Sweet Relief: Innovative Accessibility Solutions Transform Hamilton Music Event for Disability Community

Queensland’s music scene is set to take a giant leap towards inclusivity and accessibility as Spinal Life Australia joins forces with the Queensland Music Festival (QMF) to present a groundbreaking event, “Sweet Relief,” in Hamilton.



Despite the thriving cultural landscape in Queensland, accessibility and inclusivity often remain overlooked aspects of event planning, leading to social isolation for individuals with physical, sensory, and emotional disabilities. A recent survey revealed that people with disabilities aged 15–64 are twice as likely to experience social isolation (17%) compared to those without disabilities (8.7%). Additionally, a significant portion (39%) of people with disabilities feel a sense of unbelonging and dissatisfaction in their local communities due to the lack of accessibility.

Sweet Relief, a flagship event of the Queensland Music Festival and part of the Qld Music Trails, is set to change this narrative by pioneering innovative accessibility solutions in the music scene. Spinal Life Australia, a disability services and support organization, is collaborating with QMF to ensure that individuals with disabilities have the same opportunities to enjoy cultural events as everyone else. 

The historic event will take place on Saturday, 16 Sept 2023, at the Maritime Green in Northshore Hamilton. The festivities kick off at 12:00 p.m. and continue until 10:00 p.m. 

Some of the groundbreaking accessibility inclusions at Sweet Relief include:

  • Tactile Sensory Silent Disco: A Queensland-first experience designed to cater to neurodiverse and audio-sensitive audiences.
  • ConcertCare: On-ground support staff, including social workers, counsellors, nurses, and mental health peers, will be available to address attendees’ diverse needs.
  • Accessible Viewing Platform: A front-and-centre platform providing prime vision for individuals with disabilities.
  • Auslan Interpreters: Interpreters on-stage with fixed cameras to ensure that both the music and its lyrical essence are accessible to all.

Dane Cross, Spinal Life Australia’s Access and Advocacy Consultant, who himself lives with quadriplegia, expressed his enthusiasm for these pioneering accessibility measures. 

“Arts, music, and events are a huge and important part of our culture, so it can be frustrating for the disability community to have limitations on what they can attend. These innovations and inclusions that Sweet Relief are championing aren’t about ticking a box; it’s about creating a sense of belonging and ensuring Brisbane, and the wider community, is welcoming of all,” Dane said. 

When Dane was 21 years old, he experienced an injury that resulted in him living with quadriplegia. Instead of allowing this accident to define the end of his world, it propelled him onto a journey of advocacy and enhancing accessibility. This journey has culminated in a transformation of the music and event landscape in Queensland.

“We’re very proud and excited for Sweet Relief to represent a major step forward in creating exceptional audience experiences for everybody,” said Daryl Raven, QMF Chief Operating Officer. “QMF has a strategic focus towards diversifying our audience mix, and we hope to extend these initiatives across all Qld Music Trails events.”



For more information about Spinal Life Australia’s work in the accessibility space, please visit Spinal Life Australia’s Website

Published 14-Sept-2023

Hamilton Could Soon Have a Sky Forest on Kingsford Smith Drive

A ‘sky forest’ is poised to redefine Hamilton’s skyline, as architecture firm Myers Ellyett reveals plans for a groundbreaking apartment building on Kingsford Smith Drive.



The firm describes the planned 14-level tower at 92 Kingsford Smith Drive as a gateway project that offers a “unique approach to urban living.” The development application (DA A006311523) was filed in July 2023.

sky forest kingsford smith drive
Photo Credit: DA A006311523

The proposed site sits at the junction of the Brisbane River and Breakfast Creek, affording unobstructed panoramic views.

The architectural wonder will comprise 62 apartments, encompassing an array of 20 two-bedroom units and 42 spacious three-bedroom apartments.

Each of the 62 apartments will feature entry through sky gardens, providing open-air passages and private green havens.

