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Prestigious Reading Street Home Poised to Set New Paddington Price Benchmark

A stunning architectural achievement on Reading Street is generating significant interest in Paddington’s property market, with industry observers predicting it could establish a new price benchmark for the historic suburb.

The custom-built residence at number 9, known as ‘Skyline’, represents the culmination of an ambitious project that began when Kylie Anne and Anthony Steven Preston acquired the site for $3 million in 2019. The couple commissioned Graya and Joe Adsett Architects to create their dream family home on the prime 810-square-metre block.

The building process proved more complex than initially anticipated, extending over several years due to various planning considerations and regulatory requirements. Real estate agent Josh Brown from Ray White New Farm, who is marketing the property alongside colleague Matt Lancashire, explained that the extended timeline reflected the owners’ commitment to achieving their architectural vision.

The completed home showcases contemporary luxury living across five bedrooms, each featuring its own ensuite bathroom. Additional amenities include dual living spaces, a dedicated pilates studio, and an upper-level balcony that capitalises on the property’s elevated position and 20-metre street frontage.

External features complement the sophisticated interior design, with a heated infinity pool and spa anchoring the outdoor entertainment areas. The landscaped grounds also incorporate an outdoor kitchen, gazebo, and sunken fire pit, creating multiple zones for family gatherings and entertaining.

Brown emphasised the property’s unique positioning within Paddington’s topography, noting that the unobstructed city views are exceptionally rare for the suburb. The flat, integrated floor plan maximises the site’s potential whilst maintaining the character expected in this sought-after inner-city locale.

The owners lived in their custom home for three years before deciding to relocate to Victoria, prompting the current sale. Their departure represents an opportunity for another family to acquire what may become Paddington’s most expensive residential transaction to date.

Market analysts are closely watching the expressions of interest process, particularly given the suburb’s previous record sale of $11.8 million achieved by a property on Garfield Drive. That transaction involved a smaller 653-square-metre site, suggesting the Reading Street property could command a premium price point.

Brown indicated strong initial market interest, particularly from families seeking luxury accommodation in Paddington’s established school catchments and transport links. The target demographic appears to include households with multiple children who value both space and proximity to Brisbane’s CBD.

The sale process continues through expressions of interest, with industry watchers keen to see whether this architecturally distinctive home will indeed reset Paddington’s residential price expectations.

Published 3-September-2025

Petrie Terrace Gallery to Host 2025 Salon des Refusés

Photo Credit: Facebook/Brisbane Portrait Prize

Brisbane’s local artists gain a new platform as the 2025 Salon des Refusés opens at Petrie Terrace Gallery, featuring works that didn’t make the main prize.

Exhibition Overview

The Petrie Terrace Gallery will host the 2025 Salon des Refusés, featuring portrait artworks that were not selected as finalists for the Brisbane Portrait Prize. Selected by Salon judges, this annual event gives artists valuable public exposure and offers visitors a chance to explore diverse portrait styles.

*Photo Credit: petrie_terrace_gallery/instagram*

Entry is free, with ticketed events including the Gala Opening Night on Friday, 10 October at 7:00 pm and a Wine and Cheese Afternoon on Saturday, 25 October at 2:00 pm. The exhibition promises a memorable experience for both artists and the community, celebrating Brisbane’s vibrant portrait art scene.

Awards and Community Engagement

The exhibition offers several recognition opportunities, including $500 prizes from each of the three selectors and a People’s Choice Award granting a 12-month RQAS Brisbane Branch membership. Organisers say the awards celebrate artistic talent and encourage community engagement.

*Photo Credit: Brisbane Portrait Prize/Facebook*

Visitors can also attend a Wine and Cheese Afternoon to meet artists and learn about their creative processes. The event aims to foster connections and dialogue between artists and the public.

Supporting Local Artists

The 2025 exhibition reinforces RQAS’s commitment to supporting local talent. The Salon des Refusés maintains a vibrant art scene in the city by giving artists whose works were not selected for the main Brisbane Portrait Prize another venue to present their creations.

The organisers emphasise that showcasing these artworks fosters a sense of inclusivity and appreciation within Brisbane’s cultural landscape.

Visitor Information

Artworks must be professionally prepared and delivered to RQAS by Saturday, 4 October 2025, for inclusion in the exhibition. Framed works should be finished cleanly around the edges, and D-rings must be attached for hanging.

