Oedipus // End Of Line

08 May 2026 | Newmarket Hall, Ashgrove
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A contemporary theatre production presenting a modern interpretation of the classic Greek tragedy.

MJ The Musical

Final Weeks | Lyric Theatre – Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), South Brisbane
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This stage musical explores the life and music of Michael Jackson through a large-scale theatrical production.

Steel Magnolias

30 April – 10 May 2026 | Playhouse, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), South Brisbane
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A theatre production of the well-known play focusing on friendship and resilience in a Southern community.

A Doll’s House

01 – 10 May 2026 | Ron Hurley Theatre, Seven Hills
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A staging of Henrik Ibsen’s classic work, exploring themes of identity and independence.

Satinder Sartaaj Tickets: The Heritage Tour

08 May 2026 | Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane
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A live music performance featuring the Punjabi singer-songwriter as part of his international tour.

The Jazz Room: Tribute To Soul

08 May 2026 | Grand on Ann, Brisbane City
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A live music event celebrating soul classics performed in a jazz-inspired setting.

Andrew Butt + Blame It On My Youth

08 May 2026 | The Ruby Jazz Club, Fortitude Valley
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A live jazz performance featuring original works and interpretations of contemporary standards.

Affordable Art Fair Brisbane 2026

07 – 10 May 2026 | Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills
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An art fair showcasing a wide range of contemporary works from local and international galleries.

Heart Dance

23 April – 28 May 2026 | Thomas Dixon Centre, West End
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A contemporary dance performance exploring movement, storytelling and visual expression.

Queensland Ballet and HOTA Present Elastic Hearts

30 April – 09 May 2026 | Thomas Dixon Centre, West End
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A collaborative dance production featuring contemporary choreography and performance.

Yevgeny Yufit and Vladimir Maslov’s Silver Heads (1999)

10 May 2026 | Institute of Modern Art, Fortitude Valley
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A curated film screening presenting an experimental work within a gallery setting.

35MM: A Musical Exhibition

01 – 09 May 2026 | Cremorne Theatre, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), South Brisbane
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A musical production inspired by photography, combining songs and visual storytelling on stage.

This weekend offers a diverse mix of theatre, musicals, exhibitions and live performances across Brisbane, with events taking place in major cultural institutions and smaller creative venues throughout the city.

The post MJ The Musical, Ballet, Theatre and Affordable Art Fair in Brisbane: 08 – 10 May 2026 appeared first on West End Today.

Dinosaur Week

04 – 10 May 2026 | Queensland Museum Kurilpa, South Brisbane
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A themed week of activities featuring dinosaur exhibits, interactive displays and educational experiences for children and families.

The Party

09 May 2026 | Backbone Youth Arts, Seven Hills
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A family-focused performance event featuring creative arts, storytelling and live entertainment designed for younger audiences.

Brissizzle And Sounds

09 May 2026 | Roma Street Parkland, Brisbane City
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A community event combining food stalls, live music and open parkland activities suitable for families and visitors.

Moana’s Mother’s Day Magic

09 May 2026 | Cream House Cafe, Sunnybank Hills
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A themed event inspired by Moana, offering activities and entertainment for children alongside a Mother’s Day celebration.

Powerhouse Markets

09 May 2026 | Eagle Farm Racecourse, Ascot
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A large outdoor market featuring food vendors, artisan stalls and live entertainment in a family-friendly environment.

Mother’s Day at Regatta Hotel

10 May 2026 | Regatta Hotel, Toowong
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A Mother’s Day dining experience with set menus and riverfront views suitable for family gatherings.

The Motherline: A Mother’s Day Ritual for Mothers & Daughters

10 May 2026 | The Goddess Temple, Milton
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A guided experience focused on connection and reflection for mothers and daughters through facilitated activities.

Mother’s Day Movie Afternoon with Corrine McMillan MP

10 May 2026 | Event Cinemas, Mount Gravatt
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A community movie screening event offering a relaxed cinema experience for families celebrating Mother’s Day.

Sunday Funday: Kids Eat Free!

10 May 2026 | The Last Man Standing Brewery, Milton
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A casual dining event with family-friendly offerings, including meals for children and a relaxed venue setting.

Mother’s Day at Eat Street Northshore

10 May 2026 | Eat Street Northshore, Hamilton
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A popular food market experience featuring a wide range of international cuisine, desserts and live entertainment.

Mother’s Day at Newnham Hotel

10 May 2026 | Newnham Hotel, Upper Mount Gravatt
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A family-friendly dining event with special menus and spaces suited for group celebrations.

Mother’s Day at Walkabout Creek

10 May 2026 | Walkabout Creek Cafe & Events, Enoggera Reservoir
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A nature-based dining experience offering outdoor surroundings and activities suitable for families.

Mother’s Day at Victoria Park

10 May 2026 | Victoria Park, Herston
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A large-scale venue hosting Mother’s Day dining and recreational activities in an open park setting.

