Residents of Eatons Hill collectively raised $1,825 overnight, with more coming in, to provide essential workers with free coffee as a show of appreciation for their tireless efforts in preparing for and responding to Cyclone Alfred.
The initiative began within the Eatons Hill and Albany Creek Community Facebook Group, spearheaded by administrator Cassie Alexander. The aim was to create a community fund, or “kitty,” to purchase drinks for those working long hours during the severe weather event. This included emergency service personnel, retail workers, healthcare professionals, and volunteers such as State Emergency Service (SES) members.
The community wanted to show gratitude to those who ensured the safety and provision of essential services during this challenging time. Alexander expressed that these workers were under significant pressure and working extended hours to support the community’s needs.
The funds collected are being distributed to local cafes, including Cafe63 Eatons Hill and Whisk & Grind Cafe at White Horse Ranch. Workers in uniform can obtain a complimentary drink from these establishments.
Whisk & Grind Cafe also accepted direct donations at their location, and White Horse Ranch matched the initial donation of $100. Alexander provided her bank account details for those wishing to contribute, promising transparency in using the funds.
Future Community Support Plans
Alexander indicated that she plans to establish a non-profit community assistance program. This would allow for tax-deductible donations, facilitating ongoing support for local workers. She conveyed that the community’s response had been overwhelmingly positive and expressed gratitude to all who had contributed.
Eatons Hill residents of a certain age will remember the Bunya Park Sanctuary, a popular wildlife park and zoo that operated in their suburb for over 25 years but ultimately closed its doors, leaving a legacy of community involvement and environmental change.
Established in 1968, the privately owned Bunya Park Sanctuary quickly became a destination for families and animal lovers. Located on Bunya Pine Court, the park allowed visitors to get up close to native Australian wildlife. A maze near the car park provided extra fun for visitors.
News reports from the time show a strong community connection to the park, with numerous articles detailing local efforts to support and save the sanctuary. These reports suggest a deep affection for the park and its animals.
Despite community efforts, the Bunya Park Sanctuary eventually relocated to Yandina on the Sunshine Coast, near the Ginger Factory. As reported in local papers, this move was accompanied by advertising promoting the new location.
Once bustling with activity, the Eatons Hill site was then partially subdivided for residential development in 1996-97. However, the Pine Rivers Shire Council acquired a portion of the land, recognised for its environmental significance.
A New Chapter: Kumbartcho Sanctuary
Photo Credit: Google Map
This environmentally sensitive land became the foundation for the Kumbartcho Sanctuary, a six-hectare flora and fauna reserve situated on the banks of the South Pine River. Operated by volunteers and staff and owned by the City of Moreton Bay, Kumbartcho Sanctuary carries on the spirit of Bunya Park, providing a space for wildlife and environmental education.
While not the original Bunya Park, Kumbartcho offers families a chance to connect with nature through activities like painting, puzzles, and planting, as well as features such as a suspension bridge and a fairy garden.
Kumbartcho Sanctuary, located at 15 Bunya Pine Ct, Eatons Hill, offers educational programs for schools and includes a community nursery and koala viewing deck. It is open Tuesday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM and Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
The story of Bunya Park Sanctuary reflects the changing landscape of Queensland’s tourist attractions. While the original park is gone, its legacy lives on in the memories of those who visited and the Kumbartcho Sanctuary, which continues to protect local flora and fauna.
Eatons Hill local Zoe Quinn has burst onto the music scene with the release of her highly anticipated second EP, “Morph. ” She captures audiences with her heartfelt lyrics and distinctive sound.
The 22-year-old singer-songwriter and guitarist launched her latest work in late November, showcasing her musical journey and growth through four compelling tracks: “Nothing Ever Lasts,” “New Reality,” “Endless Possibility,” and “Destination: Horizon.”
Quinn’s evocative lyrics, honed during her time in Brisbane, London, and Finland, paint a vivid picture of personal transformation. Each song on the EP acts as a guide through the evolving experiences and changes she has undergone. Produced by industry veteran Steve Kempnich, known for his work with renowned Australian bands like Birds of Tokyo and Powderfinger, and mastered by Matthew Gray, who has collaborated with acclaimed artists such as The Veronicas and Eskimo Joe, “Morph” is poised for success.
Growing up in Eatons Hill, Quinn’s musical foundations were laid through early exposure to the vibrant atmosphere of the Woodford Folk Festival and participation in various music programs at Eatons Hill State School and Albany Creek State High School.
