Sing Your Heart Out: Sunday Night Karaoke Hits Eat Street Northshore This June

Sunday night karaoke is getting a major glow-up this June as Eat Street Northshore transforms into Brisbane’s newest stage for music lovers, mic hogs, and shower singers alike.


Read: Eat Street Northshore: A Haven of Family-Run Food Stalls


Every Sunday evening, from 6:45 p.m. to 8:45 p.m, the iconic riverside venue will echo with the sounds of power ballads, pop anthems, and guilty pleasures as part of a brand-new partnership with Song Quest Karaoke.

Laneway, Eat Street Northshore (Photo supplied)

Say goodbye to the Sunday blues and hello to your inner Beyoncé — Eat Street’s electric atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for stepping out of your comfort zone and into the spotlight. Whether you’re belting out Whitney, rapping along with Eminem, or channelling Taylor Swift, this weekly event promises an unforgettable night of music, food, and fun.

Unlike your usual karaoke bar, the experience is elevated by Eat Street’s vibrant surrounds: gourmet street food stalls serving everything from spicy noodles to sugar-dusted doughnuts, and five fully stocked bars — including the exclusive Eat Street Lager brewed by local favourites Aether Brewery. It’s a lively, family-friendly event where enthusiasm counts more than pitch, and everyone is invited to sing their hearts out.

Natasha Rose singing at the venue (Photo supplied)

To take part, simply head to the Laneway stage on the night and sign up with your chosen song. With free parking, $6 entry (and kids under 13 free), Sunday night karaoke at Eat Street Northshore is shaping up to be Brisbane’s new weekend ritual.

Mark your calendars for June 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd. Whether you’re there to perform or just cheer from the crowd, this is one show you won’t want to miss.

Event Details

Location: Eat Street Northshore, 221D Macarthur Ave, Hamilton QLD
Dates: Every Sunday in June | 6:45pm – 8:45pm
Entry: $6 entry | Under 13s free
RSVP:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1Ai3GaS6xS/


Read: Eat Street Northshore Recognised as “Highly Recommended” at Brisbane’s Cleaner Suburbs Awards


Eat Street Northshore is operated by Goodwill Projects, one of Queensland’s leading events companies, known for creating immersive, community-focused experiences across the state.

Published 30-May-2025

Slideways Brings Multi-Level Track Experience to Eagle Farm

A multi-level indoor go-karting facility in Eagle Farm is offering a unique racing experience designed for drivers of all ages and skill levels.



Purpose-Built Track for Sliding and Drifting

Slideways Go Karting Brisbane, located at 870 Kingsford Smith Drive, is the only two-storey indoor go-kart track in Brisbane. The 425-metre circuit features sweeping turns, elevation changes, an outdoor loop, and a custom-designed track surface that allows karts to drift.

Designed by Slideways Go Karting Australia, the venue caters to first-time drivers and experienced racers alike, with a focus on both fun and speed. Lap times are tracked to the nearest thousandth of a second, with the fastest laps recorded monthly.

Facilities and Access

The venue is fully indoors, making it an all-weather option for individuals, families, and group events. Spectator areas, car parking, a café, and barbecue facilities are available on site. Slideways is accessible within 15 minutes from Brisbane CBD and only 10 minutes from the airport, making it a convenient option.

Brisbane karting crentre
Photo Credit: Slideways Go Karting/Facebook

Kart Options for All Ages

Slideways operates a fleet of European CRG karts powered by 9-horsepower four-stroke Honda engines. These are used across different session types based on age, height, and weight.

  • Cadet karts: for drivers aged 7+ and 120cm+
  • Intermediate karts: for ages 11+ and 145cm+
  • Pro karts: for ages 14+ and 145cm+, used during advanced sessions

All karts are limited to a maximum driver weight of 130kg.

Booking Requirements and Safety Guidelines

Bookings are essential, either via phone on (07) 3868 2225 or the official website. Adjustable seats and pedals cater to driver comfort. Safety measures are enforced by trained track marshals. Those with specific health conditions or who are pregnant are advised not to participate.

Eagle Farm karting
Photo Credit: Slideways Go Karting/Facebook


Slideways hosts regular midweek events, including Wednesday race nights and discounted sessions on Cheap Tuesdays, exclusive to the Eagle Farm and Nerang locations.

