A Taigum choreographer is helping bring one of Broadway’s most powerful musicals to Brisbane this winter, working behind the scenes on a production set to stir audiences at the Ron Hurley Theatre in Seven Hills.
Maureen Bowra, a Taigum local and seasoned theatre professional, is choreographing Parade, a Tony Award-winning musical returning to Brisbane for the first time in two decades. Running 19 July to 3 August at the Ron Hurley Theatre, the Bump In Productions show marks its Queensland debut.
Parade tells the true story of Leo Frank, a Jewish factory manager wrongly accused of murder in 1913 Georgia. Bowra brings years of experience from national tours and major productions, including Xanadu and Spamalot. She began her career performing at QPAC alongside icons like Jon English and later shifted into directing and choreography.
Relevance Beyond the Stage
Though set over a century ago, Maureen Bowra sees Parade as deeply relevant to today’s world. She’s drawn to its powerful mix of music and meaning, especially in how it explores prejudice, injustice, and public reaction.
For Bowra, the score isn’t just beautiful, it gives weight to a story that still echoes now. Bringing a show like this to local audiences is a rare opportunity she doesn’t take lightly. And doing it with a Brisbane-based company means she’s telling that story right in the heart of her own community.
A Cast and Crew Close to Home
Bowra is one of many Queenslanders bringing Parade to life, with cast and crew drawn from suburbs including Cleveland, Paddington, Bulimba and Bridgeman Downs. Bump In Productions, founded in 2004, focuses on musicals that may be lesser-known but rich in story and artistic value.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
This Brisbane staging of the Tony Award-winning show aims to connect with audiences through its local roots. The team is entirely professional, with members who live and work in the region. That local connection brings a sense of pride and place to the production.
Bringing Broadway to Brisbane’s Suburbs
With Maureen Bowra leading the choreography, audiences can expect a performance that moves with both emotion and purpose. Her Taigum roots bring a local connection to a story set far from home. She works alongside fellow Queensland creatives, including director Johnny Peek from Cleveland and musical director Michael Keen from Wynnum.
Together, they contribute to Brisbane’s growing reputation for producing standout theatre. Parade runs for three weeks at the Ron Hurley Theatre in Seven Hills, with tickets available via TryBooking and more details at bumpin.com.au.
We’ve combed Bracken Ridge, Brighton, Brighton Eventide, Brighton Nathan Street, Deagon, Sandgate, Sandgate DC, and Shorncliffe for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!
Stephanie M ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Loved this place! The Italian food was so delicious. We also tried two desserts which were equally delicious. How can you go past a cake recipe from Nonna? The service was very friendly, the staff answered questions about the menu and the chef came out to say hello and thank us which was a nice touch. Can’t wait to go back!
Nadia O ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hands down, the BEST seafood pasta you’ll eat in Brisbane. Stepping into Acciuga is like stepping into your local in Italy; the ambience is spot on and the customer service is exceptional from the wait staff right through to the owners who are passionate about what they create and love to chat with you about it. Definitely our new favourite Italian in Brisbane! 10/10
A S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Our experience at this restaurant was outstanding. The service was warm and attentive, making us feel instantly welcome. My risotto was perfectly creamy and full of flavor, while my partner’s spaghettoni was rich and cooked to perfection. With its inviting atmosphere, incredible food, and excellent service, this spot is a must-visit!
Kat V J ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Steak cooked perfect medium rare, parmigiana was one of the best schnitzels I’ve had in a long time. The dough for the garlic cheese bread was amazing, will definitely be back to try the pizzas! Great cocktail menu.
Joey B ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We were surprised that the food was good (we expected average), and the steaks cooked perfectly. The staff were friendly and attentive, and it had a good buzz about the place with a mixed clientele. If you are looking for a casual setting to eat, or have coffee/cake, I’d definitely give it a try 🙂
Wentzel F ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I head here for trivia regularly. Very good food and lovely staff that are willing to accommodate the most unusual of food requests if you ask nicely. Definitely come to the Tuesday trivia!
