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Fortitude Music Hall Welcomes Kate Ceberano’s Australian Made Tour

Photo Credit: Kate Ceberano Official Site

Australia’s own Kate Ceberano will take centre stage in Fortitude Valley as she brings her acclaimed Australian Made Tour to the Fortitude Music Hall. The performance marks one of only a handful of metro shows added after all 21 regional stops sold out earlier this year, underscoring her enduring connection with audiences across the country.

A milestone moment in Brisbane

The Brisbane show takes place on Saturday, 20 September, just one night after Ceberano’s Melbourne date at Hamer Hall. Adelaide will also host a stop in October. The decision to include major city venues came after demand from fans exceeded expectations. For Brisbane, it is more than a concert—it is a community celebration at one of the Valley’s most significant live music venues.

Ceberano said the Australian Made Tour allows her to reflect on four decades of music while spotlighting songs that helped shape her own artistry. The performance offers not only her best-known hits but also fresh interpretations of classic tracks from Australian bands and songwriters. For many long-time followers, the concert presents a chance to revisit the soundtrack of their lives, reimagined through Ceberano’s distinctive voice.

A voice that shaped Australian music

With 11 platinum albums, eight gold albums, and more than 6,000 live performances, Ceberano has become one of Australia’s most recognisable and influential performers. Her early career took off with the 1986–87 Australian Made Tour, where she performed alongside acts including INXS, Jimmy Barnes and Divinyls. That tour became a defining moment for the local industry, showcasing the power of homegrown talent on a national stage.

Returning nearly 40 years later to a project inspired by that original tour, Ceberano brings a contemporary perspective. Her set blends her own chart successes with reimagined versions of Australian classics by Silverchair, The Church and Bernard Fanning. The combination reinforces her place not only as a performer of her own catalogue but also as an interpreter of the country’s wider musical heritage.

Kate Ceberano Australian Made Live! — *Photo Credit: Kate Ceberano Official Site*

Her career is marked by versatility. From her pop breakthrough Brave to jazz collaborations and orchestral projects such as My Life Is A Symphony, Ceberano has moved between genres without losing her distinctive style. Along the way, she has earned four ARIA Awards, a spot in the Australian Songwriters Hall of Fame, and wide recognition as both a singer and songwriter.

Sharing the stage

On the current tour, Ceberano is joined by guitarist and vocalist Harts, a musician mentored by Prince, whose influence can be heard in his style. He contributes not just as a collaborator but as part of the creative force on stage. Also featured is Kathleen Halloran, an emerging guitarist whose skill has been gaining national attention. Halloran not only performs alongside Ceberano but also steps forward as the support act, providing audiences with a strong sense of continuity across the evening.

The inclusion of both musicians reflects Ceberano’s reputation for encouraging and highlighting new talent while maintaining her own established voice. Their presence brings added depth to the performance, ensuring that the Brisbane audience experiences a mix of generational perspectives in Australian music.

Continuing a legacy

The Fortitude Valley performance comes as Ceberano releases her Australian Made – Live album, building on the momentum of recent national tours. In 2023, she toured with a full orchestra for My Life Is A Symphony, while in 2024 she performed with Jon Stevens on Superstars Live. These projects, combined with her current run, highlight her ability to reimagine her career while continuing to draw in new listeners.

Her return to Fortitude Valley is also significant for the local community. The area is known for its strong live music culture, and hosting an artist with such longevity reinforces its role as a central hub for performance in Queensland. For fans attending on Saturday, it will be a night that links local venues to a broader national story of music-making.

Tickets for the Brisbane show remain available through Kate Ceberano’s official website and the Fortitude Music Hall. For many in Fortitude Valley, the concert is not just another tour stop but a chance to witness one of the country’s most enduring voices return to the stage in a familiar setting.

Published 17-Sept-2025

Riverstage Upgrade Plans in Brisbane CBD Move Forward

Photo Credit: BCC

Riverstage in Brisbane CBD is set for a multimillion-dollar upgrade, with private operators invited from 22 September 2025 to invest under a long-term lease arrangement.