Published 27-May-2025

Street Renewal Program in Full Swing at Northshore Brisbane

Residents of Hamilton and the wider Northshore Brisbane precinct are advised that the May 2025 Street Renewal Program is still underway, with extensive civil works being carried out by BMD under the direction of Economic Development Queensland (EDQ).


Read: Transforming Hamilton: Northshore Vision 2050 to Redefine Brisbane’s Future


The works form part of the ongoing urban renewal and infrastructure improvement plan for the area and will continue throughout May. The key operations are divided across two major work zones.

Key Activities

Photo credit: Economic Development Queensland

Stage 1 Work Zone:

  • Delivery and removal of plant, materials, and equipment
  • Safe removal of hazardous materials, including asbestos
  • Earthworks involving crushing, recycling, preloading and stabilisation of soft soils

Stage 2 Work Zone:

  • Utility trenching and installation of stormwater and services
  • Safe asbestos removal
  • Demolition of the K Shed

Additional Works Across Both Zones:

  • Trenching, backfilling, and service investigations
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Ongoing movement of equipment between sites

Work Hours

Photo credit: Economic Development Queensland

Construction is scheduled to occur Monday to Thursday from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m, and Friday and Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. No work will take place on public holidays. These hours are in accordance with Brisbane’s construction regulations.

Residents should be aware of several impacts during this period. Traffic detours will be in place near the work zones and within the Northshore Brisbane precinct. For everyone’s safety, please follow signage and directions from traffic controllers. Noise, dust, and vibration will be generated by machinery such as excavators, haulage vehicles, concrete saws, crushers, and other heavy equipment. Measures will be in place to monitor and reduce these disruptions.


Read: Northshore Hamilton Cited as an Ideal Location for the Proposed Brisbane Seafood Market


There may be temporary interruptions to utilities and services as part of the Street Renewal Program. Any affected properties will receive advance written notice at least seven days prior to any disruption. An increase in workforce numbers and construction vehicle movements around the area is also expected.

Local residents are encouraged to stay informed and sign up for regular updates through the Northshore Brisbane Have Your Say webpage at: http://www.yoursay.edq.qld.gov.au/northshore.

Published 26-May-2025

Street Spotlight: Castleton Street, Hamilton

Castleton Street in Hamilton stands as one of Brisbane’s most exclusive residential enclaves, where every property is owner-occupied and residents demonstrate extraordinary commitment to their community. This small but distinguished street of just five houses represents the pinnacle of Brisbane’s riverside living, with homeowners staying an average of 16 years in what many consider one of the city’s most desirable addresses.



The street’s intimate scale fosters a unique sense of community, with 60% of residents having called Castleton Street home for more than a decade. Originally known as Maud Street, the thoroughfare was renamed in 1938 when Brisbane City Council systematically replaced duplicate street names across the city’s suburbs. The transformation of this street reflects Hamilton’s evolution from a riverside suburb to one of Brisbane’s most prestigious residential areas, with property values demonstrating remarkable growth over the decades.

Remembrance: Honouring Sergeant Claud Castleton VC

Castleton Street pays tribute to one of Australia’s most courageous sons, Sergeant Claud Castleton VC, whose selfless heroism during the First World War exemplifies the Anzac spirit. Born in England in 1893, Castleton immigrated to Australia in 1912, embodying the adventurous spirit of many who sought new opportunities in the young nation.

When war broke out, Castleton was prospecting for gold in New Guinea, but immediately answered the call to serve. After initially joining local forces in Port Moresby for communications and coastal defence, he returned to Australia and enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force in March 1915. His unit reached Gallipoli in August, participating in the attack on Hill 60, before he was promoted through the ranks and transferred to the Australian Machine Gun Corps.

On the fateful night of 28 July 1916, during the attack on Pozières Heights in France, Castleton displayed extraordinary courage that would earn him the Victoria Cross. As infantry were driven back by withering machine gun fire and shelling, leaving numerous wounded stranded in no man’s land, Castleton ventured out twice under intense fire to carry back wounded comrades. Tragically, on his third rescue mission, he was struck in the back and killed instantly, aged just 23.