The crowning glory of the structure will be a sprawling rooftop oasis spanning 1,048 sqm, adorned with a swimming pool, spa, gym with sauna, yoga lawn, private dining area, wine room, and barbecue space.

sky forest kingsford smith drive
Photo Credit: DA A006311523

On the other hand, the lower levels will accommodate 148 car spaces, 78 bicycle spaces, and commercial tenancies, creating a holistic living experience. 

sky forest kingsford smith drive
Photo Credit: DA A006311523

The firm’s design philosophy draws inspiration from the subtropical surroundings of Brisbane, where indoor and outdoor living merge seamlessly. The edifice, soaring 14 levels above ground, has been conceptualized as two distinctive entities: the “trunk” and the “treehouses.”

The apartment building’s design reflects the fusion of indoor and outdoor living that is characteristic of homes in subtropical Brisbane , fostering a lifestyle surrounded by greenery and gardens.

sky forest kingsford smith drive
Photo Credit: DA A006311523

The visionary behind the project is Industry Corp, with local entrepreneur Dennis Tomasel at the helm.

Mewing Planning Consultants, in their Town Planning Assessment, commended the project’s alignment with Brisbane’s subtropical ethos. They described the development as an embodiment of urban consolidation, catering to the demand for high-density residential spaces in a central location.

“92 Kingsford Smith Drive, Hamilton, embraces the region’s climate and leverages the site’s exceptional amenity and vistas. It exhibits a scale that complements and distinguishes itself from the surrounding urban landscape,” stated the consultants.



Wild Studio, renowned for landscaping, will shape the lush surroundings. Their vision entails creating a thriving forest that harks back to the site’s original landscape, offering residents enchanting outdoor spaces that celebrate the healing power of nature. 

Supporting the city’s “Buildings That Breathe” initiative, the project sets out to establish new standards for eco-conscious urban living, infused with native greenery. 

Published 29-Aug-2023

Some of the Best Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Hamilton

Hamilton’s plant-based dining scene has blossomed in recent years, with an increasing number of restaurants offering vegan or vegetarian fare alongside their meat-based menus. Here are some restaurants in Hamilton that offer delicious and inspired vegan and vegetarian dining options.


Read: Hamilton Heart Helpers: Join this Free Walking Group for a Healthier, Happier Lifestyle


Petrichor & Co

Address: Corner Allen Street &, Unit 1/33 Racecourse Rd, Hamilton

Website: https://petrichorandco.com/ 

Social media: https://www.facebook.com/petrichorcoffee/ 

Photo credit: Petrichor & Co/Facebook

Once named Brisbane’s best cafe by a local newspaper, Petrichor & Co is an all-day breakfast café with a Colombian flair.

The spiced pumpkin pancakes are a hit, but many patrons return for the housemade white maize arepa, poached eggs, and Marranitas – plantain stuffed croquettes with cheese, tomato chipotle sauce, spinach and chilli scrambled eggs. The online menu indicates which items are vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free.

The cafe’s famous Spiced Pumpkin Pancakes (Photo credit: Petrichor & Co/Facebook)

The coffee is sourced from Dramanti, an artisan roaster, but you can also enjoy turmeric lattes, masala chai, shakes, and smoothies.

Soon, Petrichor & Co will launch an online store selling their popular relishes, chai, and cakes for customers to enjoy at home.

Aamaya Indian Restaurant

Address:  Portside Wharf, 11/39 Hercules St, Hamilton

Website: https://aamaya.com.au/ 

Social media: https://www.facebook.com/aamayaindian/ 

Photo credit: Aamaya Indian Restaurant/Facebook

Aamaya, the only Indian Restaurant in Portside Wharf, has a dedicated vegetarian menu alongside their dinner offerings which makes it one of top choices for vegetarian restaurants in Hamilton.

For curry lovers, Aamaya offers a wide range of classic, seafood, chicken, and vegetarian curries to choose from. Tandoori breads like the cheese and garlic naan are a hit.

Aamaya is also family-friendly, with a kids menu including fish fingers, chicken nuggets and chips.