Background and Context

Riverstage, located behind the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, opened in 1989 as part of Brisbane’s cultural legacy following Expo ’88. It has since hosted leading local and international performers including Powderfinger, Lorde, Benson Boone and Teddy Swims. In the past financial year, 38 events drew about 245,000 attendees.

Riverstage upgrade — *Photo Credit: BCC*

Planned Upgrade

Council confirmed on 2 September 2025 that an expression of interest campaign will open on 22 September 2025. The process will seek proposals from experienced operators to deliver significant investment in Riverstage. The venue will remain in public ownership while being leased to a private partner for operation.

Planned upgrades include new and improved facilities and advanced sound management systems designed to address noise impacts. The upgrade is being positioned as part of Brisbane’s preparation for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, when the city will require more world-class venues.

Industry Interest

Construction leader Scott Hutchinson, who helped develop Fortitude Music Hall, has expressed interest in taking on the project. Earlier this year, he suggested a $50 million investment could deliver a roof over the stage area, soundproofing to minimise noise reaching surrounding areas, and a cover for around 3,000 people at the front of the venue. He also raised issues such as resident noise complaints and ticket resellers using bots to secure large portions of tickets, leading to quick sell-outs for major acts.

Riverstage Brisbane — *Photo Credi: Google Maps*

Public-Private Model

The funding approach follows a model in which private investment is exchanged for a long-term lease. This arrangement has been promoted as a way of upgrading facilities without direct cost to residents, while allowing public funds to focus on transport, parks and road projects.

Community and Cultural Impact

Industry organisations have welcomed the upgrade. Economic and cultural leaders said it would attract international acts, create more opportunities for local performers, and strengthen Brisbane’s standing as an events destination. They noted Riverstage’s role as a lasting cultural venue since Expo ’88 and emphasised that investment is needed to make it more accessible and suitable year-round.

Looking Ahead

By 2032, Brisbane is expected to have both a new indoor arena at the Gabba and an upgraded Riverstage, enhancing the city’s capacity to host large-scale entertainment and cultural events. The outcome of the expressions of interest process later this year will determine the future operator and the scope of the redevelopment.

Published 13-Sep-2025

St James College Shines as National Runners-Up in Netball Debut

Photo Credit: schoolsinactionau/instagram

St James College has made its mark on the national stage, finishing as runners-up in its first appearance at the National All Schools Netball Challenge in Adelaide.

Strong Debut in Adelaide

The competition, held in early September 2025, brought together school teams from across Australia. St James College entered the Year 9 and 10 High Performance division and quickly impressed.

*Photo Credit: schoolsinactionau/instagram*

The team won all six of its round robin matches, topping the ladder before moving into finals.

Road to the Final

After dominating the preliminary rounds, St James College faced St Aloysius College from Tasmania in the semifinals.

A hard-fought victory secured their place in the grand final against Catherine McAuley College from Bendigo. Despite a strong effort, the Brisbane side fell short, placing second in the division.

Teamwork and Support

Staff described the group’s success as the result of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Sports Development Officer Eliza Hoelscher praised the team’s effort and said the players set a high standard for the college’s first appearance at the event.

Coaches and support staff, including Tia Parker and Evonne Tolo, were acknowledged for guiding the squad through interstate competition.

Local Impact

The achievement has brought pride to the Fortitude Valley and Spring Hill community, where the college is based. Some students were travelling interstate for the first time, and their experience competing at a national level reflected the college’s commitment to providing opportunities beyond the classroom.

The school community has celebrated the result and is looking ahead to a stronger return in future tournaments.

Published 10-September-2025

Chef’s Dream Realised as New Italian Trattoria Fellini’s Arrives in Fortitude Valley

A Neapolitan chef’s career-long dream has become a reality at the edge of Fortitude Valley, with Carmine Guarino welcoming the public to Trattoria Fellini’s, his new Italian street food kitchen bringing the lively flavours of coastal Italy to the Howard Smith Wharves.

The new trattoria officially began service today, Wednesday, 10 September, offering Brisbane a casual and vibrant taste of the Mediterranean. It joins its more refined neighbour, Ciao Papi, creating a precinct with two distinct Italian dining experiences side by side along the river.

