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NOIR Paddington Begins Exciting New Chapter

In a heartening turn of events for Brisbane’s wine enthusiasts, NOIR Paddington has embarked on a promising new journey.

Read: Noir: Wine Bar With No Wine List to Open in Paddington

The beloved wine bar, which faced potential closure due to financial challenges, has found a new lease on life under the passionate stewardship of Chris Higgins, the visionary behind Press’d Wine Co in Milton.

Higgins, a seasoned wine connoisseur, initially planned to rebrand the establishment as Press’d Wine Co Paddington. However, upon experiencing the tight-knit community and the strong brand identity NOIR had cultivated, he made the inspired decision to preserve its legacy.

Established in 2021, NOIR Paddington occupies a charming heritage-listed building, adding to its unique character and appeal. The new management has hinted at upcoming changes that promise to inject fresh energy into the beloved venue.

Wine aficionados can look forward to an expanded menu featuring internationally inspired charcuterie and what Higgins playfully describes as “boujee” toasties, similar to the popular offerings at Press’d.

Photo credit: Press’d Wine Co Milton/Google Maps

These culinary additions are set to complement NOIR’s already impressive wine selection. At Noir, guests indulge in an extensive selection of wines, available as both glass pours and full bottles, showcasing premier Australian wine regions.

But that’s not all – Higgins is also considering bringing a touch of Press’d’s vibrant atmosphere to NOIR. He’s exploring the idea of introducing a roving DJ for Sunday Sundowners, mirroring the successful Friday night music experience at his Milton venue.

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

As NOIR Paddington enters this exciting new chapter, it’s clear that the best is yet to come. With a perfect blend of preserved tradition and fresh ideas, wine lovers and foodies alike have much to look forward to in this revitalised Brisbane gem.

Published 14-October-2024

Brisbane Broncos Roundup: Broncos at the Crossroads

As the November 1 deadline approaches for off-contract players, the Brisbane Broncos find themselves at a critical juncture. With a new coach at the helm and key decisions on the future of prominent players, the club faces a significant period of transition that could shape its direction for years to come.

Read: Brisbane Broncos Roundup: Enter the Michael Maguire Era

Coaching shake-up repercussions

The move to part ways with head coach Kevin Walters has stirred mixed opinions within the Broncos community. Among the most vocal critics is former captain Gorden Tallis, who has questioned the decision to replace Walters with Michael Maguire. Tallis, an outspoken club legend, has been critical of Maguire’s recent club record, which includes several bottom-of-the-ladder finishes during his time with the Wests Tigers.

“They sacked Kevvie because he came 12th and then Madge in his last six years (at club level) came 12th, 12th, 9th at the Tigers, then he got worse. He came 11th, 13th, then he got the wooden spoon. They’re not replacing him with Craig Bellamy,” Tallis said on Triple M.

According to Courier Mail, Tallis went so far as to reject a peace offering from Maguire, declining an invitation to meet for coffee. “I told him, ‘I don’t drink coffee’,” he quipped.

Walters’ absence from the Broncos’ recent presentation night, where he and his wife declined an invitation to attend, has also raised eyebrows.

Carrigan backs Reynolds as captain

Amidst the coaching upheaval, questions have arisen about on-field leadership. Some, including Tallis last July, have suggested it might be time for a change in captaincy. However, these calls have been firmly shut down by star forward Patrick Carrigan.

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Carrigan, fresh from winning his second Paul Morgan medal as the Broncos player of the year, threw his full support behind current captain Adam Reynolds. “No chance, 100 percent behind Reyno,” Carrigan stated, praising Reynolds’ influence on the club as “second to none.”

Carrigan’s words not only support Reynolds but also signal a united front among the players as they face this period of transition.

Brisbane Broncos contract decisions loom

With the coaching decision now behind them, the Broncos face another major challenge: the November 1 deadline for off-contract players. With several stars approaching free agency, the deadline highlights a balancing act between player retention and future planning.

At the forefront of these decisions is the future of captain Adam Reynolds. With 2025 potentially being his final season in the NRL, the Broncos need to plan for life after their key playmaker.

Adding to the complexity are the impending free agency statuses of star players Reece Walsh, Selwyn Cobbo, and Kotoni Staggs, all available to negotiate with rival clubs from November 1. Although Courier Mail reports that Reece Walsh has agreed to terms with the club on a lucrative extension, the resulting salary cap pressures may lead to difficult decisions regarding Cobbo and Staggs.

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The Broncos have already seen some departures, with Tristan Sailor released early to join St Helens, and veterans Corey Oates and Jordan Pereira announcing their retirements.