Rita ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Busy cafe with great reviews. Staff are amazing. Coffee is bellisimo which I love but my almond latte was bubbly and not smooth. If you’re a coffee drinker I don’t think this cafe cuts it but everything else looks great! Thank you
Ngato-Zharnaye L ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ After having a rough night I decided to treat myself to breakfast at Greenfield. I ordered the Katsu Chicken Avo, Macadamia Crepes and Sunrise Juice – each one left me feeling satisfied and I felt my mood lift after every bite. I’ve been to Greenfield a few times over the years and I’m constantly being introduced to new flavours each time. If you plan to visit, I would highly recommend to try something different from what you’d normally order. You won’t be disappointed!
Nancy C ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Lovely local cafe with alfresco dining area, delicious food and friendly service. We come here regularly for brunch on Sundays and all the dishes we’ve tried are delicious. Sometimes they run daily specials which are pleasant surprises for customers. Their coffees are decent too. Get here early on weekends as their kitchen may close a bit earlier than their closing time.
Charmaine H ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely amazing burgers! My mouth was watering reading the menu, and we weren’t disappointed!! Calamari was well cooked and tender. Burgers were juicy and hot! Fresh, well seasoned chips made this the perfect lunch. The owner was very lovely, polite, and accommodating.. also said hi to our puppy dogs who joined us at the outside tables
Renee H ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely amazing food! Highly recommend! The burgers are to die for, freshly made to order, and delicious flavours. Menu has plenty of options. The service is outstanding, and everyone catered for even the furbabies. The owner brought out some fresh water for our doggos, making sure they had plenty of cool water! Thank you for an amazing dining experience. I will definitely be coming back and telling everyone about this place! 🧡
Nicole M ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The burgers were fantastic. Patties juicy and full of flavour. Reasonably priced – chips were included in the burger price! Had great banter with the staff too!
Rebecca W ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ First time visiting as a new local and loved it. Nice to listen to the live music while having a couple of Friday drinks. Really attentive staff, dog friendly, delicious food. We had the cheeseburger pizza and it was stacked. Loved the Aether lager on tap which was red/dark in colour surprisingly, but absolutely delicious. Can see the ocean from the tables out front. 10/10.
Sharon L ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Wow! What an amazing place EclecTea is. I saw the reviews online which were great, so we couldn’t wait to check it out. You wont be disappointed. We tried the cheeseburger pizza . My gosh – honestly the best pizza my husband and myself have ever had. A few cocktails as we listen to some live music. What a great place to have local here in Brighton.QLD . And I’m so lucky to have this place a few doors down. Definitely be going on a regular basis. Well done 👍🏼 EclecTea – You all were extremely welcoming.
Anna P ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This place is so good. Lemonade is hands down the best value I have ever found. The pizza is gigantic and the entrees, even tho they’re a bit exzy they’re so yummy and you can’t find them anywhere else so it has value. Go here if you want a good night. It’s so quiet too so you don’t have people always walking past and can eat in a chill place.
Nestled in the coastal suburb of Sandgate, Beaumetz Street offers a remarkable blend of historical significance and community stability. This quiet residential street holds deep connections to Australia’s military history while providing its residents with a strong sense of belonging and permanence.
With an impressive 95% of properties being owner-occupied and residents staying an average of 20 years and 7 months, Beaumetz Street demonstrates exceptional longevity in homeownership. This commitment to the area is further evidenced by the fact that 86% of residents have called Beaumetz Street home for more than a decade. The street’s history of property transactions reflects Brisbane’s evolving real estate market, with properties that sold for around $332,500 in 2013 now commanding prices exceeding $1.65 million in recent sales. This picturesque street continues to be a cherished part of Sandgate’s community fabric.
Remembrance: Honoring the Battle of Beaumetz
Beaumetz Street stands as a living memorial to the Battle of Beaumetz, a significant engagement fought by Australian troops during World War I. In February 1917, as German forces withdrew to the Hindenburg Line, Australian divisions pursued them across the Somme region in France, engaging in fierce combat around several small villages including Beaumetz.
