Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 19 of 65

Fortitude Valley Welcomes Dark Blue Wine Bar by Popular Cocktail Bar Owner Hannah Wagner

Hannah Wagner, the mastermind behind the popular Dark Red and 2.0 Cocktail Bar, is set to open Dark Blue, a Mediterranean and Portuguese wine bar in Fortitude Valley’s vibrant Winn Lane, bringing a polished new destination for wine aficionados and cocktail lovers to explore.

Following the success of Dark Red, which has quickly become a local favorite since opening in 2022, Wagner’s latest venture promises a more polished and sophisticated atmosphere.

With Dark Blue, she aims to expand her presence in one of Brisbane’s most dynamic cultural hubs, providing a refined yet welcoming space for patrons to enjoy quality wines and inventive cocktails.

Fortitude Valley Wine Bar — *Photo Credits: Dark Red Wine Bar/Instagram*

A Refined Concept with a Welcoming Atmosphere

Dark Blue will offer a carefully curated selection of Mediterranean and Portuguese wines, complemented by an inventive cocktail menu. Drawing from her success at Dark Red, Wagner aims to create a space that balances sophistication with warmth, offering a relaxed environment for both casual visits and special occasions.

The venue will also continue the dog-friendly vibe that made Dark Red so popular, with Wagner’s own dog Daisy expected to have a prominent presence at Dark Blue.

A New Space in the Creative Heart of Fortitude Valley

Located in the space previously occupied by Outpost and Gemini Brow Studio, Dark Blue will merge these two buildings into one expansive venue. The design will feature a minimalist aesthetic, creating an elegant yet casual atmosphere perfect for sipping wines and enjoying crafted cocktails.

Wine and Dine in Fortitude Valley — *Photo Credits: Winn Lane/Instagram*

In addition to its drink offerings, the bar will offer a small, focused food menu, likely featuring a signature main dish to pair with the wines. A mezzanine kitchen will be dedicated to cocktail preparation, providing guests with an elevated drinking experience.

Dark Blue to Bring a Sophisticated Wine and Cocktail Experience

Winn Lane has long been a vibrant hub for local artisans, food vendors, and independent businesses, earning a reputation as a cultural hotspot in Brisbane. Building on this eclectic mix of creative entrepreneurs, Dark Blue is set to enhance the area’s atmosphere with a stylish new venue catering to wine enthusiasts and cocktail lovers.

*Photo Credits: Dark Red Wine Bar/Instagram*

With an opening scheduled for March 2025, Dark Blue aims to become a key addition to the flourishing hospitality scene in the laneway.

Published 17-Dec-2024

Triffid Takes Legal Action vs Newstead Development Over Noise Concerns

Hutchinson Builders, co-owners of the iconic Fortitude Valley music venue The Triffid, have launched a legal action against a proposed $1.5-billion development in Newstead, citing concerns over potential noise complaints from future residents.

The development, known as Little Italy or Oro Newstead, received approval on October 30 and includes three towers with over 1,000 apartments, retail outlets, and a restaurant precinct. The Triffid, co-owned by former Powderfinger bassist John Collins, is adjacent to the proposed development site on Stratton Street.

Noise Assessment Concerns

In an appeal filed with the Planning and Environment Court, Hutchinson Builders and The Triffid argue that the noise assessment conducted for the development application was inadequate.

They claim the assessment needed to properly consider the impact of amplified music from The Triffid and other existing and future venues in the area. The appeal states that the development does not ensure bedrooms and living rooms are designed to protect occupants from amplified music noise. They are concerned that this could increase noise complaints from residents unaware of or potentially bothered by the existing live music scene.

A Test for Brisbane’s Entertainment Precinct

This legal challenge highlights the tension between Brisbane’s growing residential developments and its vibrant live music scene. The Triffid is located within the Fortitude Valley Entertainment Precinct, which has specific noise and planning regulations to support the city’s nightlife. However, expanding residential areas near the precinct have increased noise concerns.

