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Free ‘Fan Land’ Opens at Queen’s Wharf for NRL Magic Round

Featuring the city’s biggest outdoor screen for live sports, ‘Fan Land’ is a new, free public precinct set to open soon at Queen’s Wharf for the Brisbane community.

New Hub for Sports Fans

The new outdoor entertainment area, presented by Queen’s Wharf Brisbane in partnership with global agency Rizer, is set to open next month. It aims to provide a central, lively spot for NRL fans and the wider community, especially during the Magic Round weekend. Festivities are planned to kick off from Thursday, 1 May to Sunday, 4 May. Fan Land will offer a place for people to gather and enjoy the excitement of major sporting events together.

Giant Screen Centrepiece

The main attraction at Fan Land will be a huge 9-metre by 5-metre (350-inch) LED screen, described as the largest outdoor sports screen in Brisbane. Organisers state this high-definition screen is designed for clear viewing, ensuring everyone gets a good view of the sporting action, including every tackle, try, and replay, without the viewing angle issues sometimes found in stadiums.

Entertainment and Activities

Beyond watching the games, Fan Land promises a full schedule of entertainment. This includes interactive games, DJ music, and appearances from well-known commentators and former rugby league players like Willie Mason and Justin Horo.

Social media personalities Archie and Miles Shepherd, known as The Shepmates, are scheduled to start the opening day’s events. Additionally, Matty, Trish, Jack, and Cooper Johns are expected to record a live version of The Johns Family Podcast on site. The area will also feature roving performers, an interactive try-line activity, and various food and drink options from pop-up bars and food trucks designed for quick service.

An Immersive Experience

Fan Land is designed to bring the energetic feel of a stadium to the Leisure Deck at the Queen’s Wharf precinct. Organisers aim for an atmosphere filled with live halftime shows, competitions during games, stadium-style crowd moments like dance cams, and even pyrotechnic celebrations when tries are scored.

The goal is to create a festival of sport that puts fans right in the middle of the action, offering more interaction than simply watching from a stadium seat or sports bar.

Vision for Brisbane Sport

The Star Brisbane chief executive Daniel Finch indicated that Fan Land represents a new type of experience intended to change how Brisbane enjoys and connects through sport, especially as the city prepares to host the 2032 Olympics.

He noted the event is one way Queen’s Wharf plans to support local and visiting sports fans, allowing them to get close to big game action even if they aren’t attending the matches themselves. Barry Wafer, head of the event agency Rizer Global, added that Fan Land will transform the Level 7 Leisure Deck into a dynamic arena, offering memorable moments and interactions with special guests in a setting that feels like the heart of the action.

Published Date 04-April-2025

Fortitude Valley Program Helps Latina Women Build Stronger Businesses

In Fortitude Valley, a business program is giving Latina migrant women in Brisbane the tools and support they need to grow and strengthen their businesses.

Fortitude Valley Program Helps Migrant Women Build Businesses In Queensland

A grassroots program in Fortitude Valley is helping Latina migrant women grow their businesses. Run by LatinOz QLD and backed by the Queensland Government, it has supported over 70 women so far.

The next round of the Queensland Women in Business (QWINBIZ) program starts Saturday, 12 April 2025, at The Precinct and runs until 16 August, offering practical sessions, mentoring, and community events for ABN-registered migrant women in business growth stages.

Building Business Confidence

QWINBIZ aims to equip migrant women with both business skills and confidence to navigate the Australian market. Participants range from beginners to experienced entrepreneurs, with sessions covering legal structures, compliance, marketing, and customer engagement.

Held in person to build connection and support, the program helps combat isolation. This year’s theme, “From Vision to Impact,” highlights turning ideas into lasting results.

A Growing Community in Brisbane

The program goes beyond workshops—it’s a supportive community where Latina women can connect, share experiences, and grow together. Participants from countries like Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina, Mexico, Peru, Brazil, and Chile have already benefited from the initiative.

Many say it has transformed their confidence and outlook. One woman shared how she learned to legally protect her business, while another said the program helped her go from feeling isolated and confused to empowered and supported.

With over 300 people reached through events and outreach, the program is hosted at The Precinct, Queensland’s central hub for startups and innovation, providing a vibrant space for learning and collaboration.

Accessible and Affordable

With support from the Queensland Government, QWINBIZ is offered at a low cost, with scholarships available for those in need.

A free launch event will be held on 12 April at The Precinct, Fortitude Valley, from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, featuring Latina entrepreneurs, refreshments, and networking.

As QWINBIZ grows, migrant women are showing their businesses can thrive with the right support.