This event supports Brisbane’s local art scene and showcases the city’s diverse portrait talent.

Published 13-August-2025. Updated 2-September-2025.

Fierce Bidding War Drives Red Hill Townhouse $300K Above Previous Sales

Photo Credit: Ray White Paddington

A modest two-bedroom townhouse in Red Hill has become the centre of an intense bidding battle, ultimately selling for $1.255 million in what local agents are calling a remarkable demonstration of buyer demand in Brisbane’s inner suburbs.

The Arthur Terrace property drew an impressive crowd of 70 onlookers and 14 registered bidders to its weekend auction, highlighting the continued strength of Brisbane’s townhouse market. The sale comes as Brisbane unit prices have risen significantly, jumping from $450,000 in 2021 to $688,000 recently, with the national median for units and townhouses now sitting at $695,440.

Ray White Paddington’s Judi O’Dea, who handled the sale, said the level of interest was extraordinary. Pre-auction offers had already exceeded $1 million, well above the $940,000 achieved by the last townhouse sale in the same complex.

The auction opened at $800,000, but excitement peaked quickly when the second bid jumped dramatically to $1.1 million – immediately surpassing the $1.075 million reserve and leaving only two serious contenders in the race.

What followed was a spirited contest between an interstate buyer calling in from Sydney and a local purchaser from Chelmer. Over approximately 20 bids, the price climbed steadily until the Chelmer buyer secured the keys at $1.255 million.

The successful purchaser, a woman planning to occupy the property herself, has big plans for her new home. She’s considering installing a pool in the courtyard and other upgrades to make the most of the inner-city lifestyle the townhouse offers.

For the vendors, the sale represents a life-changing opportunity. The couple, who had been renting after moving out of the townhouse due to their growing family’s space needs, will use the proceeds to purchase a larger family home with a significantly increased budget.

The remarkable sale price – more than $300,000 above recent comparable sales – reflects broader trends in Brisbane’s property market. Red Hill has experienced strong capital growth, with some data showing annual growth rates of nearly 17%, making it one of Brisbane’s most sought-after inner suburbs.

O’Dea noted that first-home buyers are particularly drawn to townhouse living, appreciating the balance between affordability and lifestyle that these properties offer compared to standalone houses in the same area.

The Arthur Terrace complex is increasingly attracting owner-occupiers rather than investors, with many new residents choosing to renovate and upgrade their properties to create their ideal inner-city homes.

The strong result demonstrates the continued appeal of Red Hill’s lifestyle offering, with its proximity to the city centre and established amenities continuing to drive buyer demand even in a challenging economic environment.

Published 1-September-2025

Broncos Get the W Against the Cowboys but Defense Needs Polishing

“We’ve got a little bit to work on”, says Madge “We had a little bit of sickness go through the team this week.” At half time, he said: “We spoke about the things I know we are capable of.”

Paddy Carrigan said: “We obviously started fast….a little bit disappointed defensively…….what’s going to be required to win finals games in the next few weeks is a bit more than that”.

“Reecey — over the last couple of months, his maturity around the game has changed” said Madge.

Two tries (Gehamat Shibasaki and Kotoni Staggs) in the first ten minutes as well as a Cowboys sin binning (Braidon Burns) had the Broncos off to a flyer, but conceding the next three tries to the Cowboys suggests the concentration lapsed. In the space of 2 minutes however, the Broncos delivered two more tries through Josiah Karapani and Reece Walsh just before half-time, giving the Broncos some momentum back into the half-time break.

Three more tries in the second half through Shibasaki’s second, Billy Walters and Payne Haas was enough despite conceding two more Cowboys tries in the second half.

Karapani’s 196 run metres (including 2 line breaks) with Shibasaki’s three line breaks and a sprinkling of Reece Walsh magic (5 line break assists and two try assists as well as his own 5-pointer) were major contributors to a crucial win, after the Warriors tripped up on Friday night, leaving the door wide open for a Broncos Top 4 finish.

Kotoni Staggs with 69 post contact metres proved a handful, but defensively Billy Walters and Ben Hunt didn’t have their best game, missing 11 tackles between them as well as five ineffective tackles.

Now the big finale against the Storm at Suncorp. Will the Storm be determined to win, or will their playoff preparations take priority, resting key players?

It’s a must-win for the Broncos, the Warriors will be all out to beat the Sea Eagles after their disaster against the Eels, if both the Broncos and the Warriors lose then Madge’s boys will be in the 4, but lose momentum when it counts.