A Taste of Home

Trattoria Fellini's — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

With over 26 years of experience, Head Chef Carmine Guarino has shaped Fellini’s from his own personal history. He explained that his vision was to bring his Neapolitan roots to Brisbane, creating an authentic and high-energy street food atmosphere that the whole family could enjoy.

Inspired by the bustling trattorias of Naples and the Amalfi Coast, he wanted to make Italian food more accessible, faster, and fun for the community. The restaurant’s name pays respect to the famous Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini, aiming to capture the same romance and vibrancy in its food and hospitality.

Street Food Meets Riverside Dining

Fellini’s is designed for both dine-in and takeaway customers, blending traditional Italian flavours with a modern, street-food feel. The menu features a wide selection of handmade pastas, pizzas, and classic mains. Diners can start with entrées like Bruschetta al Pomodoro or Cuoppo Fritto, a crispy mix of calamari and mussels. Pasta dishes include fresh crab Paccheri al Granchio and Roman favourite Rigatoni Amatriciana.

For main courses, the menu offers dishes like the golden Cotoletta di Vitello (veal cutlet) and Parmigiana di Melanzane. The pizza oven produces classics including Margherita and Salamina. To complete the experience, the bar serves a curated selection of Italian-inspired wines, beers, and cocktails.

A New Chapter for the Wharves

The addition of Fellini’s is seen as an exciting new chapter for the popular riverside precinct. Howard Smith Wharves CEO Luke Fraser stated he was proud to help deliver a unique offering for Brisbane, inspired by the trattorias of Italy. He believes the eatery will become a go-to spot for friends and families looking to enjoy good food and sunshine along the Brisbane River.

Published Date 10-September-2025

Brisbane to Host Global Premiere of The Art of Banksy: Chapter 2

Brisbane is set to host a cultural first this year, as the world’s largest Banksy exhibition makes its global premiere in the CBD this November.

Read: Brisbane City Markets Offers VIP Strawberry Picking Experience and Staycation

The Art of Banksy: Chapter 2 will take over a sprawling 1,550-square-metre space inside Uptown at Queen Street Mall, offering an immersive experience unlike any other. With more than 300 works on display, including over 100 originals, this is the most comprehensive exploration of the elusive street artist’s work ever staged.

The exhibition has been organised by MUSE Marketing & Entertainment, Events, MD Presents, and Fever.

Photo credit: The Art of Banksy Without Limits Australia/Facebook

The exhibition builds on the success of its 2023 predecessor, which captivated more than 2.8 million visitors across 35 cities over the past decade. Now, Brisbane locals will be the very first to step inside Chapter 2, an expansion that doubles the scale of the earlier tour and introduces never-before-seen pieces.

Visitors can expect to encounter some of Banksy’s most recognisable works, from Cinderella at Dismaland to the infamous Ice Cream Van. Alongside these will be innovative hologram displays, rare installations and sculptures, plus a faithful recreation of the lobby from Banksy’s Walled Off Hotel in Bethlehem, a provocative pop-up that blurred the lines between art and activism.

Banksy has built a career on using art to challenge politics, social issues and the establishment itself, often while remaining hidden from public view. His pranks, such as secretly hanging pieces in major museums, have only cemented his reputation as one of the most influential and subversive artists of our time.

While The Art of Banksy: Chapter 2 is not officially affiliated with the artist himself, it promises an immersive and thought-provoking journey through his world. Visitors are advised to set aside around 45 to 60 minutes to explore the exhibition fully.

The event is open to all ages, with tickets starting from $39 for adults and $27 for children. Sessions run from November 5 at Uptown, Queen Street Mall, and tickets are now available through the exhibition’s official website.

Read: Finders Keepers: How ‘So What Stereo’ Became a Hidden Gem in Fortitude Valley

For Brisbane’s art lovers—or anyone curious about the most mysterious figure in contemporary culture—this world-first experience is not to be missed.

The exhibition has been organised by MUSE Marketing & Entertainment, Events, MD Presents, and Fever.

Published 10-September-2025

Haus of Wendy Flagship to Open in Brisbane CBD This October

Brisbane food lovers are set for a bold new dining experience this October, when Wendy’s unveils its flagship Haus of Wendy store in the CBD.

