Things to do in Brisbane, events and local news | Khora Social

Brisbane Community Spaces Drive Australia’s Growing Third Space Trend

Brisbane Community Spaces Drive Australia’s Growing Third Space Trend

Brisbane is part of a wider Australian move towards “third spaces” — places beyond home and work where residents can meet, learn and join community life. A local community centre offering free training for small business owners shows how these venues can provide practical support alongside face-to-face connection. Urban sociologist Ray Oldenburg popularised the term for settings that foster informal interaction away from family and professional obligations. Cafés, libraries, sporting clubs, parks, cultural centres, co-working venues and wellness hubs can each fill that role, creating belonging through regular contact. Remote and hybrid work, digital communication and crowded schedules have helped drive demand for shared places. People spending less time in conventional offices may turn to co-working spaces, libraries and neighbourhood venues for productivity as well as social interaction. Welcoming community spaces are also linked with lower isolation and stronger neighbourhood relationships. Across Queensland, refurbished town halls now host fitness classes, cultural events and neighbourhood initiatives. Community centres are broadening their programs to include business support, workshops, youth services and meetings, with Brisbane’s free small-business training offering one example of a gathering place that also delivers a practical service.

Queensland Boosts First Nations Tourism Ahead of Brisbane 2032

Queensland is preparing to place First Nations tourism at the centre of its visitor economy ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The new seven-year strategy aims to lift the international profile of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander tourism and deliver lasting cultural, social and economic benefits for First Nations communities. The Queensland First Nations Tourism Strategy 2026–2032 was developed by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council with support from the state and Australian governments. Consultation involved First Nations communities, tourism operators and industry stakeholders in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Townsville, Thursday Island, Mount Isa and other locations. The plan sets out four priorities: stronger First Nations leadership and cultural authority; sustainable tourism businesses; expanded workforce and leadership opportunities; and greater visitor demand through authentic storytelling. It follows the 2020–2025 tourism plan, which included the Year of Indigenous Tourism, the Queensland First Nations Tourism Council, mentoring programs and business capability initiatives. QTIC chief executive Natassia Wheeler said Brisbane 2032 provides a rare opportunity to bring Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures to a global audience. Delivery will be phased through to 2032, with a final publication expected in coming months to specify implementation dates, recommended actions and responsible organisations.

Brisbane City Council Invests $5.6M in Move Well Brisbane Program

Brisbane City Council has launched Move Well Brisbane, a $5.6 million initiative aimed at expanding free and affordable activities across the city. The program builds on the existing Active and Healthy scheme, adding opportunities focused on movement, nutrition, mindfulness, wellbeing and social connection. New offerings include social running groups such as parkrun and trail runs, cardio tennis, breathwork sessions, mindfulness activities, and Nutrition Australia cooking classes and nutrition programs. Council will also expand established activities, including 63 additional pickleball classes, 164 extra dance classes, and nine more stretch and mobility classes. The initiative introduces a “dawn-to-dusk” approach, with more sessions available before and after work and on weekends. Brisbane currently hosts around 9,000 Active and Healthy sessions each year at 218 locations, supported by about 200 small-business providers. Under Move Well Brisbane, the total is expected to more than double to 20,000 sessions over the next two years, involving about 400 small-business operators. More than 9,900 sessions are already scheduled for the 2026/27 program, while providers and activities will continue to be added. Programs previously offered for children and teenagers through Chillout and GOLD will continue within the expanded scheme. Nutrition Australia Queensland said the initiative recognises that wellbeing includes practical nutrition skills, affordable meal ideas and opportunities for community connection. For Brisbane, the program is relevant because it broadens access to organised activities in suburbs across the city, while offering residents more flexible times to take part and supporting local activity providers.

Brisbane is fast becoming Australia's new cultural capital | The Canberra Times | Canberra, ACT

Brisbane is fast becoming Australia's new cultural capital | The Canberra Times | Canberra, ACT

