Read: Mental Health Awareness Walk to Start in Hamilton

The kare pan, Japan’s beloved panko-crusted curry bun invented in Tokyo in 1927, has never been built around wagyu until now.

OKO OKO’s version is filled with Queensland wagyu sourced from Sandalwood Feedlot on the Darling Downs, one of Australia’s oldest and most awarded producers, combined with a cheesy curry filling, panko-crusted and fried to order behind a Shinjuku-styled pagoda facade unlike anything else in the precinct.

Founder Michael Otway says the dish took six months of development on its own. “The dough, the curry, the wagyu, the cheese, the fry,” he said. “Queensland wagyu changes the dish. No kitchen in Japan or anywhere else has done it this way. What comes out of the fryer at OKO OKO is something Brisbane hasn’t tasted before.”

A dish with a serious backstory

Kare pan has a devoted following in Japan, with its own annual national grand prix and a 50,000-member association. It is one of Japan’s most loved everyday foods, widely available from bakeries across the country. What no kitchen in Japan or anywhere else had done, according to OKO OKO, was make wagyu the centrepiece.

The chef behind the menu brings serious credentials to that claim. OKO OKO’s global head chef previously worked at Nobu London and Yoko Brisbane. The full OKO OKO menu extends well beyond the kare pan into okonomiyaki, yakisoba, yakisoba pan and other Japanese street food classics, all built to the same elevated standard.

The Shinjuku-styled pagoda that frames OKO OKO’s space at Eat Street is described by the founders as a physical expression of the menu itself: respected traditions, modern elevation.

Getting to Eat Street Northshore

Eat Street Northshore at 221D MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton is open Friday and Saturday from 4pm to 10pm and Sunday from 4pm to 9pm. Entry is $6 per person. The precinct is accessible by CityCat to the Northshore Hamilton terminal, a 250-metre walk from the entrance, or by car with 1,400-plus free parks on site.

Read: Roads, Flood Resilience and Riverfront Works Drive Northshore Hamilton Renewal

Published 12-June-2026

The post Would You Try a Wagyu Curry Bun? Brisbane’s Newest Food Stall Thinks You Should appeared first on Hamilton Today.

Read: Portside Wharf To Host Mother’s Day Market By The River

The timing is right for it. Brisbane has been missing this particular thing: a serious, single-focus lobster roll built with real intent rather than as a menu afterthought. Sea Salt’s founders, local Brisbanites Yuling and Nathan, spent 18 months working out why it did not exist yet. They ate lobster rolls across Brisbane, Australia and internationally.

Most were cold, pre-made or padded with processed seafood extender. The rolls that used real lobster were often barely slider-sized. They came back with a clear idea of what they wanted to build instead.

“When we set out to create a lobster roll for Eat Street, we didn’t want to imitate what already existed,” co-owner Yuling said. “We wanted to do better. Every element, from the lobster to the bread to the butter, was chosen and refined with intention.”

Straight from Queensland Waters to Your Roll 

The lobster is Queensland’s tropical rock lobster, hand-caught by divers in the Torres Strait and Far North Queensland. It is the only diver-caught lobster species in Australia and comes from one of the most carefully managed fisheries in the country: no nets, no traps, no bycatch.

Each lobster is air freighted directly to Eat Street, supporting the fishing communities of Cairns and the Torres Strait.

The roll itself is built around a custom brioche baked by a Brisbane bakery, proportioned specifically for the ratio of bread to filling Sea Salt wanted. The lobster is finished in clarified butter with fresh garlic, paired with Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise and finished with a ribbon of lemon. Everything on the plate is sourced from Queensland.

This focus on provenance puts Sea Salt in the premium tier of Eat Street’s line-up, sitting comfortably alongside heavyweights like Picco’s and The Cheese Wheel. It’s a high-end addition to the precinct, swapping standard street-food fillers for a serious, top-shelf serve. 

The facade of the restaurant carries that local connection too, built from timber sourced from Queensland workers’ cottages, a deliberate nod to the riverside heritage of the precinct around it.

Find It at Eat Street

Sea Salt sits inside Eat Street Northshore at 221D MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton, on a historic wharf built from repurposed shipping containers along the Brisbane River, 15 minutes from the CBD and 12 minutes from Brisbane Airport. If you are coming by water, the Northshore Hamilton CityCat stop is a short 250 metre stroll from the eastern entrance.

