Queensland Ballet is offering free weekly ballet classes for boys in a bid to boost male participation in the artform and challenge lingering stereotypes.
The Ballet Boys Project, open to boys aged 11 to 14, runs at Queensland Ballet’s West End studios and the Academy at Kelvin Grove. The second semester of the boys-only program began on 16 July 2025. No fees, uniforms or auditions are required, with organisers aiming to remove barriers that may stop boys from trying ballet.
Photo credit: Queensland Ballet
Students who join the classes train with professional male teachers, focus on male-specific ballet technique, and practise in purpose-built studios. The boys-only format also gives them the chance to build friendships with peers, many of whom were previously the only male in their local ballet schools.
For 12-year-old Lucas, one of the students, the classes began as a way to improve his hip hop but quickly turned into a genuine love for ballet. Alfred, 13, who once danced as the only boy in his town’s school, said it has been a welcome change to learn alongside others his age and to pick up skills from them as well.
Photo credit: Queensland Ballet
Beyond dance skills, the program is designed to support physical and personal development. Boys gain strength, flexibility, and coordination that can complement other sports, while also building resilience and confidence. The mentoring from experienced male dancers helps them see ballet as a pathway that values athleticism as much as artistry.
Queensland Ballet says the initiative is part of a wider effort to address the global decline in male dancers, which it sees as a sustainability issue for the artform. By making ballet more accessible, the company hopes to ensure stronger participation from boys and men in the years ahead.
Some students take part to improve coordination and fitness for other sports, while others are pursuing ballet more seriously. Across the board, participants are benefiting from the focus on strength, power and athleticism — qualities that highlight ballet as a discipline demanding as much rigour as any sport.
Kelvin Grove State College has claimed the girls’ Bill Turner Trophy title after a commanding win in the Queensland State Grand Finals, while the boys’ side finished runners-up following a hard-fought campaign at Wolves FC.
The girls’ team delivered a strong performance in the state final, defeating Cairns State High School 5–1. Goals came from Marnie Cavanagh and Meadow Cruden, who each scored twice, with Emma Messner-Gul adding the fifth. Messner-Gul’s efforts were further recognised when she was named Player of the Match. Cairns’ Ava Hansen scored the side’s lone goal.
The victory marked a highlight moment for the school’s Football Excellence Program, which saw its girls’ squad secure a state championship through teamwork, skill and consistency across the season.
Boys Fall Short In Close Contest
The boys’ team also advanced to the Bill Turner Cup Grand Final after a 6–1 semi-final win over Kawana Waters State College, where goals were scored by Milan Osbourne, Redon Naite, Cooper Palm, Bepo Mohseni and Karim Naguib.
In the final, Kelvin Grove faced Palm Beach Currumbin State High School in a tight match that ended 1–0. Palm Beach’s Sam Butler scored the deciding goal, while Archie Matthews was named Player of the Final. Despite the narrow loss, Kelvin Grove’s boys showed resilience and strength throughout the competition.
Community Support And Recognition
The results capped off a strong campaign for Kelvin Grove, with both teams representing their school community on the state stage. The Football Excellence Coordinator, Jason, was acknowledged for his leadership and commitment to guiding the players across the season.
The finals brought schools from across Queensland together, celebrating sportsmanship, determination and community pride. For Kelvin Grove, the achievement of reaching both finals highlighted the depth of its football program.
Looking Ahead
Kelvin Grove State College has expressed pride in the success of its players, with hopes that the experience will inspire further growth in football across the school community.
Brisbane City Sounds Chorus will host an open night in Paddington, inviting singers from across Brisbane to experience its four-part a cappella harmony.
Brisbane City Sounds Chorus will hold an open night on Wednesday, 11 September, at the Lavalla Centre, 58 Fernberg Road, Paddington. Sign-on will begin at 6.30 p.m., with rehearsals running from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., followed by a supper. Visitors are encouraged to register online and bring a bottle of water and a pencil. There is no cost to attend the event.