This weekend features a range of family-friendly events, markets and Mother’s Day activities across Brisbane, with options including outdoor experiences, dining events, performances and community gatherings suitable for all ages..

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Boy & Bear With The Dreggs, Bear’s Den (UK) & Rageflower

08 May 2026 | Riverstage, Brisbane City
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This outdoor concert features Boy & Bear alongside supporting acts, bringing indie and folk music to a large riverside venue.

Ned Bennett

08 May 2026 | The Princess Theatre, Woolloongabba
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A live performance at The Princess Theatre showcasing contemporary music in an intimate venue setting.

Thundercat

08 May 2026 | The Fortitude Music Hall, Fortitude Valley
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The Grammy-winning artist performs a live set blending funk, jazz and R&B influences.

Brunswick Street Live

08 May 2026 | Brunswick Street Mall, Fortitude Valley
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A free live music event featuring local performers across an outdoor precinct in Fortitude Valley.

Eskimo Joe – Black Fingernails Red Wine 20th Anniversary

08 – 09 May 2026 | The Triffid, Newstead
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Eskimo Joe marks the anniversary of their album with live performances covering tracks from the release.

Tommy Little: Namaste The F*ck Away From Me

08 – 10 May 2026 | The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley
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Stand-up comedian Tommy Little presents his latest show as part of a weekend run of performances.

Reuben Kaye: Hard To Swallow

08 – 10 May 2026 | The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley
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A cabaret-style comedy performance combining music, satire and live entertainment.

Queensland Forró Festival

08 – 10 May 2026 | Elements Collective, Fortitude Valley
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A cultural festival celebrating Brazilian forró music and dance with workshops, performances and social events.

Ruby Fields – Small Achievements Album Tour

09 May 2026 | The Princess Theatre, Woolloongabba
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Ruby Fields performs tracks from her album alongside other live material as part of her national tour.

Koe Wetzel – Australian Tour 2026

09 May 2026 | The Fortitude Music Hall, Fortitude Valley
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The American artist brings his blend of rock and country influences to Brisbane for a one-night performance.

Rotten Sound

09 May 2026 | Crowbar Brisbane, Fortitude Valley
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An international grindcore act performing a live set in a smaller venue environment.

The Battle For Seattle Featuring The Pearl Jam And Nirvana Collection

09 May 2026 | Lou Lou Room, Wynnum
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A tribute performance featuring music from Pearl Jam and Nirvana, focusing on the Seattle grunge era.

Of Mice & Men

10 May 2026 | The Triffid, Newstead
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The American rock band performs a live show featuring material from across their catalogue.

Ulcerate

10 May 2026 | Crowbar Brisbane, Fortitude Valley
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A live performance from the New Zealand death metal band in an intimate venue setting.

This weekend features a diverse mix of live music, comedy, tribute performances and cultural events across venues in Fortitude Valley, Newstead, Woolloongabba and the city. From touring acts and album launches to stand-up shows and festival experiences, there are a variety of options for those looking for things to do across different parts of the city.

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A Country Talking — If You Know Where to Listen

You don’t really follow these mornings. You drift through them.

One call rolls into the next — a bit of weather, a bit of work, something remembered, something noticed — and before long you’ve got a clearer read on the country than anything packaged neatly could give you.

This week, it kept circling the same idea.

People are still moving. Still working.

But something’s shifted.

A Soft Start in Borroloola

Samuel’s voice came in low and steady out of Borroloola, like the day hadn’t quite fully started yet.

“Bit foggy this morning… sort of dewy.”

The moon was just going down, and there was a fishing competition building at King Ash Bay — prizes, weigh-ins later, the usual rhythm of a weekend up there.

Macca asked about the crowd.

Samuel didn’t rush the answer.

“Yeah… a few visitors.”

Then, after a beat, he added what mattered.

“Not as many as we expected.”

Fuel, he reckoned. Enough to slow people down.

He didn’t push it any further. Just left it there.

Shearing, Travel and the Cost of It

Dave’s call had movement in it — packing up, heading home, already thinking about the next job.

He’d been shearing around Cootamundra, on his way back to Deniliquin after a solid run.

Macca wandered into the old shearer stories — bikes, rough travel, making do.

Dave gave a quick nod to that.

“They done it tough those days.”

But then brought it back to now.

“You just got to travel to get it these days.”

The work’s still there. It’s everything around it that’s changed.

“It’s not cheap on the road… you’re paying more for everything.”

No drama in it. Just how it is.

When the Desert Comes Alive

Chris came in over a bit of noise — wind, engines, other voices.

He was out in basin country with a crew, heading into another long day.

Macca asked what it looked like out there.

Chris didn’t talk about the job.

“The environment’s gone crazy.”

They’d had rain. Proper rain.

