Wavell Heights has secured its own slice of Brisbane’s specialty coffee scene with the arrival of a new family-focused venue, Alby’s Cafe, that brings high-end cafe culture directly to the suburbs.
Daniel Bowles and his business partner Chih-Wei “Tiger” Hsu spent the last few years looking for the right spot to set up shop outside the inner city. Bowles noticed a shortage of quality coffee options after he moved his own family from New Farm to the suburbs.
He felt that communities like Wavell Heights had a real demand for the kind of specialty service usually found in the city centre. This new venture continues the team’s shift away from busy city hubs, following the success of their other venues in Hawthorne and Gaythorne.
The cafe sits inside a classic Queenslander that previously housed a business called Kalisto. The owners refreshed the space with bright green and off-white paint to give it a welcoming feel. A sunroom fills the indoor dining area with natural light, while a back deck offers a spot surrounded by greenery.
The design focuses heavily on serving the local families. Bowles named the business Alby’s after his middle son, and the layout reflects this family-first approach. Parents can relax with their drinks while children stay entertained in a dedicated play area. It is also a dog-friendly location, making it a convenient stop for locals walking their pets nearby.
The kitchen serves a mix of simple crowd-pleasers and creative new dishes. The team brought over popular items from their Gaythorne location, such as the chicken melt toastie and the sausage and egg muffin. New standout options include a beef rendang toastie packed with slow-cooked beef and sweet mustard. For those with a sweet tooth, the house-made banana bread comes fresh from the oven with a dusting of icing sugar.
Coffee drinkers can order beans from Single O, ranging from classic pours to matcha and cold brew. A signature item is the iced tiramisu drink, which features a chocolate espresso base topped with cold vanilla foam. The staff are happy to guide customers through the menu, whether they want a standard morning fix or something different. Locals can even buy roasted coffee beans and organic chocolate to take home.
As 2025 draws to a close, Brisbane’s dining landscape has proven more vibrant than ever, with a fresh wave of cafés and casual eateries opening across the city. Among the standouts, Alby’s in Wavell Heights has captured the essence of what makes a neighbourhood café truly special, quickly becoming a beloved community hub since opening in August.
Hospitality veterans Daniel Bowles and Tiger Hsu transformed the former Kalisto Cafe site into this sun-soaked gathering place, reuniting their successful partnership from Butter Café. For Bowles, whose previous ventures include Little Loco, Miss Jones and Sister, the move to Wavell Heights represented an opportunity to bring specialty coffee culture and quality food to Brisbane’s northern suburbs.
The café’s design immediately sets it apart, featuring a striking fluted-concrete counter, a coloured-glass sunroom and a dedicated kids’ nook. But it’s the atmosphere that truly resonates—locals have quickly made Alby’s their own, settling in for long visits over specialty coffee and creative menu offerings.
“We love the idea of opening neighbourhood cafés that are community focused,” Bowles explains. “I feel like the suburbs are crying out for specialty coffee and quality food—a place that is local and special to them, where they can catch up with their neighbours and friends. We wanted to bring that to Wavell Heights.”
The menu delivers on that promise with inventive toasties, including a popular beef rendang option with American cheese and sauerkraut, alongside comfort favourites that have followed the duo from their previous ventures. Single O coffee from Sydney and sourdough from Brisbane’s Cordelia Sourdough Bakehouse round out the offering.
Photo Credit: Google Maps / maria rita mastronardi
Operating Monday to Friday from 6am to 2pm and weekends from 6:30am to 2pm at 199 Bilsen Road, Alby’s has quickly established itself as more than just another café. It’s become a gathering place where the simple pleasures of good food and warm company take centre stage.
In a year that saw Brisbane welcome Thai brunch specialists, artisan bakeries and inventive sandwich shops across the city, Alby’s stands out by reminding us that sometimes the best additions to our food culture are the ones that make us feel most at home.
A small timber yard tucked away in the quiet back streets of Wavell Heights eventually grew into one of the state’s most successful suppliers thanks to the vision of Peter Leddy, who is being remembered this week as a father figure to the trade.
Peter passed away on 15 December at the age of 79 following a battle with pancreatic cancer. His journey with the local community began decades ago when he saw potential in a modest operation. In 1983, he made a deal with his former employer, Ron Versace, to buy the business. At that time, it was a small merchant shop located in Wavell Heights. He knew that for the company to serve more people, it needed more space. He eventually found a new location in Virginia, close to the city centre, and moved the operations there in 2005.