Photo Credit: Brisbane City Sounds
About the Chorus
Founded in 2002, Brisbane City Sounds Chorus is a women’s ensemble specialising in four-part unaccompanied harmony. The group currently has 23 members who rehearse weekly at the Lavalla Centre and travel from suburbs including Redcliffe, MacDowall, and Camp Hill. Under the direction of Glen Windle, rehearsals include vocal exercises and singing challenges to develop vocal quality.
Repertoire and Performances
The chorus performs a range of contemporary pop, musical theatre pieces, Australian classics, and traditional and modern Christmas songs. Performances take place throughout the year at community festivals, concerts, citizenship ceremonies, Christmas events, and private functions. Past appearances include Brisbane City Hall charity events, a Mother’s Day High Tea, and visits to respite centres and Memory Lane Cafes.
Membership is open to anyone who identifies as a woman and requires a successful audition and monthly membership fee. The group is currently seeking singers for melody lines and lower vocal ranges, though all voice types are welcome. As a member of Sweet Adelines International, the chorus provides access to resources, coaching, and networking with choruses across Australia and overseas.
THE STORM INJURY DISASTER – The loss on Thursday in Melbourne to the Storm came with some disastrous injuries for an end of season push to the playoffs.
Player
Injury Duration
Adam Reynolds
4 weeks
Selwyn Cobbo
6 weeks
Ezra Mam
6 weeks
The loss three weeks ago to the Eels is also still a major scar on their post-season opportunity.
What are the Broncos realistic ambitions this season?
The Broncos currently sit 6th. The Bulldogs in 3rd have eight more points than the Broncos but the Panthers in 4th have only three more points than the Broncos. The Warriors in 5th having two more than the Broncos.
The Sharks in 7th (played one game more than other teams in the hunt) have 28 points, like the Broncos. The Dolphins have 26 points in 8th, as do the Roosters in 9th.
PANTHERS FIXTURE LIST (currently 4th on 31 points)
Opponent
Venue
Date
Storm
Home
Aug 14
Raiders
Home
Aug 22
Bulldogs
Away
Aug 28
Dragons
Away
Sept 6
WARRIORS FIXTURE LIST (currently 5th on 30 points)
Opponent
Venue
Date
Dragons
Home
Aug 15
Titans
Away
Aug 23
Eels
Home
Aug 29
Sea Eagles
Away
Sept 5
So the Panthers have as tough a run-in as you can get. They host the Storm (currently 2nd), then the Raiders (currently top), then visit the Bulldogs (currently 3rd), and then end the regular season with a visit to the Dragons.
So, despite their nine-match winning streak, they will be tested, and maybe they will win between two and four of those games.
The Warriors have a much easier run-in, and maybe only the Sea Eagles will be a challenge.
The two-point advantage that the Kiwis carry could be crucial, but despite the roller-coaster season, the Broncos can see a chink of light in the top four. Can they start the run-in with a win at Suncorp on Saturday?
Top 4 offers two bites at the cherry
Don’t forget the Top 4 each get two bites at the cherry. Fourth place will play 1st in the first qualifying final, while 2nd play 3rd in the other. Meanwhile, places 5th to 8th only get to play off in elimination finals; meaning the loser of each of 5th vs 8th and 6th vs 7th, is eliminated.
The two top 4 qualifying final losers then play the winners of the two elimination finals, feeding into the Preliminary Finals and the Grand Final!
Can the Broncos start the run-in with a win at Suncorp on Saturday?
In a celebration of Queensland’s rich literary past and its promising future, a talented young writer from Kelvin Grove State College was honoured among the state’s next generation of storytellers at the 66th annual IEU-QNT & ETAQ Literary Competition awards ceremony.
The Queensland Multicultural Centre was filled with excitement on Wednesday evening, 6 August, as winning students were recognised for their outstanding creative efforts. Among those honoured was Kelvin Grove State College’s own Amaia Benedek Escauriaza, who secured first place in the Years 7 and 8 category for her outstanding short story.
Like the other first-place recipients, Amaia had the opportunity to read her powerful piece to an attentive audience of family, teachers, and peers. All award recipients were presented with certificates and book prizes generously supplied by event sponsor Penguin Random House Australia. The attendees also enjoyed an engaging lecture from Brian Falkner, an award-winning international author and writing coach, who shared insights from his career.