Read: Wendy’s Plans Flagship Restaurant in Brisbane CBD

This announcement follows the fast-food giant securing approval for its development application in June. The green light cleared the way for Wendy’s to transform an Adelaide Street site near the Queen Street Mall into its flagship Haus of Wendy, setting the stage for its highly anticipated opening next month.

Photo credit: Wendy’s Australia/Brisbane PD Online

For many Australians, Wendy’s is a name that carries both nostalgia and novelty. The company first tested local waters in 1982 but bowed out just four years later after financial difficulties. Nearly four decades on, Wendy’s has returned with a new strategy under the Flynn Restaurant Group, which signed a master franchise agreement in 2023 to reintroduce the chain across the country.

The revival began on the Gold Coast in January 2025, when the first store opened on Cavill Avenue in Surfers Paradise. The response was nothing short of extraordinary. Hours before doors opened, queues stretched down the street as curious crowds waited for their first taste of Wendy’s signature square patties, chicken tenders, and classic American sides. Social media buzzed with videos of the launch, and reviews from early tasters praised the food as “mouth-watering.”

Photo credit: Wendy’s Australia/Facebook

Now, the Brisbane flagship is expected to lift that excitement to a whole new level. Billed as “more than a restaurant,” the Haus of Wendy will not only serve the fast food that made the brand famous, but also offer uniquely themed dining spaces that immerse customers in Wendy’s playful spirit.

Company leaders see the CBD location as the perfect stage for this next chapter. Brisbane’s status as one of Australia’s most dynamic and growing cities made it an obvious choice for a landmark store that will introduce thousands of locals and visitors to Wendy’s reimagined vision.

Read: Adelaide Street Tunnel Set to Open for Brisbane Metro and Buses

Looking ahead, Wendy’s has ambitious plans for its Australian expansion. The chain aims to open hundreds of restaurants nationwide over the next decade, setting the stage for what it hopes will be long-term success this time around.

Published 10-September-2025

Adelaide Street Tunnel Set to Open for Brisbane Metro and Buses

Brisbane’s transport network is about to gain a new underground link, with the Adelaide Street tunnel set to open for metro and bus operations from 29 September.

Read: Works Progressing Well on Adelaide Street for Brisbane Metro

The 225-metre tunnel runs beneath Adelaide Street, creating a direct connection between the South East Busway and the Inner Northern Busway. Once fully operational, Adelaide Street tunnel is expected to carry more than 1,390 buses and Bus Rapid Transit vehicles each day, significantly reducing surface-level congestion and improving travel times through the city.

Adelaide Street tunnel — Photo credit: BCC/Facebook

Construction of the new tunnel has involved extensive testing to ensure readiness for daily services. A major systems trial in June included activation of smart transport technology, checks on lighting and ventilation, and integration of the tunnel’s public announcement system with the wider network. These measures are designed to deliver safer, more efficient journeys for passengers.

By diverting services underground, the new link is also expected to ease pressure on key city streets such as George Street and Turbot Street, where more than 1,000 weekly outbound trips will be removed from the road network.

Ahead of its official launch later this month, the public will have a chance to explore the tunnel during a community open day on Wednesday, 24 September. Visitors can register for one of several 20-minute sessions between 10:30 am and 2:00 pm, with entry via Reddacliff Place. The event will feature live music from a local string ensemble and the nearby Wednesday markets, making for a festive celebration of the milestone.

Read: Rail Safety Warning After Sharp Rise in Fortitude Valley Station Injuries

The Adelaide Street tunnel represents a major upgrade for Brisbane’s mass transit system, providing the foundations for faster and more reliable connections as the city continues to grow.

Published 5-September-2025

Fatcow First in QLD to Offer Kobe Beef

Photo Credit: Fatcow on James St/ Instagram

In a Queensland first, Fatcow on James St in Fortitude Valley has secured certification to serve authentic Kobe A5 Wagyu beef—one of the rarest and most prized meats in the world. The recognition places Fatcow among just 13 restaurants in Australia, and fewer than 100 worldwide, allowed to offer Kobe beef on their menu.

What’s the Beef?