Photo credit: Aamaya Indian Restaurant/Facebook

The Indian restaurant’s airy, modern dining hall is filled with natural light streaming through large windows and decorated with abstract artwork, providing a stylish backdrop for enjoying traditional Indian cuisine.

Pancha Cafe

Address: 6/33 Racecourse Rd, Hamilton 

Website: https://www.pancha.com.au/

Social media: https://www.facebook.com/panchaveggies/ 

Photo credit: Pancha Cafe/Facebook

Pancha Cafe is a charming spot serving farm-fresh meals with an eye for presentation. Dishes arrive artfully plated in a way that entices both the palate and your camera.

Their goal is to provide customers with products straight from their own farm and other local producers, creating dishes that highlight the flavours of in-season ingredients. or breakfast, customers rave about the fluffy pancakes, toasts, and salads.

Photo credit: Pancha Cafe/Facebook

Pancha Cafe sets itself apart with its vegan and vegetarian options, which make up a majority of the menu. Herbivores can enjoy items like the vege stack sanga, featuring grilled veggies, basil pesto, and semi-dried tomatoes on Turkish bread.

Danthai Kitchen and Bar (by Northern Thai)

Address: 5/53 Racecourse Rd, Hamilton

Website: https://www.northernthairestaurant.com.au/ 

Social media: https://www.facebook.com/northernthairestaurant/ 

Photo credit: Northern Thai Restaurant/Facebook

When you’re craving a hearty Thai curry in Brisbane, Danthai Kitchen is the place to visit. Known for their generous portion sizes, Danthai Kitchen specialises in Thai curries that satisfy.

The massaman curry is a standout, with tender meat cooked with potatoes in a mild, coconut milk-based sauce. The rich and creamy curry balances Thai flavours like lemongrass, tamarind, and cinnamon. 

Another favourite is the pad thai, with stir-fried rice noodles, tamarind sauce, chives, egg, peanuts, and bean sprouts. The tangy-sweet sauce coats the noodles and veggies for a balanced texture and taste. For those looking to skip the meat, Danthai Kitchen shines with their wide range of vegetarian curries.

Photo credit: Northern Thai Restaurant/Facebook

With its family-friendly atmosphere and reasonable prices, Danthai Kitchen brings the best of Thai comfort food to Brisbane. Their curries delight with complex flavours in servings big enough to share. 

Byblos

Address: Portside Wharf

Website: https://byblosbar.com.au/brisbane/ 

Social media: https://www.facebook.com/Byblosbrisbane/ 

Photo credit: Byblos/Facebook

Tucked away in Portside Wharf is Byblos, an award-winning restaurant bringing authentic Lebanese cuisine to the city. With its breezy terrace overlooking the river, Byblos offers a slice of the Mediterranean in both its ambiance and its menu.

While Byblos has gained a reputation for its extensive cocktail menu, the food steals the show. The menu focuses on Lebanese mezze, small shared plates that allow diners to sample a variety of flavours. Dishes like the marinated lamb, kibbeh, and halloumi salad showcase Byblos’ flair for combining herbs, spices, meats, and vegetables into explosions of colour and taste.

Vegetarian Restaurants in Hamilton
Photo credit: Byblos/Facebook

The healthy Mediterranean ingredients come together in dishes that delight the palate with herbs, spices, and complexity. Within Brisbane’s diverse culinary scene, Byblos stands out for bringing Lebanese flair and flavours to the riverfront.

Vegan and Vegetarian

A plant-based diet provides benefits for health and the environment. However, there are key differences between vegan and vegetarian approaches.

Vegans eschew all animal products including meat, dairy, eggs, and other ingredients derived from living things. Their diet relies entirely on fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and other plant foods. Ethical, environmental, and health motivations often drive veganism.

Vegetarians avoid meat, fish, and poultry but may incorporate dairy and eggs. Types of vegetarianism range from lacto-ovo (dairy and eggs allowed) to lacto (dairy only) to ovo (eggs only).