The competition is a significant event in Queensland’s educational and literary calendar. English Teachers’ Association of Queensland President Carley Elliott noted that this year’s event continues a 66-year tradition, making it the oldest continuing writing competition in the state.
She stated that with over 1,500 submissions of poetry, short stories, and non-fiction prose, the quality of entries from all schools was remarkably high. IEU-QNT Branch Secretary Terry Burke added that the competition provides an excellent chance for students to sharpen their writing skills and creativity. He said the union’s founders established the contest to encourage literary development and freedom of expression, and that judges were impressed with the exceptional and diverse talent submitted from across Queensland.
While the local spotlight shone on Amaia’s achievement, the awards also recognised gifted writers from across the state. In the senior categories, Manling Sun of Kenmore State High School won for her short story, while Zeta Vayanos from Cannon Hill Anglican College was awarded for her poem.
A special mention went to Derrick Chen of Ormiston College, who achieved a remarkable double win in the Years 5 and 6 category for both his short story and his poem, showcasing the incredible abilities of even the youngest writers in the competition.
A neglected three-bedroom property in Kelvin Grove has been listed for auction, offering buyers the option to renovate, rebuild, or remove the existing structure.
A deteriorated home at 6 Monro Street, Kelvin Grove, has entered the market, promoted as a renovation or redevelopment opportunity. The single-storey dwelling sits on a 478-square-metre block and includes a detached single lock-up garage or shed.
Photo Credit: Aurora
Condition and Features
The house retains much of its original layout, comprising a kitchen, main living space, small sunroom, and three bedrooms. Timber floors are believed to be hidden beneath carpet, linoleum, and dust. The bathroom includes terrazzo flooring and is enclosed by four walls. The roof is described as mostly intact, though the property overall shows signs of long-term neglect.
According to the marketing agents from Aurora Property Newmarket, the property has remained largely untouched for years and is positioned as a rare find for those who can see past its condition. Subject to council approval, options include a full renovation, a complete rebuild, or demolition. Kelvin Grove’s median house price is now $1.355 million, according to the latest REA Market Trends report. This figure reflects an 8.4 per cent rise over the past year and a 65 per cent increase across five years, highlighting steady growth in the suburb’s property market.
Photo Credit: Aurora
Location Advantages
The address lies in an elevated area close to Queensland University of Technology, Victoria Park, Kelvin Grove State College, and the Brisbane CBD. Its location offers access to major transport routes, educational facilities, and green space, adding to the property’s appeal despite its current state.
The property will be auctioned on-site at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, 30 August 2025. An open inspection is set for Wednesday, 13 August 2025, from 5 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.
A nine-year-old girl from Petrie Terrace has turned her own battle with a rare form of ovarian cancer into a mission to bring joy to other young patients at theQueensland Children’s Hospital, raising funds to fill its prize trolley with toys, books and crafts for children undergoing treatment.
The fundraiser launched on 30 July 2025, as Myah McGuigan prepared for her final round of chemotherapy.
From Diagnosis to Determination
Myah’s health concerns began earlier this year when her parents noticed she had lost her appetite and was feeling unwell. A visit to the family GP led to an urgent ultrasound, which revealed a tumour measuring about 15 centimetres by 8 centimetres in her abdomen. She was diagnosed with an ovarian germ cell tumour, a condition specialists describe as extremely rare in children her age.
Within a week of diagnosis, Myah began chemotherapy at the Queensland Children’s Hospital. The treatment quickly reduced the tumour’s size, allowing her to undergo surgery to remove it along with one ovary. Her family said discussions with fertility specialists are ongoing to understand her options for having children in the future.
Her father said it had been every parent’s worst nightmare but was struck by how his daughter approached each challenge. He explained that if Myah was told something would take a week, she would try to complete it in just a few days, showing determination far beyond her years.
A Lemonade Stall for Smiles
Even while undergoing treatment, Myah decided she wanted to help others. Inspired by the prize trolley at the hospital — stocked with donated toys that lifted her spirits after difficult treatments — she set up a lemonade stall with help from her friends and younger brother.
