Witches, wizards, and muggles alike are invited to test their magical knowledge at a special Harry Potter trivia night at the Shafston Hotel in East Brisbane.
This event offers fans a chance to prove their expertise on all things from the wizarding world. According to the organisers, the trivia questions will cover a wide range of topics familiar to readers of the books and viewers of the films.
Participants can expect challenges related to spells, potions, the four Hogwarts houses, and the many magical creatures featured in the series. It’s an opportunity for attendees to compete for the glory of being named house champion, whether they identify as Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, or Ravenclaw.
Those keen to participate should gather their wands and prepare for the challenge. The trivia night is scheduled for May 20th at the Shafston Hotel. Prospective attendees are encouraged to refresh their memories on everything from Quidditch rules to key plot points to stand the best chance in the competition. Booking a spot in advance is recommended to ensure participation.
For Brisbane’s Harry Potter enthusiasts looking for even more magical experiences, this trivia night comes ahead of another major event. The highly awaited Harry Potter™: A Forbidden Forest Experience is also set to arrive in the area soon.
Fans eager to be among the first to explore this attraction can already sign up for the waitlist. The Shafston Hotel trivia provides a fun way for the local fan community to engage with the beloved series while awaiting the Forbidden Forest opening.
A colourful mural featuring a rock-climbing kangaroo at Kangaroo Point has taken out the top prize in Brisbane’s long-running Artforce Awards, which recognise the city’s best street art painted on traffic signal and electrical boxes.
The 2024 winners were announced this week, with Brisbane architect Lucia Laus named Overall Winner for her piece Climbing Kangaroo, located at the River Terrace pedestrian crossing near Paton Street. Painted in February 2024, the artwork captures a kangaroo scaling the Kangaroo Point cliffs with the city skyline glowing in the background.
Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane
Celebrating Local Life and Culture
Lucia said the inspiration behind the piece was the popular outdoor lifestyle in Kangaroo Point, especially the community of climbers often seen at the cliffs. Her creation, featuring a character named Roo the Kangaroo, reflects the active spirit of the area and the many ways people enjoy the spot—whether it’s climbing, walking, cycling, or gathering with friends and family.
She worked with fellow artist Luz Jennifer Garcia Rodriguez to complete the mural, hoping it would encourage more people to explore the area and take part in local activities. According to the artist, Roo was designed to bring a sense of fun and positivity to the streetscape.
Now in its 26th year, Artforce Brisbane is a community art program that turns everyday street infrastructure into public art. This year, the competition saw 84 entries across multiple categories, with participants ranging from school students to community organisations and emerging artists.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner praised the winning works, saying the program helped improve the city’s appearance while encouraging community involvement. He said the designs also gave people a chance to tell the story of their neighbourhoods and connect with the culture of different suburbs.
For the first time, the awards included vinyl-wrapped boxes for locations too close to roads to paint safely.
Winners Across the City
Among this year’s major winners, Ibis-zilla by Maddie Field won the Lord Mayor’s Award for its bold depiction of Brisbane’s well-known bird. The artwork is displayed at the corner of Ann and Wharf streets in Brisbane City and features an ibis surrounded by vibrant, swirling colours.
The People’s Choice Award went to Wendy Cumes for her piece New Leaves. Reading the Land, painted at Newmarket State School. The design highlights native flora and the history of the school community.
Other award recipients included:
Belly of Brisbane River by Thomas Hill and Cameron Hill – Best 12 and Under
Flowers by Grace Tupicoff and Jemima Gibbons – Best 18 and Under
Smokey Daze by Ava Hobart and The Gap State High School – Best High School
Zenith Rock by Multicap Centre of Creative Arts, Eight Mile Plains – Best Organisation
Look Up by Princess Enriquez – Best Digital Artwork & Vinyl Wrap
Cockatoos & Native Flora by Tanith Fleming – Best Energex Box
Keeping Creativity Alive on the Streets
All entries were judged not only on creativity and skill, but also how well they captured the identity of the local area. Artforce Brisbane continues to be a way for people of all backgrounds and artistic experience to contribute to the city’s character.