It serves from 4pm to 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays and 4pm to 9pm on Sundays. Keep an eye on the clock for special events, with trading hours often extended for major dates including the upcoming Mother’s Day weekend in May (12-8pm). For updates, follow Eat Street on Instagram or visit eatstreetnorthshore.com.au.

Read: Local Families Invited to a Stress-Free Mother’s Day Feast in Hamilton

Published 30-April-2026

The post Brisbane Finally Has a Proper Lobster Roll — and It’s Worth the Wait appeared first on Hamilton Today.

Read: The Hamilton Warehouse Where You Can Paint the Walls and Grab a Coffee

The ASX-listed company entered into a legally binding arrangement with YUM! Brands, the global owner of the Taco Bell brand, and Restaurant Brands Australia to transfer the 20 restaurants to new ownership. The remaining seven Taco Bell locations will close, with Collins Foods absorbing a $1.2 million hit to its bottom line as a result.

Managing director and CEO Xavier Simonet described the move as an opportunity to focus on the company’s core KFC business, with particular attention to accelerating profitable development in Germany.

A Queensland Company with More Than Five Decades of History

Collins Foods’ roots in Queensland stretch back to 1968, when it first obtained the KFC franchise for the state. The company opened its first restaurant in Kedron the following year and introduced the drive-through format to Australia in 1979, a concept now standard across the country.

The company’s headquarters moved to Brisbane in 2005 following a private equity acquisition, and it has been listed on the Australian Securities Exchange since 2011. Its corporate offices now sit at Level 3, KSD1, 485 Kingsford Smith Drive in Hamilton, placing it among the inner-city businesses that call Brisbane’s riverside precinct home.

The Taco Bell chapter began in 2018, when Collins Foods acquired the franchise rights for Australia. At its peak, the company operated 27 locations across Queensland, Victoria and Western Australia. The exit marks the end of that chapter, with the business returning to the brand’s global owner and its local partner.

Focusing on What Works for Collins Foods

For a company of Collins Foods’ size, concentrating resources on its strongest performer is a considered move. In 2025, Collins Foods reported annual revenue of $1.5 billion, up 2.1 per cent from the previous year, with net operating cash flow rising $5.1 million to $181.4 million.

The European expansion is gathering pace. Earlier in March, Collins Foods acquired eight KFC restaurants in Germany for $50 million, and also extended its corporate franchise agreement with YUM! Brands covering the Netherlands. The company’s growth strategy targets the addition of 40 to 70 new KFC restaurants in Germany over the next five years.

With 288 KFC restaurants across Australia and a growing European footprint spanning Germany and the Netherlands, the Taco Bell sale clears the runway for a more focused international push.

How the Sale Affects Staff and Store Operations

YUM! Brands and Restaurant Brands Australia will take over the 20 restaurants and continue operating them under the same ownership arrangement, with employees transferring to the new owners as part of the transaction. The deal uses a stock-based purchase structure, with the incoming owners also assuming the lease liabilities for all 20 sites.

The seven locations earmarked for closure represent the smaller, harder-to-transition portion of the portfolio. Collins Foods has not specified which sites will shut, though further detail is expected as the transaction moves toward completion.

Shares in Collins Foods fell 2.62 per cent in morning trade on the day of the announcement.

Keeping Across the Story

Collins Foods is an ASX-listed company trading under the code CKF. Updates on the Taco Bell transition and the company’s European expansion plans are available at collinsfoods.com. Media and investor enquiries can be directed through the company’s Hamilton headquarters at 485 Kingsford Smith Drive, Hamilton QLD 4007.

Read: Biotech Company Vaxxas Joins Global Consortium to Prepare Europe for Pandemic Influenza

Published 01-April-2026

The post Hamilton’s Collins Foods Exits Taco Bell to Double Down on KFC in Europe appeared first on Hamilton Today.

Read: Hamilton Development to Connect Suburban Streets with Northshore Precinct

The tender was awarded on behalf of the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority under the EU 2024 EU4Health Work Programme, which allocates up to $250 million across three competitive sequential phases. The phase one allocation of approximately $22 million will fund a clinical study combining Vaxxas’ high-density microarray patch technology with South Korean company SK bioscience’s seasonal influenza vaccine. The Consortium also includes European-based IDT Biologika, a contract developer and manufacturer of vaccines, gene and immune therapeutics with more than 100 years of operating history. IDT Biologika led the Consortium submission.