Sergeant Castleton’s posthumous Victoria Cross recognised his “conspicuous bravery” in the face of certain death. He rests in Pozières British Cemetery at Ovillers-la-Boiselle, France, while his Victoria Cross is proudly displayed at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. This street stands as Hamilton’s tribute to a young man who embodied the finest qualities of service, sacrifice, and mateship that define the Anzac legacy.

Castleton St, Hamilton Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 5
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 100%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 16 years
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 60%

Castleton St, Hamilton – As It Looked in 1936

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON CASTLETON ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
12 Castleton Street, Hamilton$1,900,000Mar 2016
16 Castleton Street, Hamilton$2,350,000Mar 2006
3 Castleton Street, Hamilton$605,000May 1998

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Hamilton in 2025 was $1,465,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Hamilton in 2021 was $878,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN HAMILTON SINCE 2021: $587,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Hamilton in 2025 was $3,900,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Hamilton in 2021 was $2,625,000 May 1998
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN HAMILTON SINCE 2021: $1,275,000

The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Hamilton in 2025 was $505,000
The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Hamilton in 2021 was $340,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 1 BEDROOM UNIT IN HAMILTON SINCE 2021: $165,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Hamilton in 2025 was $700,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Hamilton in 2021 was $507,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN HAMILTON SINCE 2021: $193,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Hamilton in 2025 was $1,220,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Hamilton in 2021 was $820,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN HAMILTON SINCE 2021: $400,000



If you know Castleton St, Hamilton well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

New Design for Howard Smith Wharves Includes Grand Stair, More Green Space

The proposed redevelopment of Howard Smith Wharves has taken a new turn, as developers respond to concerns raised by the city’s local planning officials over the original architectural and engineering proposals.


Read: CityCat Services Arrive at Howard Smith Wharves Ferry Terminal


In fresh documents lodged with BCC this week, planners working on behalf of Artemus, the firm behind the multimillion-dollar transformation, have offered revised designs and justifications in a bid to secure approval for the high-profile project.

Howard Smith Wharves
Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online (A006618899)

Planning consultancy Urbis, on behalf of the developer, said the changes aim to clarify the project’s intent while preserving its significance to Brisbane’s future.

Planners emphasised the importance of recognising the significance of the Howard Smith Wharves redevelopment before any formal response to Brisbane’s local planning officials. They noted that the precinct plays a vital role in regional tourism and suggested that continued development would only strengthen that role, particularly as Brisbane prepares for major events leading up to 2032 and beyond.

New Vision for Howard Smith Wharves

Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online (A006618899)

Central to the amended proposal is a 77-room hotel and entertainment complex that would rise to the top of the cliffs, offering sweeping views across the Brisbane River. While the core concept remains intact, key design elements have been reworked in response to community and council concerns. The hotel’s upper levels will now incorporate “organic landscaped stone and planted forms,” aiming to better integrate the structure with its surrounding parkland.

The hotel’s colonnade arches—a key feature along the public pathway—have been widened to improve pedestrian flow through the site. This change addresses concerns about the shared pathway running through the hotel, a plan that had raised red flags among cycling and active transport groups worried about congestion.

In defence of the shared path, planners pointed to the low number of incidents recorded since the precinct reopened in 2018, revealing that only 14 reportable incidents have occurred along the shared pathway in that time, six of which involved interactions between pedestrians and cyclists or scooters.

A Shift Away from the River Barge

Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online (A006618899)

The previously approved barge, Felon’s barge, which is in front of the hotel has been removed and replaced with a broad, landscaped stairway and amphitheatre known as the Grand River Stair.

Brisbane’s local planning officials had also questioned whether the proposed hotel design would clash with surrounding heritage structures. In response, Urbis reaffirmed that the building’s red-brown brickwork pays tribute to the city’s traditional architecture. The material choice was carefully selected not to compete visually with the Story Bridge’s bold steel structure.

Capacity, Access, and Traffic Management

Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online (A006618899)

According to documents from Colliers Engineering and Design, the site’s total venue capacity is expected to nearly double, from 3,870 to 7,280 people. To support this growth, the revised plans include two new lifts, vehicle standing areas on Bowen Terrace in New Farm, and improved pedestrian circulation.