Both diets can meet nutritional needs if thoughtfully planned. The choice depends on personal values, health goals, and sustainability aims. Veganism represents a total shift away from animal products, while vegetarianism mainly eliminates meat consumption.


Read: Works Progressing Well For Northshore’s Needle-free Vaccine Facility


These restaurants in Hamilton prove that dietary restrictions don’t have to limit flavour or creativity. With their enticing, thoughtful menu options for vegans and vegetarians, they make plant-based eating an absolute pleasure rather than a compromise. 

Published 16-August-2023

QLD’s Largest Construction and Demolition Recycling Plant to Open at Pinkenba

Did you know that a state-of-the-art plant capable of processing over one million tonnes of construction and demolition waste annually will be built in Pinkenba?


Read: Brookfield Proposes Innovative Built-to-Rent Development at Portside Wharf, Hamilton


In a major boost for recycling in Queensland, the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) will help develop the State’s flagship construction and demolition recycling plant at Pinkenba.

The plant is projected to deliver over 55,000 tonnes of carbon abatement annually by recycling waste instead of sending it to landfills, equivalent to taking almost 12,000 cars off the road. Processed waste includes concrete, excavation material, and skip bin waste that would otherwise end up in landfills.

With a recovery rate of over 90 percent, the recycling plant will give recycled construction materials a new life, reducing the need for new quarrying and production.

Photo credit: RINO (Headquarters)/Google Maps

To be operated by Rino Recycling, the flagship facility represents the largest single investment made through the CEFC’s $100-million Australian Recycling Investment Fund. It is expected to divert valuable resources from landfills and produce higher quality recycled construction materials for reuse.

“What is unique about this plant is that it is fully automated and able to handle many and various waste streams through the plant efficiently, separating the products effectively and creating valuable outputs without the need to rehandle or reprocess,” Rino Recycling General Manager Daniel Blaser said.

According to Ian Learmonth, CEO at CEFC, the facility will accelerate Queensland’s transition to a circular economy by deploying the best recycling technologies. 

Photo credit: RINO (Headquarters)/Google Maps

“It offers an opportunity to deliver important infrastructure to Queensland and comes at a critical time for Brisbane, with the city on the cusp of a construction boom in the countdown to the 2032 Olympics,” Mr Learmonth said.

Rino Recycling Director Todd Pepper highlighted Brisbane’s massive projected growth and construction leading up to the 2032 Olympics as a major recycling opportunity.

“The potential for recycling building material in these construction projects is very large,” he said. “This facility will not only help South-east Queensland achieve its Olympics commitments but preserve finite resources by recycling existing materials first.”


Read: Stanwell To Supply Brisbane Airport With 100 Per Cent Renewable Energy


The Queensland Government’s landfill levy, introduced in 2019, helped make the facility commercially viable. The levy is set to nearly double by 2027, further boosting recycling.

Published 18-July-2023

Dickson Terrace Residents Say No to Tycoon’s Extravagant Rebuild

A tycoon’s plans to rebuild a home on Dickson Terrace has been met with strong opposition from fellow residents in the exclusive Hamilton neighbourhood.


Read: Hamilton’s Eldernell Terrace Named Most Expensive Street In Brisbane For 2023


The development application, which received approval in August 2022, entails the construction of a three-storey house designed by architects at Joe Adsett. The project has faced strong objections from local residents who are concerned about the potential impact of the build on their neighbourhood.

The main points of contention raised by fellow residents are the excessive height proposed for the development, which is beyond the height limit for residential areas, and the resulting overshadowing caused by said height.

Photo credit: Joe Adsett

According to the Dwelling House Code, the acceptable maximum building height for the area is two storeys and should not exceed 9.5 metres above ground level. The planners, on behalf of the applicant, argue that the proposed height aligns with the existing building heights of other structures in Dickson Terrace and the surrounding area.

Photo credit: Joe Adsett

One resident expressed shock and disappointment over the approval of a development on a neighbouring property that clearly breaches the established codes.

“In carrying out our due diligence in purchasing our property we researched the codes applying to our residential zone and took some comfort in understanding from these codes the limitations on developments that neighbouring properties could undertake,” the local wrote on a formal submission to Brisbane City Council.


