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Yeerongpilly Brewery Takes Top Honours at Royal Queensland Beer Awards

Photo Credit: Slipstream Brewing Co./Instagram

Slipstream Brewing Company, a small but mighty brewery located in Yeerongpilly, has claimed the prestigious title of Grand Champion Beer at the 2025 Royal Queensland Beer Awards with its Classic Saison.

Slipstream Brewing Classic Saison — *Photo Credit: Slipstream Brewing Co./Instagram*

A Major Win for Slipstream Brewing

In a significant achievement for Yeerongpilly, Slipstream Brewing Company has secured the Grand Champion Beer award at the 2025 Royal Queensland Beer Awards. Competing against 530 entries from 67 Australian breweries, Slipstream’s Classic Saison stood out among the best, impressing judges with its balance of complexity and drinkability.

Gavin Croft, head brewer at Slipstream Brewing, described the Classic Saison as a “traditional European style” beer, featuring a yeast-driven profile with hints of lemon, pepper, and orange. According to Mr Croft, the beer’s unique combination of refreshing and complex flavours makes it ideal for both casual drinking and more discerning palates.

The beers at the Royal Queensland Beer Awards were assessed through a blind tasting process, with judges evaluating flavour, aroma, mouthfeel, and style alignment. Slipstream’s Classic Saison not only claimed the top title but also earned accolades for Champion European Style Ale and Best Queensland Beer.

A Brewing Legacy in Yeerongpilly

Founded in 2017 by Deale and Elisa Stanley-Hunt, Slipstream Brewing Company has grown from a local favourite to a nationally recognised name. Inspired by craft beer trends from the United States, Slipstream Brewing has made a mark with hop-forward, bold flavours. Their Yeerongpilly venue remains a popular community hub, combining fresh beers with a welcoming atmosphere.

Slipstream has expanded beyond Brisbane. In 2024, they opened a second venue on the Sunshine Coast, Slipstream Social House.

Champion Beers and More

In addition to the Grand Champion title, Slipstream won five major trophies at the awards. Their Scooter American Red Ale was named Champion Amber Dark Ale. The brewery itself was recognised as the Champion Small/Medium Brewery. Beyond the major wins, Slipstream also collected ten gold, eleven silver, and two bronze medals for various beers.

Slipstream’s dedication to quality from start to finish has been key to its success. As Mr Croft notes, the team’s shared goal is crafting the best beer possible.

The brewery’s core range features year-round favourites, such as Regatta Lager, Billy Cart Pale Ale, Laguna Tropical Pale Ale, G-Force IPA, and the award-winning Scooter American Red Ale. These offerings continue solidifying Slipstream’s reputation as an Australian craft beer scene staple.

2025 Royal Queensland Beer Awards — *Photo Credit: Slipstream Brewing Co./Instagram*

The Community Impact

Slipstream Brewing’s success has put Yeerongpilly on the map as a destination for craft beer enthusiasts. The local community takes pride in the recognition. Located on Wilkie Street, the brewery’s bar and kitchen remain a lively spot for locals and visitors alike.

As for what’s next, Mr Croft jokes about using the $5000 prize money for staff pay raises, reflecting the celebratory mood within the team. With the brewing community buzzing, Slipstream’s latest achievement only adds to its reputation for quality and consistency.

Published 2-Apr-2025

Discover the Shokupan-Focused Cafe Making Waves in Dutton Park

Photo Credit: Nos. Bakehouse & Cafe/Instagram

Nos. Bakehouse & Cafe in Dutton Park has become a neighbourhood hit, serving fresh shokupan and inventive Japanese-inspired dishes since late 2024.

Dutton Park Welcomes a New Favourite: Nos. Bakehouse & Cafe

In Dutton Park, Nos. Bakehouse & Cafe is making waves with its daily-baked Japanese milk bread and creative menu that blends tradition and flavour. Since opening in December 2024, the spot has gained attention for its unique take on Japanese-inspired comfort food and cosy, retro-style interiors.

