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

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

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

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

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.

“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

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.

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

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

Red Hill Renovation Wins Australian House of the Year

A Red Hill couple’s decade-long renovation project has been crowned Australian House of the Year at the 2024 Houses Awards.

Photo Credit: zuzana&nicholas


Zuzana Kovar and Nicholas Skepper transformed a 113-year-old worker’s cottage into a modern, multi-functional home that impressed judges with its innovative use of space and environmental considerations.


The couple purchased the two-storey property on a corner block in 2011, attracted by its potential for both living and working spaces. “We always imagined that’d be a great spot for an architecture studio,” Skepper said, referring to the revealed understorey on the side street.


Working within a compact 200 square metres, Kovar and Skepper made clever design choices to maximise the home’s functionality. They swapped living and bedroom areas to optimise natural light and ventilation, a simple yet effective change that significantly improved the home’s livability.

The renovation focused on flexible spaces, with the largest room serving as both an office and additional living area. “Our studio table doubles as a dining table for a large group,” Skepper explained, highlighting the home’s adaptability for various occasions.


Houses Awards head juror Alexa Kempton praised the design for its efficient use of space and its response to the evolving nature of work. The home successfully integrates professional and personal life while maintaining appropriate separation between spaces.


Contrary to the trend of maximising built area, the Red Hill renovation preserved the backyard, offering a valuable outdoor space for the couple’s young children. Large sliding glass doors create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection without sacrificing garden area.

Photo Credit: zuzana&nicholas



The project also emphasised sustainable practices, retaining original materials and recycling items where possible. This approach, combined with the preservation of green space, addresses growing concerns about urban density and environmental impact in Brisbane’s inner suburbs.

Published 2-August-2024

Red Hill Sensation Thomas Neill Eyes Paris Glory With the Dolphins

Red Hill swimming sensation Thomas Neill is poised to make his mark at the Paris Olympics, securing his spot in both the 200m freestyle and 200m individual medley events. At just 22 years old, Neill is preparing for his second Olympic appearance, building on a career that has shown promise since his junior days.

Read: Paddington Jewellery Icon to Sell After Two Decades

From Rugby to Swimming

Rugby had been his obsession since childhood, consuming his thoughts and adorning his bedroom walls. Posters of his idols – Quade Cooper, Will Genia, and the entire 2011 Reds squad – served as daily inspiration. On the other hand, swimming was a chore he endured with gritted teeth, Neill admitted.

Fate had different plans for the young athlete, steering him away from the rugby field. At 14, Neill shattered both his leg and his aspirations during an intense match. The sickening crack of bone echoed his vanishing dreams of rugby stardom.

Ironically, it was the very sport he did not love (at first) that offered salvation after his injury. The doctor’s prescription for swimming for rehabilitation was met with initial skepticism. Deep down, he had always sensed his true potential lay in the pool, not on the pitch and this became the catalyst for embracing a new passion, as the competitive spirit of swimming began to ignite a fire within him.

Early success and rapid rise

Neill first caught attention in 2019 at the Australian age titles, claiming gold in multiple events including the 200m, 400m, 800m, and 1500m freestyle, as well as the 200m individual medley. This impressive performance earned him a place on the Australian Team for the junior world titles in Budapest, where he continued to excel, securing two silvers and two bronzes.

Transitioning to senior competition, Neill quickly proved his mettle. At the 2021 Australian championships, he claimed gold in the 800m freestyle and silver in the 400m freestyle, narrowly missing a medal in the 200m freestyle.

Thomas Neill debuts at the Tokyo Olympics

Neill’s Olympic journey began at the 2021 trials in Adelaide, where he secured a spot on the 4x200m freestyle relay team for Tokyo. In his Olympic debut, Neill narrowly missed the 200m freestyle final but played a crucial role in the relay event. Assigned the anchor leg, he delivered the fastest split among his Australian teammates, helping secure a bronze medal for the team.

Following a period focused on his Advanced Business (Honours) degree at the University of Queensland, Neill returned to full-time training in 2023. He contributed to Australia’s bronze in the 4x200m freestyle relay at the 2023 World Aquatics Championships in Fukuoka, Japan, and showed improvement in individual medley events.

Neill’s recent performances have solidified his position as a dual-event Olympian for Paris. At the Australian Olympic trials held in the Brisbane Aquatic Centre, he claimed second place in the 200m freestyle with a time of 1:46.02, securing his individual spot. Additionally, Neill will compete in the 200m individual medley in Paris.

Read: King’s Birthday Honours Recognise AMA Queensland Doctors

Known for his friendly personality, Neill has gained attention for his post-race quips. After winning bronze in Tokyo, he told TV cameras, “A bronze medal at the Olympics, as Matty Johns said in 1997, it’s better than Lego.” With one Games under his belt and another yet to come, Thomas Neill offers an intriguing preview of Australia’s swimming future.

