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Le Coin Bistro: A Taste of France in Red Hill

Photo Credit: Le Coin Bistro/Instagram

Le Coin Bistro in Red Hill offers an authentic taste of France, bringing a unique dining experience to Brisbane with its focus on traditional Alsace cuisine and a carefully curated menu featuring standout dishes such as Escargots à l’Alsacienne (sizzling hot snail out of the shell) and Côte de Boeuf (Black Angus Eye fillet).

Read: Le Coin Brings Local French Bistro Vibe to Red Hill

Le Coin Bistro, located at 5/1 Enoggera Terrace, Red Hill, is a popular French eatery known for its relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. The bistro is the second venture by the team behind Haig Rd Bistro in Auchenflower, which has been serving European-inspired dishes since 2019. 

Le Coin Red Hill
Photo Credit: Le Coin Bistro/Instagram

Under new management since April 2023, Le Coin Bistro has maintained its high culinary standards while introducing exciting new offerings.

Menu Highlights

The menu at Le Coin Bistro focuses on traditional French cuisine, with an emphasis on dishes from the Alsace region. Some of the standout dishes include:

Entrées:

  • Escargots à l’Alsacienne ($22 half dozen | $39 dozen) – Sizzling hot snails out of the shell with garlic herb butter and baguette.
  • Soufflé au Chèvre ($26) – Twice baked goat cheese soufflé with walnut & red wine poached apple.

Mains:

  • Canard Rôti ($46) – Oven-roasted duck with braised red cabbage, spaetzle, cranberries, and port wine jus.
  • Côte de Boeuf ($49) – 220g Black Angus Eye fillet with Café de Paris butter, red wine jus, and bistro potatoes.
  • Tarte Flambée – A thin yeast-free base topped with fromage blanc and a variety of toppings such as onion, bacon, and gruyere.
  • Poulet Rôti ($42) – Dijon marinated and roasted free-range chicken Maryland with crushed potatoes, olives, sauce vierge & tarragon.

Desserts:

  • Crêpe Suzette ($19) – Crepes in an orange and Grand Marnier sauce served with vanilla bean ice cream.
  • Crème Brûlée ($19) – Vanilla flavoured with pistachio biscotti.
  • Espresso Martini ($22) – Coffee, Belvedere vodka, Kahlúa, served with a French macaron.
view full menu
Le Coin Bistro menu standouts
Photo Credit: Le Coin Bistro/Instagram

Opening Hours:

  • Coffee & Pastries: Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
  • Breakfast: Saturday & Sunday, 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
  • Lunch: Wednesday to Sunday, 12 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • Dinner: Wednesday to Saturday, From 5:30 p.m.
  • Closed: Monday & Tuesday
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Community Sentiment

Le Coin Bistro has garnered widespread praise from diners, with many highlighting the quality of food and exceptional service. Patrons often describe the restaurant as an ideal spot for a relaxed meal with family and friends, and some recommend it as a great pre-movie cocktail venue due to its proximity to Red Hill Cinemas.

Le Coin Bistro offering French dessert
Photo Credit: Le Coin Bistro/Instagram

Lisa Biggs describes Le Coin Bistro as her “new favourite,” commending its delicious menu, outstanding service, and extensive wine selection. She particularly recommends the Soufflé au Chèvre and Tarte Flambée and suggests stopping by for a cocktail before heading to the cinema across the street.

Cecilia Castiello was particularly impressed with the Escargots à l’Alsacienne, calling them “to die for.” She also praised the helpful staff for their exceptional service in resolving a payment issue, rating her experience as “10/10” and expressing a strong desire to return.

Local guides Charlie Leung and Sop Khim have also shared their positive experiences. Mr Leung recommends the steak as a standout dish and enjoyed a meal featuring roasted duck, free-range chicken, and French fries. He also highly recommends trying the Crêpe Suzette.

Mr Khim was impressed with the generous portions and efficient service despite a busy night. He recommended the bistro for first-time visitors and named the Canard Rôti and Escargots à l’Alsacienne as must-try dishes.

