Nundah’s Norths Devils Rugby League Football Club is celebrating the selection of two promising players, Eva Steers and Easter Taualai, in the Queensland Under 18 Emerging squad.
The squad, comprising 30 talented female rugby league players from across the state, will gather for a two-day camp at North Lakes across the weekend of 24-25 May.
This camp provides a valuable opportunity for these young athletes to hone their skills under experienced coaches including Jack Reed, Elle Moss, Ana Fotu, and Col Wilkie.
Eva Steers, a familiar face on the Norths Devils’ team sheets, has consistently progressed through Queensland’s rugby league pathways. She was previously part of the Queensland Under 19 emerging squad announced in February 2025, demonstrating her ongoing potential.
In 2023, while playing for the Queensland Country Under 17 girls, Steers made 6 tackles and ran for 73 metres in a single game. She also scored a try for Norths Devils Under 19 in a match against the Brisbane Tigers during the 2025 season. During the 2025 QRL Harvey Norman Under 19s Round 5, she was listed as a Centre for the Norths Devils. Steers was also part of the Norths Devils Ironforge Security Under 17 Women’s Team, which was announced in October 2023.
Easter Taualai, another standout from the Norths Devils, has also earned her place in the Queensland Under 18 Emerging squad. Her journey includes playing for the Norths Devils Female Under 17s in 2023 and being listed in squad announcements for rounds of the QRL Harvey Norman Under 19s in 2025.
Taualai also represented the Queensland City Under 17 Girls team, debuting against Queensland Country Under 17 Girls on April 13, 2024. Known for her strong forward play, Taualai has been listed as a Lock, where she scored two tries in a 2024 Under 17 match for Norths Devils against Wynnum Manly Seagulls. She has also featured as a Prop in other matches. Her repeated selection in emerging squads highlights her as a key player in Queensland’s rugby league development.
The Queensland Under 18 Emerging squad features a wide representation of talent from various clubs across the state. Alongside the Norths Devils, clubs such as the Brisbane Tigers, Western Clydesdales, Sunshine Coast Falcons, Mackay Cutters, Souths Logan Magpies, Ipswich Jets, Redcliffe Dolphins, Burleigh Bears, and Tweed Seagulls all have multiple players selected for this important development program. Including these young athletes from Nundah underscores the strong community focus on fostering rugby league talent in the area.
Nundah will transform into a lively hub of food, music, and community spirit when the Nundah by Night Fiesta takes over Station Street on Saturday, 31 May, at 4:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.
Locals and visitors alike can look forward to a vibrant atmosphere at the Nundah by Night Fiesta. The event promises a range of attractions for all ages. A key feature will be the Nundah by Night Fiesta Pop-Up Bar, where attendees can enjoy local beers and a special Glühwein, a recipe that organisers say has been perfected over five years.
The Glühwein, described as a delicious traditional drink crafted from a top-secret recipe perfected over half a decade, promises to keep guests warm well into the evening.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Food lovers will have plenty to choose from, with vendors such as Fritz’s Wieners offering their award-winning gourmet sausages and Pipi Cucu’s Empanadas serving flavourful, locally sourced empanadas. Ice Tea Co will present their traditional organic iced teas in various seasonal flavours for those seeking a refreshing drink.
Joining the mouth-watering vendor list are Street Eatz, serving up Mexican fusion fare, Nordic Treats with their “un-waffle-believable” desserts, and What’s Poppin, featuring dirty sodas sure to refresh and fizz up your night.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Entertainment for Everyone
Photo Credit: Supplied
The fiesta will feature a diverse line-up of entertainment. According to event organisers, local bands Trace Cover Band and Veronica Hopper will be performing live across two stages.
Roving entertainers, including Brazilian dancers and stilt walkers, will add to the fiesta’s high-energy charm, creating surprises around every corner.
In addition to the musical acts, roving performers will add to the festive mood. Dedicated kids’ activities will also cater to younger members of the community.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Families can look forward to Old MacDonald’s Traveling Farm, where children can interact with cuddly animals as part of the evening’s entertainment.
Community and Organisation
Photo Credit: Supplied
The Nundah by Night Fiesta is organised by Goodwill Projects, a Queensland-based company known for managing various markets, events, and venues. Goodwill Projects aims to create well-organised events and memorable experiences for the community.
It was noted that Goodwill Projects also runs the Nundah Fresh Farmer’s Markets, which take place every Sunday at the Nundah Train station car park and offer fresh produce and breakfast options. The Nundah by Night Fiesta, which will host over 120 stalls, has a $3 entry fee.