A massive week of preparation before taking on the 2nd placed Storm.

Published 31-August-2025

Broncos Eye Crucial Win Against Cowboys as Finals Hopes Hinge on Round 26 Clash

Published 29-August-2025

A dominant “w” last week in Newcastle, sets the Broncos up for a huge Round 26 clash with the Cowboys tomorrow night at the Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

The Cowboys can only inflict damage on their Queensland rivals, as they lie 13th.

Adam Reynolds is named in the extended squad despite having re-injured his hamstring on Thursday at training, having not played since Round 23 against the Storm.

Reynolds feels he will be ready for the playoffs, though getting on the field against the Cowboys looks less likely. Madge Maguire would be very unlikely to risk Reynolds in a game the Broncos should win without him.

Brendan Piakura comes back into the interchange and Jock Madden joins the reserves along with Reynolds and Delouise Hoeter.

If the Broncos can win their last two games, including the regular season finale at home to the 2nd placed, Storm, they could still make the top 4. The Warriors currently in 4th would need to slip up tonight at home against the Eels or away to the Sea Eagles next Friday; the Broncos play the Storm next Thursday; and the Warriors play the Sea Eagles next Friday; so it may go down to the wire if the Broncos can win in Townsville.

Across the park, the Cowboys’ starting pack remains sturdy and unchanged—an indication of their coach Todd Payten’s confidence in a settled group.

The refereeing team for Saturday includes Ashley Klein at the whistle, with Drew Oultram and Chris Sutton on the touchlines, and Chris Butler as the senior review official.

Key Match Facts

The Broncos bring a five-game winning streak against the Cowboys into this clash.
Cowboys second-rower Jeremiah Nanai has been a thorn in Brisbane’s side, scoring six tries in his last six outings against them.
The in-form Kotoni Staggs continues to pose a serious threat—he’s crossed for five tries across his last four matches.
For North Queensland, this game marks a personal milestone for lock Reuben Cotter, as he prepares to notch up his 100th NRL appearance.

Stats & Matchups to Watch

Head-to-head dominance: Brisbane has won each of the last five encounters against North Queensland, including a 26–16 victory in Round 3 this season at Suncorp Stadium. The Broncos have had the edge in recent Queensland derbies, with strong second-half efforts proving decisive.
Strike players: Kotoni Staggs (Broncos) is in top attacking form, crossing for five tries in his last four matches. His strength and acceleration on the right edge continue to trouble defensive lines. Jeremiah Nanai (Cowboys) has a proven ability to find the line against Brisbane, having scored six tries in his last six games against the Broncos. His timing off short balls and aerial threat make him a key danger man.
Middle-third battle: The engine room will be vital, with Payne Haas averaging 67.5 post-contact metres per game and ranking among the NRL’s leaders in dominant carries. Teammate Patrick Carrigan has amassed over 3,300 running metres this season, making him one of the most consistent metre-eaters in the comp. They’ll face a determined Cowboys pack led by Jason Taumalolo and Reuben Cotter, whose 100th game brings added motivation.
Halves and control: With Adam Reynolds still named in the reserves as he recovers from a hamstring injury, the playmaking duties may again fall to Ezra Mam and Billy Walters. Their ability to guide the team around the park, especially under pressure, could be tested in a hostile Townsville environment.
Milestone moment: Reuben Cotter will notch up his 100th NRL game in front of a home crowd—a major achievement for the hard-working lock and a potential emotional lift for the Cowboys in their final home game of the season.

Expect a gritty, physical battle where momentum could swing early depending on composure and execution. If Brisbane’s seasoned campaigners impose pressure early, they’ll likely navigate Reynolds’ absence. But if Nanai and the Cowboys can unsettle the Broncos pack, it might get tight before halftime.

Kick-off is at 7:35pm AEST on Saturday, 30 August. The match will be broadcast live on Fox League and Kayo Sports.

Local Cybersecurity Worker Still Missing as Torture Charges Laid

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

The search for a missing Kelvin Grove cybersecurity worker has taken a disturbing turn, with police charging two men with torture as investigations continue across multiple locations in Queensland.

Andrew Burow, 56, vanished from his Lorimer Terrace home on August 20, though his disappearance wasn’t reported to police until four days later on August 24. The father and cybersecurity professional has been living in the inner-Brisbane suburb for nine years, close to the Queensland University of Technology campus.