French cuisine in Red Hill
Photo Credit: Le Coin Bistro/Instagram

Read: Men’s Reading Club Revitalises Pub Conversations in Paddington

Le Coin Bistro continues to make its mark in Red Hill, offering an authentic French dining experience with a well-crafted menu catering to various tastes. With generous portions, attentive service, and a warm atmosphere, it remains a top choice for those seeking European flavours in Brisbane.

Published 27-Jan-2025

Men’s Reading Club Revitalises Pub Conversations in Paddington

Photo Credit: Tough Guy Book Club/Instagram

Tough Guy Book Club, an international network of men’s book clubs, meets monthly in Paddington to encourage meaningful pub discussions through a shared love of reading.

Read: Madge Maguire Confirms Adam Reynolds as Brisbane Broncos Captain

Founded in 2012, Tough Guy Book Club aims to transform pub culture by replacing passive entertainment with thought-provoking discussions. With 122 chapters worldwide, including 17 in Queensland, the club invites men to connect over literature in a relaxed, pub-friendly environment.

Tough Guy Book Club Paddington
Photo Credit: Tough Guy Book Club/Instagram

A Pub, A Book, A Chat – When and Where

Tough Guy Book Club gets together on the first Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m., giving blokes a chance to have a proper chat over a good book and a drink. The Paddington chapter meets at Hope & Anchor, 267 Given Terrace, creating a laid-back and friendly pub vibe.

The next catch-up is happening on 5 February 2025, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. It’s a great opportunity to meet like-minded guys, share thoughts on the latest read, and enjoy some lively conversation. Interested participants can RSVP on the club’s Facebook page or the chapter website to let the club know.

Page Turners and Pub Banter

Tough Guy Book Club curates diverse books, exploring themes of identity, morality, and personal struggle. Recent selections include:

  • The Secret History by Donna Tartt (1992) – A psychological thriller about elite classics students at a New England college entangled in murder, exploring morality, obsession, and societal defiance.
  • A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess (1962) – A dystopian novel following teenage delinquent Alex in a violent future as he undergoes state-imposed rehabilitation, examining free will and control.
  • Honeybee by Craig Silvey (2020) – A coming-of-age story about a fourteen-year-old navigating gender identity and self-acceptance through an unexpected friendship.

How It All Works – FAQs Answered

The club is open to men aged 18 and over without reading prerequisites. Members are encouraged to engage in open discussions, with the only rule being “no work talk.” 

Participation is free, and those interested in starting a chapter can contact info@toughguybookclub.com.au.

Tough Guy Book Club members
Photo Credit: Tough Guy Book Club/Instagram

The Verdict from the Locals

Members appreciate the opportunity to break from routine and engage in genuine conversations with like-minded people, turning casual pub nights into meaningful social experiences.

What’s Next for Tough Guys

Read: Why Red Hill Unit Owners Are Staying Longer Than Expected

As the club grows, it remains committed to fostering camaraderie and insightful discussions through literature, one pub at a time.

Published 24-Jan-2025

Madge Maguire Confirms Adam Reynolds as Brisbane Broncos Captain

Photo Credit: Broncos.com.au

Adam Reynolds will continue as the captain of the Brisbane Broncos for the 2025 NRL season, solidifying his leadership in what is anticipated to be his final year on the field.

Read: Signs of Hope Amid Pre-season Concerns: Maguire’s Vision Takes Shape for the Brisbane Broncos

Leadership Announcement

The decision was confirmed on Thursday, 23 January 2025, at the Red Hill headquarters by newly appointed coach Michael “Madge” Maguire. This marks Mr Maguire’s first major call since stepping into the role, following the team’s disappointing 12th-place finish last season. 

Mr Maguire, who shares a long-standing relationship with Mr Reynolds from their 2014 premiership win with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, expressed full confidence in his captaincy.

Mr Maguire stated that Mr Reynolds has proven his ability to lead the team, both on and off the field. He emphasised the importance of teamwork, highlighting the formation of a revamped leadership group that includes Dragons recruit Ben Hunt alongside Pat Carrigan, Payne Haas, and Kotoni Staggs.