Griffith University music industry researcher Ben Green believes this case is a test for Brisbane’s live music and entertainment laws. He points out that as live music venues move further into suburban areas, the existing place-based model of live music planning may need to be re-evaluated. Dr Green suggests that Brisbane may need to consider city-wide responses similar to those implemented in Victoria and New South Wales.

Council Response

Brisbane City Council stated that the approval conditions for the Little Italy development require prospective tenants to be informed about the noise levels from the Special Entertainment Area, including The Triffid. Councillor Ryan Murphy emphasised that live music has a strong future in Brisbane and that the venue is protected through rules and conditions. He encouraged those who do not like live music to consider living elsewhere.

Published Date 14-December-2024

Cross River Rail Debate Intensifies Amid Cost and Timeline Dispute

Initially promised to open in 2026 with a $5.4 billion budget, the Cross River Rail project now faces allegations of cost blowouts to $17 billion and a delayed operational date (2029), causing heated debates and conflicting explanations.

Conflicting Timelines and Costs

Current officials have stated that the Cross River Rail will not be ready for passengers until 2029 due to delays in construction, equipment installation, and an extensive certification process by the National Rail Safety Regulator. However, the regulator disputed this claim, clarifying that project managers are responsible for certification timelines and are limited to assessing submitted safety evidence.

Officials further attributed part of the delay to construction issues, including stalled work on fire and signalling systems and delays in building new trains. However, the previous administration has countered these claims, maintaining that the project remains on track for a 2026 opening.

Opposition spokesman Bart Mellish stated that assertions of a 2029 completion date are misleading and that the government should provide evidence for its revised timeline.

Breakdown of Costs

According to the LNP, the tunnel is expected to cost $10.5 billion, including 25 years of maintenance. An additional $5 billion has been attributed to integration works, signalling upgrades, stabling yards, and replacement bus services, while $1.5 billion is linked to contractor claims and cost overruns. This brings the total to $17 billion, a figure far exceeding the original budget of $5.4 billion set by the previous administration.

Labor has condemned this accounting approach, claiming that factoring in long-term maintenance costs and irrelevant expenditures, like buses for South East Queensland, exaggerates the project’s overall cost. Mr Mellish suggested that no government or business includes the full lifecycle costs of an asset in its construction budget.

The discussion around the project has centred on differing interpretations of the costs and timeline. Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg indicated that $5 billion in additional costs, including integration works, maintenance equipment, and buses, were identified after the change in government. The opposition has questioned the inclusion of these expenses in the project’s total cost and has expressed concern over the revised 2029 timeline, asserting that a 2026 opening is still feasible.

Impact on Infrastructure and Public Services

Cross River Rail project delays have broader implications for Brisbane’s transport network. Experts have warned that pushing back the opening could exacerbate congestion, particularly at choke points such as the Inner City Bypass. Plans to improve the Beenleigh and Cleveland rail lines may also be delayed.

Despite the controversies, once operational, the project is expected to provide significant benefits, including faster travel times for commuters and university students.

The Cross River Rail Authority, tasked with managing the project, referred all queries about costs and timelines to the Transport Minister’s office.

Published 12-Dec-2024

Fortitude Valley’s Hotel X Joins Brookfield’s Asia-Pacific Real Estate Holdings

In a major move that underscores Brisbane’s growing appeal as a luxury hospitality destination, Brookfield Asset Management has announced plans to acquire Hotel X in Fortitude Valley for approximately $90 million. This acquisition reflects the city’s ambitious growth trajectory ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

Read: Triffid Takes Legal Action vs Newstead Development Over Noise Concerns

Strategic acquisition amid Brisbane’s growing demand

The deal comes at a pivotal time, with Brisbane facing a projected 4,000-room shortfall in the luxury segment within the next decade. Brookfield’s Co-Head of Australia Real Estate, Ruban Kaneshamoorthy, cites strong market fundamentals driving the decision. “With the highest tourism expenditure nationally and its population forecast to grow 40 per cent during the next 25 years, there is a long runway for growth,” he said.

