Brisbane Broncos Secure Future Star in Baxter Best

In a move that has sent ripples through the rugby league community, the Brisbane Broncos have secured the signature of 16-year-old prodigy Baxter Best, younger brother of Newcastle Knights and NSW State of Origin star Bradman Best.

The four-year deal is a major coup for the Broncos, reinforcing their commitment to developing top-tier young talent and ensuring their pathways remain among the strongest in the league.


Read: Le Coin Bistro: A Taste of France in Red Hill


Baxter has already emerged as one of Queensland’s most promising junior players, drawing comparisons to his older brother for his powerful playing style and natural flair. He has consistently stood out in junior competitions, proving his ability to match older and more experienced opponents. His performances in the Cyril Connell Cup and for Queensland’s under-15s schoolboys team have cemented his reputation as a future star in the making.

Bradman and Baxter Best : A Family Legacy in the Making

The Best family name carries significant weight in rugby league circles, thanks to Bradman’s meteoric rise as a powerhouse centre for the Knights and his impactful performances for NSW in the State of Origin arena. Now, Baxter is poised to carve out his own legacy, albeit on the opposite side of the Origin divide.

After the family’s move to Queensland, he became eligible for the Maroons, potentially setting up a future State of Origin rivalry with Bradman. While his older brother has already made his mark in the Blues jersey, Baxter’s journey is just beginning.

A Bright Future with the Broncos

Baxter’s decision to join the Broncos over other NRL suitors underscores the club’s strong reputation for nurturing young talent. This season, he will line up for the Souths Logan Magpies under-17s, where he will face stiffer competition and continue to hone his skills against top opposition. The signing reflects the Broncos’ long-term vision, as they continue to secure players with immense potential and invest in the future of the club.

For the Broncos, the signing is a testament to their long-term vision. By investing in players like Baxter, the club is not only securing its future but also ensuring that its development pathways remain among the strongest in the league.


Read: Broncos’ Cultural Overhaul: Ben Hunt Shares Insights on Maguire’s Tough Pre-Season


As Baxter embarks on his journey with the Broncos, the rugby league world will be watching closely. With his combination of speed, size, and maturity, he has all the tools to follow in his brother’s footsteps and make a name for himself at the highest level.

Published 30-January-2025

Broncos’ Cultural Overhaul: Ben Hunt Shares Insights on Maguire’s Tough Pre-Season

Ben Hunt has detailed the cultural overhaul driving Brisbane’s 2024 ambitions, declaring the Broncos’ pre-season under Michael Maguire the toughest he’s experienced since returning to the club.


Read: Madge Maguire Confirms Adam Reynolds as Brisbane Broncos Captain


Inside the Pre-Season Revolution

New coach Michael Maguire has wasted no time integrating Hunt into the club’s senior leadership group alongside Adam Reynolds, Pat Carrigan, Payne Haas, and Kotoni Staggs. While Reynolds continues to hold the captaincy, Hunt’s inclusion underscores the immense value placed on his experience and deep understanding of the Broncos’ culture.

Reflecting on his decision to return, Hunt shared, “It was always in my heart that if I ever had an opportunity to finish my career here or ever get back, it was something I really wanted to do.” Hunt’s choice to rejoin the Broncos over a lucrative offer from the Dolphins highlights his emotional connection to the club where his NRL journey began.

The Broncos that Hunt rejoins in 2025 bear little resemblance to the team he left in 2017. The tin shed training facility of old has been replaced by a state-of-the-art $27 million headquarters, and the playing roster has undergone a near-complete transformation. Hunt, however, views these changes as an opportunity to contribute rather than a challenge to overcome.

Hunt also confirms that Maguire’s approach has galvanised Brisbane’s star-studded roster. Under Maguire’s leadership, the team is focused on core values that resonate deeply with Hunt’s career. “The big drivers Madge is bringing in are working hard, competing, and never giving up on your mate,” Hunt explained, reflecting on the emphasis of a recent leadership camp that underscores the Broncos’ renewed direction.