Brisbane Broncos Roundup The Michael Maguire Era Dawns at Red Hill
Photo Credit: Broncos.com.au

Focus on Team Unity

Mr Maguire revealed that he spent months evaluating the squad’s dynamics before making this decision. He sees Mr Reynolds as a crucial figure in driving the Brisbane Broncos forward. Mr Maguire stressed that every player, from the youngest to the most experienced, has a role in leading through actions and behaviours, emphasising the need for a club-wide leadership mindset.

Mr Reynolds, 34, said he was honoured to retain the captaincy and excited to work with the strengthened leadership group. He acknowledged that Mr Hunt’s inclusion would provide significant value, given his extensive experience at both club and representative levels. Mr Reynolds noted that having Mr Hunt on board added immense value to the team.

Final Season and Legacy

Mr Reynolds’ journey with the Broncos began in 2022 after transferring from the Rabbitohs. Reflecting on his career, he expressed that playing under Mr Maguire again feels like a full-circle moment.

As he prepares for his final season, Mr Reynolds remains focused on supporting his teammates and ensuring the Broncos deliver a competitive performance. He explained that being captain isn’t just about the title but about guiding his teammates and sharing the mental load of the game.

The Brisbane Broncos are looking to turn the page on last year’s struggles and reignite community pride.

Read: Broncos Star Ezra Mam Reflects on Costly Mistake

With Mr Reynolds’ leadership, Mr Maguire’s strategic vision, and the collective efforts of the leadership group, the team aims to restore its standing as a formidable force in the NRL. Both urged fans to rally behind the team as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Published 23-January-2025

Why Red Hill Unit Owners Are Staying Longer Than Expected

Photo Credit: Google Maps

6/175 Musgrave Road, a rare listing in Red Hill, highlights the suburb’s strong appeal, where homeowners retain properties for an impressive 13.5 years—significantly longer than many other suburbs—due to its strong community appeal, desirable lifestyle, investment potential, and proximity to the CBD.

Read: Broncos Roundup: Ezra Mam Back in Red Hill, But Controversy Remains

Red Hill, situated just two kilometres north-west of Brisbane’s city centre, has long been regarded as a sought-after residential area. The suburb continues to attract long-term residents who value its close-knit community and convenient access to city amenities.

Factors Contributing to Long-Term Ownership:

Proximity to Brisbane CBD

The proximity of Red Hill to the CBD makes it an ideal choice for professionals and families seeking convenience without the congestion of inner-city living. This accessibility reduces the need for residents to relocate frequently.

Community and Lifestyle Appeal

Red Hill presents a lively community scene with parks, local businesses, and cultural events, among other conveniences. The strong sense of belonging and well-established infrastructure encourage unit owners to stay longer. Notable attractions include:

St Brigid's Church
Photo Caption: St Brigid’s Church – a heritage-listed landmark with striking Gothic architecture.
Photo Credit: Wikipedia
  • St Brigid’s Church: A heritage-listed site built in 1912, showcasing striking design inspired by the 15th-century French Albi Cathedral.
  • Red Hill Cinemas: A popular venue offering a unique movie-going experience in a historical setting.
  • Gramps Café: A local favourite known for its hearty dishes and quality coffee.
  • Red Hill Markets: A go-to for fresh local produce, crafts, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Gramps Cafe Red Hill
Photo Caption: Gramps Café in Red Hill serves locals hearty meals and quality coffee daily.
Photo Credit: Gramps/Instagram

Investment Considerations

Unit owners in Red Hill see their properties as valuable long-term investments. The area’s continued property value appreciation has encouraged residents to hold onto their units in anticipation of further capital growth.

Local Amenities and Services

Red Hill Market
Photo Caption: Red Hill Markets bustling with fresh produce, local goods, and lively crowds
Photo Credit: Red Hill Markets

The main shopping area of Red Hill is on Musgrave Road, with cafes and boutique shops also on Enoggera Terrace, Kennedy Terrace, and Windsor Road. Latrobe Terrace in Paddington, known for its dining and retail options, is within walking distance. 

Several bus routes connect Red Hill to Brisbane CBD via Musgrave Road, Arthur Terrace, and Latrobe Terrace, offering convenient public transport options.

While Red Hill lacks major employers, its proximity to Brisbane CBD allows residents to access employment hubs in finance, education, healthcare, and government services.