*Photo Credit: Nos. Bakehouse & Cafe/Instagram*

A Nostalgic Transformation

Located on Annerley Road, Nos. Bakehouse stands in what was once a photo-developing studio. Co-owners Susan Koh and Hank Lyu have turned the space into a warm, inviting café with timber accents and red booth seating. A backyard courtyard offers relaxed picnic-style seating, perfect for casual meetups or solo coffee runs.

Culinary Delights: Shokupan and More

The café’s signature is shokupan—Japanese milk bread made fresh each morning without preservatives. It’s the base for a lineup of sandos with fillings like beef bulgogi, prawn cocktail, and vegan-friendly options such as paprika mushroom. You can also turn any sandwich into a bento box, served with miso soup, salad, and tamagoyaki.

Sweets are just as popular, especially the cinnamon French toast topped with brûléed custard and house-made biscuit crumble, which regulars say is a must-try. Other favourites include yuzu cheesecake, purple potato Basque cheesecake, and twice-baked chocolate cake.

Beverage Selection

Nos. Bakehouse serves coffee using Melbourne’s Five Senses beans and specialty drinks like crème brûlée iced long black and lavender iced latte. Their matcha—sourced from Kyoto—is available with a berry purée or floral foam topping.

You’ll find Nos. Bakehouse & Cafe at 109 Annerley Road, Dutton Park. It’s open Tuesday to Sunday, from 7:00 am to 2:30 pm, and closed on Mondays.

Published 31-March-2025

Princess Alexandra Hospital Expansion Faces Funding Scrutiny Amid Wider Hospital Project Concerns

Photo Credit: Metro South

The expansion of the Princess Alexandra Hospital, intended to deliver approximately 249 extra beds, is being closely monitored as Queensland grapples with significant cost escalations and potential delays across a large-scale hospital expansion program.

The Queensland government’s Capacity Expansion Program (CEP), initially cost $9.78 billion, now faces significant financial pressures, but the Health Minister has confirmed the projects will continue.

Statewide Project Costs Rise

Princess Alexandra Hospital — *Photo Credit:* *Metro South*

The Queensland government’s Capacity Expansion Program (CEP), initially set at $9.78 billion to provide 2,200 additional hospital beds by 2028, has encountered substantial financial challenges.

The program, launched in 2022 by the previous government, encompasses constructing new hospitals in Bundaberg, Toowoomba, and Coomera, expansions at 11 existing hospitals, and a new Queensland Cancer Centre. The current government has indicated that the total cost could reach $16 billion, prompting an independent review initiated late last year.

Princess Alexandra Hospital Expansion in Context

The planned expansion of the Princess Alexandra Hospital, aiming for 249 additional beds, forms part of this larger state-wide program. Like other projects in the CEP, the expansion is now subject to revised funding assessments and project reviews. The health minister indicated that the previous government had delayed all CEP projects.

The current government has stated that it is now looking at what is needed to allocate the funding to complete these projects, including the Princess Alexandra Hospital.

Funding and Project Reviews

The Health Minister stated that the previous government did not fully fund the projects included in the CEP. The independent review is now assessing the projects, including the Princess Alexandra Hospital expansion, to determine the necessary funding and timelines. The government has committed to delivering the required hospital beds across the state, but the increased costs and existing delays present significant challenges.

Published Date 25-March-2025

State School Preference Grows in Annerley

Photo Credit: Brisbane State High School

More than half of secondary school students living in Annerley are enrolled in state schools, reflecting a growing preference for public education in the inner-south Brisbane suburb.

*Photo Credit: Brisbane South State Secondary College*

Public Schooling Gains Momentum

Annerley has recorded a significant inclination towards government high school education, with 53.2 per cent of secondary students in the suburb attending state schools. This trend aligns with a broader pattern seen across parts of Brisbane’s southside, where access to high-performing public schools is influencing family decisions on where to live and educate their children.

Brisbane South State Secondary College Relieves Pressure

The nearby Brisbane South State Secondary College (BSSSC) in Dutton Park was opened in 2021 to alleviate enrolment pressures on Brisbane State High School (BSHS), which continues to exceed its capacity. In 2024, BSSSC enrolled 968 students, with a capacity for 1524, and 62 per cent of those students lived outside its catchment area.