Read: Heritage-Listed Cremorne in Hamilton Sells for Record-breaking $8-M


Planning documents reveal that Gail Coyne, the wife of former State of Origin player Gary Coyne, is the primary applicant for the project. Mr Coyne, after retiring from his sporting career, made a name for himself as a restaurant owner, with at least nine McDonald’s franchises.

Published 12-July-2023

Monet in Paris Exhibition Extended: Northshore Hamilton to Welcome Art Lovers until August 2023

Due to popular demand, Northshore Hamilton is set to extend its highly anticipated Monet in Paris exhibition until late August this year. 


Read: ‘Monet in Paris’ Set to Dazzle in Northshore Hamilton


Northshore Hamilton has been transformed into an artistic wonderland with the arrival of this exhibition in Brisbane, drawing inspiration from 19th century France and the works of Claude Monet and other Impressionist painters.

Originally scheduled to run from 7 June to 6 August only, the exhibition will now continue to dazzle visitors until 27 August 2023, offering a rare opportunity to be immersed in a 360-degree display of Monet’s world. 

Photo credit: Monet in Paris/Facebook

Enormous projections of famous paintings by Monet and other Impressionist artists illuminate the space, bringing their bold brushstrokes and vibrant colours to life.

Photo credit: Monet in Paris/Facebook

Beyond the visual spectacle, the exhibition explores the historical context of the Impressionist movement. Visitors can learn about the social and political turbulence of the time through interactive displays and informative exhibits. The exhibition captures the essence of 19th century Paris, with its lively cabarets, elegant salons, and bustling streets that inspired the artists.

To create a truly immersive experience, Monet in Paris engages all the senses. Visitors can enjoy the scent of flowers, the sounds of city life, and the vibrant colours of the projected artworks, transporting them back in time to Monet’s era.

This highly anticipated exhibition has become a must-see cultural event, attracting visitors from far and wide. It not only revives interest in the Impressionist movement but also sparks conversations about the intersection of art, history, and society. By celebrating the legacy of Monet and his contemporaries, Monet in Paris pays tribute to the artists who revolutionised the art world.

Read: ArtForce Brisbane: Pockets of Art In Hamilton

To buy your tickets or to learn more about the Monet in Paris exhibition, you may visit monetinparis.com.au.

Published 12-July-2023

Heritage-Listed Cremorne in Hamilton Sells for Record-breaking $8-M

The heritage-listed Cremorne, one of Hamilton’s most iconic landmarks, has recently been sold for around $8 million, a record for the suburb, a solid indicator of the strength of Brisbane’s prestige market. 


Read: Reviving a Century-Old Beauty: The Magnificent Transformation of Katanga


The owners of the iconic property, Galen and Lynda Gunn, have made $2 million from the sale of the property which they acquired for $5.975 million in 2017.

The mansion in 2007 (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Heritage Branch staff)

The Gunns are co-founders of aviation company HAWCS International, providers of aerial survey services to the powerline and utility sectors nationwide.

Ray White New Farm, who handled the sale of the property revealed a local buyer acquired the heritage house, after a process that saw 500 enquiries and four offers on the table.

About Cremorne

Side view of the distinctive, pavilion verandahs of Cremone, ca 1935 (Photo credit: State Library of Queensland, Negative number: 80450)

Cremorne boasts a spacious 2,435 sqm of land and is spread across two levels. It comprises five bedrooms, five bathrooms, generous outdoor entertaining spaces, and a delightful pool, providing ample room for relaxation and social gatherings.

Cremorne in 1935 and Cremorne today (Photo credit: Lost Brisbane/Facebook)

Located at 34 Mullens Street in Hamilton Hill, it was entered in the Queensland’s Heritage Register on 21 October 1992.

Designed by the architectural firm Eaton & Bates, Cremorne stands as a substantial, single-storeyed, high-set timber residence with a distinctive veranda and octagonal rotundas.