Ben Hunt Embraces His Role in a Redemption Mission

Hunt’s return is more than symbolic. With the potential to reach 200 games for the Broncos this season, his immediate focus is on aiding the team’s premiership aspirations. With Ezra Mam suspended for nine games, Hunt will start at five-eighth in Round 1—a role he’s embraced. “I feel like it’s gone full circle with Madge; he obviously gave me my debut jersey and now, I’m a little older but he’s still showing faith in me,” he said.


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


For fans, his homecoming is a source of both nostalgia and optimism. Hunt’s experience, coupled with the club’s evolution under Maguire, positions him not just as a player but as a bridge connecting the team’s rich history to its ambitions for future success.

Published 24-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

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.



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.



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

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

Street Spotlight: Tooth Avenue, Paddington

Tooth Avenue in Paddington stands as a testament to Brisbane’s evolving residential landscape, with its rich history stretching back to 1946 when only a handful of houses dotted the streetscape. The street’s remarkable transformation is evident in its strong owner-occupier presence, with 85% of its 65 properties being owner-occupied, and residents staying an average of 16 years and 5 months – a testament to the area’s enduring appeal.



Historical sales data provides fascinating insights into the suburb’s growth, with 44 Tooth Avenue selling for $43,000 in June 1979, a figure that starkly contrasts with today’s market values. Below the aerial photograph from 1936 reveals the street’s humble beginnings, while today it stands as a sought-after address where nearly half the residents have called it home for more than a decade.

Tooth Avenue, Paddington Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 42
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 75%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 12 years and 11 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 56%

Tooth Avenue, Paddington – As It Looked in 1946

Tooth Avenue, Paddington in 1946


SOME RECENT SALES ON TOOTH AVENUE, PADDINGTON

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
73 Tooth Avenue, PaddingtonN/AOct 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON TOOTH AVENUE FROM YESTERYEAR

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
48 Tooth Avenue, Paddington$116,000May 1986
24 Tooth Avenue, Paddington$71,000Feb 1986
21A Tooth Avenue, Paddington$29,500Dec 1979
44 Tooth Avenue, Paddington$43,000June 1979

SUBURB PROFILE 

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2024 was $1,525,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2020 was $925,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2020 : $600,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2024 was $2,250,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2020 was $1,381,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2020 : $869,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2024 was $3,258,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Paddington in 2020 was $2,028,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2020 : $1,230,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Paddington in 2024 was $760,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Paddington in 2020 was $439,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2020 : $321,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Paddington in 2024 was $1,205,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Paddington in 2020 was $713,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN PADDINGTON SINCE 2020 : $492,000



If you know Tooth Avenue, Paddington well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Ben Hunt Returns to Red Hill as Broncos Eye Title Glory

Brisbane Broncos have landed a major coup for their 2025 premiership campaign, securing the services of Queensland Origin star Ben Hunt on a two-year deal. The signing marks a homecoming for Hunt, who launched his NRL career with the Broncos in 2009.


Read: Auchenflower Hospital to Undergo Major Expansion


Ben Hunt reveals why Brisbane won out

When asked whether returning to the Broncos was always the plan, Hunt admitted in an interview with 4BC Brisbane, “It definitely wasn’t always, and that’s what made the decision process so long.”

“Having a family down here in Sydney, we had to weigh up whether it was the right move to come back to Queensland or stay down here and finish off before we move back.”

Despite strong interest from Sydney clubs, Hunt’s emotional connection to Brisbane won out. “In my heart it always kept taking me back to Brisbane and the possibility of finishing off my career where it all started,” Hunt revealed.

Premiership vision drives return

Broncos head coach Michael Maguire believes Hunt could be the missing piece in breaking Brisbane’s 19-year title drought. “He would give us great depth,” Madge said. “Ben has played both positions at the highest levels at hooker and halfback, so it would give us versatility around what he can do.”

Hunt, too, is optimistic about his return. “I’m hoping I can contribute and win a competition,” he shared, voicing his championship ambitions. “I believe they’ve got the troops to do it, and Madge will be great for the club.”

Hunt is open to embracing any role that benefits the team but remains clear about his priorities. “My priority is to play in the half—that’s my favourite position,” he stated. “But playing hooker definitely isn’t an issue for me.”