BSHS, located within reach of Annerley, had 3521 students enrolled last year—well over its designated capacity of 3000. Nearly half of its student population resided outside the catchment zone, gaining admission through academic, sporting or cultural merit programs.

students performing experiment — *Photo Credit: Brisbane South State Secondary College*

State Schools Outpace Private in Several Suburbs

Annerley’s trend is echoed in suburbs such as Mansfield and Wishart, where over 79 per cent of students attend government high schools. Mansfield State High, for example, had an enrolment of 3651 students last year, with 29 per cent coming from outside its designated zone. The school is recognised for its specialised programs, including French immersion.

In contrast, some of Brisbane’s wealthier suburbs, like Ascot and East Brisbane, lean heavily towards independent schooling, with more than 40 per cent of students in these areas attending private schools.

*Photo Credit: Brisbane State High School*

Community Response and Catchment Pressures

The appeal of top-performing state schools, particularly BSHS, has led to rising housing demand in their catchment areas.

In West End, 83.8 per cent of students opt for state education, and the BSHS catchment has become a key real estate drawcard. In response, the school has implemented strict enrolment policies, including proof of residency and statutory declarations, to address enrolment fraud.

While Annerley is not within the BSHS catchment, its proximity to schools like BSSSC has contributed to the area’s steady public school enrolment rate.

state school students — *Photo Credit: Brisbane State High School*

Future Planning and Infrastructure Considerations

To accommodate rising student numbers in Brisbane’s inner south, the Queensland schools planning reference committee has flagged the potential need for a new primary school in the South Brisbane, West End and Highgate Hill area within the next decade. This follows a $34 million expansion of West End State School in 2022, increasing its capacity to 1730 students.

Community groups have raised concerns about the pressure on schools, particularly as council-led high-density developments progress across the Kurilpa peninsula.

Published 26-Mar-2025

Spectacularly Transformed Annerley Home Showcases Suburb’s Rising Value

Photo Credit: Facebook / Jaqueline Whyte Photographer

A dilapidated 1940s cottage in Annerley has been spectacularly transformed into a luxury five-bedroom home, highlighting both the owners’ dedication and the suburb’s dramatic rise in property values.

**41 Cosker Street. Annerley before it was renovated by the Grestes.**
Photo Credit: Ray White

Lydia and Brendan Greste purchased the rundown property at 41 Cosker Street for $675,000 in February 2021, when they were just 26 years old. At that time, Annerley’s median house price was $782,500. Four years later, that median has skyrocketed to $1.29 million—an increase of over $500,000.

“We always knew we were going to turn this into something special because this is what Brendan does for a living,” said Lydia Greste. “He takes an old Queenslander and gives it new life, while keeping a bit of its original charm.”

**41 Cosker Street. Annerley after renovation.**
Photo Credit: Facebook / Jaqueline Whyte Photographer

The renovation journey took twice as long as expected, with the couple initially planning to complete the project in two years. Instead, they spent the first 18 months lifting the house and making a small portion liveable before embarking on major extensions and improvements.

What was once a time capsule with retro colours, stucco render, and newspaper-lined bathroom walls from 1941 is now an elegant “Hamplander” style home featuring:

Five bedrooms and two bathrooms
A plunge pool
Raked ceilings
A fireplace
A gourmet kitchen with stone benchtops
An indoor bar with wine fridge
A main bedroom with bay window
A dedicated dog wash area

Photo Credit: Facebook / Jaqueline Whyte Photographer

The couple faced numerous challenges during the renovation, including battles with council to remove post-1945 stucco rendering and navigating the 2022 floods, which filled their newly dug pool hole with water. They also welcomed their baby, Evie, during the final year of construction.

“We went from going out every weekend to working every weekend. But this was one brief moment in our lives when we could invest four years – and so we did,” Lydia explained.

The property is now headed to auction on March 15, marketed by Pat Ivey of Harcourts Prestige, who describes the transformation as a “one-in-a-million masterpiece” in what has become a blue-chip suburb.