Published 4-April-2025

Brisbane CBD Hosts the Great Artist Market: Art, Food, and Family Fun

Photo Credit: The Great Artist Market/Instagram

The Great Artist Market is set to return to Brisbane CBD this April, bringing together local artists, makers, and the community at Felons Barrel Hall. The popular riverside market will feature over 70 stalls, workshops, entertainment, and a range of food and drink options for attendees.

Great Artist Market Returns to Brisbane CBD: A Celebration of Creativity

The much-anticipated Great Artist Market is making a comeback to Brisbane CBD this April, promising a day filled with art, creativity, and community spirit. Set against the backdrop of the iconic Story Bridge at Felons Barrel Hall, the market will take place on Saturday, 5th April, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Bringing Local Art to the Heart of Brisbane

Hosted by Felons Barrel Hall, the Great Artist Market has established itself as a recurring community highlight, connecting local artists and makers with the people of Brisbane. This year, the event will be bigger than ever, featuring over 70 local artists offering a diverse range of handcrafted items, including sculptural jewellery, paper art, pottery, and clothing.

Claire Ritchie, the event’s curator, has carefully selected the participating artists to ensure high-quality, unique creations that showcase the talent within Brisbane’s creative community. The market will also include hands-on activities such as a beading workshop led by DIY Daisy, where participants can craft their own necklaces from second-hand beads.

Family-Friendly Fun and Entertainment

The Great Artist Market is designed to be family-friendly, offering entertainment and activities for all ages. Families can enjoy face painting, balloon twisting, and live acoustic music throughout the day. Pets are not allowed inside the market space, but the nearby Felons Rivergarden lawn will have stalls and dog-friendly activities, including Bad Pet Portraits for those wanting a unique keepsake of their furry companions.

Inside the Barrel Hall, Jet Black Cat Music will keep the atmosphere lively with feel-good vinyl sets. Visitors can also enjoy freshly brewed coffee from Allpress and baked goods from the TGAM baker. For those looking to enjoy a drink, mimosas and Felons’ signature Barrel Aged Beers will be available.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE MARKET

Getting There and Accessibility

Felons Barrel Hall is located at 5 Boundary Street, within the Howard Smith Wharves precinct. The venue is accessible by foot from Brisbane CBD, by taxi or rideshare with a designated drop-off zone, and by bus or ferry, with the nearest terminal just metres away. There is also ample parking available, including spaces for those with disabilities.

The event is wheelchair accessible, with space for prams and mobility aids. Seating is provided in outdoor areas, and the full Felons Barrel Hall menu is available from 11 a.m.

Brisbane local art — *Photo Credit: The Great Artist Market/Instagram*

A Creative Hub for Brisbane

Felons Barrel Hall, known for its experimental space celebrating live music, art, and barrel-aged beer, is the perfect setting for this vibrant community event. The Great Artist Market not only supports local creatives but also encourages community involvement, drawing visitors from across Brisbane and beyond.

Final Thoughts

As Brisbane’s creative community continues to grow, the Great Artist Market offers a unique opportunity to support local artists while enjoying a family-friendly day out. Whether looking for one-of-a-kind artworks or a day of fun by the river, the event promises something for everyone.

Published 3-Apr-2025

Heritage Hatmaker Akubra Opens First Brisbane Store

Photo Credit: Akubra Hats/Facebook

After almost a century and a half of outfitting Australians through stockists, heritage hatmaker Akubra has opened a store in Brisbane City, its first standalone shop since it opened in 1876.

Akubra Lands in Brisbane City with First-Ever Brand Store

For the first time in its 148-year history, Akubra has launched a brand store in Brisbane City, opening its doors at 162 Edward Street in the heart of the CBD. This marks a major shift for the heritage hatmaker, which has long been available only through stockists.

A New Chapter for an Australian Classic

Brisbane shoppers can now explore the full Akubra range in one place. The store, which opened in early April, follows Akubra’s late-2023 acquisition by Tattarang, the private investment group owned by Andrew and Nicola Forrest.

The shop blends modern industrial design with handcrafted features made by Akubra’s team, including stitched counters and custom shelving. It also offers services like on-site hat shaping and steaming.

Local Focus, National Identity

Akubra hats will continue to be made in Kempsey, New South Wales, but this Brisbane City location offers a more hands-on experience. Tattarang said the store reflects the deep connection Akubra has with generations of Australian families and aims to reach new customers in the city.

To celebrate the launch, Akubra reintroduced the 2008 “Outback Club” hat—created with long-time brand ambassador Lee Kernaghan—as a limited-edition release.