What had been dry weeks earlier was suddenly alive — birds, butterflies, rabbits, everything moving.

He kept listing things, almost like he couldn’t keep up with it himself.

You could hear it happening around him as he spoke.

Working the Same Ground

Phil’s call sat quieter, but it carried something.

He’s working near Batlow and Tumut now, building out transmission lines — pushing access into farmland, working around conditions, taking it as it comes.

But when Macca asked, he reached back.

Last time he called in was 2020.

Fires.

He was on dozers then, cutting firebreaks through that same country.

Different job now. Slower work.

But the same ground.

The Long Way for a Simple Fix

Dean’s call had that steady, long-distance feel to it.

He’d come down from Darwin chasing a gooseneck trailer so the family could get to rodeos without taking two vehicles.

Macca asked how far they travel.

Dean didn’t hesitate.

“We’ll go 1,000 kilometres for a rodeo… 1,400’s not unusual.”

That wasn’t the point though.

The point was the road.

“The road’s very quiet… quieter than I’ve ever seen it.”

He’d been doing that trip for years.

He knew what it usually felt like.

You Feel It From the Driver’s Seat

Matty backed it up straight away.

Heading out of Melbourne towards Dubbo, empty truck, steady run.

“It’s been quiet… very quiet.”

Macca pushed him a bit.

Just today?

“No… it’s been quiet.”

Then he drifted north — New England, west of Dubbo — talking about how dry it is through there.

You could feel how those things sit together for him.

When It Stops Adding Up

Steve and Maria in Tolga spoke like people who’d already made peace with a decision.

Macca brought up their rose business.

They laughed a little.

No, not anymore.

“Trying to compete… it just got too hard.”

They talked through it — fertilisers, labour, imports — but it wasn’t one thing. It was all of it, building over time.

They loved it. That part was clear.

But loving it wasn’t enough to keep it going.

The Things You Don’t Notice

Rick’s call in Townsville came through a bit scratchy.

He runs a window and door business.

Macca had been talking about glass earlier, so Rick jumped in.

“You just can’t get a hold of it anymore.”

Started with coloured glass. Now even the basics are getting harder.

Macca pressed him on it.

What does that actually mean?

Rick explained it in practical terms — people want repairs done properly, like-for-like.

But the materials just aren’t there.

And underneath it all was the part that didn’t quite make sense.

The raw material is here.

The finished product isn’t.

Build Your Own Solution

Doug had already had a morning before he even called.

Driving back from Karumba, a few pigs ran out in front of him.

He took care of them.

Macca picked up on that, but Doug didn’t stay there.

He’s an electrician.

Used to run a motel.

Got fed up with rising power costs.

“So I built one,” he said, describing what he now runs as a local power operation.

From there, Doug just talked it through — how it started, how it grew, what he supplies now.

He didn’t sell it. Didn’t dress it up.

Just told it.

Big Numbers, Same Problem

Peter came in from Wangaratta with numbers.

Six days near Warren.

About 1,200 pigs.

Macca reacted — that sounds like something.

Peter didn’t pause.

“You don’t even make a dent.”

He explained it — river systems, thick country, places you can’t get into properly.

Back home, he’s seeing more signs.

Ground turned. Movement where there hadn’t been any before.

It’s not a spike.

It’s a spread.

Not Everyone’s Slowing Down

Sue’s call from Mackay lifted the tempo straight away.

More than 500 riders in town for a Harley rally.

Macca asked if she rides.

She laughed.

“I absolutely love it.”

Then the trips came — Uluru, Tasmania, planning a full lap.

“Once you go somewhere… you plan the next one.”

Same roads everyone else was talking about.

Different reason to be on them.

Dry Country, Familiar Voices

Lucy was out near Tamworth, feeding cattle, dog beside her in the ute.

Three dry summers.

“We’re sort of back in 2019 again.”

Macca moved with her through it — drought here, floods somewhere else.

Then the call turned.

She told him she’d written in years ago.

About her dad. A regular listener.

Macca picked it up straight away.

Now she’s the one calling.

Same show.

Different voice.

Seeing It Over Time

Sean and Janine had been on the road for months.

Nullarbor. Up the coast. Through places like Kalbarri.

Macca asked what they’d noticed.

Sean didn’t hesitate.

“There’s not a lot of people out.”

He ran through it — caravan parks, stops, places that should have been fuller.

Not empty.

Just lighter.

Early Days on the Land

Nick was only a few months into farm life in Mickles Rivulet.

Fences still going in. Cattle not quite settled.

Macca asked how it was going.

Nick paused.

“It’s hard… but it’s good.”

Coming from a life at sea, it’s a shift.

And it doesn’t take long, he said, to understand why fewer people are getting into it.

The Drive Back to Alice

Ken was on the road to Alice Springs.

Macca asked what for.

“The Cup.”

His voice lifted slightly.

“Big day… for all the right reasons.”