“House medians in the suburb have risen a few hundred thousand dollars since they bought it. And then if you add in the construction costs, you are getting a lot of value and equity with this property,” Ivey said. “I think there’s lots of growth still to come through in that corridor too as it has become a blue-chip pocket.”

The Grestes plan to undertake a similar project on a smaller scale now that they have a young child, recognising that today’s market conditions would make acquiring a similar property much more difficult.

Published 11-March-2025

Fairfield Families Disappointed by Library Session Cuts

Photo Credit: First 5 Forever

Fairfield families face reduced children’s literacy sessions due to widespread library program changes, driven by budget constraints and staff restructuring.

Changes in Fairfield and Across Brisbane

The popular “Books Babies Rhymes” (BBR) program at Fairfield Library has been reduced from two weekly sessions to one, reflecting a broader trend of cuts to children’s programs across Brisbane. This change occurred after December 25th and is part of a series of adjustments impacting various libraries. Other libraries, such as Ashgrove and Carindale, have also experienced reductions in similar programs.

The changes to children’s programs, particularly the “First 5 Forever” initiative, have prompted concerns from parents who rely on these sessions to support their children’s early literacy development. The “First 5 Forever” program, which provides story time, rhyme time, and baby play, has decreased from 104 weekly sessions to 76 across the city.

Budgetary Pressures and Staff Morale

Brisbane City Council faces significant budgetary pressures, leading to a restructuring of library services. While the council denies claims of a $17 million cut to the library services budget, they acknowledge the need to balance service delivery with financial responsibility.

This comes as the council has also reduced capital expenditures by $321 million in the past year, requiring additional funding from state and federal governments to complete major projects.

The state government has contributed $5 million state-wide for the “First 5 Forever” program, but the council must cover staffing and additional costs. The council stated that funding from the state government had reduced since 2019, but the State Library of Queensland refuted that claim, stating funding had remained consistent.

A recent survey by The Services Union revealed a significant decline in staff morale, with half of the council’s librarians wanting to leave their positions. The survey highlighted issues such as increased workloads, physical injuries, and high levels of customer aggression.

Staffing numbers have also decreased, with a reduction from 261 full-time equivalent positions two years ago to 237 in the current financial year. The council’s restructuring plans have further contributed to staff stress and uncertainty. Library staff left the job in late 2023, but an agreement with the council resulted in pay increases over the next two years.

Community Impact and Future Outlook

The reduction in children’s programs has disappointed parents, who value these sessions for fostering early literacy skills. Parents have reported that these sessions are often well-attended, highlighting their popularity within the community.

The Brisbane City Council has written to the state government, seeking a “fairer funding deal” to support the continuation of these programs. The council has stated it will continue to provide 76 weekly sessions across Brisbane libraries, ensuring every library except Mt Coot-tha offers at least one weekly session.

Published Date 03-March-2025

Tactical First Aid Kits Introduced for Queensland Police After Annerley Incident

Photo Credit: ShanePrior/Facebook

Queensland Police officers will soon be equipped with personal tactical first aid kits following a critical shooting incident in Annerley. The move comes after an officer used a personally purchased tourniquet to save a colleague’s life when responding to a trespassing call.

Tactical First Aid Kits introduced after Annerley incident — *Photo Credit: ShanePrior/Facebook*

Background: Annerley Shooting Incident

The decision to introduce personal first aid kits follows an incident in Annerley, where Acting Sergeant Liam Bailey was shot in the leg while responding to a trespassing report. The event unfolded in the early hours when A/Sgt Bailey and Constable Boyd Harrington-Karaitiana attended a call in Tamar Street regarding a man behaving erratically.

During the confrontation, the 26-year-old man allegedly attempted to seize A/Sgt Bailey’s firearm. In the ensuing struggle, the weapon discharged, striking A/Sgt Bailey in the leg. Cst Harrington-Karaitiana then shot the man twice in the stomach before additional officers arrived and subdued him with a taser.