The battle’s intensity was captured in the Creswick Advertiser on March 30, 1917, which reported: “The Australians fighting on the road at Cambrai encountered the stiffest opposition. An Australian division took Beaumetz…The Germans twice attacked the Australians with bombs north-west of Beaumetz, compelling a withdrawal towards the village. The Australians, reinforced and counter-attacked.” The report noted the “great superiority of the Australians” as they recaptured farm ruins in fierce hand-to-hand combat.
Today, Beaumetz Street serves as a permanent reminder of both the battleground and cemetery in France where Australian soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice. As part of Brisbane’s Streets of Remembrance, it honors the Anzac spirit and Queensland’s service men and women who fought so valiantly on foreign soil.
Beaumetz Street, Sandgate Residents
NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 24 (12 houses, 12 others) % OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 95% AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 20 years, 7 months % OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 86%
Beaumetz Street, Sandgate – As It Looked In 1936
Beaumetz Street, Sandgate in 1936
SOME RECENT SALES ON BEAUMETZ STREET, SANDGATE
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
17 Beaumetz Street, Sandgate
$1,650,000
Jun 2024
SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON BEAUMETZ STREET FROM YESTERYEAR
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
21 Beaumetz Street, Sandgate
$508,000
Dec 2014
9 Beaumetz Street, Sandgate
$332,500
Sep 2013
11 Beaumetz Street, Sandgate
$590,000
Sep 2011
SUBURB PROFILE
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2025 was $1,161,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2021 was $685,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN SANDGATE SINCE 2021: $476,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2025 was $1,375,000 The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2021 was $890,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN SANDGATE SINCE 2021: $485,000
A quiet patch of lawn at Decker Park in Brighton will come alive with laughter, flying wooden batons and the sweet smell of cinnamon buns as locals gather for “Kubb and Fika in the Park,” a community event celebrating Swedish outdoor traditions. The event runs from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, 18 May.
The event will run from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, 18 May, at Decker Park on Twenty Fifth Avenue. Hosted by Nordic Events, a Brisbane-based group passionate about Scandinavian culture, the gathering aims to bring neighbours and families together over simple games and shared snacks.
Kubb, the afternoon’s main game, is a mix of bowling and chess played with wooden blocks on grass. Rooted in Viking legend, it’s casual, inclusive and easy to learn, with guidance provided for first-timers.
Fika and the Swedish Picnic Culture
Alongside the games, guests can enjoy fika, the Swedish tradition of sharing coffee, cake and conversation. Picnic rugs and snacks are welcome, or attendees can pre-order Fika Boxes online, with sweet treats priced at $15 for small and $30 for large.
Organisers aim to keep the event relaxed and inclusive. Entry is free, and everyone’s welcome, whether you’re a local or just curious about Swedish culture.
Community Connection and Outdoor Fun
Nordic Events, founded by four Swedish friends in Brisbane, has brought Scandinavian traditions to local parks before, with past events like crayfish parties, Christmas markets and cultural workshops, all focused on inclusion and simplicity.
Nordic Events aims to build cultural connections, using traditions like Kubb and fika to bring people together. Events like Decker Park’s offer a chance to meet others, share stories and enjoy the outdoors with a playful twist.
While the event promises sunshine and relaxed fun, it’s still subject to the weather. Organisers note that the afternoon will be cancelled if rain makes conditions unsuitable, framed lightheartedly as the “Norse god Freyr misbehaving.”
The wait is over—AIC First XV rugby returns this Saturday, May 3, and the season opener between St Patrick’s College and St Peters Lutheran College is shaping up as a must-watch contest. Though the green-and-gold won’t have home ground advantage in round one, St Pat’s enter the 2025 campaign with a squad brimming with experience, power, and potential.
The AIC competition—the largest private school sporting body in Queensland—has long been a proving ground for future stars. And if pre-season form is anything to go by, these players from Shorncliffe are set to shine.
Smallhorne is the livewire in St Pat’s backline. Whether fielding high balls or slicing through defences from the edge, the Redcliffe Dolphins league rep has all the tools to be a game-breaker. A returning First XV player, he offers leadership and composure from the back and will be central to St Pat’s fortunes in both attack and defence.