Designed for Community and Culture

More stores are expected to follow, with Tattarang already exploring other city locations. The Edward Street shop reflects Akubra’s effort to stay rooted in tradition while connecting with modern, urban Australians.

For Brisbane locals and visitors, it offers a new way to engage with a historic brand that continues to shape Australian style and culture.

Published 3-April-2025

Brisbane City Residents Push Back on Pavilion Overhaul

Photo Credit: DA A006697510

Brisbane City’s proposed riverfront redevelopment has raised alarms among traffic experts and nearby residents, who warn the project could create congestion, impact privacy, and disrupt the character of the area with oversized towers built too close to homes.

A Development Under Scrutiny

Led by Dexus Funds Management, the project (DA A006697510) seeks to modify an already-approved development near Mary and Felix streets. Key changes include increasing the gross floor area by 580 square metres, boosting car parking to 226 spaces, and reworking access and landscaping around Naldham House and Waterfront Place.

The design introduces new dining and retail areas while expanding outdoor seating and walkways. However, residents and professionals say the proposed form may outweigh the benefits, especially given the site’s location alongside Riparian Plaza and Brisbane Riverwalk.

Traffic and Safety Questions

Traffic consultant Bryce Trevilyan reviewed the project’s traffic modelling and found it didn’t reflect real-world conditions at key intersections. He said the SIDRA modelling used by Dexus underestimated congestion, especially during peak times, and failed to account for how traffic currently exits Riparian Plaza.

He also noted that large service vehicles would need to cross multiple lanes to enter the site, posing safety risks for cyclists and pedestrians. Trevilyan called for access redesigns and more accurate traffic data to avoid future gridlock.

Community Concerns Over Privacy and Scale

Residents from Riparian Plaza voiced concern over tower spacing, claiming the Northern Tower sits too close to their building compared to other Dexus-owned towers. One submission criticised the use of leased riverfront land to meet site coverage rules, saying it went against the intent of city planning standards.

Privacy was another concern. Residents called for frosted glazing to start from Level 39 to protect their homes from views into new function rooms. Others flagged safety risks with proposed rooftop landscaping, warning that strong winds could turn debris into hazards.

A Call for Balanced Growth

While the community supports the idea of updating Eagle Street Pier and the surrounding area, they’ve urged Brisbane City Council to ensure the final project fits well within the existing neighbourhood. The development remains under review, with traffic and residential concerns now part of the planning conversation.

Published 2-April-2025

New Illuminated Residential Tower Gets Green Light for Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: DA A006612891

A striking, illuminated 28-storey residential apartment building has received approval to be built in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, placing it near key planned venues for the 2032 Olympic Games.

Project Scope and Features

Luxe Property Investments plans to develop 300 St Pauls Terrace, its first high-rise residential project in Brisbane. Designed by McFarland Architects, the tower will contain 164 apartments on 26 floors, offering a mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom layouts.

These residential levels will sit above two podium and three basement levels, providing parking for 157 cars and 205 bicycles. On the upper ground level and rooftop, residents will have access to over 1150 square metres of shared facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, barbecue facilities, and dining areas with landscaping.

Strategic Location and Olympic Link

The site sits strategically between the Story Bridge and the newly announced Victoria Park Olympics precinct, which will host major events. It is also near the RNA Showgrounds, the athletes’ village location. Luxe Property Investments director Tony Jo noted that Fortitude Valley has changed considerably over the years, becoming a more sought-after destination.

He expressed that the proximity to the Olympic sites was a welcome development and stated the company is focused on ensuring the building enhances the area and contributes positively to Brisbane’s image on the world stage. Mr Jo mentioned that the company initially expected the main Olympic focus to be The Gabba, but the Victoria Park precinct is now just two blocks from their site.

Architectural Design and Lighting

A key feature of the approved design is lighting integrated into the building’s curved exterior. According to planning documents, this element is intended to highlight the architecture at night and support Brisbane’s ‘City of Lights’ strategy, aiming to create a more vibrant night-time atmosphere.

Blair McFarland, director of McFarland Architects, indicated that the Brisbane City Council well-received the tower’s design and integrated lighting concept. He suggested that the upcoming Olympics provide a fantastic opportunity for inner-city areas like Fortitude Valley and believes this building could be the start of further quality developments with improved designs appearing in the neighbourhood, a trend likely accelerated by the Games.

Development Timeline and Site History

The project will proceed to the detailed design stage with council approval now secured. Construction is anticipated to begin within the next two years. The 2,270-square-metre site was purchased for $9.35 million in December 2020.