Both officers and the suspect were transported to Princess Alexandra Hospital, where A/Sgt Bailey underwent surgery and remains in stable condition. Cst Harrington-Karaitiana was treated for a bite wound and later discharged.

The Push for Tactical First Aid Kits

The shooting reignited calls from the Queensland Police Union (QPU) for frontline officers to carry personal tactical first aid kits, which will now be provided as part of a $5.4 million investment over the next five years. The kits will contain:

Tourniquets to control life-threatening bleeding
Specialised bandages for severe wounds
Trauma shears to cut through clothing and gear

Although tactical first aid kits have been available in police vehicles, they were not personally issued to officers. In A/Sgt Bailey’s case, retrieving the station-issued kit was not an option due to the urgency of the situation.

Queensland Police Minister Dan Purdie confirmed that officers will have the choice to carry the kits but will not be mandated to do so. Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski stated that officers had expressed a strong need for these kits, which could be used in high-risk situations involving both police and the public.

Annerley police safety — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

Police Union Applauds Rapid Action

The Queensland Police Union (QPU) has been advocating for personal tactical first aid kits for officers, particularly following cases where emergency medical intervention was necessary. In this instance, Cst Harrington-Karaitiana’s decision to purchase his tourniquet saved A/Sgt Bailey’s life.

The union has welcomed the swift response from authorities, noting that similar proposals often take years of committee discussions before action is taken. The Annerley incident highlighted the immediate need for such resources, with medical professionals confirming that the timely application of the tourniquet played a crucial role in stabilising Bailey before further treatment.

Looking Ahead: Implementation and Training

The $5.4 million program will fund 12,500 tactical first aid kits over five years, with frontline officers as the priority recipients. While carrying the kits remains optional, police will undergo specialised training to ensure they can apply tourniquets and other emergency treatments effectively.

Authorities believe this measure will significantly improve survival rates in critical situations where officers or civilians sustain life-threatening injuries.

Published 28-Feb-2025

Annerley Patients Benefit from New Medical Scanner and Tax Removal

Photo Credit: MPDavidCrisafulli/ Facebook

Princess Alexandra Hospital in Annerley has installed a new $4 million medical scanner, replacing a 13-year-old device. The state government has also eliminated a tax on visits to local doctors.

Improved Hospital Technology

Annerley Patients Benefit from New Medical Scanner and Tax Removal — *Photo Credit:* *MPTimNicholls/ Facebook*

The new Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) medical scanner at the Princess Alexandra Hospital represents a significant upgrade in diagnostic technology. The machine, which cost $4 million, will assist doctors in diagnosing, staging, and restaging various conditions, particularly cancers. It will benefit patients across oncology, haematology, urology, neurology, and cardiology departments.

The hospital’s nuclear medicine technologist stated that the hospital used to perform five scans per day in 2011 and now performs approximately 24 per day, and anticipates this number to increase due to the new machine’s faster scanning. The new scanner offers higher-quality images, faster scan times, and a reduced radiation dose compared to the previous model. The hospital staff are pleased with the new equipment and its potential to improve patient care. The new scanner was installed this week.

Changes to GP Fees

In addition to the new scanner, the state government has passed legislation to remove a planned tax on visits to general practitioners. The government stated that this decision was made to reduce families’ financial burden and alleviate pressure on hospital emergency departments. The government criticised the previous Labor government’s record on healthcare, citing issues such as maintenance backlogs, ambulance ramping, and surgery waiting lists.

The current government claims it addresses these issues through initiatives like the Open Hospitals website, a $100 million boost for elective surgeries, and removing the GP tax. The Minister for Health and Ambulance Services stated that they have acted on the requests of GPs by eliminating the tax.

Community Impact

The improvements at the Princess Alexandra Hospital and the removal of the GP tax are expected to impact the Annerley community and surrounding areas positively. The new scanner will provide faster and more accurate diagnoses, while removing the tax will make healthcare more accessible. The government claims these changes demonstrate its commitment to improving healthcare services for Queenslanders.