Concerns about traffic have also been addressed, with the developers assuring that the increase in vehicle movements is within manageable limits.

What’s Next for Howard Smith Wharves?

Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online (A006618899)

Despite the scale and sensitivity of the redevelopment, the team behind the project remains confident. They argue that the updated design achieves a better balance between tourism, heritage, public space, and infrastructure.

The overwater pool and entertainment deck, a standout feature of the original proposal, will still go ahead—albeit in a slightly revised form with upgraded pylons and assurances regarding clearance for river transport.


Read: Hamilton Northshore and St Lucia to Get Ferry Connection to Future Howard Smith Wharves Terminal


As Brisbane eyes major events in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic Games, Howard Smith Wharves continues to evolve. Its next phase, if approved, promises to blend iconic architecture with active public space—positioning the precinct not just as a riverside escape, but as a defining symbol of Brisbane’s future.

Published 16-May-2025

Teen Charged After Riverwalk Collision at Cameron Rocks Reserve

A 57-year-old cyclist was left with serious injuries after a head-on collision with an e-scooter rider at Cameron Rocks Reserve in Hamilton, sparking a community-wide appeal for witnesses and a formal charge against a local teenager.



Crash at a Busy Riverwalk

On 7 May 2025, a head-on crash between a bicycle and an e-scooter disrupted the busy Lores Bonney Riverwalk at Cameron Rocks Reserve in Hamilton. Police said the e-scooter had entered the shared path from Kingsford Smith Drive and collided with a cyclist coming the other way.

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The cyclist, a Hendra man, was seriously injured and taken to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. The e-scooter rider left the scene before emergency crews arrived.

Police Launch Investigation and Public Appeal

The Forensic Crash Unit began investigating the next day and called for witnesses or anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage from the area to come forward. Police asked the public to contact Policelink or Crime Stoppers and quote case number QP2500787041.

As the investigation progressed, police gathered enough evidence to identify a suspect. Witness statements and nearby camera footage played a key role.

Teenager Facing Court

On 10 May, police charged a 19-year-old Zillmere man over the crash. He faces accusations of dangerous operation and failing to meet his duties after an injury crash, and is due to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on 24 June.

Police confirmed the teen left the scene without offering help, adding to the seriousness of the charges. The crash has raised concerns among locals who often use the riverwalk.

Community Voices Safety Concerns

The crash has renewed concerns about safety on shared paths for cyclists, pedestrians and e-scooter riders. Locals are calling for better signage, speed limits and awareness along routes like Cameron Rocks Reserve and the Lores Bonney Riverwalk.



Government reports show eight deaths from e-scooter or e-bike incidents in Queensland in 2024, prompting a review of regulations. Meanwhile, locals are focused on urgent safety improvements in areas like Hamilton with busy shared paths.

Published 13-May-2025

$4.5 Million Tuscan-Inspired Mansion Sets New Benchmark in Hamilton

A prestigious Hamilton Hill property has achieved one of the suburb’s highest sales of the year, reflecting the continued strength of Brisbane’s luxury real estate market.



The property at 13 Quarry Street, Hamilton has sold for $4,500,000, placing it among the top sales in Hamilton and adding momentum to Brisbane’s growing prestige market. Handled by Matt Lancashire and Ben Osborne of Ray White New Farm, the sale took place on April 24, 2025 and marks a significant increase from its previous sale price of $2,830,000 in 2005.

About the Property

This Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece epitomises Tuscan grandeur with its captivating design dating back to the early 2000s, featuring iron balustrades, rich timber accents, and stone pavers that underscore its extraordinary proportions.

Photo Credit: Ray White Clayfield

Set on a 520 m² block, the home features:

  • 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, and a 3-car garage
  • Multiple living areas including a home theatre with tiered seating, an entertainment room with wet bar, and a Miele gourmet kitchen
  • A shimmering swimming pool, collection of terraces, water feature, and built-in BBQ on the alfresco terrace
  • A stately office and opulent primary suite with river-view balcony and indulgent spa bath
Photo Credit: Ray White Clayfield

Location & Lifestyle

Hamilton is known for its prestigious residences and elevated positions offering spectacular city views. The home sits atop a private cul-de-sac in an exclusive enclave on Hamilton Hill and is within proximity to the riverfront, Racecourse Road and Portside Wharf. It falls within the Ascot State School catchment and is close to top schools and public transport.

