’s profile as a premier destination for major sporting events, with flow-on benefits for local businesses and the broader tourism sector.

Published 26-Apr-2025

From the Tarmac to the Try Line: Michael Godfrey’s Second Act Begins with Broncos

Photo Credit: Broncos

Michael Godfrey knew structure. For 20 years, it shaped every part of his life—early mornings, logistics briefs, team movements. In the Royal Australian Air Force, predictability was power. But standing just off the field at Brisbane Broncos headquarters in Red Hill, a place more familiar with tries than timetables, Michael was ready to trade military command for community connection.

He didn’t plan to end up here. After finishing his service, Michael started looking for work. Something steady. Something meaningful. That’s when a job ad led him to the Brisbane Broncos website—and eventually, to the Brisbane Broncos Sport Business Institute (BBSBI), tucked inside the club’s Red Hill base.

The program, delivered through a partnership with TAFE Queensland, promised something different: a chance to study sport and leadership, not from the stands, but right in the centre of the action.

It wasn’t an easy switch. In the military, leadership meant giving orders and seeing them followed without question. In civilian life—and especially in sport—it meant listening, persuading, learning to inspire. Michael admits that adjusting his approach has taken work. But he also sees the power in it. Through the BBSBI’s Diploma of Sport and Diploma of Leadership and Management, he’s picked up more than theory. He’s gaining insight into how to lead with empathy, how to build up a team that doesn’t answer to rank, and how to foster trust in people who are there because they want to be, not because they have to be.

In class, Michael found himself the oldest student, something that made him hesitate at first. But he didn’t stay hesitant for long. The room was full of people with different stories, from school-leavers to mid-career changers, and soon enough, Michael became a quiet mentor.

He shared what he’d learned over decades: how to stay focused, how to work through challenges, and how to lead without needing to shout. The teachers—Graham Leeson, Grant Dwyer, and Expo Mejia—also brought real-world experience that grounded everything they taught.

Red Hill has become more than a study spot for Michael. It’s become a launchpad. The hands-on experience he’s received at the BBSBI led him into real-world work with the NRL’s Mini League program, helping young kids and their parents shake off nerves before taking the field at Suncorp Stadium on Broncos game days. He’s been using those same leadership tools to grow two community rugby organisations: the Philippines National Rugby League (Australia chapter), where he serves as president, and the Asia Rugby League Development, a non-profit aiming to expand the sport across the region.

Michael Godfrey Brisbane Lions — *Photo Credit: TAFE*

Where once he moved troops and supplies, now he moves people forward, giving young players and volunteers the tools to succeed in sport and in life. And just like in defence, he knows success isn’t always flashy. Sometimes, it’s in the quiet progress of helping someone else stand a little taller.

His goal is simple: to build something that lasts. A career in sport, yes—but more than that, a role where he can develop people, support communities, and keep rugby league growing in places where it hasn’t always had a strong voice.

And in Red Hill, surrounded by the rhythms of the game and the people who love it, Michael Godfrey is just getting started.

Published 25-April-2025