A fresh approach to secondary education is coming to Toowong in 2025 with the opening of OMNI Academies of Learning, a unique independent school that promises to redefine the learning experience for Years 7-9.
This innovative institution, spearheaded by Principal Meg Foley, aims to provide a distinct alternative to traditional schooling, offering a more personalised and flexible learning environment for students in the heart of the Walter Taylor community.
OMNI Academies of Learning is set to challenge conventional educational norms. Focusing on individualised learning, the school will eliminate uniforms and rigid rules, fostering a more relaxed and adaptable atmosphere. Principal Foley, a passionate educator who desires to move beyond traditional education, envisions a school where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning journey.
This new establishment will be a welcome addition to the Toowong educational landscape, where existing high schools need help to accommodate the growing demand. With enrolments now open for Years 7-9, OMNI Academies of Learning presents a timely solution for families seeking a different educational experience for their children.
At OMNI Academies of Learning, educators will act as facilitators, guiding students on their educational path and nurturing their overall development. The school is committed to creating a dynamic learning community where students feel supported and inspired to reach their full potential.
Families interested in this new approach to education are encouraged to enrol their children for the 2025 academic year.
With its commitment to fostering individual growth and providing a more personalised learning experience, OMNI Academies of Learning is poised to become a valuable asset to the Toowong community.
Sylvan Road in Toowong continues to present significant safety challenges for cyclists, ranked as one of the most dangerous locations in Brisbane according to recent BikeSpot findings.
Sylvan Road in Toowong remains a focal point of safety concerns for the local cycling community, featuring prominently in the BikeSpot 2023 rankings as a hazardous area. The road is notorious for its high traffic speeds and dangerous intersections, which have been identified as major risks for cyclists.
Rank
Location
Features Noted as Dangerous
1
Hopkins St, Footscray (VIC)
No bike lane, high traffic speeds
2
Victoria Rd, Rozelle (NSW)
Dangerous intersections, no bike lane
3
Sylvan Rd, Toowong (QLD)
High traffic speeds, dangerous intersections
4
Franklin St, Adelaide (SA)
Lack of dedicated bike lanes
5
Tydeman Rd & Pearse St Intersection (WA)
Complex traffic patterns, high vehicle speeds
6
Northbourne Ave, Lyneham (ACT)
High traffic speeds, no bike lane
7
Tasman Bridge (TAS)
Narrow paths, high vehicle speeds
8
Epping Rd Shared Path, Lane Cove (NSW)
Dangerous intersections
9
St Georges Rd Trail (VIC)
Intersecting roads causing safety concerns
10
Bourke Rd, Alexandria (NSW)
Poor surface, dangerous intersections
Despite proposals for upgrades, the road’s current conditions continue to pose a serious threat to cyclist safety.
As part of a broader traffic management strategy announced by LM Adrian Schrinner in March 2024, Sylvan Road is slated for major upgrades designed to alleviate congestion and improve safety. The plan includes redesigning key intersections and enhancing the overall road layout to better accommodate both vehicular and bicycle traffic. However, these changes are still in the planning stages and have yet to move forward, leaving cyclists to navigate the existing hazardous conditions.
The local community and cycling advocates continue to urge immediate action to make Sylvan Road safer. The area’s traffic issues and the absence of dedicated bicycle lanes have contributed to several accidents, highlighting the urgent need for improvements.
With Toowong’s population growth and the upcoming Brisbane Olympics, the pressure is increasing on local authorities to expedite these critical upgrades to ensure the safety of all road users.
Whilst funding and political discussions about road improvements are ongoing, the primary concern for residents and local officials remains squarely focused on enhancing safety measures.
Regatta Hotel in Toowong will mark its 150th birthday with a three-day festival, transforming the iconic pub’s laneway into a hub of live music, gourmet food, and special beverages.
The festivities will run from 13th to 15th September, kicking off at 4:00 p.m. on Friday and continuing throughout the weekend. Entry to the event is free, allowing community members and visitors alike to join in the historic celebration.
What to Expect
Local and interstate bands and DJs will provide a diverse musical lineup for the event. The weekend’s headliner, Tia Gostelow, will perform at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, 14th September. Gostelow, a Yuwi-based indie artist, gained recognition at 16 when she won Triple J’s Unearthed High Indigenous Initiative. Her debut album, Thick Skin, achieved GOLD certification, while her single “Strangers” went PLATINUM.