Property records show it was previously owned by the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ). The new tower will replace a three-storey office building and its associated car park currently occupying the land.

Published Date 02-April-2025

Warisan Brings a Bold New Take on Indonesian Cuisine to the Valley

Warisan is bringing a fresh and modern take on Indonesian cuisine to Fortitude Valley. With a menu that blends tradition and innovation, this vibrant eatery invites diners to rediscover the bold and diverse flavours of Indonesia.

Read: The Beaumont Beer Garden: Brisbane’s New Rooftop Destination for Australian Flavours

From rich curries to expertly grilled seafood and creative plant-based dishes, Warisan offers an exciting dining experience that stays true to its roots while embracing contemporary twists.

Indonesian cuisine — Photo credit: Warisan/Facebook

Behind this culinary gem are Alfan Musthafa and Nick Wigley, who also co-owns Luckies Kitchen in Bulimba. Alfie’s Indonesian heritage and deep knowledge of the cuisine serve as the foundation of Warisan’s menu, while Nick brings his own expertise to help shape the restaurant’s welcoming and engaging atmosphere.

The menu features standout dishes like Indonesian grilled mixed rice—a flavourful combination of steamed rice, mie goreng, and tempe orek, wrapped in a banana leaf with a choice of shredded sambal chicken or beef semur.

Other highlights include the Opor Bebek Salatiga, a rich duck curry; Ikan Kakap Bakar, Jimbaran-style grilled snapper fillet with sambal matah; and Tahu Isi, crispy fried tofu stuffed with mixed vegetables and sambal asam. Warisan also caters generously to plant-based diners, offering 11 vegan-friendly dishes.

Drinks play a starring role at Warisan, with a carefully curated menu of nine cocktails, including a refreshing highball featuring lemongrass gin, triple sec, lemon, cucumber, and black pepper. Local wines are also on offer, providing the perfect complement to the bold and vibrant flavours of the menu.

Read: Goros Opens in Fortitude Valley, Bringing Japanese Nightlife Experience

Since opening in late 2024, Warisan has already made an impact, drawing in diners eager to experience its unique take on Indonesian cuisine. Whether you’re a long-time lover of Indonesian food or a newcomer looking to explore, this Fortitude Valley gem is sure to impress.

Find Warisan at 4 Hynes Street, Fortitude Valley. They are open Tuesday to Saturday for both lunch and dinner, ready to welcome you into their world of reimagined Indonesian delights.

Published 2-April-2025

Fortitude Valley Gallery Features Viral ‘Skibidi Toilet’ Series

Photo Credit: Institute of Modern Art

The viral YouTube series “Skibidi Toilet” has found an unexpected home in Fortitude Valley, as the Brisbane Institute of Modern Art (IMA) hosts the first institutional display of the controversial series, drawing curious crowds and sparking debate.

From Viral Video to Contemporary Art

The “Skibidi Toilet” series, created by Russian-Georgian content creator Alexey Gerasimov, has taken social media by storm, amassing around 18 billion views since its debut. The 3D-animated series features bizarre scenes of animated toilets with human heads battling against camera-headed men in a surreal and often violent struggle. Despite being labelled as “brain rot” by critics, the series has become a cultural touchstone for Gen Alpha.

At the Brisbane Institute of Modern Art in Fortitude Valley, the series has been presented as part of the Quarter One program, curated by Nicholas Aloisio-Shearer. It marks the first time “Skibidi Toilet” has been shown in an institutional art setting, reflecting a shift in how contemporary art intersects with digital culture.

Cultural Impact and Community Reaction

The decision to showcase “Skibidi Toilet” came from a desire to acknowledge the growing influence of online content in modern art spaces. IMA director Robert Leonard wanted to explore what creators outside the traditional art world were producing, leading to Mr Aloisio-Shearer’s suggestion to feature the series.

Skibidi Toilet challenges conventional perceptions of art. The exhibition has particularly attracted young visitors, with some parents recognising the phrase from their children’s social media feeds.

The Controversial Appeal

The screening room at IMA has been transformed into a dark, immersive environment, where the series, complete with surround sound, creates an almost otherworldly experience. While some visitors remain sceptical of its artistic merit, others have been drawn in by its absurd yet captivating nature.

The series’ use of animated violence and its chaotic, meme-driven aesthetic has sparked conversation about the future of digital art in contemporary spaces.

viral YouTube series — *Photo Credit: Institute of Modern Art*

What’s Next?

The “Skibidi Toilet” exhibition will continue at the IMA until 10 April 2025. Visitors can also purchase related merchandise at the gallery’s store. The response so far has been mixed, but the exhibit’s ability to draw younger audiences highlights a broader cultural shift in how art institutions engage with digital content.

