What’s Hot Around Town

Photo of author
Written By Alyssa Mackay

Community Events in April 2026

Pine Rivers Orchid Society Hosts Autumn Show 

Orchid lovers will have the chance to see stunning blooms when the Pine Rivers Orchid Society hosts its twice-yearly public show this month. 

On Saturday, 11 April (8.30am-2pm) and Sunday, 12 April (8.30am-1pm), the show will be held at the Kallangur State School Hall on Old Gympie Road. 

“There will be a wonderful display of flowering orchids of outstanding quality grown by members of the Pine Rivers Orchid Society,” a society representative said. 

Visitors can also receive expert advice on growing orchids, browse plants, pots, fertilisers, hangers and other gardening items for sale, enjoy potting demonstrations, and purchase light refreshments. Entry is $5; kids are free. 

Find more information here.

Free Youth Sports Program Returns to North Lakes

Take It to the Streets

Young people aged 13 to 18 are invited to join Take It To The Streets for an afternoon of games, activities, music and free food as the program returns to North Lakes. 

The weekly event will run at The Space on Thursdays from 4pm to 8pm between 9 April and 25 June, featuring free FIBA 3×3 basketball, pickleball, e-games and more, led by professional players and coaches. 

Made Concepts Pty Program Lead Deola D’brown said that many at-risk youth are struggling with confidence, social isolation, and limited access to positive activities and resources. 

“This program provides an affordable (free) and accessible safe space where they can develop life skills and gain support from mentors who encourage their growth,” Deola said. “Many resources are provided and connections with participants who are interested in alternative pathways or in developing their sporting skills.” 

For questions, call 0434 433 078 or email info@madeconceptspty. Register here.

Paint and Sip at Kallangur Tavern 

Those interested in fun art (rather than fine art) can enjoy a painting session at Kallangur Tavern this month. 

On Sunday, 19 April from 3pm, Peaceful Palette will host a two-hour painting experience where participants will create a ‘mountain blossoms’ landscape scene. 

Attendees will receive step-by-step instruction from an artist as well as all materials needed to complete the artwork, which can be taken home at the end of the class. Food and drinks will be available to purchase at the venue. Kallangur Tavern is a family-friendly environment and the class is open to all ages.    

No experience is required, but bookings are essential as class numbers are limited. Book your spots here.

Community Events in March 2026

Silent Disco Comes to Mango Hill Park

No Lights No Lycra (NLNL) Morayfield to Brisbane is bringing a Silent Disco to Danzy Buchanan Park in Mango Hill on Saturday, 14 March, from 6.30pm to 8pm. 

Host/ambassador for NLNL Morayfield to Brisbane, Teena Andrews, said it would be a family-friendly community event for all ages, in line with the concept of “no judgment and being inclusive to everyone”. 

“Our intention to host an event like this was to offer something a little different and extra fun for our dancers, but also to extend this to our wider community, who we believe will enjoy it as well,” Teena said. 

“Dancing in the dark is a really cool experience in itself (ask our dancers), so add to this dancing in a park, on the grass, under the stars with three different playlists to choose from – it’s going to be so much fun!” 

Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for under-16s. Book your spots here.

Local Author to Share Experience with Marfan Syndrome

Peter Perring

Local author Peter Perring will appear at North Lakes Library on Tuesday, 24 March, from 11am to 12pm. He will discuss his experience living with Marfan syndrome, a connective tissue disorder, and his book Threads of Life. 

“Living with Marfan syndrome means carrying something most people can’t see,” Peter said. “On the outside, I often look fine. But inside my body, there is a constant awareness that something is different, fragile, and unpredictable. That invisibility can be one of the hardest parts. 

“What I hope readers take from my first book, Threads of Life, is an understanding that life is made up of moments that don’t always make sense while you’re living them. Each chapter, each experience, is a thread – some strong, some fragile, some tangled – that together create a story worth telling.” 

Bookings required here.

Twilight Markets Bring Family Fun to Kallangur

Families and friends are invited to enjoy a night of community fun at the Kallangur Twilight Markets on Saturday, 7 March, from 4pm to 9pm. 

Guests will have the opportunity to browse 100 boutique retail stalls, choose from 20 food and dessert vendors and relax on the green to enjoy local entertainment live on stage. The event is dog-friendly, with free onsite parking at 10 Narangba Road, Kallangur. 

The markets are a not-for-profit community event run by the Frederick Marsden Youth Centre with the aim of benefiting the local community with good quality family fun.  