What the HD-MAP Technology Does

Vaxxas’ HD-MAP is a small patch containing thousands of microprojections approximately 0.25 millimetres in length, fabricated by injection moulding. The patch delivers vaccine to the high-density populations of immune cells directly beneath the surface of the skin, with the microprojections triggering immune responses that rapidly traffic vaccine components to lymph nodes. The coated patch sits inside a single-use applicator and administers the vaccine in a matter of seconds.

The technology carries several practical advantages over traditional needle-and-syringe delivery. The dried form of the vaccine is more stable at higher temperatures than vaccines in liquid formulations, and HD-MAPs have proven safe and tolerable in hundreds of trial participants, inducing equal or greater immune responses to injected vaccines at lower doses. The platform also has the potential to eliminate end-to-end refrigeration requirements, reducing the cold-chain logistics burden that slows vaccination rates in both routine and emergency settings. The core technology was originally developed at the University of Queensland, and Vaxxas was established to commercialise it.

What Phase One Will Deliver

The phase one programme has two parallel workstreams. The first is a clinical study advancing Vaxxas’ HD-MAP technology in conjunction with SK bioscience’s seasonal influenza vaccine. The second is a pre-clinical development programme producing a clinic-ready HD-MAP for a pre-pandemic influenza vaccine.

All clinical products for phase one will be manufactured using Vaxxas’ proprietary sterile automated manufacturing lines at its Hamilton biomedical facility. Vaxxas is simultaneously completing a separate and largest-to-date phase one clinical study of its HD-MAP with a pre-pandemic influenza vaccine, supported by the US Government’s Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority.

The Consortium Partners

IDT Biologika, which led the Consortium submission, brings more than a century of vaccine development and manufacturing experience to the programme. SK bioscience, a South Korean vaccine company with a longstanding collaboration with Vaxxas, will supply vaccine antigens for both the seasonal and pandemic influenza studies across the programme.

Vaxxas chief executive David Peacock said the tender reflected a shared ambition across the Consortium and the European Union to invest in alternative vaccine technologies, and that the recognition of HD-MAP by governments worldwide confirmed its role as a component of future public health preparedness.

What Comes Next

If the Consortium successfully completes phase one, it becomes eligible to tender for subsequent phases covering late-stage clinical trials, application for marketing authorisation in Europe, and the establishment of a sovereign EU manufacturing capability.

Further information about Vaxxas and its HD-MAP technology is available at vaxxas.com. The company’s Hamilton biomedical facility is located at 240 MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton QLD 4007, within the Northshore Hamilton river precinct.

Read: Northshore Hamilton Precinct Unlocked: 3,000 Homes and New Lifestyle Hub Coming to Brisbane’s Riverfront

Published 3-March-2026.

The post Biotech Company Vaxxas Joins Global Consortium to Prepare Europe for Pandemic Influenza appeared first on Hamilton Today.

Opening This Week

Scream 7 

In cinemas from 26 February 

Do you like scary movies? Ghostface is back to terrorize a new set of victims in the highly anticipated seventh installment of the iconic slasher franchise. Catch it at Event Cinemas (City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mt Gravatt), Palace, Dendy, Five Star Cinemas, Cinebar, Angelika, Reading, Cineplex, and HOYTS.

Solo Mio 

In cinemas from 26 February 

A fresh new drama hits the screens this week. Catch it at Event Cinemas (City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mt Gravatt), Angelika, Cinebar, Cineplex (Balmoral, Victoria Point, Redbank), Reading, HOYTS, and United Eldorado.

GOMA: Cinema Masterpieces

Special screenings at the Gallery of Modern Art

• Days of Heaven (1978) – 27 Feb
• Querelle (1982) – 27 Feb
• Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors (1965) – 28 Feb
• The Colour of Pomegranates (1969) – 28 Feb
• The Lighthouse (2019) – 4 Mar

Still Showing

EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert 

The King’s immersive concert experience continues to rock major cinemas across Brisbane.

Fackham Hall 

The hilarious British period drama spoof is still delivering laughs at Event, Palace, Dendy, and Five Star Cinemas.

Crime 101 

Chris Hemsworth’s gritty heist thriller continues its run at Event, Palace, Dendy, and HOYTS.

Wuthering Heights 

Margot Robbie’s modern take on the gothic romance is still showing across the city.