She told her family she chose lemonade because it would appeal to both sweet and sour taste preferences, ensuring “no one would miss out.” The funds raised will go directly towards purchasing toys, crafts and books for the hospital’s oncology ward, with any surplus items donated to the Starlight Children’s Foundation.
The Petrie Terrace community has rallied behind Myah, with neighbours, friends and schoolmates offering donations and spreading the word. Her family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and acknowledged the hospital’s medical staff for their care.
Myah is preparing for her final chemotherapy session before moving to a monitoring phase. Her fundraising continues, with donations accepted through her GoFundMe page to help fill the prize trolley for as many children as possible.
When the lights rose at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre for Creative Generation – State Schools Onstage 2025 (CGEN 2025), audiences witnessed more than just music and movement.
They experienced the hard work and passion of more than 2,000 students from across Queensland. Among them were standout participants from Kelvin Grove State College, each bringing their own flair and determination to the stage.
Photo credit: Kelvin Grove State College/Facebook
Archie Loveland
As a Year 8 solo featured instrumentalist, Archie Loveland took on one of the most visible roles in the production. Playing in front of a full orchestra and a sea of cast members had been daunting at first, but he found his rhythm by focusing on the music and tuning out the nerves. One of the highlights for him was working alongside industry professionals, an experience he found both fun and inspiring. He also came away with a new appreciation for the technical crews, particularly the sound team whose efforts helped power the show behind the scenes.
Layla Todd
Also in Year 8, Layla Todd performed as a senior feature dancer with enthusiasm and resilience. After missing a rehearsal, she caught up quickly by studying choreography videos, determined to be in sync with her peers for the next session. For her, one of the most rewarding aspects of the experience was the sense of community she discovered within her dance class. Making new friends from other schools and collaborating closely on stage left a lasting impression.
Hannah and Zara Todd
Although not yet at Kelvin Grove, Layla’s younger sisters Zara and Hannah Todd, from Marshall Road State School, also took part in this year’s show as featured junior dancers. For the Todd siblings, performing together was both exciting and meaningful. They shared moments on stage and off, working around a large car prop in their “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” segment and enjoying the fun of meeting new friends from across the state. Their involvement added a heartwarming family dynamic to the production, creating memories that would stay with them long after the curtain fell.
Whether playing a solo, dancing in the spotlight, or supporting each other backstage, the students from Kelvin Grove State College left their mark on CGEN 2025. Through intensive rehearsals, creative challenges and moments of growth, they embodied this year’s theme, “The Next Chapter,” a tribute to the rising stars shaping the future of the performing arts in Queensland.
A new $250 million Comprehensive Cancer and Day Surgery Centre is set to be developed in Auchenflower, following approval for an expansion at The Wesley Hospital campus.
Approval Enables Major Health Investment in Auchenflower
Approval has been granted for a new 10-storey health precinct in Auchenflower, with UnitingCare planning to expand The Wesley Hospital campus through the development of a $250 million Comprehensive Cancer and Day Surgery Centre.
On 22 July 2025, the State issued a Ministerial Infrastructure Designation, clearing the way for construction of the integrated facility. The new centre will connect to the existing hospital buildings via a pedestrian bridge and is expected to be Brisbane’s largest private cancer care facility.
Photo Credit: MID-0624-0852
Facility Features and Project Scope
The planned development will include a new day surgery centre, radiation oncology bunkers, radiology, and other dedicated cancer care services. It will be anchored by UnitingCare’s existing health services and is intended to foster a collaborative health ecosystem focused on research, innovation, and improved treatment delivery.
Health, research, and cancer care organisations are being invited to register interest in partnering within the precinct. The new facility builds on the recent addition of a day surgery centre at St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital, also operated by UnitingCare.
Brisbane-based property advisory group Fluent has been engaged to guide the planning and delivery of the project. Hutchinson Builders has been appointed to construct the centre.
Photo Credit: MID-0624-0852
Broader Organisational Expansion
This project forms part of UnitingCare’s wider strategy to expand healthcare infrastructure across Queensland. The not-for-profit currently operates four hospitals: The Wesley Hospital, St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital, Buderim Private Hospital, and St Stephen’s Hospital.
The Auchenflower project is intended to support increasing demand for private health services across Brisbane and the surrounding regions.