Kobe beef is often described as the pinnacle of Wagyu. All Kobe is Wagyu, but not all Wagyu is Kobe. To qualify, beef must come from Tajima-gyu cattle raised and processed in Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan, and meet rigorous grading standards—including a Beef Marbling Score of 6 or higher. Every cut is traceable and certified by the Kobe Beef Association.

Only 3,000 to 5,000 cattle a year are designated as Kobe beef, making it one of the most exclusive meats globally. Fatcow’s certification followed an 18-month effort by Head Chef Garry Newton, working with Osawa Enterprises to meet strict requirements.

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A post shared by Fatcow on James St (@fatcow_onjamesst)

Owner Michael Tassis has described Kobe’s texture as so delicate it resembles room-temperature butter even when chilled—a fitting image for the melt-in-your-mouth indulgence awaiting Brisbane diners.

Fatcow’s launch allocation is deliberately limited: just 5 kilograms of Kobe beef, expected to last about five to six weeks. Diners can choose from:

Portion Size	Price
100 g sirloin	$175
200 g sirloin	$349

What Else Is on the Menu

While Kobe beef is the headline act, Fatcow offers plenty more to impress. Seafood lovers are greeted by live oyster and lobster tanks at the entrance—a Brisbane first—while the kitchen sends out dishes like lobster and prawn ravioli with crustacean bisque, seared scallops with smoked celeriac purée, and Oscietra and Kaviari caviar.

The wood-fired grill features five cuts of Black Angus and ten Wagyu options, alongside signatures such as the Wagyu tasting board, the gold-leaf wrapped Golden Fatcow rib fillet, and a Steak & Lobster combo. Desserts include Basque cheesecake, chocolate tart, and lime sorbet, while a 300-strong wine list and extensive whisky selection round out the experience.

About Fatcow and Its Founder

Fatcow on James St opened in 2024 under the direction of Brisbane hospitality operator Mr Tassis, whose portfolio includes several of the city’s most high-profile venues. Designed to impress, Fatcow blends theatre with sophistication: black leather booths, a glowing marble bar, mirrored ceilings, and private and semi-private dining rooms that can host up to 120 guests.

The Kobe certification further cements Fatcow’s position as a destination restaurant in Brisbane—one that combines spectacle, indulgence, and an industry-first milestone for Queensland dining.

Kobe Beef vs Wagyu Beef

While Wagyu has become a household name, Kobe beef is the most exclusive subset. All Kobe is Wagyu, but not all Wagyu is Kobe. To qualify as Kobe beef, the meat must:

Come from Tajima-gyu cattle raised and processed in Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan
Achieve strict grading standards, including a Beef Marbling Score (BMS) of 6 or higher and top yield grades
Be certified by the Kobe Beef Association, with every cut traceable by ID

This sets Kobe apart as the pinnacle of Wagyu—rarer, more stringently controlled, and celebrated for its buttery texture and rich umami flavour.

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A post shared by Fatcow on James St (@fatcow_onjamesst)

The Complete Experience

A 300-strong wine list, extensive whiskies, and cocktail program complete the dining journey. The restaurant can seat up to 120 guests, with private and semi-private dining rooms available—making it equally suited for intimate date nights and large celebrations.

Fatcow on James St is more than a restaurant. It’s theatre, indulgence, and luxury woven together. Whether it’s the rare Kobe beef, the freshest lobster in town, or simply the atmosphere of a restaurant that knows exactly what it is, Fatcow delivers a dining experience that is bold, lavish, and memorable.

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Published Date 04-September-2025

Finders Keepers: How ‘So What Stereo’ Became a Hidden Gem in Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: So What Stereo/ Instagram

A tribute to a late friend has become a vibrant community space in Fortitude Valley, where owners Kawid Brikshavana and Ratinan Rattanathai have created So What Stereo, a cafe that pairs personal memories with classic vinyl and authentic Thai food.

A Fortunate Discovery

*Photo Credit:* *So What Stereo/ Instagram*

For vinyl collectors, the greatest joy often comes from unearthing a rare record by chance. Many local food lovers are now sharing that same feeling of discovery with So What Stereo. Tucked away on Little Street, the cafe is easy to miss unless you already know it is there. Its location next to The Valley Grocer and other Thai businesses is helping create a small but vibrant community hub that some are calling a mini Thai Town.