He’d lived there for decades.

Knows the place.

Knows how it’s talked about.

Then, almost as an aside—

“No one waves anymore.”

Macca laughed.

Ken didn’t.

“I still do.”

Starting Again

Divine’s call sat quietly at the end.

Near Yea, living in a shed after losing her home in the Longwood fires.

Macca asked about rebuilding.

She answered simply.

“I don’t think we will.”

Only been in Australia a year.

There wasn’t much more said.

There didn’t need to be.

One Conversation at a Time

By the end of the morning, it wasn’t one story.

It was the repetition.

Quiet roads. Higher costs. Work still moving.

Different voices, same threads.

You don’t get the country all at once.

You get it like this.

One call at a time.

Listen to the podcast episode here.

Disclaimer: ‘Australia All Over’ is a program produced and broadcast by the ABC Local Radio Network and hosted by Ian McNamara. Brisbane Suburbs Online News has no affiliation with Ian McNamara, the ABC, or the ‘Australia All Over’ program. This weekly review is an independent summary based on publicly available episodes. All original content and recordings remain the property of the ABC. Our summaries are written in our own words and are intended for commentary and review purposes only. Readers can listen to the full episodes via the official ABC platforms.

The post The May 3 Show appeared first on West End Today.

Man On Fire: Season 1

30 April 2026 | Netflix
Watch here

A new series adaptation of the action thriller story following an ex-mercenary drawn back into a violent world shaped by revenge and redemption.

My Dearest Señorita

01 May 2026 | Netflix
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A character-driven international drama exploring identity, relationships and personal transformation.

Swapped

01 May 2026 | Netflix
Watch here

A drama centred on unexpected life changes after two people experience a sudden identity shift.

The Session Man

04 May 2026 | Apple TV+
Watch here

A music-focused film exploring the life of a studio session musician and their influence on the industry.

Ready Or Not: Here I Come

05 May 2026 | Apple TV+
Watch here

A sequel continuing the thriller franchise with escalating tension and survival-based storytelling.

Citadel: Season 2

06 May 2026 | Prime Video
Watch here

The return of the global spy series expanding its interconnected espionage storyline across international settings.

Streaming platforms this week feature a focused lineup of new series, films and returning franchises across major services, with a strong mix of thriller, drama and international content.

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NEW RELEASES

Hokum

30 April 2026 | Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cineplex (Redbank, South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo, Portside), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt, Springfield Central), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace Cinemas (James St)

A new release screening widely across Brisbane cinemas, offering a broad rollout for general audiences.

Seven Snipers

30 April 2026 | Cineplex (Balmoral, Redbank, South Bank), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt, Springfield Central)

An action-focused international release centred on a military storyline and ensemble cast.

The Sheep Detectives

03 May 2026 | Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cinebar (Rosalie Village), Cineplex (Balmoral, Redbank, South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo, Portside), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace Cinemas (Barracks, James St)

A family-oriented release offering a lighter and more accessible cinema option.

STILL SHOWING

Fuze

Angelika Cinemas (Woolloongabba), Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cineplex (Redbank), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace Cinemas (James St), Reading Cinemas (Newmarket)

A film continuing its run across a mix of independent and major cinema venues.

GOAT

Cineplex (Redbank), Event Cinemas (Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt), HOYTS (Stafford), Reading Cinemas (Newmarket), United Cinemas (Eldorado)

A widely screened title maintaining its presence across major cinema chains.

Hoppers

Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cinebar (Rosalie Village), Cineplex (Balmoral, Redbank), Dendy Cinemas (Portside), Event Cinemas (Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly), Five Star Cinemas (New Farm), HOYTS (Stafford), Palace Cinemas (James St), Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket), United Cinemas (Eldorado)

A feature film with extended availability across both boutique and mainstream cinemas.

Lee Cronin’s The Mummy

Angelika Cinemas (Woolloongabba), Cineplex (Balmoral, Redbank, South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt, Springfield Central), Five Star Cinemas (New Farm), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace Cinemas (James St), Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket), United Cinemas (Eldorado)

A widely available film continuing its screening across a large number of venues.

Michael

Angelika Cinemas (Woolloongabba), Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cinebar (Rosalie Village), Cineplex (Balmoral, Hawthorne, Redbank, South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo, Portside), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt, Springfield Central), Five Star Cinemas (Brisbane City, Graceville, New Farm, Red Hill), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace Cinemas (Barracks, James St), Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket), United Cinemas (Eldorado)

A broadly screened film across nearly all major and independent cinemas in Brisbane.

Project Hail Mary

Angelika Cinemas (Woolloongabba), Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cinebar (Rosalie Village), Cineplex (Balmoral, Redbank, South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo, Portside, Powerhouse), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt, Springfield Central), Five Star Cinemas (Brisbane City, Graceville, New Farm, Red Hill), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace Cinemas (Barracks, James St), Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket), United Cinemas (Eldorado)

A science fiction feature continuing its strong presence across Brisbane cinemas.