Brisbane is positioning itself as a more prominent cultural destination as it prepares to host the 2032 Olympics. The prospect of global attention has added momentum to activity already under way across the city, according to Brisbane Festival artistic director Ebony Bott, who says the city’s cultural scene feels increasingly energetic and ambitious. The Brisbane Festival, running from September 4 to 26, will feature Riverfire, theatre, music, dance and comedy. QAGOMA will also open *Make, Believe, Magic: The Worlds of The Jim Henson Company*, an exhibition featuring Muppets, sets and rare material from the studio behind *Sesame Street* and Kermit the Frog. At the time of the report, the gallery was showing work by Olafur Eliasson and Archie Moore’s *Kith and Kin*, which remains on display until October 18. QAGOMA director Chris Saines says the institution aims to reach broad audiences through varied programming, including exhibitions for children and visitors who may not usually engage with contemporary art. Its recent history includes exhibitions ranging from European masterworks to Marvel, while the Asia Pacific Triennial remains a major part of its program. The gallery also plans to place strong emphasis on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists ahead of the Olympics. Other signs of cultural expansion include the new 1,500-seat Glasshouse Theatre at South Bank, part of the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Brisbane Festival’s Bott says visitors do not need to wait for the Olympics to experience the city’s cultural offerings. For Brisbane, the story is relevant because it highlights how festivals, galleries and new venues are helping shape the city’s identity before 2032, while attracting visitors and providing a larger platform for Queensland artists.

Man charged over alleged rape of woman in Brisbane’s west

Man charged over alleged rape of woman in Brisbane’s west

Queensland Police have charged a 32-year-old man after an alleged sexual assault in Brookfield, in Brisbane’s west. Police said a 23-year-old woman had been walking with a family member about 6:30am when the pair became separated. Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham said police will allege the man approached the woman from behind and dragged her into nearby bushes. The alleged assault continued for some time before the man left the area and went to work, police said. The woman then crossed a creek and bushland to reach Brookfield Showgrounds Oval, where she contacted family and police. Police said they identified the man’s vehicle after it allegedly passed the scene later that day. He was arrested on a nearby street and charged with six counts of rape, as well as stalking, assault with intent to commit rape, assault occasioning bodily harm and deprivation of liberty. All charges relate to one alleged incident, and police said they are not seeking anyone else. The matter was heard in Brisbane Magistrates Court, although the accused did not appear and no bail application was made. He is due to return to court on September 18. Police said the woman had suffered injuries and was receiving medical and psychological support. A crime scene remains in place, with increased police patrols expected in the area. The case is significant for Brisbane because it concerns an alleged attack in a popular walking area of the city’s west. Police have also highlighted the role of community members and dashcam footage in identifying the alleged offender.

Brisbane Man Charged Over Historical Sexual Assault Offences Against Five Girls

Brisbane Man Charged Over Historical Sexual Assault Offences Against Five Girls

A 67-year-old Brisbane man has been charged with 34 historical sexual offences alleged to have occurred from the early 1970s to the late 1980s. Police allege that five girls, who were in their pre-teens or teens at the time, were sexually assaulted by a man they knew. Some of the alleged offences are said to have taken place at a bakery in north Brisbane where the man worked. He was arrested in Bracken Ridge, also in north Brisbane, last week after the matter was reported to police in May last year. The charges include rape, indecent treatment of girls under 16, indecent treatment of girls under 17, threatening violence and deprivation of liberty. The man was denied bail and is due to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on September 28. The allegations have not been tested in court. Detectives from the Boondall Child Protection Investigations Unit are continuing their inquiries. Detective Senior Sergeant Derek Harris said investigators were committed to pursuing all available avenues to seek justice for victim-survivors and acknowledged the courage involved in reporting allegations of this nature. The case is relevant to Brisbane because it concerns alleged offences involving local children and locations in the city’s north. It also highlights the ongoing work of specialist police investigators in examining historical reports and bringing matters before the courts.

Shopper tackles man after alleged assaults at Banyo Woolworths in Brisbane

Shopper tackles man after alleged assaults at Banyo Woolworths in Brisbane

A shopper tackled and restrained a man who allegedly assaulted several people inside a Woolworths supermarket in Banyo, north Brisbane. The incident occurred shortly after 11am on Wednesday in the store’s checkout area. Video footage appears to show the shopper grabbing the alleged attacker and bringing him to the ground. Other bystanders then helped keep the man restrained until police arrived. A nearby phone shop worker, Eric Lou, said he saw the man fighting with two other people before several police officers attended the scene about 10 minutes later. Police arrested 25-year-old Jude Fincher at the supermarket. He has been charged with acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm, two counts of assault, and serious assault of a person over 60. The allegations include assaults on a man in his 70s and a teenage girl. Both were taken to hospital and were reported to be in a stable condition. The case was mentioned in court on Thursday. Woolworths said it was supporting a team member and their family, and had offered counselling to other staff. The company thanked store employees, customers and emergency services for their response, while saying retail workers should be able to work in a safe environment. The incident is relevant to Brisbane because it highlights the impact of violence in everyday public places, including local shops. It also draws attention to the role of staff, customers and emergency services in responding when serious incidents occur.