Fortitude Valley’s Hotel X

The 146-key hotel, completed in 2021 by Pointcorp Development Group, is a distinctive white tower with a geometric facade at 458 Brunswick Street. The property features premium amenities, including a rooftop bar and pool, ground-floor restaurant, fitness centre, and conferencing facilities. Additionally, the building includes 1,438 square metres of leased office space, positioning it as a mixed-use asset in the vibrant Fortitude Valley precinct.

CBRE Hotels National Director Wayne Bunz, who brokered the off-market sale with Hayley Manvell, describes the transaction as a milestone for Brisbane’s hotel market. “This transaction is not only a testament to the quality of the asset but also to the strength of Brisbane’s hospitality sector, which is underpinned by rising tourism numbers and a strong economic trajectory,” Bunz explained.

Read: Fortitude Valley Hotel Makes a Splash with World’s Largest Ice Bath

This acquisition aligns with Brookfield’s broader strategy in the Asia-Pacific region, where hospitality has become a growing focus due to reduced supply stemming from increased borrowing and construction costs. The Canadian-based multinational, which manages approximately $31 billion in assets globally, worked with Ark Capital Partners to facilitate the transaction.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by HOTEL X (@hotelxfortitudevalley)

Hotel X has already established itself as a community hub, recently hosting the world’s largest hotel ice bath event on its rooftop. The wellness activation, which transformed the rooftop pool using four tonnes of ice, demonstrated the property’s commitment to innovative guest experiences while raising funds for mental health organisation LIVIN.

Published 11-December-2024

Fortitude Valley Hotel Makes a Splash with World’s Largest Ice Bath

Photo Credit: IHG Hotels and Resorts

Could Fortitude Valley be the last place you’d expect to find the world’s largest hotel ice bath? Think again! Hotel X is turning up the chill with a unique wellness initiative.

To champion physical and mental wellbeing, the hotel is partnering with Bells Pure Ice to transform its 15-metre rooftop pool into a giant icy plunge pool on Thursday, 5 December.

Braving the Freeze for a Cause

Fortitude Valley ice bath — *Photo Credit:* *IHG Hotels and Resorts*

From 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., locals and hotel guests alike are invited to take the plunge and experience the stimulating effects of an icy dip. But this is no ordinary cold water challenge. This ambitious undertaking will pour four tonnes of ice into the pool, creating a truly chilling experience. Pastries from Iris, beverages from Tea Tonic, and Allpress coffee will be offered to help participants warm up afterwards.

The event is also charitable, with all funds donated to Livin, a non-profit mental health organisation. Livin Founder Casey Lyons expressed gratitude for the hotel’s support, emphasising the importance of raising funds for mental health education in schools. He also noted the numerous health benefits of ice baths, including immune system boosts, stress reduction, improved circulation, and enhanced exercise recovery.

A Hub of Community Collaboration

This ice bath initiative is just the latest in a series of community-focused collaborations by Hotel X. The hotel has actively engaged with local businesses and organisations throughout the year, showcasing everything from pop-up activations and in-room offerings with breweries and wellness brands to partnerships with yoga studios, tattoo parlours, sustainability leaders, music studios, and promoters.

Hotel X General Manager Jeremy Colahan underscored the hotel’s commitment to embracing the vibrant Fortitude Valley community. He highlighted the diverse range of partnerships forged this year, reflecting the hotel’s dedication to celebrating the area’s unique character.

Colahan emphasised that Hotel X aims to provide guests with an immersive experience that captures the essence of the Fortitude Valley neighbourhood.

Published Date 09-December-2024

Brisbane City Outreach Van Drives Support for Homeless Women

Photo Credit: Rosies-Friends on the Street/Facebook

Women’s homelessness is on the rise in Brisbane, with recent data revealing women as the fastest-growing group of homeless individuals in Australia, driven by unique social and economic challenges.