From edge-of-your-seat slashers to visually stunning art-house classics, Brisbane’s cinemas are packed with incredible stories this week. Grab some popcorn and enjoy a screening near you.

The post This Week in Brisbane: Horror Icons and Arthouse Classics from 26 February to 4 March 2026 appeared first on Hamilton Today.

The Art of Banksy “Without Limits” Chapter Two

20 February – 1 March 2026 | Uptown, Brisbane City
Get Tickets

Do not miss your last chance to experience the underground energy of the world’s most elusive street artist. This unprecedented new chapter features over 300 artworks—including more than 100 original pieces—alongside cutting-edge holograms, sculptures, and immersive installations.

The Music of John Williams

27 – 28 February 2026 | Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane
Get Tickets

Experience the cinematic magic of the world’s greatest film composer. The Queensland Symphony Orchestra brings the iconic, sweeping scores of Star Wars, Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones, and Harry Potter to life in a spine-tingling live performance.

The Great Gatsby

12 February – 8 March 2026 | Playhouse, QPAC, South Brisbane
Get Tickets

Step into the roaring twenties. Queensland Theatre’s lavish production of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s masterpiece continues its dazzling run. Expect glitz, glamour, and tragedy as Jay Gatsby tries to win back his lost love in a world of excess.

Blanc de Blanc Encore

19 February – 19 April 2026 | The West End Electric, West End
Get Tickets

The champagne-soaked party is back in West End! Blanc de Blanc Encore serves up a hedonistic blend of vintage French cabaret, jaw-dropping circus acts, and cheeky comedy. It’s a high-energy, adults-only night out.

Nell Gwynn

28 February – 7 March 2026 | New Benner Theatre, Metro Arts, West End
Get Tickets

Travel back to 17th-century London in this vibrant, award-winning comedy. Nell Gwynn tells the story of an unlikely heroine who goes from selling oranges in the West End to becoming Britain’s most celebrated actress (and the King’s mistress).

Institute of Modern Art (IMA) Events

28 February 2026 | IMA, Fortitude Valley Immerse yourself in contemporary discussions and live art this Saturday at the IMA:

• Platform 2026 Performances: Experience bold new performance art from emerging creatives pushing boundaries. More Info
• Are the Arts for Everyone?: A thought-provoking panel discussion tackling accessibility, inclusion, and the role of art in modern society. More Info

The Other Side of Me

27 – 28 February 2026 | Cremorne Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane
Get Tickets

Catch this compelling theatrical exploration of identity, culture, and connection. It is a deeply personal and physically dynamic performance playing for two nights only in the intimate Cremorne Theatre.

Live Jazz at the Brisbane Jazz Club

27 February – 1 March 2026 | Kangaroo Point

• Emma Pask Quartet (Fri 27 & Sat 28): One of Australia’s favourite jazz vocalists brings her effortless charm and swing to the riverside. Tickets
• Andy Cowan Band (Sun 1 Mar): Wind down your weekend with some premier blues and roots piano. Tickets

Candlelight Concerts

27 – 28 February 2026 | Grand on Ann, Brisbane City 

Experience the magic of live music illuminated by thousands of candles in a stunning heritage venue:

• Tribute to Taylor Swift: Classical renditions of the pop icon’s biggest eras. Tickets
• Tribute to Queen & The Beatles: A string quartet takes on the greatest hits of British rock royalty. Tickets

Gallery Exhibitions & Artist Talks

Various Locations

• Carlos Barrios | ‘Heart Songs’ (Artist Talk: Sat 28 Feb, 2pm): Mitchell Fine Art, Fortitude Valley. Hear Barrios discuss his life-affirming, expressive paintings informed by his upbringing in El Salvador. More Info
• Helle Cook | Nature of Light (Artist Talk: Sat 28 Feb): Jan Manton Gallery, Teneriffe. Engage with the artist on her luminous, atmospheric works before the exhibition closes this weekend. More Info
• Fiona Omeenyo | Night & Day: FireWorks Gallery, Bowen Hills. Explore striking contemporary Indigenous works from the celebrated Lockhart River artist. More Info

Hush

1 March 2026 | Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane
Get Tickets

The Southern Cross Soloists present Hush, a sublime Sunday afternoon concert featuring exquisite chamber music designed to soothe the soul and showcase breathtaking virtuosity.