Mary MacKillop College in Nundah has launched its brand-new McCormack facility, a three-storey building equipped with modern learning spaces, including a cutting-edge STEM lab, to accommodate its growing student population.
The new building aims to foster greater collaboration and active participation in lessons.
The newly opened McCormack building features an undercroft area, various classrooms, and a library named The Tenison Woods Library. This library includes a classroom, two seminar rooms, and a meeting room, offering views of Brisbane Port and the Nundah area.
A significant addition is the upper-level STEM makerspace, which boasts a design studio complete with 3D printers. According to a college representative, the students are excited about these new resources and the more comfortable, modern environment they provide for their studies.
In addition to the new construction, Mary MacKillop College has refurbished existing areas. The former Tenison Woods Library has been transformed into two new Maryvale classrooms. These classrooms now feature brand new furniture and an open-plan design to encourage student engagement further. This area also includes two new meeting rooms for staff and students.
Supporting Innovative Learning
Photo Credit: Supplied
These updated facilities are designed to support Mary MacKillop College’s Innovation Project for students in Years 7 to 9. A representative stated that these spaces allow educators to engage students in active learning, encouraging movement, collaboration, and critical thinking. The college has already observed increased engagement and improved student outcomes due to these new learning environments.
With student enrolment numbers now at 620 and rising, the new facilities are crucial in meeting the increasing demands of the local community. The STEM makerspace is particularly important for preparing students for future careers in rapidly evolving fields such as engineering, technology, robotics, and design.
The college believes these spaces will allow students to develop their skills, confidence, and creativity in these growing industries, reinforcing its dedication to providing an optimal learning environment.
Small businesses in Nundah are being given the chance to learn how artificial intelligence can grow their online presence, without spending a cent. A free, full-day masterclass in AI-powered social media strategy is coming to the suburb on 26 June, as part of a Brisbane City Council initiative to help local businesses improve their digital skills.
The Nundah session will run on Thursday, 26 June, led by Brisbane consultancy Social Mediology. Each workshop is capped at 15 people to keep it hands-on and is open to small business owners of all experience levels, including beginners.
The program teaches businesses to use AI to connect with their audience, covering market research, customer personas, and a 90-day social media plan. Participants will also learn to create content in their brand voice and take home reusable templates and tools.
A Focus on Community-Based Business Support
Brisbane City Council is backing the workshops to support small and home-based businesses in the digital space. Eligible applicants must be in the Brisbane LGA, have a current ABN or ACN, bring a laptop and attend the full day.
The program aims to boost the local economy by equipping business owners with practical tools they can use immediately. It’s open to all, with no AI experience needed, and suits sole traders, retailers, creatives, and service providers.
Applications for the Nundah workshop, and sessions in Eight Mile Plains, Keperra and Carina, close Sunday, 11 May. Applicants will be notified by Friday, 16 May via the Council’s business events page.
Social Mediology is led by Kate vanderVoort, a digital strategist with over 30 years of experience. The company has helped more than 3,000 organisations across Australia use AI in practical, ethical ways.
What Participants Can Expect
The sessions feature hands-on demos, group activities, and real-time content creation with AI tools. Participants leave with a ready-to-use strategy and custom materials.
The workshops aim to make AI more accessible for everyday use, helping small businesses boost visibility, save time on content, and build confidence with digital tools.
From cozy local gems to buzzworthy hotspots, Nundah and Wavell Heights are serving up some seriously impressive dining. We sifted through the rave reviews to find the places people can’t stop talking about—whether it’s the flavors, the vibe, or that one dish they dream about. Here are the standouts you need to try!
Gab Garde ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Everything we had was delicious and fresh. It was very exciting to taste regional dishes that aren’t very common to find in Australia. I particularly loved the tigelle with the guanciale spread! The pastas were excellent. Can also recommend the light and fluffy crescentine. The homemade almond biscuits and Vin Santo dessert wine were the perfect end to the meal. Service was attentive and friendly, too.
Andrea Martel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had lunch at Rustichella and everything was delicious. We had the Burrata on Heirloom Tomatoes, Tomato Bruschetta, Potato Gnocchi with Free Range Chicken Ragù Bianco, Spaghetti Carbonara, Infused Pappardelle with Polleo Beef Ragù, and the Affogato. Dishes were fresh with good portions and service was excellent. Looking forward to going back and trying other dishes.