Why This Sale Stands Out

  • Last sold for $2,830,000 in 2005, representing a 59% increase in value over 20 years
  • Features a magnificent 538sqm home on a 520sqm land parcel
  • Offers rarely available lifestyle extras such as panoramic Brisbane River and city views, a private pool, and multiple entertainment zones
  • Located in one of Brisbane’s most prestigious suburbs

This sale demonstrates the rising ceiling for top-tier homes in Hamilton and suggests increasing demand for prestige properties with architectural significance, premium views, and proximity to the city.

Street Profile & Sales Context

Quarry Street has long been associated with exclusive residences that capture Brisbane’s iconic river and city views. Homes here are typically tightly held, and property values have shown strong resilience even in softer markets. This particular property’s 59% growth since its last sale in 2005 showcases the long-term investment potential of Hamilton’s premium real estate.

The sale represents a significant transaction in Hamilton’s luxury property market. Matt Lancashire and Ben Osborne from Ray White New Farm handled the transaction, continuing their presence in Brisbane’s high-end real estate sector. Hamilton properties with river and city views continue to command premium prices in the current market.



This sale at 13 Quarry Street is not just a record-breaker — it’s a story of lifestyle, legacy, and the continuing rise of Hamilton as one of Brisbane’s most desirable postcodes. With its stunning Mediterranean design, panoramic views, and prime location, this property exemplifies the enduring appeal of Brisbane’s high-end residential market.

Published 30-April-2025

The Former Iron Woman that Paddled Around Australia in 254 Days

Bonnie Hancock is an extraordinary lady.

She covered over 12,700 kilometres on a surf ski around Australia.

Over 254 days at sea.

In the modern world where resilience in children is under question, Bonnie is a wonderful example of the highest standards of mental strength and resilience.

She started nippers at Sawtel from the age of five, and dreamt from the age of 12 to become Karla Gilbert (she won the Kelloggs Ironwoman Series seven years in a row from 1995 to 2003) and at the age of 17, she became a professional Iron Woman competitor, as did her sister, Courtenay. She waitressed through uni and trained every day, 6.5 km in the pool every morning under the eye of legendary coach, Denis Cotterell. After uni each day she would do 10-20 km on the surf ski, and some running on the soft sand to complete her day that tended to be complete by 7:00 p.m., with competitions at the weekends. That gruelling schedule shaped her life daily until the age of 25.

She then evolved from Iron Woman competitions into a ski paddler on an 18 kg craft, typically racing over five-minute races, whilst embarking on a career as a dietician.

Her ultra endurance journey began at Broadbeach Library, reading a book about a lady who had written a biography about it. She had 25 rejections for sponsorship before she signed her first sponsor.

Her incredible journey paddling around Australia for over 254 days began when she paddled 73 km on her first day. Then, after about a week in, the daily target was scheduled to be 90 km on that day; but half way through a few hours, she was told it had to be increased to 120 km that day as it was decided she had to go around an island. After a month of constant paddling she had bulging discs and various other illnesses, but nothing would stop her, including the crocodiles encountered.

The mental hurdles she smashed through were endless. “Being prepared to adapt your plan” was front and centre in her amazing journey. Everytime a headwind came, she became stronger, and she would realise that when the headwinds dropped.

Lemons into Lemonade!


In the interview, Bonnie talks about a lot of the challenges along the way, including some good and bad decisions she made, how she developed her work ethic, and the joy of working to a plan.

This included a discussion around parenting and sport, managing finances, how she got into ultra endurance and many other fascinating anecdotes.

It’s an amazing story.

You can watch the interview with Barry Wilkinson of Milton based SW Brokerage here:

Barry’s podcast series is full of some great information about life and finances.
It covers many things including little-known tips and tricks around finance.

You can see the 25 previous episodes here.

Bluey’s World in Hamilton Extends Run After Huge Crowds

Due to overwhelming visitor demand, Bluey’s World at Hamilton’s Northshore Pavilion will now remain open until February 2026, an extended run that follows the attraction’s success in drawing more than 200,000 guests since its launch late last year.