Comparison with Other Suburbs

Suburbs such as Thornlands and Mango Hill exhibit shorter tenure periods of around 4.7 to 5 years, largely due to their newer developments and higher turnover among first-time buyers. In contrast, the established reputation and amenities of Red Hill result in more extended ownership periods.

Future Outlook

Read: NRL’s Suspension of Ezra Mam Sparks Debate: Is Nine Weeks Enough?

With anticipated interest rate cuts in 2025, the trend of long-term property ownership in Red Hill is expected to continue. Lower financial pressure on mortgage holders may further solidify the area’s reputation as a place where unit owners prefer to stay for extended periods.

Published 21-Jan-2025

Broncos Roundup: Ezra Mam Back in Red Hill, But Controversy Remains

Ezra Mam is back in Broncos colours, but his return to Red Hill has been met with mixed emotions as the young five-eighth joined his teammates for the first time since his October car crash.

Read: Paddington Grieves as Jess Gambaro Dies After Cancer Battle

Five-eighth Ezra Mam rejoins Broncos

While the sight of Mam back in Broncos colours was a welcome one for some, his presence reignited the debate surrounding his punishment for driving unlicensed with a drug in his system—an incident that left a young girl with a fractured hip.

Despite the controversy, the Broncos are well within their rights to have Mam train with the squad. Coach Michael Maguire clearly sees value in keeping the talented playmaker engaged and integrated with the team, even though he won’t pull on the Broncos jersey until Round 10. Mam was seen working closely with new recruit Ben Hunt and attack coach Trent Barrett, honing his kicking and passing game.

But Mam’s presence has reignited the debate surrounding his punishment. NRL legends Scott Sattler and Mat Rogers recently weighed in on the timing of Mam’s reintegration. “Going to training is different to playing,” Rogers said on SEN radio. “I’m not saying let him back in (to play), but it’s his job. I don’t think he’ll be playing for the first few months of the season, but he’s still got to do his job. You have to be allowed to go to work.”

Ezra Mam to miss all competitions

The NRL has also ruled out any possibility of a loophole that could have seen Mam play reserve grade during his suspension. Despite the ban stemming from an off-field incident, Mam will be sidelined from all competitions until Round 10.

Ben Hunt hits the ground running

Hunt appears to have arrived at Red Hill in peak form. Reports from Tuesday’s session suggest he was impressive with his kicking game and looked comfortable training in both the halves and at hooker. This versatility will be crucial, as he’s expected to partner Adam Reynolds in the halves until Mam returns, then shift to hooker.

Adam Reynolds prepares for surprise trial

In a surprising move, Reynolds is set for a pre-season appearance. Despite his well-known aversion to trial games, the veteran halfback is expected to feature in the NRL Pre-season Challenge against the Bulldogs. This aims to build his combination with Hunt and ensure a smooth transition into the season. Reynolds is recovering from off-season neck surgery but is expected to be fully fit for Round 1.

Kobe Hetherington’s return and Pat Carrigan’s potential move

Kobe Hetherington’s unexpected retention has sparked speculation about a possible positional switch for captain Patrick Carrigan. Hetherington, initially told he could explore other options, was brought back into the fold by Maguire, who admires his tough playing style. This could see Carrigan, who has impressed at prop for the Pacific Championships, move up front permanently. This would allow Hetherington, a tough defender and reliable tackler, to challenge for the lock position.

Read: NRL’s Suspension of Ezra Mam Sparks Debate: Is Nine Weeks Enough?

With a mix of returning stars, new faces, and potential positional shake-ups, the Broncos pre-season is shaping up to be anything but dull. Fans will be eagerly watching how these storylines develop as the 6 March season opener against the Roosters draws closer.

Published 09-January-2025

NRL’s Suspension of Ezra Mam Sparks Debate: Is Nine Weeks Enough?

The National Rugby League’s proposed nine-week suspension for Brisbane Broncos star Ezra Mam has ignited widespread criticism, with fans and officials questioning whether the punishment fits the severity of his drug-driving offence that resulted in a three-vehicle crash.