The laneway will host a food festival featuring a variety of gourmet food stalls. Visitors can also enjoy special anniversary cocktails and craft beers created specifically for the occasion.
Organisers recommend using public transport to attend the event, as the pub’s car park will be used as the festival venue. The Regatta has its own ferry terminal, making it easily accessible from various parts of Brisbane, including West End.
For those seeking a more upscale experience, the Regatta Hotel will host a 150-Year Birthday Dinner on 19th September. The event, held in the Boatshed Restaurant from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., will feature a five-course degustation menu prepared by Head Chef Lochlan Alexander accompanied by a premium three-hour beverage package.
The Regatta Hotel has been a central part of the Toowong community since 1874. Originally a one-storey wooden family home, it was transformed into a grand hotel in 1886, designed by architect Richard Gailey. The pub has evolved over the years, becoming the first in Queensland to allow women to drink in the public bar.
With 160 staff members working to cater to guests during the celebrations, the event highlights the Regatta Hotel’s role as a significant employer in the area. The pub continues to serve as a gathering place for university students, locals, and visitors, offering options from early morning coffee to late-night dining.
The Wests Bulldogs are gearing up for an action-packed day at Ballymore Stadium, where they will face off against the Souths Rugby Club and Brothers Rugby Club. The Colts One grand final against Souths will kick off at 12:45 p.m. on 1 September, followed by the highly anticipated Premier Grade grand final rematch against Brothers at 2:45 p.m.
Wests Bulldogs fell UQ in 2022 grand final rematch
In a hard-fought preliminary final, Wests emerged victorious with a 39-27 win over the University of Queensland. Despite facing an early 10-0 deficit, the Bulldogs turned the game around with a series of strategic plays and relentless pressure, eventually securing the victory.
Centre Lebron Naea was instrumental, delivering crucial defensive stops and contributing to key tries that shifted the momentum.
Wests’ lineup features several superstar players, including the dominant Wallabies backrower Seru Uru and the explosive Reds winger Suliasi Vunivalu.
The team is further strengthened by key players such as Reds halfback Louis Werchon, along with Connor Anderson, Angelo Smith, Ethan Dobbins, and David Vaihu. Their experience at the highest level of Australian rugby adds significant depth to the Wests squad.
Premier Grade grand final rematch vs Brothers
This grand final marks Wests’ third consecutive appearance in the Hospital Cup decider—and a rematch of 2023. This time, they aim to reverse last year’s narrow 26-24 loss to Brothers.
Despite Brothers securing the minor premiership on points, Wests recorded more wins during the home-and-away season, with 12 victories compared to Brothers’ 11, making this matchup a proper clash of the titans.
Brothers’ roster includes notable Reds James O’Connor, Ryan Smith, and Dre Pakeho, setting the stage for a talent-laden grand final rematch.
Flyhalf Mason Gordon is confident in the team’s game plan, emphasising that, “After giving up that early lead to UQ, we regrouped and our focus was on defence and being big and physical.” Wests faithful hope that this approach will be their edge in Sunday’s final.
Colts One and 5th Grade grand finals
In addition to the Premier Grade final, Wests fans can also support their Colts One team in their match against returning finalists Souths Rugby. This clash, kicking off a few hours earlier than the main event, will be another highlight of the day as Wests look to accomplish the triple.
Before the Premier Grade and Colts One finals, the Wests 5th Grade team will also take on Brothers in the first of their Grand Final games on 31 August, 9:30 a.m.
(Update as of 03-Aug-2024) Ash Moloney has withdrawn from the Paris Olympics due to an adductor injury. The 24-year-old bronze medalist from Tokyo completed only three events on the opening day of competition before pulling out.
This withdrawal follows a challenging period for Moloney, who struggled with injuries during his qualification campaign. Prior to the Games, Moloney had acknowledged the need to adjust his training approach following his recent string of injuries, but unfortunately, his efforts were not enough to keep him in the competition.
(Published 02-August-2024) As the athletics portion of the Paris 2024 Olympics kicks off, Brisbane Boys’ College alumnus Ash Moloney is poised to make his mark. The event, often considered the ultimate test of athletic prowess, begins on August 2.
Twenty-year-old Ash Moloney is no stranger to Olympic success. The young athlete secured a bronze medal in decathlon at the Tokyo Olympics, setting an Oceania record in the process. Now, he returns to the global stage with ambitions of gold.