Photo Credit: MID-0624-0852
Community Outlook and Next Steps
The health precinct is expected to provide improved service access and treatment outcomes for local and regional communities. The development aligns with broader healthcare infrastructure growth trends and modernisation efforts across the sector.
No official construction start date has been released yet. Interested partners can access more information and register their interest via The Wesley Hospital’s website.
A 145-year-old heritage building in Kelvin Grove has been given a remarkable second chance, thanks to a thoughtful restoration project by Lockhart-Krause Architects that has transformed the landmark into a specialised children’s speech therapy centre.
The building, which dates back to the 1880s, has witnessed decades of change throughout Brisbane’s history. Originally constructed during Queensland’s colonial period, it has served the community in various capacities over the years – housing everything from a confectionery shop and hotel to a private home, music store, and multiple restaurants.
252 Kelvin Grove Rd before renovation Photo Credit: Christopher Frederick Jones, CFJ Photography
However, time hadn’t been kind to the structure. Years of modifications, including a Spanish Mission-style facade added during the 1930s, had hidden much of the building’s original architectural character. The sandstone brickwork, ornate window details, and classical proportions that defined its heritage value had been obscured by unsympathetic renovations.
Enter Lockhart-Krause Architects, a practice founded in 2018 that specialises in collaborative, people-focused design. Director Jesse Lockhart-Krause and his team saw an opportunity to breathe new life into the structure whilst respecting its historical significance.
252 Kelvin Grove Rd after renovation, now housing Brisbane Therapy Collective’s office Photo Credit: Christopher Frederick Jones, CFJ Photography
The renovation approach was carefully considered, balancing preservation with practical modernisation. Rather than simply restoring the building to its original state, the architects created a thoughtful dialogue between old and new. One section preserves the heritage character, whilst a contemporary addition complements the original structure’s scale, materials, and architectural rhythm.
252 Kelvin Grove Rd after renovation, now housing Brisbane Therapy Collective’s office Photo Credit: Christopher Frederick Jones, CFJ Photography
For the Brisbane Therapy Collective, the client behind the project, the transformation has exceeded expectations. The ground floor now features a welcoming reception area positioned along the original sandstone boundary wall, creating a naturally lit waiting space for families. Twelve consulting suites and staff facilities occupy the upper level, strategically positioned to maximise natural light and provide views towards Mount Coot-tha and Mount Nebo.
Photo Credit: Christopher Frederick Jones, CFJ Photography
Perhaps most impressively, the previously dark basement has been opened up to create dedicated spaces for indoor and outdoor play therapy and music therapy sessions – crucial facilities for children’s developmental support.
Photo Credit: Christopher Frederick Jones, CFJ Photography
The restoration work has revealed hidden gems within the building’s bones. Original sandstone walls have been exposed, timber joists that had been concealed for decades are now visible features, and a heritage brick fireplace has been lovingly restored. These historical elements now work alongside modern functional upgrades to create spaces that are both characterful and practical.
Photo Credit: Christopher Frederick Jones, CFJ Photography
The project represents more than just an architectural achievement – it’s a model for how heritage conservation can serve contemporary community needs. By housing a children’s therapy centre, the building continues its long tradition of serving local families, whilst the sensitive restoration approach ensures its historical significance is preserved for future generations.
Photo Credit: Christopher Frederick Jones, CFJ Photography
Lockhart-Krause Architects describes their philosophy as architecture “focused on people”, and this project exemplifies that approach. The collaboration between architects, builders Charles Warren Constructions, and the Brisbane Therapy Collective demonstrates how heritage buildings can be successfully adapted for modern healthcare delivery.
For Kelvin Grove residents, the project signals positive change in their neighbourhood. The building once again stands as a proud example of Brisbane’s architectural heritage, whilst providing essential services for local families. It’s a reminder that our historic buildings don’t need to be museum pieces – with thoughtful design, they can continue to play active roles in community life.
The success of this adaptive reuse project offers hope for other heritage buildings facing uncertain futures. It proves that with vision, collaboration, and respect for history, Brisbane’s architectural treasures can continue to serve new generations whilst maintaining their connection to the past.