Entry is $3 or free for children under four. Pre-purchase online

Community Events in February 2026

Explore the Fashion of Colonial Women

Under the Victorian Skirt

Step back in time to the 1860s with Dorothy Walsh, a member of the Queensland Colonial Association (QCA) and an experienced re-enactor who loves to share stories of Queensland’s past, at Under the Victorian Woman’s Skirt. 

On Thursday, 12 February, from 10.30am to 12pm, at the Pine Rivers Heritage Museum, Dorothy will demonstrate the complex layers of clothing worn by Victorian-era women and reveal details behind garments like petticoats and pantaloons. 

“Under the Victorian Woman’s Skirt will thrill and surprise you,” she said. “You will witness a transformation in front of your own eyes, answering these questions and many more: How many layers of clothing did a woman wear? How did she handle the heat? Where did the fabric come from? Who made her clothes?” 

Bookings are essential. Secure your seats here.

The Mason Rack Band Drums Up Excitement

The Mason Rack Band

The Mason Rack Band will take the stage at Thirsty Chiefs Brewing Company in North Lakes on Saturday, 28 February. 

Known for their high-energy performances, the band blends blues, alternative rock, and roots influences. 

Frontman Mason said the band was looking forward to the gig because of the amazing venue and atmosphere. 

“Our show will be a gathering of tour stories, encasing our best songs and antics, with lap slide guitar, keg drumming and a duel drum off,” Mason said. “We welcome old and new fans to partake. Let go and live a little – see you there!” 

Tickets start at $38.50. Get your tickets here.

Cool Brittania Brings 90s Britpop to Norths Leagues

Cool Britannia

Norths Leagues and Services Club in Kallangur will welcome Cool Britannia to the stage on Saturday, 28 February, for a massive night of 90s Britpop anthems. 

Lead vocalist and guitarist, Mick Hughes, said the audience could expect to hear “wall-to-wall Britpop bangers, big choruses, and blokes shouting the wrong lyrics with confidence”. 

“Parkas on, pints up – Cool Britannia is rolling into North Lakes with the loudest Britpop singalong this side of the 90s,” Mick said. “If you were brought up on Oasis, Blur, Travis, Pulp and Stone Roses this is the gig for you.” 

Mick is joined by Dave Fillmore (lead guitar), John Hamilton (drums), Lee Bond (bass) and Neil Roche-Kelly (keys). 

Doors open at 7pm. Tickets start at $35. Get your tickets here.

Community Events in December 2025

Step Back in Style at Vintage Cocktail Party 

Fashion lovers are invited to don their finest vintage attire for the Vintage Cocktail Party at Pine Rivers Heritage Museum in Old Petrie Town on Saturday, 6 December, from 5pm to 8pm. 

Guests can explore the glamour of the 1920s, 1950s and 1980s through themed games, music and fashion highlights such as flapper dresses, pencil skirts and shoulder pads. 

The evening features canapés, drinks and lively activities including the Charleston, limbo and a 1980s dance-off. 

Bookings are essential. Book your places here.

Craft Lovers Rejoice at New Destash Market 

Photo by Mario H from pexels

The northside is set to welcome the first Craft-O-Rama Destash Market on Sunday, 4 January, at Strathpine Community Centre, 199 Gympie Road, Strathpine, from 9am to 2pm. 

The event will feature a wide range of craft treasures, including fabrics, embroidery supplies, lace, buttons, basketry materials, scrapbooking supplies, and more. 

Organiser and avid crafters Diana and Celia said they were thrilled to bring the new event to the northside, with plans for more to come. 

“There’s nothing better than shopping for bargain craft materials in air-conditioned comfort during the holiday period,” Diana said. 

Entry is $5 and includes access to all on-site workshops throughout the day. Find more details here.

Two Fires Rocks Norths Leagues with Chisel Hits

Two Fires Rocks Norths Leagues

Two Fires will bring the ultimate Cold Chisel and Jimmy Barnes experience to Norths Leagues and Services Club on Saturday, 31 January, playing all the hits that made them legends. 

Fans can expect to hear Khe Sanh, Flame Trees, Working Class Man, Bow River, When the War is Over, and many more. 

Lead singer Tina said the band couldn’t wait to perform at Norths Leagues. 

“The audience can expect all the classic hits (and) powerhouse vocals,” Tina said. “It’s going to be a night full of energy and sing-alongs that you won’t forget.” 

Drummer Fab said, “I love driving the energy and seeing the crowd singing along makes every show incredible.” 

With Dave on bass, Matt on guitar, and Harley on keyboards, the band is all set to bring the golden era of Aussie rock to life. 