Published 2-Apr-2025

Fortitude Valley Celebrates Top Artists at 2025 Queensland Music Awards

Photo Credit: Queensland Music Awards/Facebook

The 2025 Queensland Music Awards took place in Fortitude Valley, where artists like Young Franco and Amy Shark took home top honours in a night full of pride.

Fortitude Valley Hosts Standout 2025 Queensland Music Awards Night

Fortitude Valley came alive as Queensland’s best and brightest in music gathered for the 2025 Queensland Music Awards at The Fortitude Music Hall in Brisbane. The night spotlighted top talents across genres, drawing in artists, industry leaders and music lovers from all over the state.

Held on 25 March, the event was organised by QMusic and highlighted the depth of talent in the Queensland music scene—from emerging names to established stars.

Big Wins and Local Pride

Young Franco led the night with two major wins. His track Wake Up featuring Master Peace earned Song of the Year, which means it will be honoured with a plaque in Brunswick Street Mall. He also took home the Export Award for his global success.

*Photo Credit: Queensland Music Awards/Facebook*

Amy Shark picked up Highest Selling Single for Beautiful Eyes and Highest Selling Album for Sunday Sadness. Both achievements underline her strong fanbase and commercial reach.

Country music veteran Troy Cassar-Daley won Album of the Year for Between the Fires, recorded at his late mother’s home. This marked the first time the award was publicly voted. His daughter Jem Cassar-Daley earned the Indigenous Award for her track Big Container, making it a family milestone.

More Community Achievements

The Big Pineapple Festival was awarded Festival of the Year, while The Station SC took out Accessible Venue of the Year, showing how live music is reaching more audiences across Queensland.

Other winners included Beddy Rays (Rock), Sycco (Pop), Denvah (Country), Randy Thrill$ (Hip Hop), and Full Flower Moon Band (Blues/Roots). Lottie McLeod was named Emerging Artist of the Year, gaining well-deserved attention as a rising star.

Recognition and Reflection

Christine Anu was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award, with her daughter Zipporah performing My Island Home in tribute. Anu used her moment to encourage Indigenous youth to embrace their cultural identity in creative work.

One moment that drew attention beyond music came from composer Kellee Green, whose speech sparked mixed reactions. Brisbane City Council later paused $25,000 in funding to QMusic, and Green was placed on leave from her school role. These developments, however, did not overshadow the night’s main focus on celebrating talent and community.

Published 28-March-2025

QUT Scores First AIS Gold Tier for Elite Sport Support

Photo Credit: QUT/ Youtube

Queensland University of Technology has become the first university in Australia to earn the gold tier rating from the Australian Institute of Sport’s Elite Sport Education Network, recognising its strong support for student athletes, coaches, and officials.

National Recognition for QUT’s Sport Program

The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) has awarded Queensland University of Technology (QUT) the highest honour in its new Elite Sport Education Network (ESEN), granting it gold tier status. This recognition highlights QUT’s dedication to helping elite sportspeople balance their athletic careers with their studies.

The ESEN rating system, which includes gold, silver, and bronze tiers, aims to support athletes, coaches, and officials in pursuing higher education while maintaining their sporting commitments. The AIS believes universities and TAFEs are vital in building a strong and lasting sports system, especially as Australia prepares for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Expansion of Elite Sport Program

QUT has recently broadened its Elite Sport Program, previously known as the Elite Athlete Program, to include support for coaches, sports officials, and athletes. This expansion reflects the university’s commitment to a holistic approach to high-performance sport. The program now offers well-being, academic, and financial support to over 300 students engaged in nationally recognised sports.

Examples of students in the program include those participating in judo, rugby 7s refereeing, volleyball coaching, and rowing. The university’s Director of Sport, Emily Rosemond, stated that the program’s expansion is in line with the national goals for sports development, particularly in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Games.

Commitment to the “Win Well” Pledge

To mark this achievement, QUT’s Chief People Officer, Gillian Bromley, signed the AIS’s “Win Well Pledge,” committing the university to balancing high-performance goals with the well-being of its students. The AIS’s Executive General Manager of Performance, Matti Clements, expressed gratitude to QUT for being the network’s first gold-tier partner.

Clements emphasised the importance of universities providing flexibility for high-performing individuals, enabling them to achieve their sporting and life goals. The ESEN includes universities, TAFEs, and other education providers pledged to support elite sportspeople throughout their studies, ensuring they gain the necessary skills and qualifications for their future careers.

Published Date 26-March-2025