Read: From Backyard Dreams to Broncos Legend: Corey Oates Hangs Up His Boots

In addition to navigating contract renewals, the Broncos may also be exploring new talent. According to ABC, there are “whispers” of the Broncos showing interest in the Knights’ Kai Pearce-Paul. While details remain unconfirmed, Pearce-Paul’s potential addition could bolster the Broncos’ forward pack.

The decisions made in the coming weeks will play a significant role in shaping the team’s future and their quest to return to the heights of their 2023 grand final appearance.

Published 13-October-2024

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

Photo Credit: Gambaro Seafood Restaurant/ Facebook

The iconic Gambaro Seafood Restaurant in Petrie Terrace will close its doors on 31 October after serving delectable seafood dishes for 70 years.

The Caxton Street landmark, a favourite amongst locals and celebrities alike, has been a culinary mainstay since 1953. It serves an estimated one million kilogrammes of prawns and 800,000 dozen oysters. The closure marks the end of an era for the Gambaro family, who have poured their hearts and souls into the establishment for three generations.

*Photo Credit:* *Gambaro Seafood Restaurant/ Facebook*

From grandfather Giovanbaptista to grandsons John, Donny, and Frank, the family has built a hospitality dynasty synonymous with quality and service. John Gambaro expressed his sadness at the closure, acknowledging the significant role the restaurant has played in the community, including raising millions of dollars for charity. He described it as more than just a business, but one of the homes where the family grew up.

The decision to close comes after selling the building and adjoining hotel to the NRL in 2022. Although the initial agreement allowed the Gambaros to continue operating the restaurant, that arrangement concludes at the end of this month. Despite the emotional weight of the closure, John Gambaro emphasised that it was the right time to move forward and focus on the future.

That future includes the recently opened Black Hide Steak and Seafood at the Queen’s Wharf development and their other successful ventures: Persone in Brisbane’s CBD and Pipi’s and Awaken at Coolangatta on the Gold Coast. Additionally, the family will rebrand their Caxton Street Black Hide Steakhouse to Black Hide Steak and Seafood, mirroring their City operation. All staff from the Petrie Terrace restaurant will be offered positions at these other locations.

Notably, the Gambaro family reassured loyal patrons that they are actively searching for a new home for their beloved seafood restaurant. John Gambaro hinted that the new location would be on the water and even suggested moving outside Brisbane.

Over the years, the restaurant has welcomed a star-studded clientele, from music legends like Luciano Pavarotti and Dolly Parton to contemporary stars like Ed Sheeran and prominent business figures, politicians, athletes, and local celebrities.

The NRL has not announced its plans for the Caxton Street space once the Gambaro Seafood Restaurant vacates.

Published Date 10-October-2024

From Backyard Dreams to Broncos Legend: Corey Oates Hangs Up His Boots

Photo Credit: Brisbane Broncos/Instagram

In a Baralaba backyard, a young Corey Oates once narrated his own imaginary tries at Suncorp Stadium. Today, he closes the chapter on a dream turned reality, announcing his retirement from the Brisbane Broncos after a decorated 12-year career that saw him cross the try line 121 times in the maroon jersey.

Read: Brisbane Broncos Roundup: Enter the Michael Maguire Era

The country kid who conquered Brisbane

From the fields of Central Queensland to Brisbane’s rugby league heartland, Oates’ journey reads like a rugby league fairy tale. The Baralaba Panthers junior rose from a bush footy hopeful to a cornerstone of one of the NRL’s most storied clubs, amassing 216 first-grade games along the way.

While the statistics tell an amazing story—121 tries as the Broncos’ third-highest try scorer of all time, nine State of Origin appearances, and three series victories for Queensland—they still don’t capture the heart-stopping moments that defined his career.

From his unforgettable maiden try in the 2015 grand final, which had Brisbane dreaming of glory…

…to his remarkable four-try showcase against Manly in 2018 that brought Suncorp Stadium to its feet…

…and to his resurgent 2022 season, where he crossed the line 20 times in 22 games, Oates turned wing play into an art form.

“Playing Origin for Queensland and playing for the Broncos—I still have to pinch myself that it all happened for real,” Oates says.

Corey Oates dances with adversity

Every hero’s journey has its battles, and Oates has fought his share. He overcame a career-threatening staph infection in 2017, bounced back from a broken jaw in 2023, and weathered the storms of form and fitness that tested him in his final seasons. Yet, like the country boy who first dreamed of wearing Broncos colours, he never lost his fighting spirit.

At 29, with young kids at home and a body that’s weathered 12 seasons of professional rugby league, Oates makes his exit on his own terms.

