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From Fortitude Valley to Abu Dhabi: Brooki Bakehouse Goes Global

Brisbane’s beloved Brooki Bakehouse is taking its viral sweet treats international, with founder Brooke Bellamy announcing the brand’s first overseas venture – a pop-up store in Abu Dhabi this December.

Read: How Brooki Bakehouse Fortitude Valley Became an Insta-Sensation and Earned an International Following

The Fortitude Valley-based bakery, which rose to prominence through social media, will bring six of their signature cookie flavours and specialty coffee to the UAE capital from 6-31 December 2024, coinciding with the prestigious MOTN Festival.

Photo credit: Brooki Bake House/Facebook

It’s the latest achievement in what has been a whirlwind year for Bellamy. The entrepreneur recently relocated her operation to a larger production kitchen to meet surging customer demand, while simultaneously launching a cookbook that became an instant bestseller. On top of that, she also opened a new store at the Brisbane Airport.

The comprehensive cookbook offers more than just recipes – it’s a masterclass in baking, featuring 100 of Bellamy’s coveted creations and detailed step-by-step photographic guides. Home bakers can now learn professional techniques for crafting everything from delicate macarons to intricately decorated cakes.

The success of the cookbook has taken Bellamy on a national book tour spanning Sydney, Canberra, and Melbourne, with more Australian cities to be announced.

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The path to success wasn’t instantaneous for this Brisbane baker. Like many small business owners during challenging times, Bellamy turned to social media to market her creations, initially sharing daily menus through Instagram stories. The real breakthrough came eight months later when she joined TikTok, capturing audiences with behind-the-scenes glimpses into her daily life as a baker.

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

Now, as Brooki Bakehouse prepares to serve its first international customers, it’s clear that Bellamy’s recipe for success extends far beyond the kitchen – combining social media savvy with genuine baking talent to create a brand that resonates globally.

Published 19-November-2024

Valley Entrepreneurs Shine at Brisbane’s Multicultural Business Awards

Two Fortitude Valley entrepreneurs have emerged as standout winners at the 2024 Lord Mayor’s Multicultural Business Awards, showcasing how their cultural heritage has shaped their unique business success stories in Brisbane’s vibrant business landscape.

Read: Gerard’s Restaurant in Fortitude Valley Crowned Australia’s Most Stunning Restaurant

Young Business Person of the Year: Jason Le’s Digital Marketing Success

Born to Vietnamese war refugees, Jason Le has transformed JRNY Digital from a pandemic startup into a digital marketing powerhouse. As winner of the Nick Xynias Multicultural Young Business Person of the Year award, Le has built a company that now collaborates with some of Australia’s most prominent brands.

Multicultural Business Awards — Photo credit: JRNY Digital/Facebook

His success extends beyond business growth – JRNY Digital has committed itself to elevating diverse businesses in the digital space, creating opportunities for multicultural entrepreneurs and fostering inclusion in the digital landscape. Le’s approach to digital marketing emphasises authentic storytelling and genuine connections, positioning JRNY Digital as a bridge between cultures in the online world.

Emerging Leader Award: Ginger Mendoza Andersen’s Sweet Path to Success

Batch Cookie Bar founder Ginger Mendoza Andersen’s culinary journey from the Philippines to Brisbane’s food scene earned her the Multicultural Emerging Leader of the Year award. Raised by grandparents who taught her that food was an expression of love and sharing, Andersen has translated these values into a thriving Valley-based business.

Since launching Batch Cookie Bar in 2020, she has expanded her culinary ventures to include Lunar Pies and Tita’s Canteen, bringing Filipino flavours and traditions to Brisbane’s diverse food landscape. Her success demonstrates how cultural authenticity can drive business innovation and growth.

The awards ceremony, which attracted more than 500 of Brisbane’s multicultural entrepreneurs and business leaders, highlighted the vital contribution immigrant entrepreneurs make to the city’s economic and cultural landscape.

Read: Calile Hotel Named Best in Oceania, Ranks 25th Globally

Both Le and Andersen represent a new generation of business leaders who are successfully blending their cultural heritage with innovative business practices, cementing Fortitude Valley’s reputation as a hub for diverse, forward-thinking enterprises that enrich Brisbane’s multicultural business community.

Published 16-November-2024

QUT Students to Benefit from Sweeping HELP Reforms

Photo Credit: Queensland University of Technology/ Facebook

Queensland University of Technology (QUT) students and millions of other Australians are set to receive substantial financial relief as the Australian government has announced a significant overhaul of the Higher Education Loan Programme (HELP).