It was constructed around 1905-1906 for Brisbane publican James Denis O’Connor.

Denis O’Connor and his wife, 1890 (Photo credit: State Library of Queensland, Negative number: 80449)

The O’Connor family had a long-standing connection with the property, spanning three generations and close to 90 years. They maintained ownership until the late 1990s. 

In 1916, JD O’Connor transferred the title to his wife before his passing at Cremorne in 1919. After Mrs O’Connor’s demise in 1952, the property was inherited by their daughter, Lynette Mulcahy, who had married Thomas Edward Mulcahy in 1921. 

The Mulcahys had two children, a son, and a daughter. Eventually, the ownership of Cremorne passed to their daughter, who subdivided the land.

In 1998, she sold the house to former Bretts Wharf restaurant co-owner Genny Nielson on a reduced site consisting of two lots, along with an access easement from Quarry Street on the eastern side. Genny Nielson restored the home, gave it back its historic grandeur, and added an extension.


Read: Brisbane, 1954: The First of Many Visits of Queen Elizabeth II


The house was subsequently sold to Fonezone co-founder David McMahon who gave it a glamorous renovation, after which the house was purchased by the Gunns in 2017.


Published 12-July-2023

Hamilton Heart Helpers: Join this Free Walking Group for a Healthier, Happier Lifestyle

Did you know that walking for an average of 30 minutes or more a day can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke by 35% percent and Type 2 diabetes by 40%? Hamilton Heart Helpers is a FREE walking group that promises a socially engaging experience to help people navigate their fitness journeys together.


Read: Northshore Hamilton Welcomes First Needle-Free Vaccine Patch Facility In Australia


Spearheaded by volunteer Walk Organiser Natasha, this group is rapidly gaining popularity as locals recognise the combined benefits of physical activity and community engagement.

Hercules Street Park (Photo credit: Jonelle Alvarez Reynolds/Google Maps)

Every Sunday at 8:00 a.m., members of the Hamilton Heart Helpers gather in the picturesque surroundings of Hercules Street Park on Remora Road. The meeting point not only provides a scenic backdrop for the walks but also ensures convenience for participants with its ample parking space. 

Photo credit: Paz Avalos/Google Maps

The walks, lasting between 30 to 45 minutes, are deliberately designed to be slow-paced, accommodating individuals of varying fitness levels. The inclusive nature of the group extends to pets and parents with strollers, making it an ideal outing for families as well.

Photo Credit: Heart Foundation – Walking

The Heart Foundation advises that “all adults aged 18-64 years should aim for 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week.”

If you’re walking five days a week, that’s 30 minutes per day to be considered ‘moderate.’ The exertion will require some effort but you should still be able to comfortable hold a conversation while doing it.

“When it comes to walking for heart health, some is better than none (and more is even better). If you’re not physically active, start by doing 10 minutes of brisk walking, and gradually build up to the recommended amount. Visit your GP or health professional for advice on how to safely build up your movement.”

Heart Foundation

You could break up the times as necessary but once you’ve already “found your 30,”consider upping the frequency or the duration gradually.

“Walking with guidance or supervision is an important part of cardiac rehabilitation programs, and for people diagnosed with heart disease or recovering from a heart attack. But it’s important to speak with your GP to learn how to safely build up your activity.”

Heart Foundation

Beyond the physical benefits of walking, the Hamilton Heart Helpers walks also offer a unique opportunity for participants to engage with their neighbours and foster meaningful connections. By sharing experiences, stories, and laughter, members develop a support network that transcends the boundaries of the walking group. 

To get involved with the Hamilton Heart Helpers, all you need to do is show up at Hercules Street Park on Sunday mornings at 8 a.m. Whether you are a seasoned walker or someone taking their first steps towards a healthier lifestyle, this inclusive group will provide the support and encouragement needed to make walking a regular part of your routine. 


Read: Stanwell To Supply Brisbane Airport With 100 Per Cent Renewable Energy


For those interested, Natasha can be reached via email at n7487304@qut.edu.au for any queries or additional information. You may also visit the Heart Foundation’s website to learn about other walking groups in your area.