Denzel Savelino — Tighthead Prop
With a full season under his belt, Savelino is back—and better. The tighthead prop, known for his gridiron background, combines raw strength with surprising agility. A cornerstone of the forward pack, he brings the kind of physicality that can swing momentum in the tight exchanges. Watch for his scrummaging power and dominant carries.
Riley and Harrison Blake — Centre / Utility Forward
Riley, a Year 12 inside centre, showed flashes of brilliance in 2024 and now returns as a key playmaker. His younger brother Harrison, one of the standouts from the 10As last season, steps up to the senior level and could line up at centre or flanker. Both brothers have drawn praise for their discipline and drive through the pre-season, and their chemistry on the field could be a game-changer.
While much of the spotlight falls on established names, AIC rugby is no stranger to breakout performances—and both St Patrick’s and St Peters have a history of unveiling wildcard talents in round one. Whether it’s a quiet achiever stepping up or a new face bursting onto the scene, the opening weekend rarely disappoints.
Featured image credit: St Patrick’s College/Google Maps
Guide Dogs Queensland is calling on rideshare and taxi companies in Bald Hills to take greater responsibility for their drivers and improve transparency, as part of a new campaign for International Guide Dog Day on 30 April.
Campaign Launched Ahead of International Guide Dog Day
In the lead-up to International Guide Dog Day on 30 April, Guide Dogs Queensland has launched a campaign urging rideshare and taxi companies servicing Bald Hills to strengthen enforcement measures and ensure fair treatment for Guide Dog Handlers.
The campaign, titled ‘It’s Time to Give Guide Dog Handlers a Fare Go’, highlights ongoing discrimination issues faced by people living with disability when accessing public transport options.
The organisation is calling for companies to take increased responsibility for driver conduct and provide greater transparency about how complaints are managed.
A report commissioned by Guide Dogs Australia found that over one-third of Handlers have experienced cancelled rideshare or taxi trips in the past two years. Despite existing legislation making it unlawful to refuse service to a person accompanied by a Guide Dog, discrimination persists.
In Queensland, individual drivers can face fines of up to $3,096 for refusing access. However, community advocates argue that without visible enforcement, discrimination will continue to undermine the independence of people living with vision loss.
Experiences Highlight the Urgency for Reform
Brisbane resident Chris Littlewood, who relies on his Guide Dog Alyssa, has faced multiple instances of rideshare refusal. His experiences reflect wider findings, with 15 per cent of Guide Dog Handlers reporting ridicule or discrimination while using rideshare services.
Photo Caption: Mr Chris Littlewood with his guide dog. Photo Credit: Guide Dogs
Handlers rely on accessible transport for daily activities including shopping, medical appointments, and social outings, making access refusals not just inconvenient but severely disruptive.
Transparency and Accountability Demanded
Guide Dogs Queensland CEO Jock Beveridge said the campaign aims to put pressure on companies to move beyond promises of better driver education and implement stronger complaint handling processes.
Photo Credit: Guide Dogs
According to Mr Beveridge, current practices—such as reimbursing fares or removing a driver from a user’s match list—do not address the systemic nature of the problem. Greater transparency around complaint investigations and penalties is necessary to build trust and ensure compliance with anti-discrimination laws.
Guide Dogs Queensland is encouraging rideshare and taxi companies operating in Bald Hills and beyond to improve driver accountability and uphold the rights of Guide Dog Handlers. The ‘Fare Go’ campaign marks an important step toward securing fairer transport access across Queensland for people with vision impairments.
Borella Street in Sandgate stands as a proud testament to Australian military heroism, named in honour of one of Queensland’s most distinguished war heroes. This quiet residential street carries the legacy of extraordinary courage and sacrifice, embodying the enduring spirit of the Anzac tradition in suburban Brisbane.