Effective 1 July 2025, the reforms will introduce a one-off 20% reduction in existing HELP debt and increase the minimum repayment threshold from $54,435 to $67,000. A new marginal repayment system based solely on income above the threshold will be implemented.

This means that recent QUT graduates and current students will have more disposable income to manage their living expenses and reduce financial stress. The new system will benefit lower-income earners, with the most significant relief for those earning under $180,000 annually.

Key Points of HELP

Significant Debt Relief: A one-off 20% reduction in existing HELP debt.

Increased Repayment Threshold: The minimum repayment threshold will increase to $67,000.

New Marginal Repayment System: Repayments will be based solely on income above the threshold.

More Disposable Income: Lower-income earners will substantially increase disposable income.

Smoother Transition: Recent graduates will have more time to establish their careers before starting repayments.

A New Era for Student Finance

The decision to overhaul the HELP system is a major step towards making higher education more accessible and affordable. By increasing the minimum repayment threshold and introducing a new marginal repayment system, the government is recognising the financial challenges faced by recent graduates and ensuring a smoother transition into the workforce.

These changes will benefit QUT students and other Australian students, reducing their long-term debt burden and providing them with greater financial security.

Published Date 08-November-2024

Gerard’s Restaurant in Fortitude Valley Crowned Australia’s Most Stunning Restaurant

Photo Credit: Gerard’s Brisbane / Facebook

At the annual Eat Drink Design Awards, a Fortitude Valley restaurant has secured the prestigious title of Australia’s most beautiful dining space. Gerard’s, located on the trendy James Street precinct in Fortitude Valley, emerged victorious alongside designer J.AR Office in the Best Restaurant Design category.

Gerard's Restaurant — *Photo Credit:* *Gerard’s Brisbane / Facebook*

After 11 years in operation, Gerard’s has undergone a comprehensive renovation and boasts a remarkable interior. Rammed earth walls, strategically placed lighting, beeswaxed oak panelling, and a sleek steel finish create a timeless and historical ambience.

The design has garnered praise for its “otherworldly” atmosphere. The Eat Drink Design Awards jury commended Gerard’s for its “exceptional originality and innovative approach.” They elaborated that the design fosters a holistic dining experience, where the environment complements the food and wine offerings. This reflects a deep understanding of space utilisation and a commitment to providing diners a unique and memorable experience.

Stepping into Gerard’s feels like entering a futuristic film set. The design draws inspiration from the ancient Phoenician Temple of Baalbek, mirroring the rich tapestry of flavours found in Lebanese cuisine, a cornerstone of Gerard’s menu.

Restaurant owner Johnny Moubarak believes the space and the food are in perfect harmony. He explained that Gerard’s menu features bold and evocative flavours that create lasting memories and sensory connections. He said the design needed to reflect this essence.

Warm textures and organic shapes complement this atmosphere, ensuring every element resonates with the dishes. Moubarak emphasises that the dining experience extends beyond the plate itself. It encompasses the ambience, lighting, tableware, cutlery, and even the sounds from the kitchen.

Moubarak stated that every material, visual element, scent, and touch contributes to an immersive experience transcending mere taste, creating an unforgettable and all-encompassing dining journey.

This project marks the first completed hospitality venue design for J.AR Office. Designer Jared Webb expressed his gratification at the design’s positive reception beyond Brisbane.

Webb explained that the design concept compared Gerard’s enduring legacy and iconic status to the weathered yet persistent Temple of Baalbek. The reimagined Gerard’s embodies this very concept.

The design and its underlying theme evolved from respecting tradition, cultural heritage, and craftsmanship. Ultimately, the aim was to create a monument that serves as a testament to the next chapter of the Moubarak family’s culinary legacy

The restaurant is open for dinner from Monday to Saturday, with lunch offered on Fridays and Saturdays.

Published Date 11-November-2024

Brisbane CBD Welcomes Third McDonald’s

Did you know that McDonald’s is set to open its third CBD location at the revitalised Post Office Square?

The Golden Arches will soon grace the entrance of the revitalised square, marking a significant milestone in the area’s transformation. McDonald’s has signed a 10-year lease for a 191 square metre space facing Queen Street, solidifying its position as the anchor tenant for the food and retail hub.

McDonald’s Operations Manager for Queensland, Steve Jamieson, expressed enthusiasm for the new venture, stating that the company would invest $3 million to fit out the restaurant and create 100 new jobs. Jamieson also emphasised McDonald’s commitment to being an active part of the local community and anticipation for serving customers later this year.