Once the new site was up and running, Peter decided it was time to retire. He wanted to travel and see Australia with his wife, Kerry. He left the business in good hands, passing the leadership to his four sons. Today, the company is still family-owned and operated. Graham Leddy serves as the managing director, while his brothers Bill, Doug, and Josh manage the production plant, accounts, and the Virginia site.
Graham noted that while products and faces change over the years, the commitment to service remains the same. He credited his father for instilling the belief that taking care of customers should never go out of style.
The business has grown significantly from its early days. It now employs 55 staff members and operates out of a large facility with yards and offices covering more than 6000 square metres. In 2012, the team’s hard work was recognised when they won an award for the best building materials centre in the metro area.
Peter was known for more than just his business skills. He was a dedicated supporter of the industry, serving on the board during the early years of the organisation now known as the National Timber and Hardware Association. He was also a long-time member of the Brisbane Hoo-Hoo Club 218.
Before his time in the timber trade, Peter served his country. He was in the Australian Army during the Vietnam conflict in 1968. His friends and associates across the wood merchandising sector are now mourning a man who gave so much to his profession and his country.
Peter is survived by his wife of 55 years, Kerry, their four sons, and ten grandchildren. A celebration of his life will take place at the Pinnaroo Cemetery and Crematorium Chapel in Bridgeman Downs on Tuesday, December 23, at 11 am. The service will offer a chance for family, friends, and colleagues to say goodbye to a man who built a lasting legacy from humble beginnings.
We’ve combed Nundah, Wavell Heights, and Wavell Heights North 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!
Nicola Pennisi ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rustichella offers high quality, authentic northern Italian food. The Tagliatelle Emiliana (pork and beef ragu with a dash of cream) was beautifully cooked and so delicious. The Traditional Egg Pannacotta served with fresh fruit coulis was so amazing too. The staff were friendly and attentive. Definitely will return to try more from the menu.
Suzzanna Wallace ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ WHAT A TREASURE!!! I have a severe food allergy and called to ask questions about the menu. I spoke with Roberto, and was blown away by his patience and accommodating efforts to assure me I could enjoy dinner safely. We decided to drive there and are so thrilled we did!! What a gorgeous little place!! The food is beautiful, the wine glasses are a thin-stem fans dream, the staff could not be more helpful and pleasant!! We will be back, again and again!! So worth the drive!! 10/10 we’re booked in again for Friday!!
Melanie Heffernan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ This restaurant has amazing food! Their pasta is incredibly fresh, and the flavours are perfectly balanced. Every dish we had was perfect and delicious! I can’t rave about it enough! And the pannacotta – it was a revelation! Wish I had ordered 3! Will definitely be back again! 🤩🤩
William Cheung ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very flavourful and fresh food. The care taken in cooking and preparing is obvious in each item we ordered. I would say it’s kinda oily but I think that’s normal and authentic.
J K (Jee) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Extremely chuffed to have a Korean restaurant in Nundah. Food definitely has more of a Mum’s home style combined with street market vendor but absolutely delicious and hearty regardless. Portion sizes are generous and served in good time. Take away but also very casual eat in options but limited table seating.
CC Transfers ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ So much flavour. The Kim Chi Fried Rice with Spicy Chicken was yummy. Well done, next time ill be back for the Kim Chi Stew.
Lavinia ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ LATE NIGHT FEED 💯 Initially thought the burger looked a bit small, but one bite in—delicioso! Juicy patty cooked to perfection, cheese melted beautifully over the meat, toasted bun, and crisp, fresh salad—so good. The hotdog was decent, and the cheesy fries hit the spot. Solid late-night fix! 💯
Jeffrey Yuen ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stumbled upon this burger shop through a random Google search, and it was a great find. It wasn’t crowded on a weekday afternoon. The burger was delicious, and the bun choice was particularly impressive. Prices are reasonable. They only accept card payments, and the staff are nice and friendly. I would definitely recommend this place to others.