Brisbane Court to Decide on Drug Trafficker's Appeal for Egg Freezing While Incarcerated

Brisbane Court to Decide on Drug Trafficker's Appeal for Egg Freezing While Incarcerated

In a significant legal battle, Rachel Smith, a woman currently serving a 10-year sentence for drug trafficking, is challenging a decision that prohibits her from freezing her eggs while incarcerated. Smith, who pleaded guilty to her charges in 2021, has been fighting for the right to undergo oocyte cryopreservation, a procedure she believes is essential for her future family planning. The Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) initially denied her request based on legislation that categorizes such procedures as "assisted reproductive technology," which is not permitted for prisoners. After her application was dismissed, Smith sought a judicial review in the Supreme Court, arguing that egg freezing should be considered a preparatory step rather than a direct form of assisted reproduction. Her legal team contended that the procedure does not itself lead to conception and thus should not fall under the restrictive definitions outlined in the law. However, this argument was also rejected, prompting Smith to appeal the decision in the Queensland Court of Appeal. Recently, the Court of Appeal ruled against her, stating that the legislation's language is broad and encompasses any preparatory steps related to assisted reproduction. Despite these setbacks, Smith's determination has led her to apply for special leave to take her case to the High Court of Australia, which has now granted her the opportunity to appeal. This upcoming hearing will be pivotal, as it could set a precedent regarding the reproductive rights of incarcerated individuals. As Smith looks towards her potential parole in 2029, when she will be 39, her case raises important questions about the intersection of reproductive rights and the penal system. The outcome of her appeal could have far-reaching implications for other prisoners seeking similar medical treatments, highlighting the ongoing debate about rights and access to healthcare within correctional facilities.

Australian Teen's Reduced Sentence for UK Woman's Murder Overturned by Court in Brisbane

Australian Teen's Reduced Sentence for UK Woman's Murder Overturned by Court in Brisbane

In a significant legal development, the High Court of Australia has overturned a reduced sentence for a teenager convicted of murdering Emma Lovell, a British woman who was fatally stabbed in her Brisbane home on Boxing Day 2022. Lovell, 41, originally from Suffolk, had moved to Australia in 2011, where she lived with her husband, Lee, and their two daughters. The tragic incident unfolded when Lovell confronted two teenage intruders in her home, leading to a struggle that resulted in her death. Initially sentenced to 14 years in prison, the teenager’s term was controversially reduced to 60% of that time after an appeal, which sparked public outrage and prompted Queensland to introduce stricter youth crime laws. The High Court's recent ruling emphasized that the Court of Appeal had overstepped its bounds in altering the original sentence, reaffirming the gravity of the crime. The second teenager involved in the attack was sentenced to 18 months for burglary and assault but was cleared of murder. Following the court's decision, Lee Lovell expressed a sense of validation for his late wife, noting that the ruling acknowledged the value of Emma's life. As the family prepares to mark the fourth anniversary of her death, they continue to grapple with the emotional aftermath of the tragedy. Lee mentioned that while the ruling brings some closure, the upcoming Boxing Day will still be a challenging reminder of their loss. The case has not only highlighted issues surrounding youth crime in Queensland but has also underscored the profound impact of violence on families and communities. As the Lovell family seeks to reclaim a sense of normalcy, the legal proceedings serve as a poignant reminder of the need for justice and the lasting scars left by such tragedies.