Global Recognition and Visitors

Bluey's World
Photo Credit: Bluey

Bluey’s World has gained attention overseas, recently being named by TIME Magazine as one of the World’s Greatest Places to Visit for 2025. This highlights its status as a top-quality attraction.

Visitors have travelled from all over Australia to see it and from New Zealand, North America, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Singapore. Some famous fans who have visited include Eva Mendes, Chris Hemsworth, and Kylie Minogue. The 200,000th visitor was given a special VIP card for unlimited entry.

Inside Bluey’s World

Bluey's World
Photo Credit: Bluey

Located at the Northshore Pavilion in Hamilton, part of the Northshore Brisbane area, Bluey’s World covers a large 4000 square metre space. Inside, visitors can explore life-sized sets that look just like the ones in the TV show, including the Heeler family’s living room, kitchen, playroom, and backyard, complete with its poinciana tree. The show is strongly connected to Brisbane, using the city for inspiration and being made by a local studio.

The attraction offers interactive games familiar from the show, like Keepy Uppy and Magic Xylophone, designed for children and adults. A visit is expected to take about 70 minutes.

There is also an indoor playground themed around Bluey’s neighbourhood, a cafe selling food like spring rolls and pizza, a gift shop, and sounds from the show playing throughout. Families can also book the venue for birthday parties. Getting there is easy, including arriving by CityCat ferry.

Community Impact and Support

Bluey's World
Photo Credit: Bluey

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell stated that the Heeler family is one of Brisbane’s best exports and Bluey’s World has become a major family attraction for the city. He noted the significant economic benefits, with the exhibit expected to bring up to $18 million into the state’s economy as visitors use local hotels, restaurants, and shops. He expressed confidence that at least another 200,000 visitors will come to enjoy the experience during its extended run.

Bluey’s World Producer Andrew Kay said the public reaction has been fantastic. He shared that seeing families laughing and exploring together inside the attraction has been very satisfying, and seeing it become a key Brisbane destination is wonderful.



Scott Modra, Head of Commercial for BBC Studios ANZ, said they are proud of the special experience created. He felt reaching 200,000 visitors so quickly shows how much people love Bluey and how thrilled families are to enter the Heeler’s world.

BBC Studios and HVK World produce Bluey’s World. It receives support from the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland, and from Brisbane City Council through the Brisbane Economic Development Agency.

Published Date 29-April-2025

Hamilton Man Sentenced After Police Bust Brisbane Drug Network

A man from Hamilton has been sentenced to jail after his involvement in a cocaine trafficking syndicate across South East Queensland was uncovered, following a routine police search at his luxury Brisbane unit.


Read: Hamilton Drug Trafficker Appeals Egg Freezing Decision from Prison


Gene Isaac Shaw, 35, first came to the attention of authorities in October 2020 when officers found 25 grams of pure cocaine, worth around $17,000, hidden inside a pencil case at his Hamilton apartment. Rather than charging him immediately, police launched a broader investigation that later exposed a network of drug dealers operating in Brisbane’s inner suburbs.

Photo credit: Google Street View

The Supreme Court in Brisbane heard that Shaw and other syndicate members used a unit in Spring Hill and a property in Albion to store drugs and hold meetings. Initially managing the Spring Hill operation, Shaw later handed over control to two associates who established a fake company to disguise trafficking profits as legitimate payroll and superannuation payments.

During the near nine-month trafficking period, Shaw remained unemployed, living in a $650-a-week apartment, yet financial records revealed he received around $42,000 in unexplained income. An additional $112,000 linked to money laundering activities was also deposited into his account.

Police said Shaw predominantly supplied small amounts of cocaine to end-users, maintaining a customer base of 62 people. He was arrested in March 2022 and later pleaded guilty to trafficking cocaine, money laundering, and possessing dangerous drugs.

The court heard that Shaw began addressing his drug issues before his arrest, participating in rehabilitation programs and showing honesty about his past relapses. His efforts were supported by character references and his continued family support, factors that weighed into the court’s sentencing.


Read: Residential Care Facility in Hamilton Approved for Development


However, the judge noted the seriousness of Shaw’s trafficking activities and the financial evidence of his involvement. Shaw was sentenced to five years in prison, with the term to be suspended after serving 12 months.

Published 29-April-2025