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

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

Pub Giant Ignites Firestorm with Australia Day Ban

Photo Credit: Australia Day

A major Australian pub group, including The Wickham in Fortitude Valley, has ignited controversy by banning Australia Day celebrations at over 200 venues nationwide.

Initially, Australian Venue Co (AVC) cited concerns about the day causing “sadness and hurt for some patrons” as the reason for the decision. However, following a public backlash, the company apologised, stating their intention was not to dictate how people should celebrate.

They expressed regret for creating concern and confusion, emphasising their commitment to reinforcing community in their venues rather than dividing it.

The decision has divided public opinion. Some support the move as a way to acknowledge the historical trauma experienced by Indigenous Australians. Others, including Indigenous leader Warren Mundine and former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett, have criticised the move as divisive and out of touch.

Local businesses in Fortitude Valley, such as The Normanby Hotel and Story Bridge Hotel, intend to continue celebrating Australia Day. They view the day as an opportunity to celebrate Australian culture and community.

AVC Backtracks

In response to the backlash, Australian Venue Co issued a statement expressing regret for the initial announcement:

“We can see that our comments on the weekend have caused both concern and confusion. We sincerely regret that – our purpose is to reinforce community in our venues, not divide it. It is not for us to tell anyone whether or how to celebrate Australia Day. We acknowledge that and we apologize for our comments. It certainly wasn’t our intention to offend anyone.”

The company emphasized its commitment to inclusivity and stated that all venues would remain open on Australia Day, welcoming patrons regardless of their views on the national holiday.

While the initial ban was met with strong opposition, the subsequent reversal has been welcomed by many. However, the episode has highlighted the ongoing sensitivity surrounding Australia Day and the complexities of reconciling historical trauma with national pride.

Published Date 02-December-2024

Fortitude Valley Redevelopment: A New Era for the Iconic Precinct

Photo Credit: DEV2024/1507

With the approval of a major development application, Fortitude Valley is set to undergo a significant transformation. Two residential towers, rising to 30 and 31 storeys, will soon dominate the skyline, reshaping the urban landscape of this vibrant precinct.

Fortitude Valley precinct — *Photo Credit:* *DEV2024/1507*

The development, designed by renowned architecture firm Woods Bagot, will introduce 477 new dwellings comprising apartments and short-term accommodation. The ground floor will feature a public plaza, retail outlets, dining options, and office spaces, further activating the area.

The project will also include extensive communal open space, including a rooftop area, offering residents a serene retreat amidst the bustling city. Additionally, the development will provide ample parking for residents and visitors, accommodating 407 vehicles and 199 bicycles.

The planners at Property Projects Australia have emphasised the development’s alignment of the precinct with the neighbourhood plan and mixed-use zone requirements. The proposed building height is considered appropriate for the local context, while careful design considerations have been implemented to mitigate potential amenity impacts.

The architectural design pays homage to Fortitude Valley’s industrial heritage, blending contemporary aesthetics with traditional elements. The project aims to create a unique and visually striking landmark that complements the area’s character.

As construction commences, Fortitude Valley is poised to enter a new era of growth and development, solidifying its position as a thriving and dynamic urban destination.

Published Date 01-December-2024

Local Students Score Big on Shark Tank with Retro Camera

Photo Credit: Flashback/ Facebook

Two young, creative students from Queensland University of Technology and the University of Queensland recently made a killing on Shark Tank with their innovative business idea involving a retro camera that they successfully launched on Kickstarter.

Shark Tank Australia has invested $500,000 in its distinctive digital camera, the Flashback ONE35, blends modern technology with retro looks.

Kelric Mullen and Mackenzie Salisbury met while at Cromwell College. On Kickstarter, their concept for the Flashback ONE35—a digital camera with a retro film camera design—gained momentum and raised about $800,000 from supporters.

The business is expected to achieve $15 million in sales in the coming year and has brought in more than $3 million since its introduction.

Shark Tank investor Maxine Horne especially liked the team’s vision and product. She saw the Flashback ONE35 attractive to newer generations drawn in by old events.

Working with Horne and using her experience to expand their company is something that excites them, the students said.

They also thanked their teachers and mentors, notably Jessie Lee Croghan, the high school business teacher who motivated them to pursue an entrepreneurial career.

Published Date 1-December-2024

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

This holiday season, Riverbar and Kitchen is transforming its Eagle Street waterfront bar into a festive gin lover’s paradise with the launch of “Gin-gle Bar.”

Read: From Fortitude Valley to Abu Dhabi: Brooki Bakehouse Goes Global

Running from November 30 to December 24, the pop-up experience promises to deliver a merry mix of creative cocktails, playful treats, and festive vibes that will have Brisbane’s bar scene buzzing.

Partnering with Bombay Sapphire, Riverbar and Kitchen has crafted a Christmas experience that goes beyond the traditional holiday menu. The collaboration brings together innovative cocktails that capture the essence of the season, blending classic Christmas flavours with the botanical notes of premium gin.

Photo credit: Riverbar and Kitchen/Facebook

The drinks menu is a festive playground of flavours. Guests can expect Christmas-themed cocktails that pack a punch, featuring creative combinations like gingerbread-infused concoctions, pomegranate-based tipples, and sparkling libations that capture the holiday spirit. Each drink is designed to transport you straight into the most wonderful time of the year.

The Star Attraction: Merry Meringue Soft Serve

Perhaps the most Instagram-worthy offering is the Merry Meringue Soft Serve. This isn’t your average dessert – it’s a sophisticated frozen treat crafted with Bombay Sapphire, limoncello, passionfruit, and meringue. Essentially, it’s gin ice cream that takes the concept of a holiday treat to a whole new level.

The experience extends beyond beverages. The menu features festive bites like gin-cured salmon bruschetta topped with creme fraiche, capers, and dill – perfect for nibbling while enjoying the holiday atmosphere. Twinkling lights and holiday beats create a backdrop that’s both merry and bright.

Whether you’re looking to clock off early or meet up with friends, Riverbar and Kitchen’s Gin-gle Bar offers a playful escape from the typical holiday hustle. The waterfront location adds an extra layer of charm to what promises to be a memorable seasonal celebration.

Details

When: November 30 – December 24

Where: Riverbar and Kitchen, Eagle Street

What to Expect: Festive cocktails, gin soft serve, and a jolly atmosphere that screams holiday cheer

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

So gather your crew and head to Riverbar & Kitchen – this is one holiday pop-up you won’t want to miss. It’s time to raise a glass (or a soft serve) to the most wonderful time of the year!

Published 28-November-2024