Community Initiative Launches in Brisbane

A new community outreach van was introduced to Brisbane this December, as part of a collaborative effort between women’s health brand Ostelin and Rosies – Friends on the Street, a grassroots organisation dedicated to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and social isolation.

The van aims to provide a welcoming space for social connection and practical support, addressing a pressing need within the community.

The initiative focuses on providing a lifeline to those facing isolation, particularly women, who often encounter hardships involving couch surfing, living in cars, or residing in temporary housing.

According to Rosies’ Brisbane City Branch Co-Coordinator Cathy Barber, many women in such circumstances feel invisible and unacknowledged, and some have not heard their name spoken for months.

“Having volunteered with Rosies for 15 years, I have seen first-hand the impact of homelessness and social isolation – and the alarming rise in the number of women experiencing it. Women may be living in their cars, couch surfing or living in government housing, and are often disconnected from their families and communities as a result. For some of the women I speak to, no one has looked them in the eye or said their name out loud for months.”

Support for the Fortitude Valley and Brisbane City Communities

The outreach program extends to several Brisbane locations, including Holy Trinity Church in Fortitude Valley. Daytime outreach sessions occur on Mondays from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Future outreach dates at this location include December 12 and 26.

At Emma Miller Place in Brisbane City, evening outreach sessions run on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm, with Sunday sessions from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm. These sessions provide food, hygiene products, and, most importantly, social interaction with trained volunteers.

Focus on Strength and Recognition

The new outreach van bears the handwritten names of 67 community members to honour individuals who have demonstrated resilience and strength. Rosies’ CEO Jayne Shallcross highlighted that small acts of kindness, such as saying someone’s name or sharing a conversation, can be transformative for those who feel unseen and unheard.

Ostelin’s Zone Brand Lead, Sarah Pothecary, emphasised the brand’s commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of vulnerable individuals through partnerships like this one. In addition to the van, Ostelin has contributed 4,000 hygiene bags and over 400 health and wellness packs to Rosies patrons, containing essential items and messages of encouragement.

Ongoing Commitment to Social Support

Rosies’ long-standing presence in Brisbane involves over 210 outreach events each month across Queensland, supported by 1,600 volunteers. The new van is expected to enhance these efforts, providing more opportunities for individuals in need to reconnect with their community and regain confidence.

For more information about Rosies’ outreach programs or to donate, visit rosies.org.au.

Published 9-Dec-2024

Fortitude Valley Flavours: Lunar Pies Serves Up a Slice of Filipino History

Photo Credit: Lunar Pies/ Facebook

Fortitude Valley’s vibrant culinary scene has a delicious new addition: Lunar Pies. This isn’t your average bakery; it’s a window into Filipino culture, serving up mouth-watering empanadas that tell a story of history, family, and flavour.

Owner Ginger Mendoza is on a mission to share her love for this iconic dish and bring a taste of the Philippines to Brisbane.

Empanadas are special in Filipino cuisine, representing a fusion of Spanish colonial influence and local ingenuity. For Ms Mendoza, they’re much more than just a tasty treat. They evoke a sense of connection to her heritage and family traditions. She believes many people are surprised to discover the significant role of empanadas in Filipino food culture. Adopted from the Spanish, the empanada has been embraced and adapted, becoming a beloved staple that reflects the diverse flavours of the archipelago.

A Culinary Journey Through Time

The Philippines’ 300-year Spanish colonial period left an indelible mark on the nation, influencing its language, culture, and food. The empanada is a prime example of this culinary legacy. While sharing similarities with its Spanish ancestor, the Filipino empanada has evolved into something unique, boasting distinct flavours and preparation methods.

Ms Mendoza explains that Filipino empanadas are incredibly diverse, with each region adding its distinctive twist. The classic filling features minced pork, aromatic vegetables like onion and garlic, and a surprising sweetness with raisins.