The decathlon, comprising ten track and field events spread over two days, is a true test of an athlete’s versatility and endurance. The event’s schedule is as follows: 100m: 2 August, 6:05 p.m. Long Jump: 2 August, 6:55 p.m. Shot Put: 2 August, 8:15 p.m. High Jump: 3 August, 2:00 a.m. 400m: 3 August, 4:50 a.m. 110m Hurdles: 3 August, 6:05 p.m. Discus Throw – Group A or B: 3 August, 6:55 p.m. or 8:05 p.m. Pole Vault: 3 August, 9:40 p.m. Javelin Throw – Group A or B: 4 August, 3:10 a.m. or 4:10 a.m. 1500m: 4 August, 5:45 a.m.
Moloney’s prospects for Olympic glory appear promising, yet he faces formidable competition, most notably from Canada’s Damian Warner, the reigning Olympic champion. The field has narrowed somewhat, as France’s Kevin Mayer, the Olympic record holder and Tokyo silver medalist, has been ruled out due to a thigh injury.
Ex-Brisbane Boys College student, Mark Nicolaidis, kicks off his first Olympics campaign with partner Izac Carracher under the Eiffel Tower in Paris on 27 July.
Like many beach volleyballers, Mark initially focused on indoor volleyball, playing for the Queensland Pirates during four consecutive National Championships between 2016 and 2019. He also competed in the 2018 Youth Olympics in Argentina, finishing ninth.
When Mark partnered with Izac, the pairing won their first International Tournament together in 2022 and haven’t looked back since. That was only a year after Mark had graduated from QUT with a degree in Property Economics.
In the initial group stages, the pair will take on a Swedish pairing, Ahman and Hellvig at 11:00 p.m., Brisbane time, on Saturday, 27 July.
Their next match will be on Monday, 29 July at 5:00 p.m., Brisbane time, when they take on Cottafava and Nicolai. Their final group match will be against a Qatari pairing, Cherif and Ahmed, at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, 1 August.
“We don’t just want to go and participate in the Olympics – we want to go and go as deep as we can in the tournament. The first job’s done of getting there, and now we put all our preparation in to go as deep in that tournament as possible,” said Mark.
A dedicated Beach Volleyball channel on Stan Sports will allow you to watch every match live.
The team from Toowong Rowing Club will compete against 45 other crews worldwide for the Rosie Mayglothling Trophy in the Henley Women’s Regatta 2024 in the U.K., starting with a time trial to narrow the field to 16.
This year, 46 crews will vie for the Rosie Mayglothling Trophy. The competition kicks off with a time trial on Friday morning, the 21st of June, which will reduce the field to 16 crews. These top 16 will then progress to side-by-side racing on Friday and Sunday, promising thrilling matches. While some international crews participate, the strong local competition heightens the event’s excitement.
Highlight: Toowong Rowing Club
Gabby Geldard and Jemima Powell represent the Toowong team. Jemima recently placed fourth in the U23 lightweight double category at the Australian Rowing Championships 2024. Gabby competed in the club double category, finishing fifth in the final. Their individual achievements highlight the strength and depth of Toowong RC, marking them as a duo to watch in the upcoming races.
Toowong Rowing Club (TRC) is a renowned rowing club. Established in 1889, TRC has a long and storied history, making it one of the oldest rowing clubs in Queensland. The club is situated on the Brisbane River, providing excellent rowing conditions and a scenic environment for training and competition.
Founded over a century ago, Toowong Rowing Club has played a significant role in the development of rowing in Australia. The club has produced numerous elite rowers who have gone on to compete at national and international levels, including the Olympics. TRC’s commitment to excellence in rowing has cemented its reputation as a leading club in the country.
Toowong Rowing Club has a strong track record of success in both national and international competitions. The club’s athletes regularly compete in major regattas, such as the Australian Rowing Championships and Henley Royal Regatta. In recent years, TRC rowers have achieved notable results, including podium finishes and national titles.
Other Competitors at the Henley Women’s Regatta
GSR Aegir (NED)
Umi Kuiphuis and Wietske Anema of GSR Aegir (Netherlands) are notable competitors. They secured second place in the lightweight double category at the Royal Holland-Beker 2024 and won gold at the ARB Forestbaan. Their consistent performance and recent successes position them as strong contenders for the trophy.