The Devil Wears Prada 2

Angelika Cinemas (Woolloongabba), Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cinebar (Rosalie Village), Cineplex (Balmoral, Hawthorne, South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo, Portside), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt, Springfield Central), Five Star Cinemas (Brisbane City, Graceville, New Farm, Red Hill), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace Cinemas (Barracks, James St), Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket)

A sequel continuing to screen widely across both boutique and major cinema venues.

The Drama

Angelika Cinemas (Woolloongabba), Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cinebar (Rosalie Village), Cineplex (Balmoral, Redbank, South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo, Portside), Event Cinemas (Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt), Five Star Cinemas (Brisbane City, New Farm, Red Hill), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace Cinemas (James St), Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket), United Cinemas (Eldorado)

A continuing film available across a range of cinema venues throughout the city.

The Magic Faraway Tree

Angelika Cinemas (Woolloongabba), Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cinebar (Rosalie Village), Cineplex (Balmoral, Redbank, South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo), Event Cinemas (Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt), Five Star Cinemas (Graceville, Red Hill), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Palace Cinemas (James St), Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket), United Cinemas (Eldorado)

A family-focused film continuing its run across multiple Brisbane cinema locations.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

Angelika Cinemas (Woolloongabba), Bayside Cinemas (Wynnum), Cinebar (Rosalie Village), Cineplex (Balmoral, Hawthorne, Redbank, South Bank), Dendy Cinemas (Coorparoo, Portside), Event Cinemas (Brisbane City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mount Gravatt, Springfield Central), Five Star Cinemas (Red Hill), HOYTS (Stafford, Sunnybank), Reading Cinemas (Jindalee, Newmarket), United Cinemas (Eldorado)

An animated feature continuing to screen widely across Brisbane cinemas.

GOMA

Vertigo

01 May 2026

A classic film screening presented as part of a curated cinema program.

Adaptation

02 May 2026

A modern film featured within a curated program of notable works.

Persona

06 May 2026

A landmark international film included in a gallery-based screening series.

Brisbane’s cinema offerings this week combine new releases, widely screened features and curated classics, with a strong mix of mainstream, family and arthouse programming across the city.

The post New Releases, Family Films and Cult Classics in Brisbane: 30 April – 06 May 2026 appeared first on West End Today.

Voices Across the World on Anzac Weekend

From the cliffs of Gallipoli to a super yacht in the Atlantic, the April 26 broadcast unfolded as it so often does — a patchwork of voices, stitched together by memory, distance and the quiet weight of Anzac weekend.

Gallipoli: Trying to Understand the Inexplicable

Calling from the Gallipoli Peninsula, Angela Lathouras wasn’t trying to retell history — she was trying to make sense of it.

Travelling with historians including Professor Sinan Özdemir from Çanakkale University, she described the terrain as something that defies explanation until you see it.

“You just shake your head everywhere you go,” she said.

Standing at Anzac Cove and walking the ridgelines, she spoke about how small the battlefield really is — and how impossible it feels that so many fought and died in such a confined space.

Reading epitaphs in the cemeteries brought it home.

“Angel mark the spot, Mother.”

“Well done, Ted.”

“They’re just… so moving,” she said. “You could sob the whole time.”

It wasn’t her first visit, but this time was different — less about tracing individual stories, more about understanding the broader picture.

“It’s very hard to reconcile the beauty… with what happened there.”

A Stadium, A City, A Moment

From Christchurch, Jason called with a different kind of milestone — the opening of Te Kaha Stadium.

After 15 years without a major venue following the earthquakes, the city finally had its stadium back — and it was packed.

“Full house all weekend,” he said.

Super Rugby returned in force, but for him, the moment was bigger than sport.

“It’s a big thing for Christchurch.”

Closer to home, he also spoke about his son’s school Anzac ceremony — run entirely by the students.

“I was so proud of the little boys and girls.”

Keeping the Country Moving

In southern New South Wales, Kelvin Baxter’s world is measured in kilometres, crops and fuel.

Running a fleet of trucks across Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, he’s spent decades moving grain, cotton and fertiliser — the quiet logistics behind Australian life.

“We’re quite busy,” he said. “There’s always something moving.”

But rising costs — especially diesel — remain front of mind.

“People talk about electric trucks… we’re a long way from that.”

His Anzac Day, though, is about something else entirely.

Each year, he and a group of locals take restored WWII jeeps through Berrigan, Jerilderie and Finley, carrying veterans who can’t march.

“We load up the old diggers and lead the parade.”

It’s something he’s done for decades — a small act that keeps connection alive.

War, Medicine and Perspective

In studio, hand surgeon and former umpire David Dilley offered a different lens on Gallipoli — the medical one.

“The planning was appalling,” he said, referencing findings from the Dardanelles Commission.