In the northern province of Ilocos, empanadas are typically made with rice flour and deep-fried, filled with grated papaya and garlicky sausages. Ms Mendoza’s empanada heritage comes from Bulacan, her grandmother’s province. These “Kaliskis” empanadas are made with a laminated dough, folded repeatedly to achieve a flaky, almost puff pastry-like consistency.

For Ms Mendoza, empanadas are a powerful trigger for childhood memories. She fondly recalls sharing warm, flaky empanadas with her grandmother outside their home; these cherished moments continue to resonate with her today.

From Craving to Culinary Creation

Ms Mendoza’s love for empanadas led to her relocation to Brisbane in 2016 to work as a private chef. A craving during her first pregnancy sparked the idea for Lunar Pies. Unable to find the flavours she longed for in Brisbane, she decided to take matters into her own hands. With her culinary background and entrepreneurial spirit, she recognised a gap in the market and launched Lunar Pies in 2022.

A Global Empanada Experience

Lunar Pies offers more than just Filipino flavours; it celebrates the empanada’s global appeal. Each represented by a distinct colour, six different flavours grace the menu. Naturally, Ms Mendoza’s signature Filipino pork empanada takes pride, featuring a traditional blend of pork, carrots, potatoes, and raisins. But the menu also ventures further afield, with two chicken variations, classic beef, a vegetarian option, and even a spicy Jamaican beef empanada.

Ms Mendoza, a self-proclaimed empanada aficionado, draws inspiration from Argentina, Ecuador, and Colombia, recognising the incredible versatility of this dish across different cultures, particularly those with Spanish colonial histories. Lunar Pies, nestled in the heart of Fortitude Valley, invites you to experience a world of flavour, one empanada at a time.

Published Date 03-December-2024

Step Back in Time at Caxton Street’s Velveteen Rabbit

If you’re on the hunt for a venue that blends vintage charm with creative flair, Velveteen Rabbit on Caxton Street might just be your new favourite spot. This modern take on a 1920s bar and bottle shop is more than meets the eye, featuring a whimsical hidden cocktail bar and spaces designed for every kind of gathering.

Read: Riverbar and Kitchen Serves Up ‘Gin-gle Bar,’ A Cocktail Lover’s Christmas Playground

Step Inside the Magic

Velveteen Rabbit offers a range of enchanting spaces to explore. The Mad Hatter Lounge is a cozy retreat perfect for intimate gatherings, from sip-and-paint parties to smaller celebrations. For a more relaxed experience, head to The Meadow, where you can dine in air-conditioned comfort before venturing further.

But the real hidden gem is The Rabbit Hole, a speakeasy cocktail bar tucked beneath the venue. With its cave-like ambiance, this subterranean escape opens to the public at 4:30 PM daily, unless booked for private events.

A Culinary Wonderland

The menu at Velveteen Rabbit is a testament to local and seasonal produce, with Head Chef Kyle McNamara crafting dishes that are as inventive as they are delicious. Collaborating with local farmers like Tommerup’s Dairy Farm and Harry’s Paddock, the offerings rotate with the seasons.

Highlights include the steak sandwich and the intriguingly named pork and cheddar donut—a sourdough creation with slow-cooked pork. For a playful twist, try the KFC carrots, which come with fermented chili and house-made sour cream.

A New Addition to Caxton Street

Since opening in October, the restaurant has quickly established itself as a go-to destination for lovers of retro aesthetics and exceptional food. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast or winding down with a cocktail, the venue is a versatile choice for any occasion.

Read: Valley Entrepreneurs Shine at Brisbane’s Multicultural Business Awards

With its seamless blend of nostalgia, creativity, and community spirit, Velveteen Rabbit isn’t just a bar—it’s an experience worth diving into.

Published 4-December-2024

Brisbane Grammar School Wins National Award for Innovative STEAM Building

Photo Credit: Brisbane Grammar School

A Fortitude Valley school has been recognised nationally for its cutting-edge approach to education with a prestigious building award.