*Photo Credit:* *So What Stereo/ Instagram*

The creation of the cafe itself was a stroke of luck. The owners, who are also the minds behind Hawthorne’s MaMeek eatery, had been collecting furniture and vintage audio gear for years, hoping to one day find the right home for their dream cafe. It wasn’t until they were shown a hidden, fully enclosed site that their vision finally clicked into place. After removing some internal walls and adding windows, they transformed the windowless box into the colourful space it is today.

A Menu of Sound and Flavour

The cafe’s name is a nod to the first track on Miles Davis’s famous 1959 album, Kind of Blue. That record changed jazz by favouring improvisation over rigid rules, and a similar free-form energy can be felt inside the cafe. The space is a vibrant mix of mismatched chairs, multicoloured walls, and pop culture items, with Rattanathai having sourced much of the decor from Facebook Marketplace.

This eclectic approach extends to the menu and the music. Brikshavana, who grew up in northern Thailand, is especially proud of his khao soi, a rich coconut curry noodle soup. He explained that he wants to serve the dish just like he remembers it from his childhood.

The menu also features other regional specialties like Thai boat noodles and Chiang Mai sausage. While customers eat, music from the owners’ personal record collection plays on the JBL speaker system. The selection is diverse, spanning from jazz legends like John Coltrane to rock bands like Korn, reflecting a belief that the sound feels just as the artists originally intended.

A Tribute to a Friend

Beyond the food and music, So What Stereo is a deeply personal project. The design was sparked by the work of Brisbane artist Gina Ward and heavily influenced by the mid-century modern style of Brikshavana’s parents. He shared that every piece of decor reconnects him to his family.

The cafe also stands as a tribute to Brikshavana’s late friend, the jazz musician Matt Clare. A saxophone belonging to Clare now sits proudly in the cafe. Brikshavana was inspired by his friend’s fearless approach to music and life, an attitude that now shapes the welcoming and unconventional atmosphere of his own community space.

So What Stereo is located at 4/15 Little Street, Fortitude Valley.

Published Date 30-August-2025

Grey Goose Tiny Tinis Served at SK Steak & Oyster, Fortitude Valley

SK Steak & Oyster in Fortitude Valley will host Grey Goose Tiny Tini flights as part of a national collaboration with Sydney and Melbourne venues.

Mini Martinis in Fortitude Valley

From 3 September to 5 October 2025, SK Steak & Oyster at The Calile Hotel on James Street, Fortitude Valley, will feature Grey Goose Tiny Tini flights priced at $45. The Brisbane restaurant joins Maybe Sammy in Sydney and Apollo Inn in Melbourne for the month-long martini celebration.

Mini martini flights — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Collaboration Across Three Cities

The collaboration showcases each venue’s unique martini recipe, with guests able to sample creations from all three establishments without leaving Brisbane. Each venue also offers its individual cocktail in a full-size serve.

SK Martini: Grey Goose Vodka, vermouth blend, Kiwami beef fat, caviar, olive brine
Maybe Sammy Martini: Grey Goose Vodka, Noilly Prat, lemon myrtle, bitters
Apollo Inn Martini: Grey Goose Vodka, vermouth blend, Mildura mandarin

At Apollo Inn, an alternative flight is served one at a time and features slight variations, including smoked olive oil in the SK version.

Full-Size Serves

Each cocktail is also available in its complete form. The SK Martini is priced at $95 and served with a Gazander oyster and caviar. The Maybe Sammy Martini costs $26, and the Apollo Inn Martini is available for $30.

Grey Goose Tiny — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Recognised Venues

All three participating bars are listed among the World’s 50 Best. SK Steak & Oyster is housed within The Calile Hotel, ranked 25th Best Hotel globally. Maybe Sammy is ranked the 26th Best Bar, and Apollo Inn is recognised on the Discovery Bars list.

Looking Forward

The Grey Goose Tiny Tini flights run for one month only, offering Fortitude Valley visitors a chance to experience signature martinis from some of Australia’s most acclaimed venues.

Published 27-Aug-2025