With 75% of properties being owner-occupied and residents staying an average of 19 years and 9 months, Borella Street demonstrates exceptional community stability and commitment. This dedication to the area is further reflected in the fact that 64% of residents have called Borella Street home for more than a decade. The street’s property history tells a remarkable story of growth, with homes that sold for $45,000 in 1984 representing the humble beginnings of what has become a sought-after bayside location.
Remembrance: Honouring Victoria Cross Recipient Albert Borella
Albert Borella (1881-1968) was a second lieutenant in the 26th Battalion who demonstrated extraordinary valour during World War I. On 17 July 1918, at Villiers-Bretonneux, France, Borella displayed “most conspicuous bravery in attack” that would earn him the Victoria Cross – Australia’s highest military decoration. In the face of devastating machine gun fire, Borella courageously ran into the barrage and single-handedly captured the gun that threatened to mow down advancing Australian troops. His heroic actions didn’t end there – he led his men forward to capture the enemy trench and take 30 prisoners. Weeks later, he was invalided home due to wounds and illness sustained in service. The naming of this Sandgate street ensures that Borella’s sacrifice and the Anzac spirit he embodied remain forever woven into the fabric of Queensland’s suburban landscape.
Borella St, Sandgate Residents
NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 25 houses, 4 others % OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 75 % AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 19 years, 9 months % OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 64%
Borella St, Sandgate – As It Looked in 1936
Borella St, Sandgate in 1936
SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON BORELLA ST FROM YESTERYEAR
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
25 Borella Street, Sandgate
$66,680
Jan 1993
53 Borella Street, Sandgate
$45,000
Jul 1984
47 Borella Street, Sandgate
$47,000
Jan 1983
SUBURB PROFILE
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2025 was $1,160,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2021 was $705,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3-BEDROOM HOUSE IN SANDGATE SINCE 2021: $455,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2025 was $1,390,000 The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2021 was $890,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4-BEDROOM HOUSE IN SANDGATE SINCE 2021: $500,000
The local community is in mourning following a tragic crash on Gympie Arterial Road at Bald Hills that claimed the life of a beloved restaurant worker and left several of her colleagues seriously injured.
The crash occurred around 9:40 p.m. on Sunday, April 13, when a Hyundai Imax and a Honda Odyssey, pulled over due to a flat tyre, were struck from behind by a Toyota Hiace van while stationary on the shoulder of the right lane.
Photo credit: Queensland Police Service
Patcharrin (Patty) Tirasurwan, 31, a staff member at Kinn Thai restaurant in Westfield North Lakes, died at the scene. She had been travelling with her colleagues, who were also caught in the crash. According to police, ten people in total were taken to hospital for treatment.
The driver of the Toyota Hiace, a 36-year-old man from Kallangur, has been charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death and driving without a licence. He did not appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on April 17, and no application for bail was made. The case was adjourned to April 28.
In the days following the tragedy, Kinn Thai released a public statement expressing their grief and their commitment to supporting the victims and their families.
“Our hearts are heavy as we navigate this tragedy. The individuals involved were not just staff members, they were family to us. We are doing everything we can to support them and their loved ones, without waiting on the insurance processes.”
The restaurant confirmed it is coordinating the repatriation of Patty’s body to Thailand and will cover all related expenses, including funeral arrangements.
“For those who are injured, we are covering ongoing care and have been in regular contact with their families,” the statement continued.
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of sympathy from customers, residents, and the broader hospitality community, with many leaving flowers, notes, and messages of support at the restaurant. Patty is being remembered as a kind, dedicated worker whose presence will be deeply missed.
Beatham Street in Sandgate represents a unique blend of historical commemoration and close-knit community living. This quiet residential street, nestled in Brisbane’s bayside suburb of Sandgate, showcases remarkable stability with its exclusively owner-occupied homes and long-term residents.
With 100% of properties being owner-occupied and residents staying an average of 12 years and 6 months, the street demonstrates exceptional community cohesion. This commitment to the area is further evidenced by the fact that 60% of residents have called Beatham Street home for more than a decade. The street’s history of property transactions reveals Sandgate’s dramatic real estate transformation, with 8 Beatham Street selling for just $388,000 in October 2001 – a figure that highlights the remarkable growth of the area’s property values in just over two decades.