She has also garnered experience performing at various venues and festivals both locally and internationally, including appearances at the Anywhere Festival, Neurum Creek Music Festival, and Redcliffe Festival of Sails. This diverse background has allowed her to connect with audiences across different settings and refine her stage presence.
Throughout her career, Quinn has shared the stage with established Australian acts such as Bob Evans, Nana’s Pie, Lucid Safari, and Woodshed, performing at renowned venues like Solbar, Black Bear Lodge, Ric’s Backyard, and The Triffid Garden. These opportunities have provided valuable experience and exposure, further solidifying her position in the Australian music scene.
She cites rising Gen Z artists Holly Humberstone and Gracie Abrams as major influences, drawing inspiration from their emotive storytelling and introspective lyrics.
“Morph” seamlessly blends intimate narratives with atmospheric indie-pop melodies, showcasing Quinn’s vulnerability and raw talent. The EP’s minimalist yet impactful production allows her heartfelt lyrics and captivating vocals to take centre stage.
Quinn recently completed her “Morph” tour across Queensland, with notable performances at Miami Marketta on the Gold Coast and Solbar Lounge on the Sunshine Coast. These shows allowed fans to connect with her music on a deeper level and experience the magic of “Morph” live.
“Morph” can stream on Spotify, Apple Music, and other major platforms. Fans can stay updated on Zoe Quinn’s journey by following her on social media @zoequinnmusic or visiting her website at zoequinnmusic.com.
Celebrate 30 years of “Brother Sister” with The Brand New Heavies’ 2025 Australian tour. Live performances, timeless hits, and jazz-funk grooves await in Eatons Hill!
The Brand New Heavies, pioneers of the acid jazz movement of the 1990s, are returning to Australia in February 2025 to play shows to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their seminal album, “Brother Sister.”
Released in 1994, Brother Sister was a seminal moment in the band’s career, driven by timelessness through singles like “Dream On Dreamer,” “Midnight At The Oasis,” and “Back To Love.” The album had huge success, peaking at number four on the UK charts, selling more than one million copies, and receiving a BRIT Award nomination.
The ‘Brother Sister 30’ Tour will be the first Australian tour to feature original members Andrew Levy and Simon Bartholomew with acclaimed vocalist Angela Ricci. Audiences can expect a full live band performance of the “Brother Sister” album, supported by other hits and fan favourites from their extensive catalogue.
The tour schedule is as follows:
Thursday, 13 February 2025: Eatons Hill Hotel, Brisbane
Reflecting on the milestone, the band expressed their enthusiasm: “We can’t believe that ‘Brother Sister’ is going to be 30 years young! What better way to celebrate than coming to see us play the album in its entirety and all our hits.” Their excitement is palpable, and they can’t wait to share this special moment with their fans.
Since its birth in 1990, The Brand New Heavies have brought sophisticated ’70s funk grooves to modern ears, lit up dance floors, and inspired fans worldwide. Success with Brother Sister was followed by the platinum-certified Shelter album, which includes such hits as “Sometimes,” “You Are The Universe,” and their cover of “You’ve Got A Friend.” The band’s enduring legacy shines brightly through powerful releases, including 2019’s TBNH, which celebrated a new chapter with the talented Angela Ricci.
In 2023, The Brand New Heavies entered the new era of rediscovery with Never Stop… The Best Of. They further toured the sold-out ‘Never Stop… The Greatest Hits’ Tour with the London Concert Orchestra, adding to their timelessness that left audiences in awe over their timeless music.
Catch them when The Brand New Heavies, with their unique sounds of jazz, funk, and soul, return to the Australian stage. The iconic album will be commemorated as a landmark thirty years after it was produced and continues to be played and enjoyed today.
The global hip-hop icon Nelly will bring his “Where The Party At?” world tour to Brisbane’s Eatons Hill Hotel, marking the start of his highly anticipated Australian leg.
The tour coincides with the 25th anniversary of Nelly’s groundbreaking debut album, “Country Grammar,” which catapulted the St. Louis rapper to international fame. Known for hits like “Hot in Herre,” “Dilemma,” and “Ride with Me,” Nelly’s setlist will take fans on a nostalgic journey through his chart-topping career.
Joining him on stage will be the reunited St. Lunatics, the rap collective he formed with childhood friends in the 1990s. Supporting acts include early 2000s star Chingy and Grammy-winning producer Jermaine Dupri, who collaborated with Nelly on hits like “Grillz.”