Read: Broncos Star Ezra Mam Reflects on Costly Mistake

The incident and court ruling

In October 2024, Mam crashed his Ford Ranger into oncoming traffic while driving unlicensed with cocaine in his system, causing injuries to three people, including a four-year-old girl. The Brisbane Magistrates Court fined him $850 and disqualified him from driving for six months, with no conviction recorded. The sentence prompted Queensland premier Jarrod Bleijie to label it “a slap on the wrist”, noting that the fine was less severe than penalties for mobile phone use while driving.

Ezra Mam : a history of repeated offenses

Court documents paint a concerning pattern of driving violations dating back to 2021, Courier Mail reveals. At the time of the October crash, Mam was serving his third licence suspension, with previous infractions including speeding, mobile phone use, and running red lights. His traffic history also shows multiple demerit point suspensions and restrictions, raising questions about the adequacy of earlier penalties in deterring dangerous behaviour.

Mam, whose Broncos contract is valued at $4 million, has a record of violations ranging from failing to wear a seatbelt to exceeding speed limits. His most recent suspension in May 2024, issued for mobile phone use while driving, carried a $1,161 fine—ironically higher than his penalty for drug-driving.

Read: Paddington Grieves as Jess Gambaro Dies After Cancer Battle

NRL sanctions under scrutiny

The proposed nine-week suspension has drawn particular scrutiny when compared to other recent NRL penalties. Yahoo’s Andrew Reid called the suspension “simply not good enough” and compared it to other sanctions handed out by the NRL. For instance, Spencer Leniu’s eight-week ban for racial vilification against Mam himself during the Las Vegas season opener has sparked debate. Many question why drug-driving, which caused injuries, warrants only one additional week of suspension.

Social media has been flooded with fans demanding at least a 12-week ban, with some advocating for a season-long suspension given the gravity of the offence and its potential consequences. The timing of the NRL’s announcement, just before Christmas, has also raised eyebrows, with critics suggesting it may be an attempt to minimise public attention.

Mam has five business days to respond to the proposed ban, with a final decision expected in early 2025. Meanwhile, the Broncos have the option to impose additional sanctions, though the club has already prevented him from returning to training this year.

Published 27-December-2024

Paddington Grieves as Jess Gambaro Dies After Cancer Battle

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Jess Gambaro, a cherished mother of four and long-time Paddington resident, has passed away at 46 after a courageous battle with oesophageal cancer, leaving her family and local community heartbroken.

Read: Gambaro Seafood Restaurant:  A Petrie Terrace Icon Bids Goodbye after 70 Years

A Community in Grief

Jess, wife of restaurateur Donny Gambaro, died on 23 December, just two days before Christmas. Diagnosed with stage four oesophageal cancer in August 2023, her condition came as a shock, as she initially sought medical care for what she thought was pneumonia. 

Despite her illness, she remained active in both her family life and the community, displaying immense resilience throughout her treatment.

Her husband reflected on her determination to beat the disease, recounting how, even a year ago, she was body surfing at Coolangatta during Christmas. He described her as a calming presence with a radiant smile that brought warmth to every room she entered. Friends and neighbours in Paddington remember her as an inspiring figure who balanced her family commitments with professional contributions to the Gambaro Group’s restaurants.

Family and Business Legacy

Jess leaves behind her husband and their children: Don, 16; Zara, 12; Massimo, 9; and Nico, 7. She is also survived by her parents, Lloyd and Joan Bennett, and siblings Zoe, Rhys, and Philippa. 

The Gambaro couple, who met as students at QUT, married in 2007 at St Brigid’s Church in Red Hill, where her funeral will be held on 3 January.

Jess played a pivotal role in the Gambaro Group, a family-owned hospitality business that started with a fish and chip shop on Caxton Street in 1953. The business has grown into a prominent restaurant empire in Brisbane, with venues such as Black Hide Steak & Seafood, Persone Italian, and Pipi’s Restaurant at Coolangatta.

Up until the last few months of her life, she was actively building websites for the family’s enterprises, combining her marketing and IT expertise to support their operations.

Jess Gambaro Paddington
Photo Credit: Jessica Gambaro/Facebook

Raising Awareness About Oesophageal Cancer

Jess’s diagnosis brought attention to oesophageal cancer, a rare condition affecting around 1,700 Australians annually, predominantly older men. The disease often develops without noticeable symptoms, making early detection difficult. In Jess’s case, her diagnosis was especially surprising as she was a non-smoker and did not consume alcohol, both of which are common risk factors.