Police have now charged 38-year-old Anthony Perrett and 26-year-old Billy Howard with torture in connection with Mr Burow’s disappearance. Both men faced Maroochydore Magistrates Court earlier this week, with proceedings adjourned.

The investigation has rapidly expanded beyond Brisbane, with Queensland Police establishing an incident centre under Operation Veer. Crime scenes have been declared at multiple properties, including Mr Burow’s Kelvin Grove home and locations on the Sunshine Coast.

Forensic teams have been conducting extensive searches at a Kokoda Avenue property in Bli Bli, with neighbours reporting concerning observations. Local residents recalled seeing a fire burning at the property early Tuesday morning that appeared unusually dark and carried the smell of chemicals.

The investigation has extended to rural areas, with additional crime scenes declared at Black Pinch Road in Pomona and Kamala Drive in nearby Lake MacDonald, both locations inland from Noosa.

Detective Acting Superintendent Craig Williams confirmed police are working around the clock to locate Mr Burow. According to police sources cited by Queensland Police, the disappearance is considered completely out of character for the 56-year-old, prompting serious concerns from both investigators and family members.

Mr Burow works as a cybersecurity manager and has extensive experience as a project manager across various companies, holding qualifications in IT and management. Property records show he owns multiple properties in the Brisbane area.

Before his disappearance, Mr Burow had contacted a real estate agent about potentially selling his house, though the significance of this action remains unclear in the investigation.

Friends who spoke to media outlets described Mr Burow as genuinely friendly and someone who cared deeply about people. They expressed hope he would be found safe.

A neighbour in Kelvin Grove told media she found it concerning that she hadn’t seen Mr Burow around recently, noting the family she lives with also hadn’t heard anything.

Police describe Mr Burow as Caucasian with a fair complexion, sandy to reddish hair, and bluish-green eyes.

Brisbane Region Crime Coordinator Detective Acting Superintendent Craig Williams emphasised the thoroughness of the investigation, with officers remaining committed to working continuously until Mr Burow is located.

The Kelvin Grove community, known for its proximity to QUT and mix of students and long-term residents, has been following developments closely as the investigation unfolds.

Anyone with information about Mr Burow’s whereabouts is urged to contact Queensland Police immediately.

Published 28-August-2025

Queensland Ballet Offers Free Boys-only Classes to Boost Male Participation

Queensland Ballet is offering free weekly ballet classes for boys in a bid to boost male participation in the artform and challenge lingering stereotypes.

Read: Queensland Ballet Academy In Kelvin Grove Receives $10 Million Funding for Expansion Plan

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.

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.

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.

Read: Stage Career of Sarah Bakker Traces Back to Kelvin Grove

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.

Published 28-August-2025

Kelvin Grove State College Teams Shine At Bill Turner Cup And Trophy Finals

Photo Credit: Kelvin Grove State College/Facebook

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.

Girls Secure Trophy With Dominant Display

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.

*Photo Credit: Kelvin Grove State College/Facebook*

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.

Both the girls’ and boys’ campaigns have been seen as milestones, demonstrating the school’s commitment to excellence both on and off the field.

Published 15-August-2025

Brisbane City Sounds Chorus Hosts Open Night in Paddington

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Sounds

Brisbane City Sounds Chorus will host an open night in Paddington, inviting singers from across Brisbane to experience its four-part a cappella harmony.

Open Night Details

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.

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.

a cappella singing — *Photo Credit: TryBooking*

book now

Membership and Opportunities

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.

Contact Information

For enquiries, interested participants can contact Helen on 0418 155 110 or Kim on 0433 152 247, or visit www.brisbanecitysounds.com.au.

Published 15-Aug-2025

Red Hill Injuries and Ambitions – Where can the Broncos Aim to Finish the Regular Season?

Photo Credit: NRL

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.

BRONCOS FIXTURE LIST (currently 6th on 28 points)

Opponent	Venue	Date

Dolphins

Home

Aug 16

Knights

Away

Aug 24

Cowboys

Away

Aug 30

Storm

Home

Sept 4

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?

Published 12-Aug-2025

QLD’s Oldest Writing Contest Honours New Talent from Kelvin Grove State College and Beyond

Photo Credit: Independent Education Union

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.

Honouring the Next Chapter

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.

A 66-Year Tradition of Talent

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.

Writers from Across the State Recognised

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.

Published Date 12-August-2025