Brisbane buddies (5)
I believe the answer is:
mates
'brisbane buddies' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for mates that I've seen before include "Pals, pairs" , "Partners or pals" , "Husbands, wives or pals" , "conclusive moves on board" , "Friends among the ship's officers" .)