Doors open 7.30pm Tickets start at $40 for members. Book your places here.  

Community Events in November 2025

Riot Act Rocks Pearl Jam Tribute in North Lakes 

Riot Act will bring the sounds of Pearl Jam to Thirsty Chiefs Brewery in North Lakes on Saturday, 6 December, from 7pm to 10.30pm. 

The tribute band promises a night of live music and great vibes playing hits like Betterman, Daughter, Jeremy, Even Flow, Alive, Black, and more. 

Paul Bloomfield, who plays bass in the band, said Riot Act delivered a high-energy show, playing all the favourites with an audience interaction focus. 

“Our lead singer, Hector, has the vocal power to pull off one of the most challenging jobs in the music industry,” he said. “He does it with ease, and has developed a cut following of fans that love Pearl Jam live and loud.” 

Tickets start at $20. Book your seats here.

Meet Darry Fraser at North Lakes Library

Darry Fraser

Best-selling Australian author, Darry Fraser, will visit North Lakes Library on Tuesday, 2 December for an in-conversation event from 10.15am to 11.30am. 

Known for her feminist-driven narratives set against the backdrop of Australian history, she will discuss her latest book, The Adventuress of Albany. 

Darry said she was looking forward to visiting North Lakes, hoping to chat to readers – some new, and some who’ve read her stories before – and about her new release. 

“It’s always great to visit new regions and the libraries, so this is exciting for me,” Darry said. “I’ll chat about the book, my previous titles and for any aspiring authors there, the ‘road to publication’. I love my chats to be interactive, so questions from audience members as we go along are very welcome.” 

Free event. Booking required. Secure your places here.

Night Bites Festival Hits North Lakes Town Common

Photo by Marta Dzedyshko on Pexels

The Night Bites festival is coming to North Lakes Town Common from Friday, 7 November to Sunday, 9 November, promising a weekend of family fun. 

The event will feature live music, a range of food trucks offering street food and desserts, and boutique retail stalls. Visitors can take part in messy eating contests and sideshow games. 

The festival will also screen outdoor movies and provide relaxed picnic zones. With rides for all ages and a fully licensed bar, there’s something for everyone. 

The festival will run from 4pm to 10pm on 7 November, 12pm to 10pm on 8 November, and 12pm to 8pm on 9 November. Entry is $5, with free admission for children under two. A family pass is also available online. 

Book here.

Community Events in October 2025

INXS Tribute Set to Rock Norths Leagues 

An electrifying night awaits rock fans when Live Baby Live – The INXS Tribute Show hits the stage at Norths Leagues and Services Club in Kallangur on 4 October. 

The show promises over two hours of high-energy performance in full costume, which is said to be like ‘witnessing the real thing’. 

Lead singer Simon Kennedy said the audience could expect a meticulously accurate and respectful celebration of the music that has soundtracked people’s lives, “and hopefully, a nostalgic hit that takes people back to a time when that little Australian band they used to see down at their local rose to international fame and took over the world.” 

Expect anthems like Don’t Change, Need You Tonight, Never Tear Us Apart, and more. Tickets start at $35. Get your tickets here.

Free Thriller Writing Workshop Comes to North Lakes

Poppy Gee

Sharpen your suspense writing skills and learn how to hook readers at a free Thriller Writing Workshop at North Lakes Library on 25 October. 

Led by internationally published crime author Poppy Gee, the session promises valuable insights into crafting gripping stories. 

“This is a constructive introduction to crime fiction writing class that will be beneficial to beginner or intermediate writers,” Poppy said. “Attendees will go home with new tools in their writerly toolbox to help them write compelling and entertaining stories.” 

Book your slots here.

80s Pub Rock Revival Hits Kallangur

Best of Our Lives

Relive the golden era of Aussie rock when Best Year of Our Lives: The 80s Pub Rock Experience comes to Kallangur Tavern on 25 October. 

Lead guitar, vocalist, and musical director Wayne Daniels said the show brought the spirit of the 80s pub scene to life with thumping riffs and heartfelt lyrics. 

“Expect to be swept back to those days we all spent seeing bands at iconic venues like Brisbane’s Exchange, The Queens, RE, and Festival Hall, singing along to anthems by Australian Crawl, Flowers, Richard Claption, Men At Work, The Models and others,” Wayne said. 

“It’s a night to relive the magic of a time when music united us all. Bring your rock and roll spirit and your dancing shoes.” 