Published 9-July-2023

Troubled Times Ahead for Queensland Harness Racing?

Queensland’s harness racing industry is facing uncertain times as the State’s plans to take back Albion Park may materialise earlier than anticipated.



Originally, the plan was to resume Albion Park by the end of 2026, with a transformation in mind, converting it into a basketball and indoor sports venue for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

However, recent developments suggest that the State Government’s timeline has been changed to the first half of 2025, posing a potential challenge for harness racing enthusiasts and stakeholders.

The change in the timeline will not affect greyhound racing, as its new venue south of Ipswich is set to be completed and ready for racing before the resumption of Albion Park.

On the other hand, the new Queensland Harness Centre at Norwell, which is expected to host more than 200 meetings a year and provide much-needed training and stabling facilities, will not be ready until 2026. This leaves harness racing with only Redcliffe and Marburg tracks for at least 12 months.

The implications of this delay in the premium track’s availability could be significant. Revenue might plunge, affecting the financial stability of the harness racing industry. Additionally, horses that are not suited to the smaller tracks may leave the state permanently, causing a loss of talent and potential investment in the sport.

Harness racing is a crucial contributor to Queensland’s economy, generating around $185 million annually and supporting approximately 1300 secure jobs. Losing a premium track in action could have a domino effect on the industry, leading to potential job losses and financial struggles for those involved.

Star horses could also be at risk of leaving the state if a suitable racing venue is not available. The departure of such high-profile horses would not only impact the local industry’s reputation but also deprive racing fans of witnessing top-tier talent in action.

Racing Queensland’s chief executive, Jason Scott, acknowledged the challenges posed by the new timeline and confirmed that discussions with the Government were in their early stages. 



Finding a resolution that can accommodate both the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games preparations and the smooth functioning of the harness racing industry will be a delicate balance. 

As the discussions continue, stakeholders in the harness racing community and fans alike will be eagerly awaiting a positive outcome.

Published 4-July-2023

Northshore Hamilton Welcomes First Needle-Free Vaccine Patch Facility In Australia

Did you know that Northshore Hamilton now has a state-of-the-art biomedical manufacturing facility producing Australia’s first needle-free vaccine patch?

Queensland biotechnology company Vaxxas plans to manufacture millions of needle-free vaccines at the new facility where cutting-edge technology produces patches that allow vaccines to be administered through the skin’s surface in a matter of seconds. This breakthrough innovation positions Queensland as a leading player in the globally competitive Asia-Pacific biomedical industry.

The facility is expected to boost the state’s economy and create up to 200 local and skilled jobs. The State Government provided funding and operational support to Vaxxas, aiding the transformation of an existing warehouse at Northshore into the manufacturing facility. 



With completed human clinical trials and ongoing studies for COVID-19, influenza, and other vaccine targets, Vaxxas’ needle-free vaccine patch technology is progressing rapidly toward commercialization. David Hoey, Vaxxas CEO, expects the first commercially available vaccine patches to be manufactured and distributed from the Queensland facility within the next three to five years.

Photo Credit: Vaxxas

The government’s commitment to supporting local biomedical start-ups and fostering innovation has contributed to Queensland’s growing reputation as a research and innovation hub.

The establishment of the Vaxxas facility aligns with the Queensland Government’s Biomedical 10-Year Roadmap and Action Plan, which aims to further develop the biomedical sector in the state. Currently contributing $2.1 billion to Queensland’s economy and employing over 12,000 people, the biomedical industry is set to attract more interstate and international businesses through the upcoming Queensland Biomedical Business Attraction Program.

Deputy Premier Steve Miles expressed his excitement about the facility’s opening on 19 June 2023 and highlighted the importance of expanding Queensland’s capability in vaccine development, manufacturing, and delivery. He emphasized the vital role that Vaxxas’ needle-free technology could play in pandemic preparedness by enabling the quick and easy deployment of vaccines to communities.



Published 20-June-2023