Nelly’s Australian Tour Schedule
Date
Venue
City/State
Saturday, 22 March 2025
Eatons Hill Hotel
Brisbane, QLD
Tuesday, 25 March 2025
Hordern Pavilion
Sydney, NSW
Thursday, 27 March 2025
John Cain Arena
Melbourne, VIC
Saturday, 29 March 2025
HBF Stadium
Perth, WA
Nelly’s Past Brisbane Visits
This isn’t Nelly’s first trip to Brisbane. The rapper previously performed at the Riverstage during his 2015 tour, alongside Lupe Fiasco and B.o.B. During that visit, he was spotted taking a break at the Brisbane International tennis final, showcasing his laid-back, community-focused approach to touring. Fans from his earlier shows recall his high-energy performances and intimate crowd interactions, solidifying his popularity with Australian audiences.
Most recently, in January 2023, Nelly headlined Juicy Fest in Brisbane with a lineup that included Ja Rule and Bow Wow, drawing strong nostalgic support from fans of early 2000s hip-hop.
Tickets and Pre-Sales
Tickets for the tour are available this week. A range of pre-sales, including Live Nation and Spotify, began on 12 December and close at 9 am on 13 December. General tickets go on sale at 10 am on 13 December through Live Nation Australia. Fans are urged to act quickly, as the Brisbane event at Eatons Hill Hotel is expected to sell out.
Born Cornell Haynes Jr., Nelly emerged on the global music scene in 2000 with his multi-platinum album Country Grammar. Known for blending hip-hop with pop sensibilities, his career has earned three Grammy Awards and numerous chart-topping singles. Beyond music, Nelly has expanded into acting and business ventures while remaining a prominent figure in hip-hop culture.
Recently celebrating his 50th birthday, Nelly has also hinted at a Las Vegas residency with wife Ashanti, whom he married in late 2023. The couple welcomed their first child earlier this year, further highlighting a milestone period in Nelly’s life both personally and professionally.
Community Excitement Builds
As Brisbane prepares to host the launch of Nelly’s 2025 Australian tour, local fans are thrilled for the chance to revisit the soundtrack of their youth. Eatons Hill Hotel, a well-loved venue in the community, will set the stage for an unforgettable night of music and celebration.
The Eatons Hill community is again coming together to support “Emily’s Tree,” a toy drive at Whisk & Grind Cafe that honours the memory of five-year-old Emily Borg and brings joy to children at the Queensland Children’s Hospital.
Emily Borg was a beloved member of the Eatons Hill community who tragically passed away from neuroblastoma, a rare childhood cancer, in 2023. After her diagnosis, Emily underwent intensive treatment, including chemotherapy and surgery. Despite the medical team’s efforts, she developed a rare infection following a bone marrow transplant. Emily’s mother, Emma Cantrell, shared that Emily passed away peacefully, surrounded by love.
To honour her memory and continue her spirit of kindness, Emily’s family started “Emily’s Tree” at Whisk & Grind Cafe at 6 Bunya Park Drive, Eatons Hill.
Last year, the community donated thousands of gifts to “Emily’s Tree,” filling the toy cupboard at the Queensland Children’s Hospital and providing monthly deliveries throughout the year. Emily’s family was overwhelmed by its generosity and positive impact on the children and their families. This year, they hope to continue this tradition of giving.
They are asking for brand-new toys to ensure the safety of the hospital children. The cafe will also list suggested toys based on the children’s interests.
Anyone wishing to donate can drop off new toys at Whisk & Grind Cafe during business hours. All donations will be delivered to the Queensland Children’s Hospital on 18 December.
The Queensland International Elvis Festival is set to make its highly anticipated debut at Eatons Hill Hotel, bringing a weekend packed with Elvis Presley-themed entertainment to the Australian community.
This three-day festival will feature internationally acclaimed performers who will pay tribute to the legendary King of Rock ‘n’ Roll in a series of concerts designed to capture different moments of his iconic career.
Scheduled to take place from 25 to 27 October 2024, the festival will highlight five unique shows over three days. Each performance will offer a different perspective on Elvis’s life and music, ensuring that there is something for every fan of the King.
The venue, Eatons Hill Hotel, known for its top-tier facilities, will host the festival. Attendees will have the convenience of accommodation, cafes, and restaurants, making the event a full weekend experience for fans travelling from near and far.