Basic supplies. Limited understanding. Conditions few had ever encountered.

“They had bandages… a bit of chloroform… and not much else.”

He explained how World War I reshaped medicine — from plastic surgery to trauma care — driven by the scale and nature of injuries.

“It was the first war where more died from enemy action than disease.”

The conversation drifted easily between surgery, cricket and history — as it often does — grounded in experience rather than theory.

Australians Abroad: A Different Kind of Move

Wayne didn’t just travel — he left.

Originally from Sydney’s Northern Beaches, he and his partner now live in what is likely Tulum, trading rising costs at home for something simpler.

“Australia’s getting dearer and dearer,” he said. “Everything costs more.”

After years caravanning across Australia, they wanted a new kind of adventure.

“There’s two economies here,” he said. “The tourist one… and the local one. We’re trying to live the local.”

The weather feels familiar — “like North Queensland” — but the lifestyle is still evolving. They’ve bought a place, are settling into a community, and plan to explore more of the country.

For Wayne, it’s less about escape and more about perspective — seeing how life looks somewhere else.

Remembering, Questioning, Reflecting

Emails filled the spaces between calls, adding context and contrast.

A retired CSIRO ecologist pushed back on claims of widespread reef decline, arguing many remain “healthy and actively growing.”

Another listener described visiting war sites across France and Papua New Guinea, noting how strongly Australia’s contribution is remembered overseas.

“In France, the gratitude is very evident,” he wrote.

Further reflections from listeners touched on family histories, lost relatives, and the long shadow of war — stories carried across generations.

From Japan to Borneo: Memory That Travels

Calls from abroad reinforced how far those memories reach.

In Yokohama, Nan described the Commonwealth War Cemetery — where eucalyptus trees mark the Australian section among carefully tended gardens.

In Sandakan, historian Lynette Silver reflected on decades spent guiding families through the legacy of the Sandakan death marches.

“There’s nothing glorious about being a dead soldier,” she said.

Her work continues to bring people back to those places — not for closure, but for understanding.

Poetry and the Everyday Voice

Poet Kate Llewellyn was named Australian All Over’s contributor of the year — a nod to a lifetime of quiet contribution.

“Poetry is about putting something into the world that wasn’t there before,” she said.

Her work, like the program itself, finds meaning in small, everyday observations — the kind that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Mid-Ocean, Still Connected

Then came Charlotte — calling from the middle of the Atlantic.

“I’m halfway through a crossing,” she said. “Day six… no land in sight.”

At 24, the nurse from near Lismore is working aboard a 60-metre super yacht, moving between the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

“It’s awesome… eternal summer.”

The yacht is worth tens of millions. The guests arrive by private jet. But the crossing itself is all crew — long days, open ocean, and routine.

“They look like normal people,” she said of the ultra-wealthy guests. “Just polos… normal.”

She handles medical needs onboard, blending her training with a lifestyle built around travel.

But the reason she called was simple.

“Mum and Dad listen every Sunday.”

So from the middle of the Atlantic, she rang in — just to say hello.

Harness Racing, Pride and a Christchurch Crossover

Back in Christchurch, Jason slipped in another moment that captured the spirit of the show — where sport, pride and everyday achievement intersect.

He pointed to Brittany Graham, a Queenslander now working in New Zealand racing, who had just pulled off something rare.

“She was presenting… then jumped in the sulky, drove her own horse — and won.”

It wasn’t a feature race — just a meet at Allington Raceway — but the image stuck. From sideline presenter to driver in a matter of minutes.

“She does a lot for racing over here,” he said. “She’s an amazing young lady.”

A small moment, but one that fit the morning — Australians abroad, quietly making their mark.

Trucks, Towns and the Long Way Round

Kelvin Baxter’s call didn’t stop at fuel and freight — it stretched into something bigger.

He spoke about taking part in “Crawling the Hume,” a convoy of more than 300 restored trucks travelling the old highway route through towns long bypassed by the freeway.

Starting near Wallan and winding through places like Broadford, Kilmore and Wangaratta before finishing near Albury, the convoy turned the old road back into a main street, if only for a day.

“People were sitting in camp chairs… cheering us on,” he said.

“They were so pleased to see us come through.”

For towns that once lived off that passing traffic, it was more than nostalgia — it was a reminder they hadn’t been forgotten.

War Stories Carried Through Generations

Among the emails, one stood out for its detail and weight.

A listener shared the story of two brothers — both pilots in World War II, but with very different outcomes.

One survived being shot down over Germany, captured and held as a prisoner of war for years.

The other did not return.

His aircraft, unable to make it back to base, was deliberately steered away from a village in France before crashing — killing all on board but sparing those on the ground.

Decades later, that village still holds a ceremony each year in their memory — a quiet act of gratitude carried on by people who never met them.

Coral, Perspective and Pushing Back

Not every contribution leaned into reflection — some pushed back.