Belinda Anstey ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The food and service is always fantastic. Can’t fault it. Would highly recommend if you love authentic Italian and pasta. For Entree, we had the Tigelle with Modena Pork Pesto and Crescentine with Prosciutto and Parmesan. I had a special for my Main. I can’t recall the name but it was fantastic. Their Limoncello cocktails were also great. A more expensive option, but absolutely worth it. I’ve seen some reviews saying portions are small, but I disagree. Pasta is very filling so it was enough and I didn’t feel overstuffed 🙂
Ranjana Bhandari ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Just wow🤤 . I really enjoyed and amazed by the food and services of the restaurant especially dumplings which I really can’t explain about it. Thank you google for the genuine reviews on the site which help for incredible experience at Nundha today. Very satisfied
Pravalika uppala ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
This spot is fantastic for veg fried rice and chilli momos. The service is commendable, and the atmosphere is excellent. However, the prices are slightly on the higher side compared to other places.
Pichook ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I have been to this place multiple times. The food is amazing and staff are friendly and helpful. Out of all the food I definitely recommend the chicken momo platter, Chow main and fried rice. They also serve drinks including alcoholic drinks.
Nokkie Chaya ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Papaya salad with soft shell crab Whole fish with sweet & sour sauce Whole fish with green apple salad good quality and so delicious
Rich A ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The best Thai food we’ve had in Brisbane. We enjoyed the Phuket style Fried Rice, Pad See Ew and a Red Curry. The Pad See Ew had that proper wok charred flavour to it and the ingredients in all dishes were fresh and of high quality. You can really tell that the chef takes pride in their cooking. Lychee iced tea was also really nice and refreshing. We’ll be back!
Arianna Freeman ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We have been ordering from Siam Sensations for a few years and it has NEVER disappointed. Last night we had the BEST Yellow Curry and Cashew Nut Stirfry. Absolutely delicious! Thank you!
Patrick Saure ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I’ve visited this place is extremely amazing a Japanese cuisine,really enjoyed the food is flavourful,fresh and the quality is excellent. The staff are accomodating with a smile,food service is on time delivered on the table,and the price is affordable.I especially love the sizzling wagyu teryaki sauce it was perfect and impressed.Highly recommend this japanese cuisine sushi Honke.👌thanks.
Lia Eungyeong Song ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ You shouldn’t go there thinking about Korean sushi, but it’s the best in Brisbane! The staff are all friendly, the food comes out quickly, and best of all, it’s a great ice cream restaurant 🥰 They also have gluten free options.
K Bell ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hands down my favorite sushi train restaurant. dishes are always fresh and they will always make things fresh for you if you ask. wide range of entrees, small sushi rolls, large sushi rolls, a aburi, nigiri, hand rolls, noodle dishes, platters, drinks, and desserts. My go-tos are always the California rolls, the gyoza and anything with fresh salmon. Star for always very, very friendly and helpful and provide great and quick service. sometimes there’s a line but it isn’t too much of a a white until there is availability. ordering through an iPad with pictures so you can see what you get. take away also available. parking is not quite that easy. atmosphere is lively and friendly.
Karlee McNamara ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ Always good service from staff here! We got two steaks, unfortunately only had pepper sauce or gravy options but the salad that came with had a very tasty dressing. My steak was a little chewy but my partners seem done well. They also have guava cruiser on tap which is random but definitely a thirst quencher. Very prices here. We’d only come down for specials or if we get $ off in the app
Lola Chin ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great food and service. We had pan fried barramundi and parpadelle marinara with Morten bug. It’s super yummy and we will definitely be back again!
C D ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We got the chicken parma and sirloin steak. Both chips and salad and was top notch. About time a salad doesn’t come with raw onion. We loved how it came pickled. The chips both had good crunch and texture. I had the parma and I like to think I’m a parma connoisseur, I will definitely be back for it. I mean the cheese, the chicken wasn’t dry and all round good meal 🤤 The size of it was fantastic too! My partners steak was cooked to exactly how a med rare should be cooked. Had great char flavour and came with bone marrow butter 🤤 we also got the garlic bread and salt and pepper squid to start. Yum yum yum. We will definitely be back. Not sure before the renovations what the establishment looked like, but I definitely think it’s a great feel.
Mark Warren is a 42-year-old Nundah man, who is living with dwarfism and uses a motorised wheelchair. He is also acutely aware of the additional accessibility challenges he faces as a person living with disability.
But Mark didn’t let the fact that he has a disability stop him from attending his first Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival, where he enjoyed “the fanfare, the colour, people coming together!”
Instead of a 1.5-hour flight, he opted to drive his customised van that accommodates his motorised wheelchair all the way from northern Brisbane to Sydney. This significantly increased his travel time to at least 12 hours each way.