British Film Festival Premiere: Midwinter Break

1 March 2026 | Palace Barracks & Palace James St Cinema
Get Tickets

Get a sneak peek at the Russell Hobbs British Film Festival with this special preview screening of Midwinter Break, a touching and beautifully acted drama about a couple reflecting on their long marriage during a trip to Amsterdam.

This weekend is a pivotal one for Brisbane’s arts scene. With the blockbuster Art of Banksy exhibition finally closing its doors, this is your absolute last opportunity to experience its immersive installations. Meanwhile, theatregoers are spoiled for choice with the opening of the lively comedy Nell Gwynn in West End and the ongoing spectacle of The Great Gatsby at QPAC. Whether you are losing yourself in the sweeping cinematic scores of John Williams or exploring contemporary conversations at the IMA, there is a profound depth of culture to experience before autumn officially arrives.

The post Weekend Arts Edit: Nell Gwynn Premiere and Candlelight Concerts on 27 February to 1 March 2026 appeared first on Hamilton Today.

Brisbane Festival of Colour – Holi

28 February 2026 | Mount Gravatt Showgrounds, Mount Gravatt
Get Tickets

Get ready for a vibrant, messy, and joyous Saturday. Celebrate the traditional Indian festival of Holi with music, dancing, and the iconic throwing of coloured powders. It is a wonderfully inclusive, high-energy event that kids absolutely love (just make sure everyone wears an old white t-shirt!).

A Night at the Museum

27 February 2026 | Queensland Museum Kurilpa, South Brisbane
Get Tickets

Have you ever wondered what happens in the museum after the doors close? Grab your torch and find out! This special Friday night event offers exclusive after-hours access to exhibits, hands-on activities, and a rare chance to explore the galleries in a thrilling, low-light atmosphere.

Lunar New Year Rooftop Party

28 February 2026 | Sunnybank Plaza – Cinema Rooftop, Sunnybank
More Info

Sunnybank wraps up its Lunar New Year celebrations with a massive rooftop party. Expect a bustling evening filled with incredible Asian street food, traditional lion dances, cultural performances, and a festive atmosphere perfect for the whole family to enjoy together.

Swingers – The Art of Mini Golf

10 January – 1 March 2026 | Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm
Get Tickets

Time is up! This is your final weekend to putt your way through this unique, artist-designed mini-golf course set up around the Powerhouse. It is a fantastic, interactive art experience that doubles as a fun, competitive game for the family.

Outdoor Cinema in the Suburbs: The Smurfs

28 February 2026 | Regent Park, Cannon Hill
More Info

Pack a picnic rug and some snacks for a free movie under the stars. Regent Park is hosting a family-friendly screening of The Smurfs. Arrive early to grab a good spot on the grass and enjoy the community atmosphere before the film begins at sundown.

UQ Alumni Book Fair 2026

27 February – 1 March 2026 | UQ Centre – St Lucia Campus, St Lucia
More Info

Build your home library on a budget! The famous UQ Book Fair is a treasure trove for families. Spend a few hours hunting through thousands of high-quality, pre-loved children’s books, educational materials, and young adult fiction at bargain prices.

Library STEAM & Museum Science Sessions

27 February – 1 March 2026 | Various Locations 

Ignite your child’s curiosity with these free educational sessions:

• Little Sparks (Fri 27 Feb): The final day of the Museum’s play-based STEM program for 3-5 year olds. Info
• Family STEAM Morning (Sat 28 Feb): Science, tech, and art activities for families at Carina Library. Info
• STEAM Sundays (Sun 1 Mar): Weekend science fun at Indooroopilly Library. Info

First 5 Forever & Storytime in the Park

27 February 2026 | Various Locations 

Friday morning is all about early literacy and outdoor fun for the littlest Brisbanites.

• Babies, Books and Rhymes: Held at Corinda, Wynnum, Annerley, Mt Gravatt, Kenmore, Stones Corner, Bracken Ridge, Sandgate, Carina, and Mitchelton libraries. Info
• Storytime in the Park: Enjoy fresh air and a good book at Dorrington Park, Ashgrove. Info

Vipoo Srivilasa: Express Yourself

Until 13 September 2026 | Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), South Brisbane
More Info

If you need an indoor, air-conditioned activity, the Children’s Art Centre at GOMA continues to host this delightful, interactive exhibition where kids can engage in creative, hands-on art-making centered around themes of joy and kindness.