Remembrance: Honouring a Victoria Cross Recipient
Beatham Street stands as a permanent tribute to Private Robert Matthew Beatham (1894-1918), a decorated World War I hero awarded the Victoria Cross – Australia’s highest military honour. During the Battle of Amiens on August 9, 1918, Private Beatham displayed extraordinary courage when he charged and single-handedly disabled four German machine gun posts despite being wounded. He tragically lost his life in a hail of machine gun fire on the second day of the battle, making the ultimate sacrifice for his country and comrades. As one of Brisbane’s designated Streets of Remembrance, Beatham Street ensures that the Anzac spirit and the exceptional valour of Queensland’s service men and women continue to be honoured in our everyday landscape.
Beatham St, Sandgate Residents
NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 11 % OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 100% AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 12 years, 6 months % OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 60%
Beatham St, Sandgate – As It Looked In 1936
Beatham St, Sandgate in 1936
SOME RECENT SALES ON BEATHAM ST, SANDGATE
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
11 Beatham Street, Sandgate
$1,700,000
May 2024
SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON BEATHAM ST FROM YESTERYEAR
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
9 Beatham Street, Sandgate
$560,000
Dec 2010
8 Beatham Street, Sandgate
$388,000
Oct 2001
10 Beatham Street, Sandgate
$302,000
Jun 2001
SUBURB PROFILE
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2025 was $1,161,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2021 was $685,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN SANDGATE SINCE 2021: $476,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2025 was $1,375,000 The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Sandgate in 2021 was $890,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN SANDGATE SINCE 2021: $485,000
On Friday, April 25, the Sandgate RSL Sub Branch invites the community to partake in a cherished ANZAC Day tradition—the Gunfire Breakfast—followed by the solemn Dawn Service at Sandgate Memorial Park.
The Gunfire Breakfast commences at 4:00 AM at the Sandgate RSL Sub Branch, located at 12 Burnett Place, Sandgate. This early morning gathering offers veterans, their families, and community members an opportunity to share in camaraderie and remembrance.
Sandgate Memorial Park (Photo credit: Tony Bloor/Google Maps)
Attendees can expect a hearty meal accompanied by ‘gunfire’—a mix of rum and black tea or coffee—a nod to the British military practice of providing soldiers with a warming drink before battle.
At 5:00 AM, the Dawn Service will take place at the nearby Sandgate Memorial Park, situated at 8 Seymour Street. This poignant ceremony includes the laying of wreaths, the sounding of the Last Post, and a minute’s silence, honoring the sacrifices of Australian and New Zealand service members. The park’s cenotaph, unveiled in 1924, stands as a testament to the local soldiers who served in World War I and subsequent conflicts.
Following the ANZAC day service, refreshments and a free breakfast will be available to members and their families, providing a space for reflection and community connection.
For more information, please contact the Sandgate RSL Sub Branch at 07 3269 1135 or via email at administration@sandgate.rslqld.net.au.
The History of the Gunfire Breakfast
Men of the 4th Battalion at the top of Shrapnel Gully having breakfast (Photo credit: Australian War Memorial)
The Gunfire Breakfast is a time-honored tradition that traces its roots back to the British Army in the 1890s. Originally, ‘gunfire’ referred to a simple concoction of black tea laced with a splash of rum, served to soldiers by their officers before morning parades or impending battles. This practice was intended to provide warmth and a measure of courage to troops facing the hardships of war.
During World War I, this ritual was adopted by Australian and New Zealand forces, evolving into what is now known as the Gunfire Breakfast. Over time, the tradition expanded to include a hearty meal, often featuring items like bacon and eggs, alongside the customary rum-laced tea or coffee.
Today, the Gunfire Breakfast serves as a communal gathering, fostering camaraderie among veterans and civilians alike, and offering a moment of reflection on the sacrifices made by service members.
Participating in the Gunfire Breakfast is more than just a nod to history; it’s a meaningful act of remembrance and unity, honoring the enduring spirit of the ANZACs.