International Line-up of Elvis Tribute Artists
Despite having never performed in Australia, Elvis Presley’s popularity remains immense. His music continues to captivate generations of fans, keeping his legacy alive nearly five decades after his death. Australian fans have embraced his films, music, and style, with tribute artists and festivals like the Queensland Elvis Festival playing a key role in maintaining his influence. This enduring fascination with Elvis demonstrates the lasting impact of his cultural presence, even in places he never visited.
One of the key attractions of the Queensland International Elvis Festival is the impressive line-up of tribute artists. Heading the bill is Emilio Santoro, a rising star in the Elvis Tribute Artist (ETA) world. Hailing from the UK, Santoro began gaining widespread attention in 2019 when he won the Images of the King World Championship Non-Pro Division at just 17 years of age. Since then, his career has soared, with victories across Europe and the United States. He has established himself as a premier young Elvis tribute artist, captivating audiences with his authentic and electrifying performances.
Joining him are Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE) champions, including Jay Dupuis, Cote Deonath, and Ted Torres, all travelling from the United States for the event. Each of these performers has earned recognition for their portrayals of Elvis, bringing to life different stages of his career—from his early rockabilly days to his famous Las Vegas performances. Fans can expect an authentic and dynamic representation of Elvis’s music and personality, with these seasoned tribute artists delivering some of the King’s most beloved hits.
Photo Credit: Eatons Hill Hotel/Facebook
Five Unique Concerts Celebrating Elvis’s Legacy
The festival will feature five distinct concerts, each focusing on a different aspect of Elvis Presley’s career.
“All Out Elvis”will kick things off, taking the audience on a journey through the most iconic moments of Elvis’s life. It will showcase his rise to stardom and his influence on the music industry.
“From Tupelo to Vegas” will follow, tracing Elvis’s evolution from his humble beginnings in Tupelo, Mississippi, to his glitzy Las Vegas performances.
For those interested in the global reach of Elvis’s music, “Elvis On Tour” will provide a snapshot of his life on the road and the impact his live shows had around the world.
A special performance of “Elvis: The Story” will offer an in-depth exploration of the King’s life, bringing together music, history, and storytelling in a concert that Australian audiences have never seen before.
The final event, “It’s Carnival Time,” will celebrate Elvis’s film career, highlighting the songs that made him a pop culture icon on-screen and off.
The Queensland International Elvis Festival is organised by Dom Arpa Productions, one of Australia’s leading concert promoters. With a reputation for bringing large-scale musical events to life, Arpa’s team aims to make this festival an annual tradition that will attract both local and international visitors.
British pop-punk band Busted will perform at Eatons Hill Hotel in Brisbane for the first time ever, as part of their highly anticipated Australian tour.
The band, formed in Essex in 2000, rose to fame in the early 2000s with hits such as *What I Go to School For* and *Crashed the Wedding*. Despite their success in the UK and worldwide, the group has never performed live in Australia until now.
Their debut Australian tour includes stops in Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney, giving long-time fans an opportunity they’ve been waiting over two decades for.
They will perform in Brisbane on Friday, 1st November.
Busted’s popularity soared after their debut single, “What I Go to School For,” reached #3 on the UK charts. This was quickly followed by chart-topping hits like “Year 3000,” “Crashed the Wedding,” and “Thunderbirds Are Go.” Over the years, the band has sold over five million records worldwide, earned two BRIT Awards, and maintained its status as one of the UK’s most beloved pop-punk acts.
After a 20-year career, the band recently marked its anniversary by releasing its Greatest Hits 2.0 album, which topped the UK charts in 2023. This album brought collaborations with notable acts such as Simple Plan and All Time Low.
Busted expressed their excitement for their long-awaited Australian tour, noting their surprise that they had taken so long to perform in the country. They have promised an energetic show, inviting fans to “jump around and lose their minds” as they relive the hits that made them famous.
Support from Australian Talent
Melbourne-based pop-punk band Between You & Me is joining Busted on their Australian tour. This rising local band is set to open all three of Busted’s Australian shows, bringing their flavour of high-energy music to the stage.
Tickets for the Brisbane show at Eatons Hill Hotel and the other tour dates went on sale on 9th July, with pre-sales happening earlier for eager fans.
This marks a milestone in Australian pop-punk culture, with long-time listeners finally able to experience the iconic UK band live on their home soil.
The show at Eatons Hill Hotel promises to be a highlight of Busted’s tour, as Brisbane fans prepare for what will likely be a night filled with nostalgia and fan favourites from the band’s extensive catalogue.