The new McDonald’s will join the existing outlets at Central Station and Queen Street Mall, catering to the growing demand for fast food in the bustling CBD.

Simon Juniper, Managing Director of Development Australia at LaSalle Investment Management, highlighted the strategic importance of the lease, noting that Post Office Square’s high foot traffic and proximity to over 100,000 CBD workers make it an ideal location for a new McDonald’s.

Juniper further explained that LaSalle’s investment in the square aims to create a more inviting and accessible space featuring wider walkways, increased greenery, and a carefully curated mix of tenants.

Taylor Macri of Vente Property emphasised the role of revitalisation in attracting tenants like McDonald’s. Macri stated that their research indicates a growing demand among workers for diverse culinary options and appealing spaces for meal breaks.

He added that Post Office Square is responding to these trends by offering a vibrant dining precinct with ample seating, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Published Date 05-November-2024

Australian Koala Foundation Debuts 2024 Christmas Catalogue

As the holiday season rapidly approaches, the Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) is launching its highly anticipated annual Christmas Catalogue for 2024, offering shoppers in Brisbane and beyond a chance to support the iconic Australian marsupial.

Headquartered in the heart of Brisbane CBD at Level 1, 40 Charlotte Street, the AKF is gearing up for a successful festive sales period, with all proceeds going towards its mission of protecting and preserving the nation’s beloved koala population.

The 2024 AKF Christmas Catalogue features a diverse range of carefully curated items, from children’s toys and homewares to classic stocking fillers. Shoppers can also opt to purchase a koala adoption, plant a tree, or donate to the foundation as a meaningful gift for their loved ones.

access the 2024 AKF Christmas Catalogue here!

The foundation encourages Brisbane residents and Australians nationwide to start their holiday shopping early to ensure their purchases arrive in time. The international shipping cutoff is Friday, November 22, and the domestic cutoff is Friday, December 6.

The 2024 AKF Christmas Catalogue is now available online, offering shoppers a convenient way to support the foundation’s vital work while ticking items off their holiday shopping list.

Published 2-November-2024

Howard Smith Wharves Announces Melbourne Cup Day Events

Howard Smith Wharves has unveiled its Melbourne Cup celebration plans for Tuesday, November 5, 2024, with multiple venues participating in the racing day festivities.

Cup Day events will be hosted from 11 AM to 3 PM across five distinct venues.

Mr Percival’s will host an outdoor party utilising its overwater decks, while Stanley Restaurant’s four-course Cantonese banquet has already reached capacity and is fully booked.

Felons Barrel Hall will feature live music paired with Thai flavours, and Felons Brewing Co. will provide DJ entertainment on the brew deck. For those seeking Italian cuisine, Ciao Papi is offering a three-course Italian feast.

The events will coincide with the traditional Melbourne Cup race timing, with Howard Smith Wharves providing multiple options for race day dining and entertainment.

Interested patrons can find Howard Smith Wharves at 5 Boundary Street, Brisbane City, QLD 4000.

Published 30-October-2024

Wood-Fired Excellence Meets Skyline Views: Aloria Opens at Sky Deck

Brisbane’s culinary landscape is about to soar to new heights with the opening of Aloria tomorrow, October 30, marking the latest addition to the highly anticipated Sky Deck dining precinct.

Read: Pompette at The Terrace to Bring French Flair and Bubbles to The Star Brisbane

Perched 100 metres above the Brisbane River on Level 23, this sophisticated dining destination promises to blend spectacular views with exceptional cuisine.

From Grandmother’s Kitchen to Michelin Stars: Meet Chef Shayne Mansfield

Under the helm of returning Chef Shayne Mansfield, Aloria is set to showcase a menu that celebrates the art of woodfire and grill techniques, with dry-aged beef and premium seafood taking centre stage. The venue’s commitment to locally sourced, seasonal produce aligns perfectly with Mansfield’s philosophy of sustainability and minimal waste.

Mansfield’s journey from Brisbane kitchens to Michelin-starred establishments in London makes him uniquely qualified to elevate Brisbane’s dining scene.

His culinary education began in his grandmother’s kitchen before he honed his skills under Philip Johnson at the renowned E’cco Bistro. His international experience, including a stint at Scott’s in Mayfair and helping secure a Michelin star within four months at City Social, brings a wealth of expertise to Aloria’s kitchen.