Brisbane is making a bold statement with its latest tourism campaign, Brisbane Favours the Bold, designed to draw visitors back to the city after the impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. While the campaign showcases a diverse array of unique experiences, one adventure stands out—rock climbing at Kangaroo Point Cliffs.
Perched along the Brisbane River, the Kangaroo Point Cliffs offer one of the most thrilling outdoor experiences in the city. A favourite among adventure seekers, the cliffs provide an exhilarating yet accessible challenge for climbers of all levels.
Photo credit: Riverlife/Facebook
As part of Riverlife’s guided rock climbing adventure, participants embark on a two-hour session where they can scale the cliffs under the guidance of qualified instructors. The experience includes a full safety briefing, top-of-the-line equipment, and the opportunity to belay fellow climbers, making it a dynamic and engaging group activity.
Unlike artificial climbing walls, Kangaroo Point Cliffs offer a raw and natural experience, with breathtaking views of the Brisbane skyline and river. The cliffs are an iconic feature of the city, drawing both locals and tourists eager to test their limits while soaking in the stunning surroundings. Whether it’s a first-time climber looking to conquer a new challenge or an experienced adventurer seeking a fresh ascent, the cliffs cater to all skill levels.
Photo credit: Riverlife/Facebook
What makes this experience even more special is its accessibility. No prior experience is needed, making it an inclusive activity for a wide range of visitors. Children as young as eight can participate, provided they are accompanied by an adult if they are under 12. This ensures families can also take part, creating unforgettable memories together while building confidence and resilience in the great outdoors.
As Brisbane continues to cement its reputation as Australia’s lifestyle capital, experiences like rock climbing at Kangaroo Point highlight the city’s commitment to adventure, nature, and outdoor living.
Following the impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, Queensland has backed a major tourism initiative to revive visitation to Brisbane. The Brisbane Economic Development Agency is spearheading the Brisbane Favours the Bold campaign, targeting travellers from Australia and New Zealand.
The campaign, running in six-week periods, is designed to boost interest and encourage travel to Brisbane, particularly during quieter periods between April to May and August to September 2025.
The campaign is supported by partnerships with Virgin Australia, Expedia Group, and TripAdvisor to boost bookings. It also highlights prominent Brisbane figures such as comedian Christian Hull, Traditional Custodian and Djawun Tours operator Jason Murphy, and celebrated chef Benny Lam.
Through the Brisbane Favours the Bold campaign, the city is inviting visitors to step outside their comfort zones and experience the best of Brisbane’s dynamic and energetic spirit. Whether it’s scaling the cliffs or taking in the panoramic views from the top, Kangaroo Point promises an unforgettable adventure that perfectly embodies Brisbane’s bold new vision.
Brisbane Driver Dodged Fines and Demerit Points in 6-Year Fraud Scheme
A Brisbane man who crashed into a cyclist at Kangaroo Point later spent six years dodging traffic fines and demerit points by filing false declarations, court records show.
The crash happened in February 2016 in Clem Jones Tunnel. After the incident, Bin Zhang, 37, submitted multiple fake forms to Queensland authorities, blaming other people for offences he committed behind the wheel.
False Declarations and Dodged Fines
Zhang, who runs a business that manages a hotel in Broadbeach, falsely named other people in 20 statutory declarations between 2016 and 2022. This allowed him to avoid paying more than $5,700 in fines and racking up 55 demerit points.
He used fake names or real people without their knowledge to take the blame. Some of the identities couldn’t be verified. Police caught on after inconsistencies showed up in traffic offence records.
Court Decision and Rejected Appeal
Zhang was sentenced to four months in prison, suspended for two years, and lost his licence for six months. He later appealed, saying the punishment was too severe.
However, Chief Judge Brian Devereaux dismissed the appeal, pointing to Zhang’s ongoing disregard for the law. The judge said shifting blame to others made the offences more serious.