But with his wheelchair having previously been dropped and roughly handled by baggage handlers, Mark says he “couldn’t risk it”.
Mark Warren, who is the Marketing Lead at First2Care, says: “All of your costs simply shoot up when you look to travel as a person with disability. It’s the lost travel time, the petrol costs, the countless calls to airlines and hotels to confirm that they are accessible to me. Not to mention the mental anguish and uncertainty that it may in fact not be accessible once you get there.”
He stresses that it was also “challenging” when looking to book a hotel that would ensure both he and his carer would be comfortable, that the room could accommodate his motorised wheelchair, and he would have both access and independence in the ensuite bathroom.
Again, cost is a factor, as he is still looking at $360 on average a night – with a member’s discount – as he says that usually rooms that can accommodate wheelchair users range upwards of that.
Mark says: “It’s simple: hotel and airline staff don’t always know what disability and accessibility means, as it means something different for everyone. Not everyone is trained up and has the awareness to understand what accessibility really means.”
“Sometimes I feel like I’ve been living in a bubble. But I have hopes and dreams to continue travelling, across Australia and to go to Europe and Dubai,” he says.
The installation of a community battery in Nundah has been blocked, citing concerns about the loss of green space. The decision, part of a broader dispute over renewable energy infrastructure, has sparked a mixed response from local residents and environmental advocates.
BCC recently rejected a proposal to install a community battery at the site of the old Scouts Hall in Nundah. The decision is part of a broader pushback against the State’s renewable energy initiative aimed at promoting local solar energy storage.
The battery, known as the PowerShaper XL, is approximately the size of a household fridge and is intended to store solar energy for later use. It was one of three proposed installations in Brisbane, along with sites in Newmarket and The Gap. The installations were to be funded through the State’s $200 million community batteries for household solar program, which aims to support sustainable energy use across the country.
Many residents and environmental groups disagreed with BCC’s decision. Some community members, particularly those in Nundah, feel that the loss of a small area of green space is a reasonable trade-off for improved energy storage and sustainability.
Residents like those living near Boyd Park in Nundah argue that the site, previously occupied by the Scouts Hall, has not been significantly transformed into a community space since the building’s removal. While some greenery has been established, they believe the area lacks active use and could accommodate the battery without significant disruption.
Others, however, have supported the BCC’s stance, valuing green space preservation over infrastructure changes. This sentiment reflects a broader debate within the community about balancing urban development with environmental conservation.
Challenges and Alternatives
One of the primary challenges identified by the local officials is the location of the batteries within green spaces. The BCC’s environment chair, Tracy Davis, stated that large infrastructure like community batteries should not be “plonked” into public parks.
However, critics argue that similar infrastructure, such as NBN or traffic signal boxes, already exists in urban environments without causing significant disruption. Community members have also suggested exploring alternative sites, including underutilised or abandoned substation areas, which could serve the same purpose without impacting green spaces.
The State has urged the BCC to reconsider its stance or propose alternative sites in the same suburbs. Other Queensland councils have found compromise solutions, offering different locations when rejecting initial proposals.
Caption: The community batteries are installed in Bondi Beach, Sydney. (For Illustration Purposes Only) Photo Credit: Pixii Energy Storage/Facebook
Public Reactions and Community Debate
Online discussions have revealed a mix of frustration and support. Some residents question why the BCC prioritises green space in this instance while backing other large projects, such as developing parts of Victoria Park into an Olympic stadium.
Others feel that the decision reflects inconsistency, pointing out the long-term benefits of community batteries in reducing household energy costs and reliance on non-renewable sources.
Others argued that energy companies should utilise existing infrastructure rather than occupy public spaces. Some comments expressed scepticism about whether the authorities genuinely prioritise environmental concerns or if other motives are at play.
Next Steps
The BCC’s decision to block the community battery in Nundah remains contentious, with both environmental advocates and residents calling for a reassessment. The State continues to push for alternative solutions, stressing the importance of renewable energy infrastructure in urban areas.
Community members are now waiting to see whether the authorities will offer alternative sites or maintain its position, as debate continues over balancing green space preservation with the need for sustainable energy solutions.
Valerie-Ann Abbott, a product lead for a global platform, first began kettlebell training at her local gym after a coach encouraged her to try it.
She never expected to compete on the world stage a few years later. In October 2024, Abbott travelled to Greece with eight Australian athletes to compete in the Kettlebell World Championship. Despite her busy work schedule, Abbott prioritises her training, fitting in four weekly sessions. These sessions, programmed by her coach in Scotland, focus on full-body strength and endurance.