Michael Agi ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Love to promote awesome burger places in Brisbane. I took my family tonight and everyone was super impressed with service and food. My son and I had the Grand burger 🍔 and it was amazing. Also had their fries 🍟 and chicken tenders and they were cooked to perfection. Last but not least they know how to make a thick shake and the Caramel flavour was amazing. Atmosphere was also really nice including the area with all the other restaurants. Thanks to all staff working tonight you did a great job. See you again very soon.
Sam Sonter ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Fast unobtrusive service. I had a coffee frappe and the smashed avo toast with ricotta cream, cherry tomatoes, and grilled peach slices, plus chorizo – the flavours complemented each other perfectly. Absolutely delicious!
Nour Obaid ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Had an amazing experience at Fuel & Co. The food and coffee were superior! Everything tasted so fresh and well prepared. Service was also spot on. Will definitely be back here again!
Deborah Davis ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Warmed my tummy this morning with Apple Porridge served with yoghurt and fresh fruit. My friend had the Egg Benedict which she said was great We also enjoyed good coffees. My first visit but I’ll be back.
Jo Bell ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Blockhouse is a fabulous hidden gem tucked away in suburbia. Recommended by a family member, our group of three enjoyed an excellent midweek lunch. Service was friendly and efficient. All our meals were generous and delicious. My Portugese chicken dish was outstanding. Blockhouse is a relaxed place to enjoy great menu options for breakfast and lunch. Highly recommended.
Shishir Chaudhary ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ One of the best coffees I’ve had recently. Food was fresh and full of flavour too!
Kamila mendonça ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The place has table options in the dining room and the outside area. I had a great experience. The dishes we ordered were delicious, well presented, refined and flavorful. The staff is friendly. The coffee (mocha and espresso) was tasty, as were the tumeric latte and hot chocolate, which were also very good. I hope to return to try more options. I highly recommend the banana bread, the popcorn chicken, and the rash cakes. The portion sizes are not large, if compared to breakfast dishes at similar establishments, and the price is a little above the range.
An upgrade to security fencing at Wavell Heights State School has been completed as part of a wider program delivering around 50 infrastructure projects across Queensland state schools. The fencing improvement in Wavell Heights forms part of the first group of works finalised under the program, which also includes upgrades at other campuses across the state.
The current program covers more than 50 projects across 49 state schools. Eight projects have already been completed, including security fencing upgrades at Wavell Heights State School and a school in Townsville, along with new air-conditioning for a high school in the same region. These projects contribute to a broader effort aimed at improving safety, teaching spaces and general school amenities across Queensland.
The statewide program also involves new classrooms, school halls, sports courts, outdoor learning areas and playgrounds. These upgrades follow contracts exceeding $100 million for classroom-related projects across Cairns, the Gold Coast and Brisbane. The works reflect ongoing priorities to maintain and improve facilities needed by students in both metropolitan and regional areas.
The completed project at Wavell Heights State School focused on upgraded security fencing. This improvement forms part of the early projects delivered and contributes to enhanced on-site safety for students and staff. No additional works for Wavell Heights were listed in the program at this stage.
Wider Program Works Across Queensland
Beyond the completed projects, a large number of upgrades remain underway. These include various improvements to learning spaces and school facilities across multiple campuses. The program also aligns with a broader $1.09 billion investment supporting the construction of new schools in Caloundra South, Ripley Valley and Gracemere to meet future population growth.
Local Community Impact in Wavell Heights
The fencing upgrade is expected to support improved security and strengthen site safety for the school community in Wavell Heights. Similar upgrades across other schools are designed to improve learning environments and support day-to-day operations.
Additional projects across Queensland will continue to progress as part of the infrastructure rollout. Future works will remain focused on classrooms, outdoor spaces and essential school facilities.
Families and individuals in Wavell Heights now have greater access to mental health support, as the Brisbane Livewell Clinic expands its counselling services to meet a growing need in the local community. The clinic has strengthened its team with two new counsellors, bringing a broader range of therapeutic approaches and more flexible appointment options to residents in North Brisbane.
The expansion, announced on 22 October 2025, reflects an increasing awareness of mental health care and the demand for accessible counselling in suburban areas. Counsellors Alicia Kent-Rooney and Nathan Gurry have joined the Wavell Heights practice, each bringing distinct specialisations in emotional wellbeing, relationship support, and holistic mental health strategies.
Both professionals are based at 1/52 Jeffcott Street, Wavell Heights, where they offer individual, couples, and family counselling sessions. The clinic’s holistic approach includes attention to emotional, physical, and lifestyle factors, aligning with its broader wellness philosophy.