Warning for the Community
Police and legal experts say the case is a reminder to act lawfully when dealing with traffic fines. Misusing statutory declarations is a crime and can lead to serious consequences.
Thousands of Brisbane residents who rely daily on the Story Bridge in Kangaroo Point for walking, cycling, and e-scooter travel have suddenly found themselves stranded, facing detours up to 2.5 kilometres after both pedestrian footpaths were closed indefinitely.
On 5 March, Council shut both the eastern and western footpaths of the Story Bridge. Authorities initially cited safety concerns ahead of Cyclone Alfred, but the closures came days before the cyclone reached the city, prompting questions and criticism from residents.
The closures have disrupted commuters’ daily routines, particularly because recommended detours lead pedestrians and cyclists to other blocked routes within the CBD. For example, residents travelling between Kangaroo Point or Woolloongabba to Fortitude Valley or Bowen Hills are being redirected towards the Kangaroo Point green bridge. However, parts of this suggested route along the City Riverwalk are also currently shut, complicating matters further.
It was further explained that the closures are necessary for engineers to inspect potential damage and assess the iconic bridge’s overall condition.
Bridge Safety and Funding Assessment
This timing has caused confusion and frustration among users. However, LM Adrian Schrinner clarified that the closure provided an opportunity to begin necessary inspections funded by a recently received $2.25 million federal grant.
These inspections will help identify structural issues and plan future upgrades for the Story Bridge. While authorities have not given a definitive reopening date, they have indicated the paths may remain closed for several weeks.
Infrastructure chair Mr Andrew Wines emphasised safety as the priority despite acknowledging the inconvenience caused by the closures.
Calls for Practical Solutions
Local cycling groups have proposed a practical solution to ease disruption.
Brisbane CBD Bicycle User Group suggested temporarily partitioning off one traffic lane of the bridge for safe pedestrian and cyclist use, similar to successful arrangements made previously on Coronation Drive. The proposal highlights a simple alternative to complicated detours, though Council has not yet committed to this suggestion.
The unexpected closures highlight ongoing challenges Brisbane faces in maintaining its ageing infrastructure. Last year, Council presented images revealing significant rust and corrosion on parts of the Story Bridge, emphasising the urgency for upgrades to maintain safety and longevity.
Residents remain unsure when the Story Bridge footpaths will reopen, with city officials advising the public to prepare for several more weeks of inconvenience.
The first step towards the Story Bridge restoration is now underway, with funding secured to develop a business case for its long-term maintenance and refurbishment.
As one of the city’s most recognised landmarks, the 85-year-old structure requires extensive work to ensure it remains safe and functional for all users, including drivers, cyclists, pedestrians, and climbers.
Business Case and Funding Allocation
Photo credit: Steve Asiri Jayatilake/Google Maps
The federal government has allocated $2.25 million to develop a business case that will assess the cost and scope of Story Bridge’s necessary restoration work. This funding is part of Australia’s broader infrastructure investment plan aimed at revitalising Brisbane’s transport network.
Photo credit: Peter Bowring/Google Maps
In total, approximately $150 million has been allocated to existing projects, with $50 million supporting new initiatives, including the Story Bridge Renewal Business Case.
Cr Adrian Schrinner welcomed the funding, stating, “This funding will also help us progress a business case to ensure the Story Bridge continues to play a critical role in the national transport network for another 100 years.”
Current Condition of the Bridge
Photo credit: Craig Hintz/Google Maps
Brisbane has already completed initial restoration efforts, including the removal of airtight scaffolding, external white shrink wrap, an air filtration system, and various on-site equipment. However, engineering assessments have revealed that more extensive restoration is required to address structural issues such as rusted steel plates, deteriorating rivets, and salt air corrosion.
Since 2019, Council has invested around $78 million in maintaining and upgrading the bridge, but as more work has been undertaken, additional complexities have emerged, highlighting the need for further financial support and a structured restoration plan.