Abbott believes her success is due to her “train hard, compete easy” motto. By varying her training conditions, she prepares for unexpected challenges during competitions. The strong support within the Australian team also played a crucial role. Kettlebell lifting is an individual sport, and Abbott explained that hearing her teammates cheer her on helped her push through the pain and achieve her goals.
Abbott was impressed by the diverse range of athletes at the championship, from a six-year-old to a 76-year-old competitor. She believes this shows that kettlebell lifting is a sport for everyone.
Abbott encourages anyone interested in the sport to try it out and join the growing community in Brisbane. She highlights the quality of local trainers and the sport’s accessibility, noting that four of the eight Australian team members were from Brisbane clubs.
Abbott is already setting sights on the next World Championship in Milan, Italy. She plans to compete in the professional category, where she lifts 24kg kettlebells instead of her usual 16kg, and aims to win gold. She is excited to continue her kettlebell journey and see what the future holds.
Banyo, a Brisbane suburb traditionally known for its aviation ties, has been highlighted as a top spot for property investment in 2025 due to its affordability, connectivity, and ongoing gentrification.
A recent report by the REA Group places Banyo among its “Hot 100” suburbs expected to see significant property price growth. With a median house price of $946,250—well below many Brisbane suburbs—Banyo is attracting buyers who value affordability without sacrificing proximity to the city. Located just 11.8 kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD, the suburb offers excellent train connectivity and easy access to the Gateway Motorway, making it a practical choice for commuters.
Economic researcher Cameron Kusher emphasised that Banyo’s affordability and family-friendly appeal make it stand out in Brisbane’s competitive housing market. Its relative affordability compared to nearby blue-chip suburbs is also a drawcard for younger families and first-home buyers.
Connectivity and Growth
Historically a hub for workers in Brisbane’s aviation industry, Banyo is transforming into a vibrant, diverse community thanks to its strong infrastructure and strategic location. Situated next to the Brisbane Airport, which was once considered a deterrent, the suburb is now seen as a prime spot for budget-conscious buyers and investors. According to REA Group data, Banyo has experienced a 9% annual increase in median house prices and a 21% rise in buyer demand over the past year.
Property experts noted that Banyo’s ongoing gentrification has made it a standout among suburbs experiencing similar growth. The influx of families and professionals has led to an increase in amenities such as parks, cafes, and shops, enhancing its community atmosphere.
National Trends Reflected in Banyo
The inclusion of Banyo in the Hot 100 reflects broader trends in Australia’s property market. Suburbs with high rental yields and a balance of affordability and lifestyle appeal are being prioritised by investors and homebuyers alike. Experts point to strong rental yields in Western Australia as an example of this trend, with similar patterns observed in Banyo.
Anne Flaherty, an economist with REA Group, explained that high-yield suburbs like Banyo provide a dual benefit: steady rental income and long-term capital growth. Despite rising property prices in Brisbane, Banyo remains an attractive option for investors seeking value in a tightening market.
Community Perspective
Residents in Banyo are already seeing the benefits of the suburb’s evolution. Local infrastructure projects, including upgrades to major roads and public transport, have further boosted its appeal. The close-knit community continues to grow, with new families contributing to the suburb’s welcoming vibe.
In a daring operation on Wednesday night, emergency crews saved a mobility-impaired woman from her burning Virginia home, just minutes from Nundah’s town centre.
At 9:14 p.m., a fire erupted in a single-storey residence on Jefferis Street, prompting a swift response from emergency services. Twenty-five firefighters arrived to find the home engulfed in flames, with the woman trapped at the rear of the property.
In an extraordinary act of quick thinking, rescue crews cut through an external wall to reach the trapped resident. This unconventional method proved successful, though the operation came at a cost: several Queensland Police officers sustained injuries while assisting with the evacuation.
Injuries and investigation at the Virginia site
The woman, whose identity has not been disclosed, was treated for smoke inhalation at the scene before being transported to Prince Charles Hospital. Multiple police officers also required medical attention after their heroic efforts during the rescue.
Although firefighters extinguished the blaze by 9:33 p.m., the incident has taken a serious turn as investigators have declared the fire suspicious. Police have established a crime scene, and investigations into its cause are underway.
On the same evening, emergency services responded to another structure fire in Brisbane’s south. Just minutes before the Virginia incident, firefighters contained a blaze at an abandoned brick building on Laxton Road, Pallara. That fire was successfully extinguished by 9:50 p.m.
The proximity of these incidents has raised concerns among local residents, although authorities have not suggested any connection between the two fires.