Despite extensive treatments, including radiation, multiple chemotherapy regimens, and a trial drug, the cancer ultimately spread to other areas of her body. Her family expressed gratitude for the medical teams who supported Jess during her fight and hope that increased awareness of this illness can help others in the future.

Read: Paddo Tavern Set for Major Revamp in Time for Brisbane Olympics

Final Farewell

The Gambaro family has invited friends, neighbours, and community members to join them in celebrating Jess’s life at her funeral at St Brigid’s Church. The same church that marked the beginning of her married life will now host a farewell for a woman remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, and vital part of the Paddington community.

Published 26-Dec-2024

Paddington Queenslander Transformed into a Modern Dream Home

Photo Credit: Ray White - Metro North via realestate.com.au

A century-old Paddington Queenslander, affectionately known as “Moreton Cottage,” has undergone a breathtaking transformation from a dilapidated structure on the verge of demolition to a luxurious modern residence. 

Read: Rebuilt Paddington Home Sells for $3 Million After 2016 Fire

The property, located at 25 Mullin Street, Paddington, is now unrecognizable and is listed for auction, with offers starting at over $3.7 million. This marks a substantial increase from the $1.415 million that Chris and Rachel Meade initially paid for the home.

The house prior the renovations (Photo credit: Google Street View)

Once known by local children as “the haunted house” due to its derelict state, the property’s story changed dramatically when the Meades took ownership. Chris Meade recalled how the house had caught his eye years ago when his family first moved to Brisbane. 

While walking past the run-down Queenslander with peeling paint and an air of neglect, he had thought it would make a great renovation project someday. That dream became a reality when the Meades successfully purchased the house at auction.

Inside the restored Paddington Queenslander (Photo credit: Harvey Tink/Instagram)

The restoration, however, was far more ambitious than they had initially imagined. The couple explained that their passion for the building and its location—right in their own neighborhood—motivated them to take on the monumental task. 

Photo credit: Harvey Tink/Instagram

They viewed the renovation as not just a personal project but a service to the community, revitalizing an eyesore that sat directly across from the main school. For the Meades, it was important to honour the heritage of the house while bringing it into the modern era.

Styled by property stylists at Harvey Tink, the result is a stunning blend of character and contemporary luxury. “Resting behind the original character facade, the house has been raised and rebuilt and breathes new life and opulent luxury across an intuitive architectural design,” the listing reads. 

The home now features four bedrooms, three luxurious bathrooms, and breathtaking city views. One of the bedroom windows offers an uninterrupted view of Suncorp Stadium, which the Meades hope will appeal to sports enthusiasts.

Read: Paddo Tavern Set for Major Revamp in Time for Brisbane Olympics

Positioned in one of Paddington’s most prestigious streets, just 2km from Brisbane’s CBD, the property offers both lifestyle and luxury. The transformed Moreton Cottage is more than a house; it’s a testament to the vision and dedication of its owners, who have breathed new life into a piece of local history.

As the Meades prepare to pass the baton to new owners, they hope that the house’s unique charm and prime location will continue to captivate future generations.

Published 21-December-2024

Broncos Star Ezra Mam Reflects on Costly Mistake

Brisbane Broncos star Ezra Mam faces an uncertain path back to first-grade football following his guilty plea to drug driving and unlicensed driving charges at Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday.

The 21-year-old five-eighth was fined $850 and had his licence disqualified for six months. Since then, he has been training in isolation at the Broncos’ Red Hill headquarters while awaiting the NRL Integrity Unit’s final determination on potential sanctions.

Read: Signs of Hope Amid Pre-season Concerns: Maguire’s Vision Takes Shape for the Brisbane Broncos

Court ruling and public reaction

The 18 October crash in Bardon, which involved an Uber carrying a woman and her four-year-old daughter, has drawn widespread criticism over the perceived leniency of the court’s punishment. NRL commentator Mark Levy suggested a season-long suspension, criticising the court’s penalty as insufficient. Redland woman Judy Lindsay, who lost her daughter in a 2009 crash, called for stricter penalties to deter similar behaviour.