To oversee the planning process, Brisbane has established the Story Bridge Restoration Committee, composed of experts in asset management, structural engineering, and infrastructure investment.
Photo credit: Ramesh Acharya/Google Maps
The committee is led by Nigel Chamier AM, who is renowned for his leadership in restoring Brisbane City Hall and ANZAC Square. Peter Burnton, a structural engineering expert with experience in heritage and river infrastructure, brings critical knowledge to the team.
John T. Hardwick, an asset management specialist instrumental in major transport networks across NSW, also joins the committee, along with Graham McHugh, a finance and accounts executive specialising in infrastructure investment and complex asset management.
The committee will develop a roadmap for the potential restoration of the Story Bridge, drawing on global examples of historic bridge restorations, funding strategies, and the scope of work required.
While the funding does not yet cover the physical restoration, the business case marks a critical first step in securing future investment and ensuring the long-term viability of this major transport and tourism icon.
Kangaroo Point residents are urged to prepare for severe weather as Tropical Cyclone Alfred moves towards south-east Queensland. The cyclone will bring heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and damaging winds later this week.
Tropical Cyclone Alfred, currently classified as a Category 2 system, is tracking towards south-east Queensland, with landfall expected late Thursday or early Friday. The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that the system could bring 700mm of daily rainfall. Wind gusts of up to 130km/h could also threaten homes and infrastructure.
LM Adrian Schrinner has activated the city’s disaster management group. Meanwhile, the Queensland authorities emphasised the importance of early preparations.
Due to rising flood risks and strong winds, all CityCat and ferry services will be suspended from tonight to protect passengers, crew, and vessels. The final CityCat departures from Northshore Hamilton and the University of Queensland will be at 10:15 p.m. The final KittyCat cross-river services will run until 11:40 p.m. All ferry terminals will be closed at midnight.
A combination of high tides, flash flooding, dangerous high winds, and intense rainfall is expected to create serious safety hazards, including debris on the Brisbane River. Authorities have emphasised that this decision prioritises passenger and crew safety ahead of Cyclone Alfred’s impact.
Public Transport & School Closures Due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred
All bus and train services will cease operation from the last service tonight, Wednesday 5 March, until further notice as Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches.
Due to the severe weather conditions, all schools will also be closed during this period. Authorities advise residents to stay informed through official updates and take necessary safety precautions.
Sandbag Collection Points
As of 6-March-2025. Please monitor the BCC site for updates.
As of 6-March-2025. Please monitor the BCC site for updates.
As of 6-March-2025. Please monitor the BCC site for updates.
As of 6-March-2025. Please monitor the BCC site for updates.
Flooding and High Tides a Major Concern
Heavy rainfall and coastal surges are expected to increase the risk of flash flooding in low-lying areas. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued flood watches from Hervey Bay to northern New South Wales. High tides are likely to worsen conditions in coastal regions. Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy has urged residents in areas like Bribie Island, Moreton Bay, and North and South Stradbroke Islands to consider leaving before ferry services are suspended.
Local authorities warn that the severe weather could cause widespread power outages. Residents are encouraged to prepare for blackouts.
Temporary Refuge Shelter at RNA Showgrounds
BCC has announced that a short-term refuge shelter will open at the RNA Showgrounds in Bowen Hills from 7 a.m. on Thursday, 6 March, to provide temporary relief for residents displaced by Cyclone Alfred. Evacuees will be admitted until midday, after which the shelter will be locked down.
The shelter follows a proven model used in North Queensland during cyclone emergencies. The facility will provide only basic amenities and will not include beds or cooking facilities.
Residents planning to seek shelter are advised to bring their own non-perishable food, water, and identification for registration. Authorities emphasize that this refuge should be used as a last resort for those with no other accommodation options.
Stay Informed and Prepared
As Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches, it is crucial for residents in Kangaroo Point and surrounding areas to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The authorities have provided guidelines to help communities prepare effectively.