The team shared that expanding local services aims to make quality counselling more accessible to the surrounding community and provide ongoing care closer to home.
The Brisbane Livewell Clinic, established as a multidisciplinary wellness practice, continues to integrate counselling alongside its nutrition, naturopathy, and acupuncture services. The Wavell Heights expansion demonstrates its commitment to supporting residents through both mental and physical wellbeing programs — particularly as awareness grows around the value of professional counselling as part of everyday health care.
Located on Spence Road in Brisbane’s northern suburb of Wavell Heights, the brick Wavell Heights Presbyterian Church—also known as St Luke’s—was formally entered into theQueensland Heritage Register on 9 September 2022. The listing recognises its Modernist design and its place in the story of post-war suburban growth and worship in Queensland.
Before the housing boom of the 1940s and 1950s, the area now known as Wavell Heights lay on the traditional lands of the Turrbal people and was largely rural, known for small farms and dairies. As Brisbane expanded northward, families moved in, and in 1948 the Presbyterian Church of Queensland purchased about ten acres along Spence Road for a proposed War Memorial Hospital. By January 1949, a small congregation had begun meeting under the care of the Nundah charge.
Within a few years, the growing congregation needed a more permanent meeting place. A timber church hall was built in 1951 and dedicated in 1952. The hall hosted worship services and an expanding Sunday School that by 1957 had 341 children and about 200 families involved. The growing membership reflected both the suburb’s post-war development and the sense of connection forming among its residents.
Designing a Modern Church for a Changing Time
By 1961, plans were underway for a larger brick church that would reflect modern ideas about faith and space. The architectural firm Cross & Bain, with James William Gibson as project architect, was appointed on 4 November 1964 to design the new building. Construction proceeded in 1966 after the lowest tender from Macquarie Constructions was accepted, and the church was dedicated on 19 November 1966.
The resulting building stands as a strong example of post-war Modernist church design in Queensland. Departing from the long nave of traditional churches, Gibson used a pentagonal plan so that no worshipper sat far from the pulpit or communion table. The folded, metal-clad roof and amber-glazed windows create an interior filtered with warm light, while the use of face brick emphasises simplicity and honesty of materials.
The interior arrangement reflected the liturgical renewal of the 1950s and 1960s, which encouraged a more gathered form of worship. The pulpit and communion table share a single platform, symbolising the equality of Word and Sacrament. A central skylight above the baptismal font anchors the plan, drawing focus to light and inclusion. Red-cedar furnishings designed for the space complete the interior’s unified style.
Recognition and Protection
When Wavell Heights News reported the nomination in 2022, local leaders noted that the building had remained largely unchanged since its dedication. The Queensland Heritage Council later confirmed the church’s entry in the state register for its architectural innovation and for illustrating the evolution of Presbyterian church design in the mid-twentieth century.
Under the Queensland Heritage Act 1992, the 1966 church building and its immediate grounds are now protected. Earlier structures and the later manse are excluded from the listing, but the recognition secures the main church’s architectural and cultural values for the future.
Photo Credit: Queensland Heritage Register
Continuity and Community
The church remains highly intact. Recent works—such as air-conditioning in 2019 and a new PWD toilet block in 2020—have supported ongoing use without altering the original structure. Today, St Luke’s continues to function as a place of worship and gathering for Wavell Heights residents.
Its continued presence tells a broader story of how Brisbane’s suburbs evolved after World War II. As new communities formed, buildings like St Luke’s gave shape to shared faith and civic life. Now recognised on the Queensland Heritage Register, the church stands as both a physical and historical marker of that suburban transformation.
From cozy local gems to buzzworthy hotspots, Nundah and Wavell Heights are serving up some seriously impressive dining. We sifted through the rave reviews to find the places people can’t stop talking about—whether it’s the flavors, the vibe, or that one dish they dream about. Here are the standouts you need to try!
Gab Garde ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Everything we had was delicious and fresh. It was very exciting to taste regional dishes that aren’t very common to find in Australia. I particularly loved the tigelle with the guanciale spread! The pastas were excellent. Can also recommend the light and fluffy crescentine. The homemade almond biscuits and Vin Santo dessert wine were the perfect end to the meal. Service was attentive and friendly, too.