A grassroots initiative in Eatons Hill has encouraged children to ride bikes to school in a revival of the bike bus concept, with numbers tripling since its launch.
Mindy Robinson, a mother of three, started the Eatons Hill bike bus in late April 2024 with just five children, inspired by a similar program in the US. Her initiative quickly grew, and now more than fifteen children participate.
Robinson’s motivation stemmed from her two older boys’ desire to ride their bikes to school and the inspirational videos of Sam Balto, a well-known bike bus organiser in Portland, USA.
Robinson highlighted that the kids are not just getting to school; they are developing friendships, overcoming fears, gaining confidence, and learning independence. She noted the community’s support and the joy it brings to the children, who look forward to the twice-a-week rides.
Challenges and Solutions
Starting a bike bus in Australia comes with its own set of challenges, such as the need for waivers, Blue Cards, and insurance. Robinson noted that Australia’s public liability laws differ significantly from the USA, creating additional hurdles. She expressed the need for government support or grants to help officiate the program, allowing local parents to volunteer without worrying about liability in case of mishaps.
Despite these challenges, Robinson found ways to ensure safety and compliance. The Eatons Hill bike bus uses footpaths and lollipop crossings, contrasting with Balto’s use of neighbourhood greenways in Portland, which feature speed bumps and traffic diverters to reduce cars on the road.
Community Impact and Future Prospects
The Eatons Hill bike bus has had a noticeable impact on the local community. Parents have reported their children being more eager to wake up and prepare for school on bike bus days. One parent shared that their child was never as enthusiastic in the mornings as on bike bus days.
The success of the bike bus in Eatons Hill has led to discussions about expanding the initiative. Robinson expressed hope that with government support, more bike buses could be set up in other suburbs, helping to reduce traffic congestion during school drop-off times and promoting healthier lifestyles for children.
The mother highlighted that the school commute in Brisbane makes up one in four car trips during the morning peak hour, and the roads are noticeably quieter during school holidays. She sees bike buses and walking buses as opportunities to reverse the trend of kids being chauffeured to the school car drop-off point.
Eatons Hill and the broader Moreton Bay area are basking in the glow of success as the Comiskey Group clinched five prestigious awards at the annual Queensland Hotels Association (QHA) Awards. This remarkable achievement underscores the group’s commitment to excellence in hospitality and tourism.
The Comiskey Group, renowned for its development and management of Eatons Hill Hotel and Sandstone Point Hotel, achieved top honours in multiple categories, showcasing its diverse strengths.
The group proudly took home awards for Best Family Dining with The Doonan, Best Mid-Range Accommodation and Best Tourism Initiative for Sandstone Point Holiday Resort, Best Retail Liquor Outlet for Harry Brown Liquor at Eatons Hill Hotel, and the Hall of Fame for Best Entertainment Venue awarded to Sandstone Point Hotel.
The Doonan, a relatively new addition to the Comiskey Group’s portfolio, was honoured with Best Family Dining. Opened just last year, The Doonan marks the first collaboration where Comiskey Group partnered with Josj Jones and Neville Allen. The group’s pride in this achievement was palpable, particularly as it was the venue’s inaugural entry into any awards competition.
The Best Retail Liquor Outlet award for Harry Brown Liquor at Eatons Hill Hotel is a testament to the venue’s excellence, securing this title for the second consecutive year. Following a successful renovation, the store had previously earned the national title and is poised to compete for the Australian title again this year.
Sandstone Point Hotel’s induction into the Hall of Fame for Best Entertainment Venue is a notable highlight. Having won this category three years in a row, the hotel will now take a break from this nomination to allow other venues a chance to shine. Similarly, the Sandstone Point Holiday Resort’s recognition as Best Mid-Range Accommodation for the third year running means it too will be inducted into the Hall of Fame next year.
Director Rob Comiskey expressed immense pride in these accomplishments, highlighting the importance of the family-friendly environment that the Comiskey Group strives to create across all its venues. The dedication and hard work of the group’s 686 employees were also acknowledged as keys to their continued success.
The recognition of Eatons Hill Hotel’s Harry Brown Liquor store, coupled with the consistent accolades for Sandstone Point Hotel and Holiday Resort, underscores the Comiskey Group’s ongoing commitment to providing outstanding hospitality experiences. This year’s achievements not only celebrate past successes but also set a high bar for the future.