This weekend is a brilliant mix of education and pure celebration. A Night at the Museum is an unforgettable way to kick off Friday evening, while Saturday is dominated by massive cultural parties with Holi on the southside and the Lunar New Year closing party in Sunnybank.

The post Cultural Fun: Holi Festival and Lunar New Year Rooftop Party on February 27 to March 1, 2026 appeared first on Hamilton Today.

G Flip

27 February 2026 | Riverstage, Brisbane City
Get Tickets

One of Australia’s most dynamic live performers takes over the Riverstage. G Flip’s high-energy show—featuring their signature drumming, powerful vocals, and infectious pop-rock anthems—is guaranteed to be a massive, crowd-pleasing start to the weekend.

Basement Jaxx

1 March 2026 | Riverstage, Brisbane City
Get Tickets

Where’s your head at? UK dance music pioneers Basement Jaxx bring their legendary live show to the Riverstage to close out the weekend. Expect a euphoric, colourful spectacle packed with classic house and electronic anthems from the late 90s and 2000s.

S2O Australia – Brisbane 2026

28 February 2026 | Royal Queensland Golf Club, Eagle Farm
Get Tickets

Prepare to get wet. The famous “Songkran Music Festival” arrives in Brisbane, transforming Eagle Farm into a massive outdoor dance party. Combining world-class EDM and hardstyle DJs with 360-degree water cannons, it is a uniquely high-energy summer festival experience.

Droppin’ Science: De La Soul with Oddisee & Good Company

1 March 2026 | Cultural Forecourt, South Brisbane
Get Tickets

Hip-hop royalty graces South Bank. Legendary trio De La Soul brings their Native Tongues flavor and iconic daisy-age rap to the Cultural Forecourt, supported by the soulful sounds of Oddisee and rising star Miss Kaninna.

Carl Barron: Just Wondering Why

28 February – 15 March 2026 | Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane
Get Tickets

 
Australia’s most popular stand-up comedian kicks off a massive two-week run at the Lyric Theatre. Carl Barron returns with his trademark observational humour, blending deadpan delivery with hilarious musings on everyday life.

Black Country, New Road

28 February 2026 | The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley
Get Tickets

Critically acclaimed UK experimental rock band Black Country, New Road makes their highly anticipated return to Brisbane. Known for their sprawling, emotive instrumentation and deeply affecting live performances, this is a must-see for indie music fans.

Ty Segall

27 February 2026 | The Princess Theatre, Woolloongabba
Get Tickets

The prolific king of modern garage rock and psychedelic fuzz, Ty Segall, tears up the Princess Theatre. Expect face-melting guitar solos, frantic energy, and a setlist pulled from his vast and eclectic discography.

Kerser

28 February 2026 | The Fortitude Music Hall, Fortitude Valley
Get Tickets

The king of Australian underground hip-hop hits the Valley. Kerser’s raw, unfiltered storytelling and massive cult following ensure that his shows are always loud, rowdy, and unforgettable.

Chris D’Elia

1 March 2026 | The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley
Get Tickets

American stand-up comedian and podcaster Chris D’Elia brings his highly physical, off-the-cuff brand of comedy to The Tivoli for a Sunday night special.

Clare Bowditch with Iain Grandage: What Was Left Reimagined

28 February 2026 | Powerhouse Theatre, New Farm
Get Tickets

ARIA Award-winning artist Clare Bowditch teams up with acclaimed composer Iain Grandage for a deeply intimate performance. They will be reimagining Bowditch’s beloved songs with lush new arrangements in the beautiful setting of the Powerhouse.

Hothouse Flowers

27 February 2026 | The Triffid, Newstead
Get Tickets

The beloved Irish rock band brings their fusion of traditional folk, gospel, and rock to Newstead. Decades into their career, their live shows remain a joyous and soulful celebration.

The 046 – Legacy In Motion Tour

27 February 2026 | The Brightside (Outdoors), Fortitude Valley
Get Tickets

Western Sydney rap group The 046 bring their G-Funk inspired hip-hop to the Brightside’s outdoor stage, proving why they are one of the most exciting acts in the current Aussie drill and rap scene.

Choirboys – Great Australian Rock N Roll Stories

28 February 2026 | The Princess Theatre, Woolloongabba
Get Tickets

It’s not just a gig; it’s a history lesson with guitars. The Choirboys play their classic hits while sharing the wild, untold stories of the 80s Australian pub rock scene.