To book, go to bit.ly/46H9sRS 

Community Events in September 2025

Spring Blooms at Orchid Show 

The North Brisbane Orchid Society (NBOS) Inc will host its 2025 Annual Spring Orchid Show at the Pine Rivers Showground (Show Hall), Lawnton, this month. 

To be held on Saturday, 27 September (8.30am to 3.30pm) and Sunday, 28 September (8.30am to 2.30pm), the show will feature plant sales, cultural information, refreshments and a raffle. 

NBOS secretary Anne Maloney said September was a great time of year for an orchid show. 

“The weather is fine and the flowers are spectacular, and you might just find something special to buy in plant sales,” Anne said. “If you are a keen grower, a beginner or just want something for a special gift, you will find what you are looking for.” 

Entry is $4, with free admission for children under 14. 

For more information, email northbrisbaneorchidsociety@yahoo.com.au 

Un-Bear-lievable Family Fun at Teddy Bears Picnic

Get ready for a ‘beary’ fun day out as spring kicks off with the Teddy Bears Picnic in Pine Rivers Park on Thursday, 11 September from 9am to 1pm. 

City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery said the picnic promised a fantastic outing for families with a host of fun activities on offer, such as live stage entertainment, craft activities and workshops. 

“Together with market stalls and food trucks, the event truly has something for everyone,” Mayor Flannery said. “Most importantly, don’t forget to pack your favourite teddy bear and a picnic blanket.” 

Entry is free. 

Find more information here.

Double Dose of Aussie Rock Nostalgia

Fans of iconic Aussie rock are in for a treat with a tribute double header at Thirsty Chiefs Brewing Company in North Lakes on Saturday, 27 September. 

Powderfinger tribute band Powderstreet and Silverchair tribute band Frogstompers will join forces for the Across the Great Divide Tribute Show – a two-hour concert celebrating two of Australia’s greatest rock bands. 

Powderstreet bass player Kyle said the band would play hits like Sunsets, My Happiness and (Baby I’ve Got You) On My Mind across a full live production set-up. 

“We love performing throughout the country but even more in front of a Brisbane home crowd,” he said. 

To book tickets, click here.

Community Events in August 2025

Vintage Shopping Event in Brendale 

Finding everything old and interesting at the Northside Collectors Market when it comes to the South Pine Sports Complex in Brendale, on Sunday, 24 August, from 9am to 2pm. 

Northside Collectors Market owner Celia Bonica said the event would be Brisbane’s biggest specialist antique and vintage fair, with over 75 dealers trading on the day. 

“On offer will be an enormous variety of goods, from toys, uranium glass, jewellery, vintage clothing, 80s video games, furniture, shabby chic, linens, to china, ceramics, collectables and records,” Celia said. 

Visitors can also enjoy free jewellery cleaning (conditions apply), appraisals, and entertainment. 

The indoor venue offers parking, an on-site café, and full disabled access. Entry is $6 cash; kids 14 and under enter free. 

For more information, visit Northside Collectors Market on Facebook. 

Outdoor Theatre Company Shine Light on Bullying

Charming Charlie and Spectacular Sophia

Strathpine’s Outdoor Theatre Company will present Charming Charlie and the Spectacular Sophia at Dragonfly Park in Warner, running from 23 to 31 August. 

The heartfelt production, which explores bullying, is written and produced by local writer Fiona Ware, adapted by David Searston, and directed by Lachlan Boyes. 

“This incredible production gives a voice to our young humans who often feel like that voice is taken away,” Lachlan said. “Fiona wrote the original book in such a beautiful fashion that allows young adults to deal with bullying in schools. 

“We have such a fantastic group of actors – young and not so young! They all embody their characters incredibly well and pay true homage to Fiona’s original book and I can’t wait to see it all come together.” 

This production supports the domestic violence charity Broken to Brilliant. 

Tickets are $10. Get your tickets here.

Follow Outdoor Theatre Company on Facebook for more community updates. 

Thrills Take Over Westfield North Lakes 

Photo by Guilherme Rossi| Pexels

Brisbane Thrill Festival is set to electrify Westfield North Lakes from 8 to 17 August with 10 days of excitement. 

Featuring its biggest entertainment lineup yet, the festival promises high-flying fun for all ages. At the heart of the action is The Speed, a towering ride that flips and spins riders at dizzying speeds. 

There will also be classic rides like the Ferris Wheel and Dodgem Cars, and wild rides like the Zipper, XDride and Bungees. Monster trucks, dinosaurs, sideshow alley, carnival games and showbags make this event a playground of fun. Open from 12pm on weekends and 5pm weekdays. 