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“When you have kids and family, and when you get to that point in your career, you evaluate what’s important – and I want to be part of my kid’s life and do as much as I can with them,” he reflects.

“I never wanted to be the person who went one season too many.”

Read: Kelvin Grove Teacher Recognised in Prestigious State Awards

As the last remnant of the 2015 grand final team departs, Oates leaves behind more than just tries and tackles. He carries with him the distinction of being a one-club man in an era where loyalty often takes a backseat to opportunity. The doors of the Broncos won’t close entirely on Oates, with discussions of an ambassador role suggesting his story with the club isn’t quite finished.

As the sun sets on one chapter, the legacy of Corey Oates—try-scoring phenomenon, Origin warrior, and Broncos faithful—will continue to inspire the next generation of backyard dreamers.

Published 10-October-2024

Kelvin Grove Teacher Recognised in Prestigious State Awards

Photo Credit: Queensland College of Teachers/ Facebook

A Kelvin Grove State College teacher has been recognised as one of Queensland’s most influential educators at the 2024 TeachX Awards.

*Photo Credit:* *Kelvin Grove State College/ Facebook*

Danielle Alympic is among 31 teachers from across the state who are celebrated for their outstanding contributions to their school communities and the teaching profession.

The annual awards, hosted by the Queensland College of Teachers, highlight the exceptional work of educators across various categories. This year’s winners have demonstrated remarkable achievements, from boosting attendance rates among at-risk students to pioneering innovative digital learning programmes.

Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) Board Chair Emeritus Professor Wendy Patton acknowledged the winners, emphasising their dedication to enhancing students’ education and inspiring fellow teachers.

*Photo Credit:* *Kelvin Grove State College File Photo 2021/ Facebook*

She praised their passion, creativity, and steadfast commitment to educational excellence.

Ms Alympic has made a significant impact at Kelvin Grove State College through a range of initiatives. In Food Studies, she spearheaded the “Masterchef Mystery Box Challenge,” engaging 300 students in a culinary competition judged by faculty members.

As Student Representative Coordinator, she facilitated student participation in inter-school events and projects, including Amnesty International workshops, the Queensland Global Youth Summit, and various charitable fundraising activities.

Furthermore, Ms Alympic led 18 colleagues as Year 9 English Team Leader, focusing on enhancing classroom instruction and mentoring early-career teachers.

The TEACHX Awards ceremony will be held in Brisbane on Thursday, October 24, leading to World Teachers’ Day in Queensland.

Published Date 08-October-2024

Madge MaGuire Comes To Red Hill

Cast your mind back to Origin 2 at the MCG on June 26 earlier this year. All the build-up was focused on the Maroons completing the series and heading for the whitewash at Suncorp.

The NSW Blues coach was considered a caretaker unlikely to move the dial. The Maroons were rampant, and how could this guy that had been sacked by the worst team in the NRL, do a better job than Freddy Fittler.

Game 1 had ended up a decisive win for Billy Slater’s Maroons, 38-10, though the 8th-minute sending off of Joseph Sua’ali’i was with hindsight an even bigger impact on the battle than we realised at the time.

Frequent camera cutaways in Game 1 to the NSW box showed their new coach, “Madge” Maguire watching on without too much emotion, a cold, hard gaze on proceedings going badly. Not an easy situation for the baptism of a new coach and securing a new record loss for the Blues at home in Sydney.

Many coaches would have been like a rabbit in headlights but he kept it together, said all the right words post-match, and most importantly galvanised his troops to deliver brutality in Game 2 at the MCG.

And so Billy’s Maroons found themselves down 34-0 at halftime! The Blues had gone from zeros to heroes. That was an extraordinary turnaround because Billy would not have allowed any early crows or chest-beating, the Maroons were ready to win and the Blues under Maguire destroyed them.

So now we have the destroyer of Maroons dreams, as head coach at Red Hill.

Maguire also coached New Zealand to a 30-0 win against the Kangaroos last year and the Kiwis were desperate to keep him.

The appointment appears to be an act of genius by the Broncos board.

Only time will tell, it seems amazing how quickly the board forgot about Kevvie’s 2023 Grand Final run, where only the Cleary Mafia could have destroyed Kevvie’s season that day. The 2024 disaster – an errant season that can happen at Red Hill, ask Anthony Seibold, a quality coach that could not get any tune out of the Broncos.

Brisbane is a city where frankly life can be too easy. The omnipresent sun, quality eateries on every corner, Bronco fans everywhere, a beautiful home stadium that is now the home of the Magic Round, sellouts even in terrible seasons. It’s no wonder that Wayne the former Ipswich copper, was the man to find the right balance between discipline and man management.