As Cyclone Alfred approaches, authorities stress the importance of being proactive. Kangaroo Point, along with the wider Brisbane region, is on alert for potential impacts. Safety measures are being put in place ahead of the storm’s arrival.
Brisbane’s newest riverside dining spot, Mulga Bill’s, has officially opened at the Landing Plaza, right where the Kangaroo Point Bridge meets the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens.
Launched just in time for Valentine’s Day, the eatery has already made its mark, sharing on Instagram:
“We’ve been spreading the love across Kangaroo Point Bridge and beyond this Valentine’s Day, and there’s plenty more where that came from! We can’t wait to welcome you soon.”
Named after Banjo Paterson’s famous poem about a daring bicycle rider, Mulga Bill’s embraces the active transport theme of the newly opened Kangaroo Point Bridge. It offers a relaxed, yet high-quality dining experience catering to both casual visitors and adventurous explorers.
Photo credit: Mulga Bill’s/Google Maps
With a menu designed to fuel both early risers and evening diners, Mulga Bill’s serves up wood-fired pizzas, premium steaks, and fresh seafood. Coffee lovers can grab a takeaway from as early as 6:00 am, while those looking for a twist on their morning meal can enjoy their newly introduced ‘Brekky Pizza’—because who says pizza is only for lunch and dinner?
A Culinary Team with Expertise
Photo credit: Mulga Bill’s/Google Maps
Under the leadership of venue manager Alex Abson, previously of Massimo Restaurant & Bar, and Head Chef Riccardo Andrini, formerly of Yamas Greek + Drink, the venue delivers a thoughtfully curated menu celebrating premium local produce with Mediterranean flair. Breakfast highlights include wood-fired eggs, açai bowls, and the signature brekky pizza. For all-day dining, guests can enjoy wood-fired paella, fresh seafood served tapas-style, and a diverse range of gourmet pizzas.
Photo credit: Mulga Bill’s/Google Maps
The drinks menu complements the main offerings with an impressive selection of beverages, from expertly brewed coffee and refreshing smoothies to breakfast mimosas, mocktails, and cocktails. Beer, wine, and spirits round out the options, ensuring something for everyone.
A Destination Dining Experience
Photo credit: Mulga Bill’s/Google Maps
Mulga Bill’s is just the first of two new ventures by Tassis Group along the river, with overwater restaurant Stilts set to open this week.
The Kangaroo Point Bridge, which officially opened in December, has already proven to be a popular addition to the city, recording over 300,000 crossings in its first month alone. Mulga Bill’s is perfectly positioned to take advantage of this foot traffic, offering a vibrant dining experience at the heart of the action.
Open seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. until late, Mulga Bill’s is set to become a go-to destination for morning coffees, leisurely lunches, and relaxed riverside dinners. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick coffee or settling in for a long meal with friends, this new riverside gem is sure to delight.
Find Mulga Bill’s at the Landing Plaza of Kangaroo Point Bridge, right at the entry of the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens on Alice Street.
Later this month, two exciting new dining venues will make their debut on the Kangaroo Point Bridge, with the Tassis Group set to open Stilts Dining and Mulga Bill’s.
Helmed by renowned restaurateur Michael Tassis, these new establishments will promise distinctly different yet equally breathtaking experiences, offering everything from coffee at sunrise to cocktails under the stars.
Stilts Dining
Photo credit: Stilts Dining/Facebook
Perched above the river and offering unmatched 180-degree views of Brisbane’s cityscape, Story Bridge, Botanic Gardens, and Kangaroo Point Cliffs, Stilts Dining will pay homage to the city’s iconic Queenslander homes. With a 95-seat capacity, this Modern Australian restaurant will seamlessly blend fine dining with breathtaking scenery, making it the perfect destination for food lovers, tourists, and those celebrating special occasions.
Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, Stilts Dining will deliver an elevated dining experience—both literally and figuratively—bringing a refined menu to one of the most scenic locations in Brisbane. Guests will be able to indulge in modern Australian cuisine that highlights the richness of local produce, expertly prepared to the highest standards. Complementing the culinary offerings, a carefully curated selection of craft cocktails will enhance the dining experience.
Mulga Bill’s
Photo credit: Mulga Bill’s/Instagram
Inspired by Banjo Paterson’s beloved poem about a daring bicycle rider, Mulga Bill’s will embrace the active transport theme of the Kangaroo Point Bridge. This riverside café will cater to both casual visitors and avid explorers, serving up wood-fired pizzas, premium steaks, and fresh seafood to enjoy on-site. For those on the move, expertly brewed coffee and freshly baked pastries will be available to grab and go.
With doors set to open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Mulga Bill’s will be the first Tassis Group venue to welcome early risers and cyclists. Adding to the excitement, the venue will introduce a special “Pizza Power Hour”—offering any pizza for just $20 every day from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm.
With their prime location and unique offerings, Stilts Dining and Mulga Bill’s are set to redefine Brisbane’s riverside dining experience. Whether it’s an intimate fine dining experience at Stilts or a laid-back riverside meal at Mulga Bill’s, both venues will promise unforgettable moments against the backdrop of one of the city’s most stunning new landmarks.
The Kangaroo Point Cliffs could soon become the breathtaking backdrop for one of the most exhilarating sports on the planet—high diving. Under a proposal to include the sport in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, divers could plunge from the cliffs, the Story Bridge, or a permanent facility at the proposed National Aquatics Centre at Centenary Pool.
High diving is gaining recognition as a potential Olympic event. Divers perform spectacular acrobatics from extreme heights, with men diving from 27 metres and women from 20 metres. While Diving Australia CEO Alex Newton is pushing for a permanent facility, she acknowledges that the natural beauty and challenge of Brisbane’s landscape provide unique alternatives.
The Potential of Kangaroo Point Cliffs
Photo credit: Matt Rowlands/Google Maps
The Kangaroo Point Cliffs, heritage-listed and a favourite among rock climbers, runners, and abseilers, offer an unparalleled natural setting for high diving. Their dramatic 20-metre drop into the Brisbane River aligns with the women’s Olympic high diving height, making them a viable option if the river depth meets safety requirements. With spectacular views of the CBD, the cliffs could serve as a thrilling venue for athletes and spectators alike.
Newton mentioned that the implementation of shark nets might be necessary, but as long as the water depth was adequate and safe, high divers were generally willing to leap from a variety of heights. Newton said. While a controlled, purpose-built tower remains her priority, she remains open to unconventional solutions.
A Unique Olympic Venue?
Photo credit: Mario Kung/Google Maps
Unlike traditional diving venues, Kangaroo Point offers a natural amphitheatre for spectators. The cliffs’ floodlit rock face, parklands, and proximity to South Bank and the Maritime Museum create an electrifying atmosphere for an Olympic spectacle. The Brisbane River, flanked by the Captain Cook and Story Bridges, adds to the drama, offering a visual feast for global audiences.
However, logistical challenges remain. Ensuring the river’s depth is sufficient for safe landings, setting up temporary structures, and managing environmental impact would be critical factors in making the cliffs a viable venue.
The Push for a Permanent Facility
Centenary Pool (Photo credit: Santosh Prasad/Google Maps)
Despite the appeal of using Brisbane’s natural assets, Newton remains committed to securing a permanent legacy facility at Centenary Pool. A dedicated high diving tower would provide year-round training opportunities and cement Brisbane’s status as a global hub for the sport.
Will High Diving Make the Cut?
The decision to include high diving in Brisbane 2032 rests with the International Olympic Committee. A Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee spokesman confirmed that multiple sports have expressed interest in being part of the Games.
With its mix of natural and built environments, Brisbane presents an opportunity to reimagine high diving on the Olympic stage. Whether off the cliffs, the Story Bridge, or a purpose-built tower, high diving at Brisbane 2032 could be a heart-stopping, unforgettable event.