DSR Proteus-Eretes/HSRV Pelargos (NED)
Another strong Dutch entry is the composite crew of Laura Kempen and Leonoor Bos from DSR Proteus-Eretes/HSRV Pelargos. They took first place in the lightweight double category at the Royal Holland-Beker and won the lightweight development double category at ARB Forestbaan. Their proven track record in various competitions underscores their potential to excel at Henley.
Hartpury University & College
Ellie Dash and Millie Hurrel of Hartpury University & College have shown impressive form. Ellie won the intermediate A final at BUCs Regatta 2024 and the Championship A final at the Met Regatta. Millie set a new course record at the National Schools Regatta and competed at the European Rowing Championships. Their synergy and individual accomplishments make them formidable opponents.
De Montfort University
Hannah Milnes and Lizzie Webster from De Montfort University have also had a strong season. They finished fifth in the A final of the double sculls category at the Met regatta and competed at the Reading Amateur regatta. Their experience and teamwork are expected to give them a competitive edge.
Photo Credit: Henley Women’s Regatta/Facebook
Predictions
GSR Aegir and DSR Proteus-Eretes/HSRV Pelargos will likely battle it out in the semi-finals, with strong showings from Toowong RC and Hartpury University & College. Norwich RC and De Montfort University are also anticipated to perform well, given their successful season so far. The combination of seasoned athletes and emerging talent will make for a series of highly competitive races.
The Henley Women’s Regatta
Henley Women’s Regatta (HWR) is the premier regatta for female rowers in the United Kingdom, held annually on the iconic stretch of the River Thames at Henley. This prestigious event attracts more than 2,000 rowers from across the UK and around the world, offering exciting side-by-side match racing for a wide range of competitors, from juniors to university and club levels to international elite athletes.
Photo Credit: Henley Women’s Regatta/Facebook
Since its inception in 1988, HWR has become a significant event in the rowing calendar. It has run every year except 2020, showcasing the dedication and hard work of a vast team of volunteers, the generosity of the Copas family, and the support from Friends of Henley Women’s Regatta, sponsors, and local businesses. The regatta was one of the early adopters of live streaming for its races, enhancing its accessibility and popularity.
Henley Women’s Regatta 2024 promises to showcase top-tier rowing talent, with exciting races and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you are a rowing enthusiast or a casual spectator, the event offers a unique opportunity to witness the best in women’s rowing, set against the picturesque backdrop of the River Thames at Henley.
A luxury penthouse in Toowong has been sold for $4.1 million with completion scheduled for early 2025. The sale highlights the continued demand for high-end properties in Brisbane’s luxury market.
The penthouse, part of Azure’s One Earle Lane development, boasts impressive features including an 18.3-metre frontage, three bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, multiple living areas, a home office, and a large north-facing balcony. The property also includes parking for three cars, catering to the needs of affluent urban dwellers.
Azure director Trent Keirnan expressed satisfaction with the sale, stating that the development had received “tremendous interest.” He views the penthouse sale as a testament to the superior quality of products entering the Brisbane market.
Designed by Paul Conrad Architects and under construction by 5Point Projects, One Earle Lane is reportedly on track for completion at the beginning of the first quarter of 2025. Simon Caulfield of Place Estate Agents, who brokered the sale, confirmed confidence in meeting this completion timeline.
Interestingly, the buyer, a downsizer from nearby Paddington, chose this property over options with river views. Caulfield explained that the decision was influenced by One Earle Lane’s extensive amenities, top floor corner position, uninterrupted city and park views, and superior design and finishes.
The development promises a range of luxury amenities for residents, including private dining facilities, a cinema, gymnasium, yoga studio, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunges, and a 25-metre heated lap pool.
This sale is part of Azure’s broader portfolio, which includes over $500 million in developments such as Oakmont, One Five Six, and Dahlia. The company reports a future pipeline exceeding $1.3 billion, indicating continued growth in Brisbane’s luxury property sector.
Five talented dancers from Sharee Skye Dance Centre in Toowong have recently achieved outstanding results in various regional and state competitions and exams. These young dancers have demonstrated exceptional skill, passion, and dedication to their craft, making their studio and community proud.
Eliza Carson, age 9, secured a spot among the top 10 highest-scoring novice soloists at a regional dance competition, earning her eligibility for national eisteddfods. Eliza’s love for hip-hop and contemporary dance began at Sharee Skye when she was just four years old.