A retired CSIRO ecologist wrote in to challenge claims about dying reefs.

“The majority of reefs I’ve seen are healthy and actively growing,” he said.

He acknowledged localised damage — storms, cyclones, patches of decline — but warned against sweeping statements that miss the bigger picture.

“Reports need context.”

In a morning built on lived experience, it was a reminder that perspective can shift depending on where — and how closely — you look.

War Cemeteries and the Weight of Place

The discussion around remembrance extended beyond Gallipoli.

Listeners spoke about cemeteries across the world — from Villers-Bretonneux to Port Moresby — where Australian stories are preserved far from home.

At places like Labuan War Cemetery, rows of headstones — many unnamed — carry the same inscription:

“Known unto God.”

Walking those rows, some reflected, gives a clearer sense of scale than any history book — line after line, name after name, and sometimes none at all.

“They were united while they were alive… and they’re united still.”

One Conversation at a Time

From Gallipoli to Christchurch, from country highways to open ocean, the program moved without agenda — just people sharing where they are and what they’ve seen.

Stories of war and memory sat alongside everyday life, travel, work and change.

And as always, it worked the same way.

One voice at a time.

Listen to the podcast episode here.

Disclaimer: ‘Australia All Over’ is a program produced and broadcast by the ABC Local Radio Network and hosted by Ian McNamara. Brisbane Suburbs Online News has no affiliation with Ian McNamara, the ABC, or the ‘Australia All Over’ program. This weekly review is an independent summary based on publicly available episodes. All original content and recordings remain the property of the ABC. Our summaries are written in our own words and are intended for commentary and review purposes only. Readers can listen to the full episodes via the official ABC platforms.

The post The April 26 Show appeared first on West End Today.

Heart Dance

23 April – 28 May 2026 | Thomas Dixon Centre, West End
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A contemporary dance production exploring movement, emotion and physical storytelling at the home of Queensland Ballet, running as part of a longer season.

Footloose: The Musical

24 April & 03 May 2026 | Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills
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A high-energy stage musical adaptation featuring live performances, dance sequences and a well-known story brought to life in a large-scale theatre setting.

La Cenerentola (Cinderella)

29 April – 02 May 2026 | Concert Hall, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), South Brisbane
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Rossini’s opera retelling of the Cinderella story presented with full orchestral and vocal performance across multiple show dates.

Queensland Ballet and HOTA Present Elastic Hearts

30 April – 09 May 2026 | Thomas Dixon Centre, West End
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A contemporary ballet collaboration blending expressive choreography and modern movement, presented as part of a limited season.

GOMA Friday Nights Presence

01 May 2026 | Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), South Brisbane
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An after-hours gallery program featuring live performance, music and immersive art experiences in a relaxed evening environment.

Petite Messe Solennelle

01 May 2026 | Concert Hall, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), South Brisbane
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A classical choral and orchestral performance of Rossini’s sacred work presented in a formal concert hall setting.

Phoebe, She Wrote

01 May 2026 | New Farm Libraryt, New Farm
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An intimate storytelling and performance event combining literary work and live interpretation in a community library setting.

Our Big Fat Greek Cafe Tour

02 May 2026 | Thomas Dixon Centre, West End
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A theatrical café-style performance blending humour, storytelling and cultural themes in an immersive stage experience.

Red Dirt Hymns

02 May 2026 | Opera Queensland Studio, South Brisbane
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A live performance showcasing contemporary Australian vocal works with a focus on storytelling and musical composition.

Music on Sundays 2: Spirit of the Violin

03 May 2026 | Concert Hall, Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), South Brisbane
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A classical music program featuring violin repertoire performed in a curated Sunday concert setting.

Brisbane’s arts calendar across this period brings together ballet, opera, theatre and gallery-based experiences, with major performances concentrated at QPAC, the Thomas Dixon Centre and GOMA. Several productions also span multiple dates beyond this weekend window.

The post Ballet, Opera, Musical Theatre and Gallery Nights in Brisbane: 01 – 03 May 2026 appeared first on West End Today.

Candyland Putt Putt

20 March – 04 May 2026 | Victoria Park, Herston
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A themed mini golf experience featuring colourful candy-inspired courses designed for families and children of all ages.

Ellis And The Night Orchestra

31 April & 02 May 2026 | Backbone Youth Arts, Seven Hills
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A live performance combining music and storytelling in a family-friendly format, suitable for a relaxed cultural outing.

Mary-Lou Stephens – The Hobart Hotel

01 May 2026 | Chermside Library, Chermside
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An author talk and literary event offering an engaging experience for families interested in books and storytelling.

Portside Wharf’s Mother’s Day Market

02 May 2026 | Portside Wharf, Hamilton
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A waterfront market featuring handmade goods, gifts and food stalls, ideal for a casual family outing.