Andrea Martel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had lunch at Rustichella and everything was delicious. We had the Burrata on Heirloom Tomatoes, Tomato Bruschetta, Potato Gnocchi with Free Range Chicken Ragù Bianco, Spaghetti Carbonara, Infused Pappardelle with Polleo Beef Ragù, and the Affogato. Dishes were fresh with good portions and service was excellent. Looking forward to going back and trying other dishes.
Belinda Anstey ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The food and service is always fantastic. Can’t fault it. Would highly recommend if you love authentic Italian and pasta. For Entree, we had the Tigelle with Modena Pork Pesto and Crescentine with Prosciutto and Parmesan. I had a special for my Main. I can’t recall the name but it was fantastic. Their Limoncello cocktails were also great. A more expensive option, but absolutely worth it. I’ve seen some reviews saying portions are small, but I disagree. Pasta is very filling so it was enough and I didn’t feel overstuffed 🙂
Ranjana Bhandari ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Just wow🤤 . I really enjoyed and amazed by the food and services of the restaurant especially dumplings which I really can’t explain about it. Thank you google for the genuine reviews on the site which help for incredible experience at Nundha today. Very satisfied
Pravalika uppala ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
This spot is fantastic for veg fried rice and chilli momos. The service is commendable, and the atmosphere is excellent. However, the prices are slightly on the higher side compared to other places.
Pichook ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I have been to this place multiple times. The food is amazing and staff are friendly and helpful. Out of all the food I definitely recommend the chicken momo platter, Chow main and fried rice. They also serve drinks including alcoholic drinks.
Nokkie Chaya ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Papaya salad with soft shell crab Whole fish with sweet & sour sauce Whole fish with green apple salad good quality and so delicious
Rich A ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The best Thai food we’ve had in Brisbane. We enjoyed the Phuket style Fried Rice, Pad See Ew and a Red Curry. The Pad See Ew had that proper wok charred flavour to it and the ingredients in all dishes were fresh and of high quality. You can really tell that the chef takes pride in their cooking. Lychee iced tea was also really nice and refreshing. We’ll be back!
Arianna Freeman ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We have been ordering from Siam Sensations for a few years and it has NEVER disappointed. Last night we had the BEST Yellow Curry and Cashew Nut Stirfry. Absolutely delicious! Thank you!
Patrick Saure ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I’ve visited this place is extremely amazing a Japanese cuisine,really enjoyed the food is flavourful,fresh and the quality is excellent. The staff are accomodating with a smile,food service is on time delivered on the table,and the price is affordable.I especially love the sizzling wagyu teryaki sauce it was perfect and impressed.Highly recommend this japanese cuisine sushi Honke.👌thanks.
Lia Eungyeong Song ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ You shouldn’t go there thinking about Korean sushi, but it’s the best in Brisbane! The staff are all friendly, the food comes out quickly, and best of all, it’s a great ice cream restaurant 🥰 They also have gluten free options.
K Bell ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hands down my favorite sushi train restaurant. dishes are always fresh and they will always make things fresh for you if you ask. wide range of entrees, small sushi rolls, large sushi rolls, a aburi, nigiri, hand rolls, noodle dishes, platters, drinks, and desserts. My go-tos are always the California rolls, the gyoza and anything with fresh salmon. Star for always very, very friendly and helpful and provide great and quick service. sometimes there’s a line but it isn’t too much of a a white until there is availability. ordering through an iPad with pictures so you can see what you get. take away also available. parking is not quite that easy. atmosphere is lively and friendly.
Karlee McNamara ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ Always good service from staff here! We got two steaks, unfortunately only had pepper sauce or gravy options but the salad that came with had a very tasty dressing. My steak was a little chewy but my partners seem done well. They also have guava cruiser on tap which is random but definitely a thirst quencher. Very prices here. We’d only come down for specials or if we get $ off in the app
Lola Chin ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great food and service. We had pan fried barramundi and parpadelle marinara with Morten bug. It’s super yummy and we will definitely be back again!
C D ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We got the chicken parma and sirloin steak. Both chips and salad and was top notch. About time a salad doesn’t come with raw onion. We loved how it came pickled. The chips both had good crunch and texture. I had the parma and I like to think I’m a parma connoisseur, I will definitely be back for it. I mean the cheese, the chicken wasn’t dry and all round good meal 🤤 The size of it was fantastic too! My partners steak was cooked to exactly how a med rare should be cooked. Had great char flavour and came with bone marrow butter 🤤 we also got the garlic bread and salt and pepper squid to start. Yum yum yum. We will definitely be back. Not sure before the renovations what the establishment looked like, but I definitely think it’s a great feel.