Tap Enthusiast
Mila Collier, age 12, was recognised as the most outstanding on-stage performer by Sharee Skye Dance Centre. Mila’s enthusiasm for tap dancing is evident in her participation in two of the school’s eisteddfod teams. For Mila, the studio is a welcoming and secure environment where she can express herself through dance.
Gabi Parikh, age 15, attained the highest grade statewide in her level four TPA musical theatre exam. Since joining Sharee Skye in 2017, Gabi has shown remarkable potential across multiple genres. She considers dance her “second home” and cherishes the opportunity to continuously improve.
Erin Savage, also age 15, is currently pursuing a Certificate III in Dance at RAW Dance. Erin’s time at Sharee Skye fostered significant growth and a passion for contemporary dance. She views dance as a powerful form of self-expression and storytelling.
Multi-Talented Performer
Isabelle Qiu, age 9, received the Adjudicator’s Choice Award at the Dance 4350 Eisteddfod. Isabelle’s journey with Sharee Skye began at age four, and she has since blossomed into a multi-talented performer, dancer, and student. While excelling in various genres, she holds a special fondness for musical theatre and jazz.
The achievements of these five dancers not only highlight their individual talents but also reflect the quality of training and supportive environment provided by Sharee Skye Dance Centre. Their successes serve as an inspiration to aspiring dancers in Toowong and beyond.
Disturbing details have emerged as an eyewitness statement provides an insight into what may have occurred in the moments before the multi-vehicle crash which claimed the lives of former police officer Bruce Daley and young nurse Lily Galbraith, in addition to leaving another critically injured, at Legacy Way tunnel in Toowong.
Among the disturbing details emerging from the crash is the revelation of Mr Daley’s haunting social media posts, where he openly discussed relationship struggles, loneliness, and even referenced his mental health challenges for several years.
These posts raise questions about Mr Daley’s state of mind leading up to the tragic incident, adding complexity to the investigation.
Mr Daley left the service over a decade ago.
Eyewitness Accounts
The collision, involving three vehicles, occurred at 3:10 p.m. on 1 May 2024 in the tunnel’s inbound section. Police are piecing together the events leading to the crash, with forensic crash units currently investigating.
Eyewitnesses recounted the harrowing scene as Mr Daley’s black Audi S3, reportedly travelling at speeds exceeding 200 km/h, collided with a silver sedan, subsequently impacting a small truck. Witnesses described narrowly avoiding the collision and the devastation left in the aftermath, with debris scattered over a considerable distance within the tunnel.
One witness described the moments leading up to the crash, noting the sudden acceleration of the Audi and the absence of hazard signals. Another recounted the horrifying sight of the vehicles colliding at high speeds, leaving little chance for survival.
The tunnel’s inbound and outbound lanes were closed for over two hours, causing significant traffic delays.
Tributes and Commemoration
Ms Galbraith, a 24-year-old nurse from the Northern Territory, tragically lost her life in the crash whilst travelling to a wedding with her friend Emma McLean. McLean, who was driving the sedan, remains in critical condition at the Royal Brisbane Women’s Hospital. Tributes poured in for Ms Galbraith, highlighting her dedication to nursing and extending sympathies to her loved ones.
Meanwhile, heartfelt tributes and messages of remembrance have flooded social media platforms. Friends, colleagues, and acquaintances have shared memories of both Mr Daley and Ms Galbraith.
Candlelight vigils and memorial services are being planned to honour the memory of the victims and provide solace to their grieving loved ones.
Police Statement
The Queensland Police Service has reiterated its commitment to thorough investigation, promising transparency and diligence in the pursuit of answers for the families of the victims.
Detective Acting Inspector Chris Hansel addressed the media, acknowledging the complexity of the investigation and refraining from speculating on specific scenarios without a thorough examination of the evidence. Mr Hansel emphasised the consideration of speed and various factors contributing to the crash, highlighting the need for patience and caution on the roads, particularly with a long weekend approaching.
To gather comprehensive evidence for their investigation, the Queensland Police Service is appealing to the public for assistance. They are specifically requesting any dash cam footage or eyewitness accounts that may shed light on the moments leading up to the crash at Legacy Way tunnel.
The Legacy Way Tunnel crash has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of condolences and support for the victims’ families. Premier Steven Miles and Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner expressed their sympathies, acknowledging the tragic loss of life and the impact on those affected.