Brisbane Broncos' Ali Brigginshaw Faces Judiciary Over Dangerous Lifting Tackle

Brisbane Broncos' Ali Brigginshaw Faces Judiciary Over Dangerous Lifting Tackle

Brisbane Broncos NRLW star Ali Brigginshaw is currently facing a challenging situation after being referred to the judiciary for a dangerous lifting tackle during the recent Magic Round. This incident occurred during a match against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, where the Broncos secured a decisive 34-4 victory. However, the win was overshadowed by Brigginshaw's tackle on Bulldogs halfback Tayla Preston, which resulted in her being sent to the sin bin. The tackle involved Preston being lifted and driven into the ground head-first, prompting concerns for player safety. At 36 years old, Brigginshaw is in her final season of NRLW before retirement, and she has an impressive record of never missing a game since the league's inception in 2018. The seriousness of the situation is underscored by the grade three dangerous throw charge she now faces. Preston fortunately avoided serious injury, but the repercussions for Brigginshaw could be significant, potentially leading to a lengthy suspension from the game she has dedicated her life to. Brigginshaw is set to present her case at the judiciary on Tuesday night, where she will plead her side regarding the charge. The outcome of this hearing could greatly impact not only her career but also the Broncos' season as they aim to maintain their position at the top of the ladder. Following this week’s match against Canberra, the Broncos will face a grand final rematch with the Sydney Roosters and a derby against the Gold Coast Titans, making the stakes even higher for the team. As the reigning NRLW premiers, the Broncos are keen to navigate this situation carefully, balancing the need for player safety with their competitive aspirations. The coming days will be crucial for both Brigginshaw and the team as they look to move forward amidst these challenges.

Victoria Park Masterplan for Brisbane's Olympic and Paralympic Games Revealed

Victoria Park Masterplan for Brisbane's Olympic and Paralympic Games Revealed

Brisbane is poised for a transformative upgrade with the unveiling of the Victoria Park masterplan, part of a broader $7.1 billion infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing the city in preparation for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The plan emphasizes the creation of green, public spaces, with approximately two-thirds of Victoria Park designated for this purpose. This initiative, jointly funded by state and federal governments, aims to connect the park to the Brisbane CBD and the National Aquatic Centre through pedestrian bridges, fostering greater accessibility for residents and visitors alike. The decision to develop Victoria Park into a new stadium site has not been without controversy. The Crisafulli government’s choice, made in 2025, faced significant opposition from activists concerned about the cultural and historical significance of the area. Protests have highlighted the community's deep ties to the land, culminating in arrests earlier this year. Despite these challenges, the government remains committed to ensuring that the park serves the public good, with Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie emphasizing the importance of making the area more accessible than ever before. Once a closed-off golf course, Victoria Park is set to become a vibrant community hub. The government envisions a space that not only accommodates sporting events during the Games but also supports community activities long after. Plans include expanding York's Hollow wetland and planting an "urban forest" to enhance the park's natural beauty. The focus on creating cycling and pedestrian links to the city and Fortitude Valley further underscores the commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that the park is accessible to all, regardless of age or ability. Public consultation on the draft plan will begin shortly, allowing community members to voice their opinions and contribute to shaping the future of this vital green space. With these developments, Brisbane is on track to redefine its landscape, creating a legacy that extends well beyond the 2032 Games.

Barristers Clash Over Mick Gatto and Gangland Figures at CFMEU Inquiry in Brisbane

Barristers Clash Over Mick Gatto and Gangland Figures at CFMEU Inquiry in Brisbane

In a significant inquiry taking place in Brisbane, lawyer Geoffrey Watson SC has stood firm on his allegations regarding the Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU) and its connections to notorious Melbourne figure Mick Gatto. Watson, who authored the report titled "Rotting from the Top," has accused Gatto of controlling a network of labour-hire companies through intermediaries, a claim he reiterated during a tense cross-examination. The inquiry has highlighted a troubling culture of violence, intimidation, and corruption within the union, particularly in its Queensland and Victorian branches. The courtroom drama intensified as Watson faced aggressive questioning from Simon Wilson KC, representing M1 Trades Group, a firm allegedly linked to Gatto. Watson's report suggests that Gatto's denials of ownership over certain companies are "transparently false," and he has refused to retract any of his findings. The inquiry has revealed that M1 Traffic Control Qld Pty Ltd, a newly established company on the Gold Coast, is owned by individuals closely associated with Gatto, further complicating the narrative surrounding these allegations. Tensions escalated during the proceedings, with both barristers engaging in a heated exchange that prompted intervention from Commissioner Stuart Wood KC. Watson expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the Victorian government regarding his report, which has sparked political controversy, including the recent ousting of former Premier Jacinta Allen. The inquiry has also faced scrutiny over Watson's research methods, with critics questioning the reliability of his findings due to his reliance on handwritten notes and the absence of recorded interviews. Despite the challenges, Watson remains resolute, asserting that the evidence supports his claims of corruption within the CFMEU. As the inquiry unfolds, it continues to shed light on the complex and often murky intersections of labor, politics, and organized crime in Australia.