Published 08-July-2024

Upgrade Set to Tackle Congestion in Red Hill

A significant upgrade is underway at the intersection of Kelvin Grove Road and Lower Clifton Terrace in Red Hill to enhance traffic flow and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.



This project, part of the Roads to Recovery program, aims to make the area more efficient for motorists and safer for pedestrians and cyclists. The key modifications include adjusting the traffic signal phasing and altering access points to streamline vehicle movements, particularly during peak times.

Key Changes and Benefits

The project is set to deliver several benefits:

  • Reduction in travel time by extending the green light duration for Kelvin Grove Road traffic.
  • Enhanced operational efficiency of the intersection by removing the signalised left turn from Lower Clifton Terrace onto Kelvin Grove Road.
  • Improved safety and connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists through upgraded footpaths and kerb ramps.
Red Hill Intersection Upgrade
Photo Credit: BrisbaneCityCouncil

Project Details

The detailed plans for the intersection include:

  • Removal of the signalised left turn from Lower Clifton Terrace, transitioning to a right turn only, allowing more green time for Kelvin Grove Road.
  • Modification of the unsignalised access point at Lower Clifton Terrace to left exit only.
  • Comprehensive upgrades to footpaths, kerb ramps, road pavement, line marking, and landscaping.
Red Hill Intersection Upgrade
Photo Credit: BrisbaneCityCouncil

Timing and Further Information

The Brisbane City Council, in collaboration with the Australian Government, is initiating improvements at this congested intersection in Red Hill. The start of construction is pending final land dedication arrangements. 

Detailed information about the construction schedule will be available closer to the commencement of works. Residents and commuters can register online to receive timely updates about the project.

Permanent Access Changes Post-Construction

Post-upgrade, there will be permanent changes to traffic routes:

  • Access to Kelvin Grove Road from Lower Clifton Terrace will be via a right turn into the lower section of Lower Clifton Terrace, followed by a left turn at the unsignalised access point.
  • A detour map for vehicles using the Hale Street off-ramps has been prepared, illustrating alternative routes to Lower Clifton Terrace via Victoria Street, Scott Street, and Musgrave Road.


This project represents a strategic step by local and federal authorities to address traffic and safety issues in the Red Hill area, promising a smoother and safer commute for all road users.

Published 3-June-2024

Keeping the ANZAC Memory Alive in Red Hill: Brisbane Church’s Stained Glass Masterpiece

Inside St Barnabas’ Anglican Church in Red Hill, a stunning stained glass window stands as a poignant tribute to those who served in the Gallipoli campaign during World War I, capturing the powerful imagery that defined the first ANZAC Day memorial service held in the city in 1916.


Read: Ithaca War Memorial in Paddington Marks 100 Years Old


The window’s design is based on the artwork that graced the front cover of the program for that inaugural ANZAC Day service over a century ago. 

Photo credit: St Barnabas Anglican Church Red Hill Brisbane Australia/Facebook

It depicts a solemn procession of soldiers and sailors from the various Allied forces that fought together at Gallipoli – an Australian infantryman, Royal Australian Navy and Royal Navy sailors, a New Zealand Maori soldier, an Indian soldier, and a French soldier. 

Photo credit: St Barnabas Anglican Church Red Hill Brisbane Australia/Facebook

During the first ANZAC Day march in Brisbane on 25 April 1916, a large crowd lined the streets and filled the balconies of surrounding buildings to watch a parade of soldiers on horseback, with the buildings decorated in flags, pennants, and a banner that read ‘Enlist Now.’

The first Anzac day parade in Brisbane, outside Brisbane’s General Post Office in Queen Street, 1916 (Photo credit: National Archives of Australia)

Their faces are etched with the stoicism and determination that defined the ANZACs, their uniforms and equipment meticulously rendered in vibrant shades of colour that breathe life into the scene.

Photo credit: St Barnabas Anglican Church Red Hill Brisbane Australia/Facebook

Dedicated in December 2018 by the Most Reverend Dr Phillip Aspinall, the Archbishop of Brisbane at the time, in the presence of then Governor of Queensland, Paul de Jersey AC, the window’s installation was proudly supported by the Queensland Government. It now stands as one of the many war memorials throughout Brisbane that bear witness to the great losses of the war.

Former governor Paul de Jersey with St Barnabas Anglican Church priest, Rev Bill Colbrahams at the Heroes of Anzac window (Photo credit: St Barnabas Anglican Church Red Hill Brisbane Australia/Facebook)

Read: Baby Charlotte: A Mango-Sized Miracle from Red Hill


For the parishioners of St Barnabas’ and visitors to the church’s Anzac Chapel, the stained glass window offers a moment of quiet reflection and reverence. It is a tangible connection to the history that unfolded a century ago, preserving the iconic imagery of that first ANZAC Day for generations to come.

Published 10-April-2024