Brisbane Livewell Clinic in Wavell Heights is celebrating 46 years of holistic healthcare, continuing its focus on natural therapies and allied health services for the Brisbane community.
Established in 1979, Brisbane Livewell Clinic is recognised as Brisbane’s longest-running naturopath and wellness centre. In September 2025, the clinic marked its 46th year of operation, highlighting its continued role in providing holistic healthcare to local patients.
Serving Patients North And South
The clinic operates from two sites, at Jeffcott Street in Wavell Heights and Pickwick Street in Cannon Hill. Both locations include off-street parking, disabled access, and offer online consultations to extend services across Brisbane and throughout Australia.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Therapies For Every Stage Of Health
Brisbane Livewell Clinic offers a wide range of therapies including naturopathy, clinical nutrition, dietetics, osteopathy, massage therapy, hypnotherapy, acupuncture, counselling, kinesiology, Bowen therapy and mindset therapy. Its team of 17 practitioners works with patients to create individualised “Wellness Plans” designed to address underlying causes of illness rather than symptoms alone.
Tackling Complex Conditions
The clinic’s services cater to patients managing conditions such as thyroid disorders, menopause and perimenopause symptoms, digestive issues, chronic pain, hormonal imbalances, musculoskeletal conditions, mental health challenges, reproductive health concerns, addictions, fatigue, stress, migraines and skin conditions. This broad approach reflects its commitment to integrated care.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Patient Stories Reflect Success
Brisbane Livewell Clinic has received more than 230 patient reviews, reporting a 4.9-star satisfaction rating. Feedback includes improvements in energy, gut health, pain management, smoking cessation and anxiety reduction, with massage, hypnotherapy and naturopathy services often highlighted.
As it passes the 46-year milestone, Brisbane Livewell Clinic has stated its focus will remain on evolving services to meet community needs. Its approach combines evidence-based natural therapies with lifestyle support, aiming to provide long-term health outcomes for patients.
The Brisbane Hustlers, a gay and inclusive rugby club from Wavell Heights, sent a powerful message to the rugby world by conquering their fiercest rivals for the first time to win Oceania’s prestigious Purchas Cup in Auckland, positioning them as serious contenders ahead of hosting a global tournament.
The club secured the 2025 Purchas Cup in a gripping final against the Sydney Convicts on a wet afternoon at Western Springs Stadium. The tense match ended with a 7−5 scoreline in favour of the Brisbane side.
This victory was a milestone for the Hustlers, marking not only their first win under the tournament’s new two-division format but also the first time in their history they have defeated the formidable Sydney club. According to team president Steve Bevan, they managed to beat their long-time rivals twice during the competition.
The Heart of a Champion
The win was the result of a long and difficult journey for the club. Mr. Bevan, who has been with the Hustlers for six years, expressed that he was almost speechless with emotion following the match. He noted the team went into the final carrying several injuries but praised the squad’s immense resilience. He said that not a single player gave up during the entire game, especially in the final ten minutes when they successfully defended their line from a relentless attack.
The Purchas Cup, Oceania’s premier gay and inclusive rugby tournament, brought together six clubs and eight teams in a celebration of the sport. While the Hustlers claimed the top prize, other clubs also had their moments of success. The Sydney Convicts walked away with the second-division Purchas Shield after a convincing 14−0 win against a determined Perth Rams team.
The Rams’ coach, Jeb, conveyed immense pride and gratitude for his players’ spirit. Though the Melbourne Chargers did not secure a trophy, their captain, Mac Gosewisch, received the personal honour of being named the Best and Fairest Player of the Tournament.
This victory comes at a crucial time for the Hustlers. The club, which holds its home games at Norths Rugby Club on Shaw Road, is preparing to host the 2026 Bingham Cup, the world’s foremost inclusive rugby tournament. Mr. Bevan revealed that he had told his team they would win the Purchas Cup to show international teams what they will be up against next year in Brisbane. With this historic win, they have made that goal a reality and are eagerly preparing to welcome the world.