Mam expressed remorse outside court, saying, “To all the people involved in this accident, I’m truly sorry.”

“This incident isn’t a reflection of who I want to be or what is expected of me as a role model.”

Broncos’ response to the incident

Broncos coach Michael Maguire revealed he has had several discussions with Mam, who has been working unpaid at a Brisbane building site after completing a four-week rehabilitation program at The Banyans Healthcare.

“I’ve had a number of conversations with him, and Ezra’s working through the process,” Maguire told Channel 9. “I think he’s learned a lot from this moment in time.”

“He’s a young man that’s made a mistake, and he’s working hard to make sure that he moves forward now in the right path.”

The Broncos have ruled out contract termination but have moved to shore up their playmaking stocks, signing veteran Queensland Origin star Ben Hunt on a two-year deal. Hunt, who commenced training with the club on Sunday, is expected to partner Adam Reynolds in the halves at the start of the 2025 season.

Read: Ben Hunt Returns to Red Hill as Broncos Eye Title Glory

Ezra Mam, future and redemption

Mam’s immediate playing future hinges on the NRL Integrity Unit’s investigation. He is expected to rejoin his teammates when they return from their Christmas break in January. In the meantime, he continues his twice-daily training sessions at Red Hill.

The incident has reignited debates on accountability in professional sport. As the Broncos prepare to wrap up their pre-season training this week, the timing of Mam’s return to the field remains uncertain, leaving both the player and club in a holding pattern heading into the new year.

Published 18-December-2024

Signs of Hope Amid Pre-season Concerns: Maguire’s Vision Takes Shape for the Brisbane Broncos

Recent observations at Brisbane Broncos’ pre-season training have sparked discussion among supporters, with conflicting reports emerging about the fitness levels of key players Reece Walsh and Selwyn Cobbo.

Read: Auchenflower Hospital to Undergo Major Expansion

A challenging pre-season for the Brisbane Broncos?

During Monday’s fitness testing at Red Hill, Channel 10’s Ted Roker observed Walsh and Cobbo trailing at the back of the group with veteran Martin Taupau. This has sparked debate as new coach Michael Maguire introduces a rigorous regime to transform the Broncos after their lacklustre 2024 season.

Teammates rally behind Walsh

Despite concerns raised by Monday’s fitness testing, teammates like Jesse Arthars and Payne Haas have defended Walsh’s pre-season form, describing it as the strongest he’s displayed in years. “Reece has been going pretty hard,” Arthars noted last week, highlighting Walsh’s commitment alongside Payne Haas throughout pre-season preparations.

Haas himself stepped forward on Tuesday to address the fitness concerns during a sponsor media event. “To be honest, Walshy is probably the fittest he’s come back,” Haas insisted. “Pre-season is tough, so all the boys are having a red-hot crack and they’re going well.”

Maguire faces tough player decisions

While fitness levels have sparked debate, equally pressing are the strategic decisions facing Maguire, particularly around Cobbo’s role within the squad. Maguire has indicated he’s considering moving Cobbo back to the wing, despite his 2024 centre role. “Selwyn is potentially a wing option, yes,” Maguire confirmed to The Courier Mail, emphasising Cobbo’s versatility and strong ball-carrying abilities.

The situation is further complicated by salary cap pressures. Ben Hunt’s acquisition and Walsh’s $5 million contract extension have tightened the club’s financial landscape, delaying contract discussions with Cobbo until after the pre-season period. These constraints raise questions about whether the Broncos can retain their core talent while balancing their budget, potentially forcing difficult decisions between keeping Cobbo or Kotoni Staggs beyond 2025.

Despite these early pre-season talking points, there are positive signs for the Broncos. Jordan Riki’s strong showing in the fitness test, immediately after returning from international duty with New Zealand, demonstrates the high standards possible under Maguire’s new regime.

Read: Ben Hunt Returns to Red Hill as Broncos Eye Title Glory

As the Christmas break approaches, Brisbane Broncos supporters will be watching closely to see how these early pre-season developments shape the team’s preparations for 2025. With Maguire at the helm, the Broncos’ renewed focus will be critical in their bid to restore former glory after missing the top eight in 2024.

Published 14-December-2024