The naysayers will want to point to Madge being shunted by the Tigers and the Rabbits, but what he did a few months ago against the Maroons should not be forgotten, it was mission impossible and yet he delivered for the Blues.

Let’s hope he can do the same for the Broncos in 2025.

Two Boys Critical After Car Accident in Auchenflower

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons / bertknot

On September 27, 2024, at approximately 1:15 PM, a serious car accident occurred in Auchenflower. The incident took place on Vincent Street when a car collided with a pole, resulting in injuries to four children.

Paramedics responded to the scene and found two primary school-aged boys with life-threatening injuries. One boy suffered abdominal injuries, while the other sustained head injuries. Both were immediately transported to Queensland Children’s Hospital in critical condition.

Two other boys involved in the crash were also taken to Queensland Children’s Hospital. Their injuries were reported as minor, though the full extent of their conditions is not yet known.

A Queensland Ambulance Services spokesperson reported that paramedics treated a man at the scene for injuries. However, the man declined further medical care and was not transported to the hospital. The extent of his involvement in the crash remains unclear.

Local authorities are investigating the circumstances of the accident. No further details about the cause of the crash or the identities of those involved have been released at this time.

Published 27-September-2024

High-Speed Crash in Paddington Sparks Calls for Jail Time for Driver

A dangerous high-speed crash in Paddington left a vehicle overturned, caused significant damage, and may result in jail time for the driver responsible.

Crash on Hale Street

The incident occurred on a busy Friday night along Hale Street in Paddington, near Suncorp Stadium. Around 9:30 pm, Tyson Elias Huezo attempted to drive between two cars at high speed, causing a collision that led to a Mitsubishi Pajero flipping multiple times.

The crash happened in an area with moderate traffic, as nearby events brought more vehicles to the road.

According to the Brisbane Magistrates Court, Huezo’s vehicle ricocheted off the Pajero, hit another car, and became airborne. His car landed hundreds of metres further down the road, with all four wheels off the ground during the incident.

Witnesses reported that Huezo drove erratically and well above the 60km/h speed limit.

Crash in Paddington — *Photo Credit: Dash Cam Owners Australia/Facebook*

Major Disruption and Injuries

The crash caused significant disruption to traffic and emergency services were called to the scene. The driver of the Pajero, who sustained serious psychological trauma, was taken to hospital for treatment. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, but the incident caused distress and chaos for other motorists.

In court, it was revealed that Huezo had two young passengers in his car at the time of the crash. Despite the severity of the incident, Huezo reportedly showed no remorse when police visited his home 10 days later to discuss the crash. He refused to view the dashcam footage and did not answer any questions from the authorities.

Police prosecutor Bimal Raut provided details of the crash, stating that Huezo’s actions endangered multiple lives and caused considerable damage. He explained that Huezo’s vehicle was travelling at a dangerous speed, leading to the major collision and the flipping of the Pajero.

Guilty Plea and Legal Consequences

In court, Huezo pleaded guilty to dangerous driving. His solicitor, William Kennedy, acknowledged that Huezo had a poor driving history, including two demerit point suspensions. Given the driver’s background, Kennedy argued that imprisonment should be considered a last resort.

However, Magistrate Tina Previtera stated that imprisonment was still “clearly on the table” due to the serious nature of the crash and the need for deterrence. She said the court needed to consider additional information before sentencing, such as the full extent of the injuries, damage caused, and the psychological impact on the victim.

Sentence Delayed for Further Evidence

The sentencing of Huezo was delayed to allow the court to gather more evidence, including dashcam footage, medical reports, and other vital details. Magistrate Previtera made it clear that if the evidence showed severe injuries and significant damage, a jail sentence could be inevitable.

This case raises questions about how dangerous drivers are penalised, especially when their actions lead to significant harm. Huezo’s solicitor argued that imprisonment should only be considered a last resort. This reflects a typical situation where drivers involved in serious incidents may face penalties like fines or licence suspensions, rather than prison time, despite the risks posed to others.

The case was adjourned to October 28.

Published 27-Sept-2024

Bridging Brisbane: Cleary’s ‘The Comfort of Figs’ Roots in Red Hill History

Photo Credit: Simon Cleary/ Website

Red Hill has long held a prominent place in Brisbane’s literary landscape. Author Simon Cleary adds his voice to the chorus with ‘The Comfort of Figs’, a novel that delves into Brisbane’s history and spirit as witnessed from the slopes of Red Hill.