Brisbane FITC 2026 (Turf Games)

28 February – 1 March 2026 | Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
More Info

If you prefer lifting over moshing, the BCEC hosts a massive functional fitness competition. Watch athletes push their limits across the weekend in a high-adrenaline arena environment.

More Weekend Live Music

27 Feb – 1 Mar 2026 | Various Venues

• Aaradhna (Sat 28): The award-winning NZ R&B and soul singer plays Mansfield Tavern. Tickets
• The Australian Van Morrison Show (Fri 27): Classic hits at Royal Quarters, Nundah. Tickets
• Bradley McCaw in 52nd Street (Sat 28): A stunning Billy Joel tribute at The Old Museum. Tickets
• Frost Children (Sun 1): Hyperpop and glitchy electronic chaos at the Crowbar. Tickets
• Rise and Vibe (Sat 28): A morning social and music meetup at Queen Amann Bakery. More Info

This is an incredibly strong weekend for outdoor events before autumn truly sets in. Whether you want the pop-rock energy of G Flip at the Riverstage, the classic hip-hop vibes of De La Soul on the South Bank forecourt, or the absolute sensory overload of the S2O Water Festival, make sure you plan your transport early.

The post Hip-Hop to House: De La Soul, Kerser, and Basement Jaxx Live on February 27 to March 1, 2026 appeared first on Hamilton Today.

An Audience with Sir Tony Robinson

20 February 2026 | Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane
Get Tickets

From Blackadder to Time Team, Sir Tony Robinson is a British television icon. In this exclusive evening, he shares stories from his incredible career, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the worlds of comedy and history with his signature wit.

The Great Gatsby

12 February – 8 March 2026 | Playhouse, QPAC, South Brisbane
Get Tickets

Step into the roaring twenties. Queensland Theatre’s lavish production of The Great Gatsby brings the glitz, glamour, and tragedy of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s masterpiece to the stage. It’s a visually stunning show that captures the excess and hollowness of the Jazz Age.

CATS

6 – 22 February 2026 | Lyric Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane
Get Tickets

The Jellicle Ball is ending. This is your last chance to see Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking musical before it departs Brisbane. Don’t miss the spectacular choreography and the timeless song “Memory” one last time.

The Tiger Lillies: Serenade from the Sewer

22 February 2026 | Powerhouse Theatre, New Farm
Get Tickets

The Olivier Award-winning “godfathers of alternative cabaret” return to Brisbane. The Tiger Lillies are known for their dark, twisted, and hilarious mix of pre-war Berlin cabaret and anarchy. Expect accordions, falsetto vocals, and songs about the underbelly of life.

Blanc de Blanc Encore

Season Extended to March 2026 | The West End Electric, West End
Get Tickets

Due to popular demand, the champagne-soaked party continues! Blanc de Blanc Encore is a hedonistic blend of circus, cabaret, and comedy. It’s a high-energy, adults-only night out that feels like a vintage French party gone wild.

Camerata: Classic Alchemy

21 February 2026 | Concert Hall, QPAC, South Brisbane
Get Tickets

Queensland’s Chamber Orchestra, Camerata, presents a concert of musical transformation. Classic Alchemy features works that have been reimagined or transcribed, showcasing the ensemble’s versatility and passion for breathing new life into classical repertoire.

Crossing the Divide

17 – 20 February 2026 | Cremorne Theatre, QPAC, South Brisbane
Get Tickets

Catch this thought-provoking new work before it closes on Friday. Crossing the Divide explores themes of connection and separation, offering a compelling theatrical experience in the intimate Cremorne Theatre.

Brisbane Jazz Club Weekend

20 – 22 February 2026 | Kangaroo Point 

A stellar lineup at the city’s home of jazz:

• Ollie McGill (Cat Empire) (Fri 20): The keyboard wizard brings his “Songs of Jatt” project for a night of virtuosic playing. Tickets
• The View from Madeleine’s Couch (Sat 21): Samba de Verão celebrates the smooth, rhythmic sounds of Brazilian bossa nova. Tickets
• Soultown (Sun 22): Wrap up the weekend with a soulful Sunday session featuring classic hits. Tickets

Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty

21 February 2026 | QUT Gardens Theatre, Brisbane City
Get Tickets

Experience ballet in a new light. This performance of Sleeping Beauty features costumes adorned with LED lights, creating a magical, glowing spectacle that adds a modern twist to the classic fairy tale.