Brisbane Grammar School’s STEAM Building, designed and constructed by BESIX Watpac, won the National Education Facility Award at the 2024 National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards in Hobart.

The awards ceremony, hosted by Master Builders Australia, brought together the best builders and construction firms from across the country to celebrate their achievements in residential, commercial, and civil construction.

A Hub for Innovation

The STEAM Building is a state-of-the-art facility that allows students to learn and explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. It boasts advanced laboratories, workshops, and collaborative spaces that foster creativity and problem-solving.

According to Brisbane Grammar School Headmaster Anthony Micallef, this innovative learning environment has significantly impacted the school community. Mr Micallef stated that the building has transformed how students learn and engage with STEAM subjects. He also noted that the building has become a valuable resource for the wider community, hosting events and workshops for students from other schools and the general public.

National Recognition

The National Education Facility Award is a major accomplishment for Brisbane Grammar School and BESIX Watpac. Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn commended the project and highlighted the importance of recognising excellence in educational facilities. Ms. Wawn emphasised that these awards showcase the builders and subcontractors who contribute to creating spaces that shape the future of education.

The STEAM building was one of many impressive projects celebrated at the awards ceremony. Other notable winners included Billbergia (NSW) Pty Ltd, who received the National Construction Master Builder of the Year Award for their work on 88 Walker, North Sydney’s tallest tower.

Queensland builders were particularly successful, taking home 13 awards in total, including the National Residential Master Builder of the Year Award for Havendeen’s PALA home project.

Investing in the Future

The recognition of Brisbane Grammar School’s STEAM Building underscores the importance of investing in innovative educational facilities. By providing students with the tools and resources they need to succeed in STEAM fields, schools can help to prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

Published Date 02-December-2024

Howard Smith Wharves Reduces Carbon Footprint with Solar Energy and Efficiency Upgrades

Howard Smith Wharves has installed a large-scale solar array and implemented a power factor correction system to reduce its carbon footprint.

Read: Boutique Hotel and Overwater Pool Planned for Howard Smith Wharves Transformation

These initiatives, stemming from an energy audit, have resulted in a 7.2 percent decrease in supply-side carbon emissions.

“These two quick and simple solutions drastically reduce our emissions, so of course we jumped at the opportunity,” said Luke Fraser, CEO of Artemus Group, which owns Howard Smith Wharves.

Photo credit: Howard Smith Wharves/Facebook

With a goal of becoming the most sustainable precinct globally, the precinct has partnered with Origin Zero to implement solutions aimed at redefining industry standards. The rooftop solar system, designed to meet heritage requirements, now provides a significant portion of the site’s daytime energy needs.

“We’ve worked closely with Howard Smith Wharves to understand their business needs and identify the right solutions to help achieve their ambitious sustainability goals,” said Liam McWhirter, general manager of enterprise and strategic partners at Origin Zero.

“The first step in the process was conducting a full energy audit and carbon assessment. We’ve since been able to implement a range of initiatives together, including the installation of a rooftop solar system that meets heritage requirements and will generate a considerable portion of Howard Smith Wharves’ daytime energy usage.”

carbon footprint — Photo credit: Howard Smith Wharves/Facebook

In addition to reducing energy consumption, Howard Smith Wharves has made significant progress in waste management, cutting waste to landfill by 97 percent. These efforts align with Artemus Group’s target of reducing emissions across the precinct by 44 percent by June 2026, compared to 2022 levels.

“Alongside achieving meaningful carbon emissions reductions, our work with Howard Smith Wharves will also deliver significant energy savings,” McWhirter added.

Read: Fortitude Valley Redevelopment: A New Era for the Iconic Precinct

With the decarbonisation of Queensland’s energy grid expected to reduce emissions further by 25 per cent, Howard Smith Wharves is well-positioned to lead by example.

Published 3-December-2024