Published Date 25-Feb-2025

Annerley-Stephens History Group Connects Community Through Local Stories

Photo Credit: Annerley Stephens History Group/ Facebook

The Annerley-Stephens History Group is actively engaging residents in the preservation of local heritage. It plans to document the impact of the 1973 Brisbane tornado, which dramatically affected Annerley and surrounding suburbs.

History Room and Local Landmarks

Annerley-Stephens History Group Connects Community Through Local Stories — *Photo Credit:* *Annerley Stephens History Group/ Facebook*

The Annerley-Stephens History Group operates a History Room at the Yeronga Community Centre, a central point for local historical research and community engagement. The room houses a collection of local history books and displays, including a recent addition showcasing the plaque at the Juliette Street Bridge in Greenslopes. This bridge, constructed in 1923, serves as a reminder of the former Stephens Shire Council, with the plaque listing the council members and engineer Thomas Kirk.

The group is actively seeking historical photographs of the Juliette Street Bridge, as very few are currently known to exist, and encourages the community to come forward with any relevant materials. The History Room is open to the public on Wednesdays from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and by appointment. The group uses the room for various activities, including “Talking History Events,” work on the Villa Street Project, and drop-in days.

Remembering the 1973 Brisbane Tornado

The group also focuses on gathering stories and photographs about the devastating 1973 Brisbane tornado, which caused significant damage in Yeronga, Taringa, Moorooka, and Nathan. They actively seek contributions from individuals who have experienced the event or have related materials.

The group encourages residents to share their memories and photos at a special drop-in session at the History Room on Saturday, 1 March, between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Those unable to attend can submit their contributions via email. Michelle Mills will present the collected materials on 1 November 2025.

Community Engagement and Events

The Annerley-Stephens History Group recently held their “History Alive” event, a well-attended evening of local history engagement. The event featured historical facts about the local area, opportunities for attendees to connect with other members, and a singing segment.

The group regards the event as a success, highlighting its ability to unite the community through shared historical interests. The group aims to continue its engagement with the local community through events and the continued operation of the History Room.

Published Date 24-Feb-2025

Annerley Community Centre Opens, Supporting Local Initiatives

Photo Credit: CrNicoleJohnston/Facebook

Community life in Annerley has greatly improved with the opening of the new Annerley Community Centre, located at Shop 12/478 Ipswich Road. Operated by Community Plus+, the centre aims to foster stronger social connections, provide essential support services, and create opportunities for local projects and events.

A Hub for Community Development

The Annerley Community Centre delivers various community development programs to connect residents, support local projects, and enhance social participation. It is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and welcomes individuals seeking advice, referrals, or ways to engage in community initiatives.

Backed by Community Plus+, the centre works closely with residents, community groups, businesses, and organisations. City official Nicole Johnston has strongly supported the initiative, encouraging community participation in the centre’s activities.

Programs and Services on Offer

The Annerley Community Centre provides diverse programs to foster social interaction and empower individuals. Some of the key offerings include:

Information and Referral Services – Guiding local resources and support networks.
Open House – A welcoming space for community members to access information, computers, tea and coffee and engage in activities.
Creative and Social Groups – Activities such as craft, crochet, handmade jewellery making, and art sessions.
Community Events and Activities – Including festivals, markets, and community-led projects.
Technology Support – Fortnightly IT assistance (call ahead to confirm availability).
Legal Support – Free legal clinics provided by Reignite Legal are available by appointment.
Community Connection and Support – A space for residents to meet, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects.

One highlighted new initiative is the weekly Art Group. It is held every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., where residents can explore their creativity and connect with fellow art enthusiasts.

*Photo Credit: Community Plus+ Annerley Community Hub/Facebook*

Looking Ahead: More Opportunities for Community Involvement

With the Annerley Community Centre now open, residents have new opportunities to connect, learn, and contribute to their local community. Whether through creative workshops, social support programs, or volunteer efforts, the centre aims to strengthen community bonds and enhance the quality of life in Annerley.

For more details, locals can visit the centre during open hours or contact the Community Plus+ Annerley Community Hub.

Published 26-Feb-2025