Experimental Drawing with Spencer Harvie

21 February 2026 | Institute of Modern Art, Fortitude Valley
Get Tickets

Challenge your creativity. Artist Spencer Harvie leads this workshop at the IMA, encouraging participants to break the rules of traditional drawing and explore new techniques and materials in a fun, supportive environment.

Alliance Française French Film Festival Preview: Jean Valjean

22 February 2026 | Palace James St & Barracks
Get Tickets

Get a sneak peek of the upcoming festival. This special preview screening of Jean Valjean offers film lovers an early look at one of the headline acts of the 2026 French Film Festival.

Visual Arts Highlights

Various Locations

• BrisAsia 2026: Lois Kim & Hannah Seong: Thomas Dixon Centre (Ends 23 Feb). Info
• Heart Songs | Carlos Barrios: Mitchell Fine Art (Until 7 Mar). Info
• The Fire Horse Ignites: The Star Brisbane (18–22 Feb). Info

This weekend marks the end of an era with CATS finally closing its Brisbane run, making it a priority if you haven’t seen it yet. However, the arrival of Sir Tony Robinson and the dark cabaret of The Tiger Lillies offer fantastic alternatives for those looking for storytelling and comedy.

The post Culture Weekend: The Great Gatsby, Tiger Lillies, and Bossa Nova on February 20-22, 2026 appeared first on Hamilton Today.

Lunar New Year in Fortitude Valley

21 – 22 February 2026 | Chinatown Mall & Surrounds, Fortitude Valley
Get Tickets 

The heart of Brisbane’s Lunar New Year celebrations beats in the Valley. Expect the Chinatown Mall to come alive with traditional lion and dragon dances, firecrackers, cultural performances, and workshops. It’s a sensory feast perfect for introducing children to the traditions of the Lunar New Year.

The Y Gymnastics Open Day

22 February 2026 | Various Locations
Get Tickets  

If your kids have energy to burn, head to your local Y. Four locations—Bowen Hills, Acacia Ridge, Stafford, and Jamboree Heights—are opening their doors for families to tour the facilities, meet the coaches, and let the kids try out the gymnastics circuits for free.

Little Sparks

20 February 2026 | Queensland Museum Kurilpa, South Brisbane
Get Tickets  

It’s the final day of this engaging STEM program for young children (aged 3–5). Little Sparks encourages curiosity through play-based learning, experiments, and discovery in the museum environment.

Maal (One Spirit) Connection through the Senses

21 February 2026 | Chermside Library, Chermside
Get Tickets 

Part of the BrisAsia Festival, this unique workshop invites children to connect with culture through sensory experiences. It’s a calming, educational session designed to foster understanding and mindfulness through traditional storytelling and activities.

Lighting New Beginnings

21 February 2026 | Multicultural Community Centre, Newmarket
Get Tickets 

A family-friendly multicultural festival celebrating the start of the year. Expect food stalls, cultural performances, and activities that highlight the diverse heritage of the local community.

Lunar New Year Portrait Studio

17 – 22 February 2026 | Wentworth Galleries, Brisbane City
Get Tickets 

Capture a memory of the festive season. This pop-up portrait studio offers a beautifully styled backdrop for family photos, celebrating the Year of the Horse in style.

Weekend Markets

21 & 22 February 2026 | Various Locations
More Info 

Enjoy fresh produce, food trucks, and a family-friendly atmosphere at Brisbane’s best markets.

• Powerhouse Farmers Markets (Sat): New Farm.
• West End Markets (Sat): Davies Park.
• Milton Markets (Sun): Milton Green.

Sunnybank Hills Lunar New Year

Until 1 March 2026 | Sunnybank Hills Shoppingtown
Get Tickets 

If you want a lower-key celebration while you shop, Sunnybank Hills Shoppingtown is running festive activities and displays throughout the weekend to mark the Lunar New Year.

This weekend is vibrant with cultural celebrations, particularly in Fortitude Valley. It’s a fantastic opportunity to take the kids to see the lion dances and soak up the atmosphere. For a more active Sunday, the Y’s open days across the city are a great option for burning off energy before the school week starts.

The post Free & Fun: Lion Dances in the Valley and Weekend Markets for February 20-22, 2026 appeared first on Hamilton Today.