“We’ll cross that bridge when we get there.”

Looking ahead to 2025

The 334-game veteran will begin training under Maguire next month, bringing experience and leadership to Red Hill. “I met with Madge a couple of times and everything we talked about was footy related—what he thinks the side’s capable of and how I can contribute,” Hunt said. “Our conversations were outstanding and I’m looking forward to playing under him.”


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


“For him to come back and achieve something that he set out as a kid at the Broncos, it would be an incredible story,” Maguire added, highlighting the narrative of Hunt’s return.

With Hunt’s leadership and skillset, the Broncos’ spine is shaping up to be one of the strongest in the NRL, giving the team a dynamic edge as they prepare for the 2025 season.

Published 27-November-2024

Paddo Tavern Set for Major Revamp in Time for Brisbane Olympics

The Paddo Tavern in Paddington is set to undergo a significant redevelopment, transforming it into a four-level venue with a new rooftop and modernised facilities aimed at supporting the local community and welcoming visitors ahead of Brisbane’s 2032 Olympics.



Expansion and New Facilities

The renovation plan (DA A006642907), designed by Brisbane-based Craig W Chandler Architects, will add a fourth level to the Paddo Tavern, increasing its total floor area by nearly 50 per cent to 5,112 square metres. The new layout will include three function rooms, each approximately 148 square metres, designed to accommodate private events, corporate functions, and community gatherings. A large bar and lounge area will span 303 square metres, while a spacious 480-square-metre breakout area will connect to the function rooms.

Paddo Tavern
Photo Credit: DA A006642907

The expansion includes updated accessibility features, with a new lift and escalators, and a redesigned facade along Given Terrace and Campbell Street. The tavern’s street presence will also be enhanced with a “green wall” featuring cascading plants, adding a subtropical touch to the venue’s exterior. The updated facilities aim to position the Paddo Tavern as a central location for community events and gatherings, with the ability to host larger groups and a broader range of events.

Historical Preservation and Sustainability

The Paddo Tavern has a long history dating back to the 1870s, and the current structure, built in the 1980s, has been a key landmark in Paddington. The redevelopment plans include reusing much of the existing structure, reducing the environmental impact of the project and preserving some of the tavern’s historical elements. Additionally, the well-known Sit Down Comedy Club venue will remain, ensuring the Paddo Tavern continues to support local arts and entertainment.

Given Terrace
Photo Credit: DA A006642907

Across the street, another development aims to further revitalise the Paddington area. A new boutique unit and short-stay accommodation project, led by local landowners the Vidakovic family, is under construction at 208-220 Given Terrace. This development will feature two mid-rise buildings housing 12 luxury apartments and 31 short-stay accommodation suites. 

A new laneway, named Hanlon Lane, will connect the site to Given Terrace and offer a mix of retail spaces, including cafes, restaurants, and restored character shops. This mixed-use project is expected to attract more foot traffic to Paddington’s retail strip, enhancing the area’s appeal for both locals and visitors.

Community Impact and Future Events

The redevelopment of the Paddo Tavern and the nearby Given Terrace project are part of a broader effort to prepare Paddington for upcoming major events, including the 2027 Rugby World Cup and the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. By expanding its facilities and enhancing its community spaces, the Paddo Tavern aims to continue serving the Paddington community as a central meeting spot for both locals and tourists. Nearby residents and business owners have the opportunity to provide feedback on the development, as the tavern’s expansion plans are open to appeal through the planning court.



With these changes, the Paddo Tavern and surrounding area are set to grow into a hub for community engagement, providing improved amenities, event spaces, and social venues to serve the evolving needs of Paddington’s residents and visitors alike.

Published 4-Nov-2024

Rebuilt Paddington Home Sells for $3 Million After 2016 Fire

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.

Photo Credit: Ray White Paddington


Photo Credit: Ray White Paddington

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.

Photo Credit: Ray White Paddington

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.

Photo Credit: Ray White Paddington

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.

Photo Credit: Ray White Paddington

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

Photo Credit: Ray White Paddington

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.

Photo Credit: Ray White Paddington

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.

Photo Credit: Ray White Paddington


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