Mother’s Day Handmade Market

02 May 2026 | Queensland Museum Whale Mall, South Bank
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A curated market showcasing local makers, crafts and unique gift ideas in a central, family-friendly location.

Free Movies in the Park “Oddball”

02 May 2026 | Little Bayside Park, Manly
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An outdoor movie screening suitable for families, offering a relaxed evening with picnic-style viewing.

A Night in Japan

02 May 2026 | Mt Gravatt Showgrounds, Mount Gravatt
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A cultural event featuring Japanese food, performances and activities, providing an immersive experience for all ages.

AniMayhem

02 – 03 May 2026 | Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, South Brisbane
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A pop culture and anime convention with cosplay, interactive exhibits and entertainment suitable for families and teens.

Tarragindi Local Market

03 May 2026 | Wellers Hill Bowls Club, Tarragindi
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A community market offering fresh produce, food stalls and family-friendly activities in a relaxed setting.

Train Day

03 May 2026 | Brisbane Bayside Steam Railway, Wynnum West
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A family event featuring miniature train rides and railway displays, popular with young children.

Stones Corner Festival

03 May 2026 | Logan Road, Stones Corner
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A street festival with live entertainment, food vendors and activities suitable for families and visitors of all ages.

These weekend events include a mix of markets, festivals, cultural activities and outdoor entertainment, providing a variety of family-friendly options across Brisbane.

The post Markets, Festivals and Family Activities in Brisbane: 01 – 03 May 2026 appeared first on West End Today.

Sh*t-Faced Shakespeare Hamlet

28 April – 03 May 2026 | Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse, New Farm
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A comedic theatre performance of Hamlet featuring improvisation and a rotating inebriated cast member.

Jenny Tian

30 April – 02 May 2026 | The Princess Theatre, Woolloongabba
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Comedian Jenny Tian performs a stand-up show focused on observational humour and storytelling.

Billy D’Arcy You Wish Babe

30 April & 02 May 2026 | Good Chat Comedy Club, Petrie Terrace
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Billy D’Arcy presents a stand-up comedy show exploring personal experiences and everyday situations.

Furnace And The Fundamentals FURNAPALOOZA 2026

01 May 2026 | The Fortitude Music Hall, Fortitude Valley
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A high-energy live music event featuring mashups, covers and interactive performances, known for its party-style atmosphere and crowd engagement.

Vanessa Amorosi

01 May 2026 | The Triffid, Newstead
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Australian singer Vanessa Amorosi performs a live set featuring a mix of well-known tracks and recent releases.

John Maus

01 May 2026 | Crowbar Brisbane, Fortitude Valley
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Electronic artist John Maus brings his synth-driven sound and experimental style to an intimate Brisbane venue.

Brisbane Rocks – Tribute Fest

01 May 2026 | The Hamilton Hotel, Hamilton
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A tribute concert featuring performances of classic rock and punk songs from well-known international bands.

Jimmy Carr Laughs Funny

01 – 02 May 2026 | Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Boondall
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British comedian Jimmy Carr presents his latest stand-up show featuring dark humour, quick one-liners and audience interaction.

Bowling For Soup + Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls Australian Tour

02 May 2026 | The Tivoli, Fortitude Valley
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A co-headline live show featuring pop-punk band Bowling For Soup alongside Frank Turner and his band.

WAAX – Angel’s Mess Album Tour

02 May 2026 | The Triffid, Newstead
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Brisbane band WAAX performs tracks from their latest album as part of their national tour.

Dizzy Wright Australian Tour 2026

02 May 2026 | Crowbar Brisbane, Fortitude Valley
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US rapper Dizzy Wright performs live, showcasing his hip-hop catalogue and touring material.

Bad//Dreems “Ultra Dundee” Album Tour

02 May 2026 | The Brightside (Outdoors), Fortitude Valley
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Rock band Bad//Dreems presents songs from their album Ultra Dundee in an outdoor venue setting.

HAIRMANIA

02 May 2026 | The Lou Lou Room, Wynnum
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A themed live music event celebrating classic rock with performances inspired by the glam rock era.

Josh Tatofi Looking For Love Tour

03 May 2026 | The Fortitude Music Hall, Fortitude Valley
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Hawaiian artist Josh Tatofi performs a live show featuring R&B and island-inspired music.

Quadeca

03 May 2026 | The Triffid, Newstead
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Quadeca brings a genre-blending performance combining hip-hop, indie and alternative sounds.

Brisbane Afrobeats Festival 2026

03 May 2026 | The Brightside, Fortitude Valley
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A music festival showcasing afrobeats artists, DJs and dance performances in a club-style environment.

Brisbane’s weekend events include a mix of live music, comedy and festival-style performances across venues in Fortitude Valley, Newstead and beyond, offering a variety of entertainment options.

The post Comedy, Rock Gigs and Live Music in Brisbane: 01 – 03 May 2026 appeared first on West End Today.