North Queensland's largest urban centre north of the Sunshine Coast
New Zealand has crushed Fiji 66-6 on the Gold Coast, extending their perfect World Cup run as several players are sidelined by injuries and disciplinary actions. Fiji remains competitive but saw key players sent off and faces an anxious wait on ban outcomes, while New Zealand eyes the semi-finals.
Australia has secured a 56-17 Nations Championship victory over Japan in Townsville, moving to a three-match winning streak under new coach Les Kiss. Flyhalf Carter Gordon and a standout backline move show Australia’s growing attacking threat, while Japan’s pace and tactical kicking kept the match competitive before Australia pulled away in the second half.
Nestory Irankunda’s 68th-minute free kick gave Australia hope, but a late header from Rayan earned Brazil a 1-1 draw in the Townsville friendly, a match notable for the surface and late momentum.
The Olympic emblem has been officially launched: a pink cockatoo crest symbolising both the Olympics and Paralympics, with First Nations elements and a Queensland-inspired design. Officials say the emblems celebrate Brisbane’s lifestyle as the games approach, with the mascot to be revealed later.