Sky-High Dining Experience

Aloria’s location within Sky Deck is nothing short of spectacular. As part of a 250-metre rooftop runway of restaurants and bars, it offers diners breathtaking 360-degree views of the River City. The venue is poised to become a premier destination for both intimate dinners and private functions, adding to the growing sophistication of Brisbane’s dining scene.

The beverage program appears equally ambitious, featuring what promises to be one of Brisbane’s most impressive wine cellars. A dedicated Martini menu will pay homage to the classic cocktail, offering purists and adventurous drinkers alike a carefully curated selection of variations.

Read: Fortitude Valley’s Most Sought-After Restaurants in 2024

For those eager to experience this new culinary destination, Aloria will be located at Sky Deck, 33 William Street, Brisbane. As the venue opens its doors, it marks not just another restaurant opening, but a significant milestone in Brisbane’s evolution as a world-class dining destination.

Published 29-October-2024

Christmas Spirit Blooms in Fortitude Valley: Heritage Lanes Hosts Festive Pop-Up Market

Photo Credit: The Market Folk/ Facebook

Are you stressed about finding the perfect Christmas gifts? Don’t worry—Fortitude Valley has the answer! Heritage Lanes is hosting a festive pop-up market with a difference.

This unique venue, a captivating blend of contemporary design and historic preservation, will showcase the works of local Brisbane artisans in its foyer and downstairs event space on Tuesday, 10 December.

This isn’t the first time Heritage Lanes has opened its doors to the community. Known for its commitment to showcasing local talent and fostering community, Heritage Lanes has hosted similar events, including a spring market that drew crowds eager to support local businesses and enjoy the building’s unique atmosphere. Building on this success, the Christmas market promises an even more festive experience, focusing on handcrafted gifts and seasonal cheer.

Shoppers can discover unique Christmas presents while immersing themselves in the building’s impressive public art collection. Heritage Lanes features a range of installations and murals that honour the city’s rich cultural history, providing a stimulating backdrop for this festive shopping experience.

Want to know more? Head to the Heritage Lanes Facebook event for all the details.

This is your chance to ditch the last-minute shopping panic and discover sparkle gifts.

Published Date 28-October-2024

The Doors Alive Return to Tivoli in Fortitude Valley with Rock Legends’ Classics

Get ready to “Break on Through,” as The Doors Alive returns to the Tivoli Theatre in Fortitude Valley, ready to “light your fire” with a night that brings The Doors’ magic back to life. The Doors’ most popular, UK-based tribute band will have fans swaying to “Riders on the Storm” and igniting that unmistakable spark of poetic rebellion that Jim Morrison and his crew unleashed on the world.

The Doors Alive have performed at The Tivoli before. This upcoming concert marks another opportunity for Brisbane audiences to enjoy their well-received tribute to the 1960s rock legends.

Known for their authenticity in sound and style, The Doors Alive continue to draw crowds worldwide. In previous performances in Brisbane, they have transported fans back to the 1960s with their re-creations of The Doors’ legendary live experience.

Formed in London in 2004, The Doors Alive is led by vocalist William Scott, with Norbert Varga on organ and piano bass, Buzz Allan on drums, and Baz Meyer on guitar. The group has performed widely, from Europe to the Americas, and their global reputation is anchored by their skill in authentically recreating The Doors’ distinct sound and electric stage presence.

Authentic Sound and Setlist

Show time will be on Thursday, 31 October 2024 at 7:30 p.m. and the performance will start at 8:30 p.m. at the Tivoli.

The Doors Alive have earned high praise for their ability to revive The Doors’ essence. They offer fans a genuine concert experience with faithful renditions of classics like “Light My Fire,” “Break on Through,” “Riders on the Storm,” and “People Are Strange.”

Promoters describe the concert as a chance to step back into the psychedelic 1960s, with each performance capturing the energy and unique spirit of Jim Morrison and The Doors.

Known as one of the world’s busiest Doors tribute bands, The Doors Alive stand out for their precision, look, and use of vintage instruments, delivering a sound often compared to the original band.

Legacy of The Doors

The Doors, originally formed in Los Angeles in 1965, were known for their distinctive fusion of rock, jazz, and blues and Jim Morrison’s lyrical style, which addressed themes of rebellion, freedom, and introspection. Their music reflected the counterculture of the 1960s and earned them a lasting place in rock history.

Although Morrison’s death in 1971 ended the band’s live performances early, their legacy has endured, with tribute acts like The Doors Alive bringing their music to life for new generations.

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Published 26-Oct-2024