The Story Bridge: A Symbol of Progress and Ambition

The Comfort of Figs by Simon Cleary — *Photo Credit:* *Simon Cleary/ Facebook*

With its elevated vantage point, Red Hill has long served as both muse and backdrop for literary giants like David Malouf and Nick Earls. Cleary’s narrative unfolds during a transformative period in Brisbane’s history—the construction of the majestic Story Bridge. This symbol of progress and ambition casts a long shadow over the story, mirroring the hopes and dreams of the city’s inhabitants.

The O’Shea Family: Navigating Change and Resilience

At the core of ‘The Comfort of Figs’ lies the O’Shea family, whose once-tranquil existence is disrupted by the bridge’s construction and the broader societal shifts it embodies. Through their experiences, Cleary paints a vivid portrait of a community in flux, navigating the complexities of love, loss, and resilience against the backdrop of a transforming urban landscape.

Exploring Themes of Obsession, Family Secrets, and Trauma

Cleary’s inspiration for the novel stems from a personal connection to Brisbane and its historical significance, notably the Story Bridge. The narrative intertwines two timelines: the bridge’s 1939 construction and its impact on future generations, focusing on the relationship between Robbie, a contemporary landscape gardener, and his father, a bridge worker.

Themes of obsession, family secrets, and the emotional consequences of trauma are woven into the narrative. The novel reflects on how monumental structures shape cities, familial relationships, and individual identities. Robbie’s passion for nurturing Moreton Bay fig trees contrasts with his father’s building obsession, highlighting a generational divide and differing approaches to growth and legacy.

Capturing the Human Stories Behind the Landmark

Cleary, a seasoned observer of Brisbane’s cultural tapestry, infuses his narrative with meticulous historical detail and a deep affection for his setting. The idea for the book sprouted from his fascination with the Story Bridge and its impact on the surrounding suburbs. He wanted to explore the human stories behind the landmark, to capture the everyday lives of those who witnessed its creation.

Brisbane as a Character: A Sense of Place

His depiction of Brisbane is rooted in his experiences living there for over four decades, adding authenticity to his portrayal of the city and its landscapes. He aims to evoke a sense of place that resonates with readers familiar with Brisbane, making the city a character in the story. The book also addresses contemporary issues, such as violence and personal trauma, linking them to the historical context of the bridge’s construction and enriching its narrative depth.

Celebrating Brisbane’s Unique Character and Enduring Spirit

‘The Comfort of Figs’ is more than just a historical novel; it’s a celebration of Brisbane’s unique character and the enduring spirit of its people. Cleary’s prose is evocative and insightful, capturing the essence of the city and its inhabitants with warmth and authenticity. He paints a picture of a Brisbane that is both familiar and surprising, inviting readers to rediscover the city’s hidden depths and timeless allure.

A Refreshing Perspective: Brisbane’s Heart Beats Strong

In a literary landscape often dominated by tales of the outback or the coast, ‘The Comfort of Figs’ offers a refreshing perspective. It reminds us that the heart of Brisbane beats strong in its suburbs, hills, and bridges. Cleary’s novel is a testament to the power of place and the enduring human connections that shape our lives.

Published Date 26-September-2024

Rebuilt Paddington Home Sells for $3 Million After 2016 Fire

Photo Credit: Ray White Paddington

A Paddington home at 25A Warmington St, destroyed by fire in 2016, has been rebuilt and sold for an impressive $3,017,777. This price significantly exceeds the suburb’s median house price of $1.9055 million.

The property was one of two neighbouring houses that caught fire in early September 2016, reportedly due to a faulty refrigerator in the adjacent home. The owners, who had just completed renovations before the fire, were forced to rebuild from scratch.

Over the past six years, the owners transformed the property into a contemporary five-bedroom, three-bathroom home. The new construction was only occupied by the family who rebuilt it.

Ray White Paddington agent Judi O’Dea managed the auction, which saw competition between two registered bidders. Bidding started at $2.7 million and increased in $50,000 increments. After an additional $200,000 was offered, one bidder dropped out.

O’Dea described the final negotiations as “a slow process.” The property eventually sold for $3,017,777.

Vendor Michael MacKay, who witnessed the 2016 fire, had previously commented on the incident. O’Dea characterised the rebuilding process as “a real ordeal” for the vendors but noted they were “very happy” with the sale outcome.

The new owners are a family from St Lucia with one child, who had been searching for a home since March 2024. They were attracted to the property’s newly-built condition and its location within desirable school catchment areas.

The home’s proximity to Milton State School, Kelvin Grove State College, St Joseph’s Primary School, Brisbane Grammar School, and Brisbane Girls Grammar School was a key factor in the purchase decision.

Published 23-September-2024