Find Brisbane Thrill Festival on Facebook

Community Events in July 2025

Learn the Art of Dialogue at Free Writing Workshop 

Writers looking to sharpen their storytelling skills are invited to a ‘Dialogue’ workshop with Dr Sarah Klenbort at North Lakes Library on Saturday, 26 July, from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. 

Presented in partnership with Queensland Writers Centre, this free Elements of Writing session will focus on how to use dialogue effectively in your writing. 

“I love teaching these free library workshops,” Sarah said. “Everybody has a story. Whether you’re a seasoned writer, or just starting out, please come along to this Dialogue workshop for an afternoon of writing and writing tips.” 

Sarah writes short fiction and creative nonfiction and teaches creative writing and English literature at the University of Queensland. 

Booking required. Learn more.

Gone Frolicking Brings Joyful Dance to Deception Bay

Gone Frolicking

Get ready to groove – Gone Frolicking is coming to Deception Bay Community Hall on Saturday, 19 July, from 9.30am to 12pm. 

Founded by Finnish-Australian dance researcher Dr Anja Ali-Haapala, these dance classes for over 50s blend nostalgia, movement and connection in one joy-filled afternoon.  

“Gone Frolicking is a celebration of fabulousness in life beyond 50,” Anja said. “It’s acknowledgement that age is not a cage and people of all ages just want to have fun!” 

Each class kicks off with icebreakers and ends with afternoon tea after dancing to feel-good hits from the ’70s and ’80s. 

Tickets are $55 with a 10% discount using the code LOCAL. To book your tickets here.

Find more information, including more classes, here

Travel Enthusiasts Gather at North Lakes 

If you’re passionate about travel but unsure where to start, a friendly group of travel lovers meets regularly at North Lakes Sports Club to share tips and stories. 

This month’s catch-up is on Sunday, 13 July, at 10am at the café (left-hand side as you enter). 

Organised by Roslyn Sanderson, the group welcomes single men and women looking for travel companions or simply advice from seasoned adventurers. 

“We are not a travel agent/consultants/travel booking group,” Roslyn said. “We are a group of people who LOVE travel and are happy to discuss our trips, assist others with any advice if we can.” 

Expect conversations about must-see destinations, travel tips and plenty of inspiration. No booking required. 

For more details, contact Roslyn on 0401 078 187.

Community Events in June 2025

7-Day Weekends Set to Rock Norths Again 

High-energy covers band 7-Day Weekends (7DW) returns to Norths Leagues and Services Club for their monthly performance, bringing a mix of rock and pop hits from all eras. 

They’ll take the stage at the Spirit Bar on Saturday, 7 June, for another night of classic rock and roll favourites. 

Drummer Greig Tansley said the band features three lead vocalists, allowing for a variety of song choices and the ability to perform crisp harmonies on stage. 

“7DW thrives on crowd interactions, and patrons can feel part of the show with our QR codes at the gigs; one that leads to our Facebook page to keep up-to-date with us, and another that allows partiers to request songs live via a link to our website and its instant email function,” Grieg said. 

For more information, find 7DayWeekends on Facebook. 

Mamma Mia! Musical Shines at North Lakes Open Day

North Lakes State College Open Day

North Lakes State College is inviting the community to attend its Open Day and Musical on Saturday, 14 June. 

Administration Officer – Marketing Kayla Cochrane said the event was an opportunity to discover everything the college has to offer. 

“Enjoy live entertainment, food trucks, campus tours and a welcoming community atmosphere,” Kayla said. 

“Stay for the highlight of the evening – our musical production of Mamma Mia! at 5.30pm. Fun, food and fantastic performances – all in one place!” 

Open Day activities kick off at 2pm. The college is on Joyner Circuit, North Lakes. 

For more information, visit North Lakes State College on Facebook. 

Parents Invited to Reconnect at Meditation Classes

Meditation Classes for Parents

Parents needing a break from daily demands are invited to attend Meditation and Sound Healing Classes for Parents at Embrace Life – North Lakes. 

The 45-minute sessions will be held at 9am on Sunday, 15 June and Sunday, 29 June and include guided meditation and crystal bowl sound healing. 

Founder and Conscious Living Advocate for Radical Change, Leesh Dawson, will facilitate the sessions.   

“These classes offer parents a rare moment of stillness – a space to pause, breathe and reconnect with themselves, which in turn supports more mindful and present parenting,” Leesh said. 

“When we prioritise our own mental and emotional wellbeing, we’re better able to respond to the challenges of parenting with patience, calm and compassion.” 

Book a class here.

Read more stories from The North Lakes Guide print magazine here: