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From Ashes to Glory: Alfred & Constance Set for Stunning Revival

Fortitude Valley’s famed Alfred & Constance bar and eatery is set to make a grand comeback, with a renowned Queensland restaurant group breathing new life into the iconic heritage-listed site.

Read: Pawn & Co to Redefine Nightlife in Fortitude Valley

After its tumultuous past, the venue is poised to reclaim its former glory under the expert guidance of Justin Lane Group.

Originally opening its doors in 2012, Alfred & Constance quickly became a Valley hotspot, drawing in crowds with its vibrant atmosphere and innovative cuisine. However, its journey was not without challenges.

Photo credit: Dmitry Stepanov/Google Maps

In 2018, the establishment found itself in receivership and was forced to close after its then-owner, businessman Damian Griffiths, faced financial troubles with his various ventures, including Limes Hotel and Doughnut Time.

Photo credit: Alfred & Constance/Google Maps

A brief reprieve came in 2018 when RMS Group took over the bar from receivers, but their tenure was short-lived. By February 2022, the site was vacated, and renovations began under the landlord’s guidance.

Now, the historic venue on the corner of Alfred and Constance Streets is poised for a remarkable renaissance. Justin Lane Group, the masterminds behind the beloved Justin Lane Establishment in Burleigh Heads, has acquired the site and is embarking on an ambitious overhaul.

True to its roots, Alfred & Constance will once again become a culinary destination, offering the same beloved menus that have made Justin Lane Establishment a favourite on the Gold Coast.

From mouthwatering antipasti like meatballs, bruschetta, and burrata to handmade pizzas, pasta, and their famous gelato, the flavours promise to transport diners to the sun-drenched shores of Burleigh Heads.

Photo credit: Justin Lane Establishment/Instagram

The cocktail menu, which has garnered a loyal following on the Gold Coast, will also make its way to Brisbane, with favourites like the passionfruit and chili tommy’s margarita, mango and coconut caprioska, and apple and elderflower daiquiri gracing the menu.

Read: From Yum Cha to Game Bar: Former King of Kings Site to Get Playful Reboot

With Justin Lane Group at the helm, the once-beloved Alfred & Constance is poised to reclaim its rightful place as a premier dining and entertainment destination in Fortitude Valley, promising a revival that will captivate both longtime patrons and newcomers alike.

Follow Justin Lane on Instagram for updates on Alfred & Constance’s reopening.

Published 6-March-2024

Freeman James Henderson Jailed for Causing Grievous Bodily Harm in Bicycle Collision

Former Queensland Reds Academy player Freeman James Henderson has been sentenced to prison time for a bicycle collision on William Street that left a pedestrian with lifelong brain injuries.

Freeman James Henderson collides with the victim

On April 7, 2022, 30-year-old Henderson, was cycling in William St near the intersection with the Victoria Bridge when he struck 42-year-old Hayley Small as she was crossing the road. CCTV footage showed that Henderson was travelling 11km/h over the speed limit and went through a red light, hitting Small as she crossed with a walk signal.

Small, a mother of three from Townsville, was in Brisbane with her children for a football trip. She was thrown 3.8 metres by the impact, knocking her unconscious. Paramedics arrived to find Small with life-threatening head injuries. She was hospitalised for over two months and continues to suffer effects from the traumatic brain injury.

Legal consequences

In the Brisbane District Court on Wednesday, Henderson pleaded guilty to dangerously operating his bicycle causing grievous bodily harm. The prosecution asserted that Henderson’s actions were not a lapse in judgement, evidenced by his driving history of traffic violations.

Judge Vicki Loury sentenced Henderson to two years in jail, suspended after three months. She called Henderson’s cycling reckless and said he failed to keep proper lookout for Small’s safety.

Impact on the victim

In her victim impact statement, Small said the collision changed her life and her family’s. She has permanent medical issues requiring medication and struggles with speech and memory.

Unable to work while hospitalised, she lost her home. Separation from her children during recovery caused distress.

Freeman James Henderson apologised to Small in a letter to the court. He has agreed to pay her $20,000 in compensation.

Published 01-March-2024

Get Ready Brisbane! Iconic British Bands Landing at The Tivoli in March

Brisbane is in for an invasion of legendary proportions this March, as three highly influential British bands are set to grace the stage at The Tivoli.

Read: INVINCIBLE: A Tribute to Michael Jackson at The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley

From post-punk pioneers to trip-hop trailblazers, Fortitude Valley’s iconic live music venue has curated an eclectic lineup of British bands that have each left an indelible mark on music history.

March 9: From The Jam

Kicking things off is From The Jam, an offshoot act formed by The Jam’s bassist Bruce Foxton. Along with vocalist and guitarist Russell Hastings, the group will perform a “final tour” of The Jam’s greatest hits, including classics like “Town Called Malice,” “Going Underground,” and “That’s Entertainment.” Fans can expect a passionate, high-energy set as the band closes this Australian chapter.

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March 15: Morcheeba

Electronic band Morcheeba makes their long-awaited return to Australian shores. Skye Edwards’ smoky vocals paired with Ross Godfrey’s chilled-out beats have made Morcheeba a dinner-party staple since the 1990s. Their distinct trip-hop sound fuses influences like jazz, funk and R&B into something effortlessly cool. Local songstress Ruby Jackson will open the show with her neo-soul stylings.

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March 20 The Damned

Closing out the month is a punk rock dream team, as The Damned reconvene their “classic lineup” from the late 70s. With original members Dave Vanian, Captain Sensible, Rat Scabies and Paul Gray, the godfathers of goth-tinged punk will unleash fan favourites from albums like Machine Gun Etiquette. After 35 years apart, their Australian fans are in for an historic, hell-raising performance.

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So whether your taste runs to anthemic post-punk, hazy electronica or hardcore punk, The Tivoli has an iconic UK act to satiate your musical cravings. Don’t miss out on these once-in-a-lifetime shows in the Valley.

Read: Spice Girl Melanie C to Headline 24th Big Gay Day Festival in the Valley

Published 27-February-2024

Synth-Pop Icons The Human League Set to Enthrall Fortitude Valley with DARE! Anniversary Concert

Synth-pop enthusiasts in Fortitude Valley are in for a treat as iconic British band The Human League gears up to deliver a spectacular live rendition of their seminal album DARE! at the esteemed Fortitude Valley Music Hall.

With a reputation that precedes them, The Human League’s influence on the music industry is undeniable, and their upcoming performance promises to be an unforgettable experience for fans old and new.

Celebrating the 40th anniversary of DARE!, The Human League will take concert-goers on a journey back to the electrifying era of the 1980s, where synthesisers reigned supreme and infectious beats ruled the airwaves.

This special event, set for 6 March 2024, marks a milestone in the band’s illustrious career, and it also pays homage to a groundbreaking album that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. The allure of DARE! lies not only in its chart-topping singles but also in its enduring legacy as a trailblazing work of art that pushed the boundaries of music production.

Fortitude Valley Music Hall, known for hosting top-tier musical acts, provides the perfect backdrop for this momentous occasion. The venue promises an intimate yet electrifying atmosphere, allowing concert attendees to fully immerse themselves in the sonic delights of The Human League’s timeless repertoire.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan reliving the glory days of synth-pop or a newcomer eager to experience the magic firsthand, The Human League’s DARE! anniversary concert is sure to captivate audiences of all ages.

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Published 27-February-2024

Spice Girl Melanie C to Headline 24th Big Gay Day Festival in the Valley

Brisbane’s iconic Big Gay Day festival has announced an exciting date and lineup for 2024. The LGBTQIA+ street party will once again take over The Wickham Hotel in Fortitude Valley on Sunday, May 5 for its 24th year, headlined by none other than Spice Girl Melanie C!

Read: Big Names, Fresh Faces Rock the Mountain Goat Valley Crawl 2024

Flying in from the UK, Melanie C will undoubtedly thrill the crowds at one of Australia’s largest queer festivals. She joins a sparkling lineup of popstars, drag queens, musicians, and DJs. Aussie dance duo Sneaky Sound System are set to get feet moving, along with renowned UK DJ Tall Paul.

Local legends on the bill include drag superstar Hannah Conda and sketch comedy group Briefs Factory. Brisbanite Jarred Baker will represent homegrown talent, whilst interstate drag collective Mega Drag rounds out the 2024 Big Gay Day entertainment.

The day-long extravaganza takes over Wickham Street, the home of popular pub The Wickham Hotel. Fabulous local identity Paul Wheeler will reprise his role as Master of Ceremonies, having hosted previous Big Gay Days.

Line Up – Big Gay Day 2024

Each year the festival raises thousands for LGBTQIA+ charities. In 2024, a portion of proceeds will go towards two queer organisations yet to be announced.

With the theme ‘Wickham of Oz’ this year, partygoers can expect a magical trip down a rainbow brick road this May. Tickets go on sale starting February 14 for the beloved event’s 24th year. Mark your calendars, dress in your most dazzling outfits, and get ready for Big Gay Day 2024!

Read: Countdown Begins for 2024 Brisbane Portrait Prize

Big Gay Day History

Having started in 2000 as a celebration of Brisbane’s LGBTQIA+ community and a fundraiser for important charities, Big Gay Day has grown into one of the city’s biggest street parties.

The festival now shuts down an inner-city street to set up a massive main stage and bring an amazing lineup of local, national and international LGBTQIA+ entertainers.

Over the years, legends like Boy George, Sporty Spice, and The Veronicas have graced the Big Gay Day stage. In 2022, over 3,500 attendees helped raise substantial donations for charities like Diverse Voices and 2Spirits. The stages spotlighted incredible acts such as Vanessa Amorosi, Courtney Act, Faker, and a 30-strong drag extravaganza featuring Brisbane’s best performers.

Published 22-February-2024

Countdown Begins for 2024 Brisbane Portrait Prize

The countdown to the 2024 Brisbane Portrait Prize has officially begun, with several of the 2023 winning portraits unveiled at a launch event held earlier this week at the Howard Smith Wharves.

Read: INVINCIBLE: A Tribute to Michael Jackson at The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley

The launch brought together artists and potential subjects ahead of the opening of submissions for the 2024 prize. Attendees also heard from past finalists during a Q&A session.

Now in its sixth year, the Brisbane Portrait Prize has received over 3,200 entries to date, including 466 submissions to the Next Gen category for emerging artists. A total of $428,000 in prize money and grants has been awarded since the competition’s inception.

Photo credit: Brisbane Portrait Prize/Instagram

“The Brisbane Portrait Prize is proud to play a role in supporting the creative economy in this city, providing opportunity for artists, and telling the stories of Brisbane and its characters,” said BPP board member Lady Jane Edwards.

This year the finalist exhibition will be held at the State Library of Queensland for an extended three-month run, the longest showing since the prize began.

The 2024 Prize consists of two key competitions: the Main Competition, which is open to all entrants 18 and over, and the Next Gen Prize, which is open to entrants 18 and under.

“We are delighted to be moving into the premier arts precinct in Brisbane, in the heart of South Bank at State Library of Queensland for what will be our most exciting year yet,” said Lady Edwards.

The 2024 chief judge Bree Pickering, Director of the National Portrait Gallery, said she is looking forward to seeing diverse mediums and approaches to portraiture.

Brisbane Portrait Prize — Chief judge Bree Pickering (Photo credit: brisbaneportraitprize.org)

“I’m expecting to see works across mediums that celebrate the art of portraiture in all its forms. As Chief Judge I’m looking for great artworks that reveal something about you as the artist, about your sitter and importantly, the people of Brisbane,” Ms Pickering said.

Alongside Pickering, the esteemed 2024 judging panel includes Francoise Lane, Artistic Director of Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, and Christine Clark, Head of Curatorial and Collections at Museum Brisbane.

Entries close on 22 May 2024, giving artists over three months to submit their work. The finalist exhibition will be held at the State Library in August.

The top honour is the Lord Mayor’s Prize of $50,000, presented by Brisbane City Council. Those who will be chosen for the “Support for emerging artists” award will take home $1,000 vouchers from Oxlades.

Read: Big Names, Fresh Faces Rock the Mountain Goat Valley Crawl 2024

The Brisbane Portrait Prize celebrates Brisbane’s portrait artists and encourages engagement with the arts. Any artist with a connection to the city can enter.

Published 20-February-2024

INVINCIBLE: A Tribute to Michael Jackson at The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley

Hot on the heels of sold-out performances in New York City, “INVINCIBLE”, a tribute to Michael Jackson, promises an unparalleled experience for Brisbane fans at The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley.

Direct from the United States, the Jackson Family has endorsed the show.

Pete Carter and Jeffrey Perez embody Michael Jackson’s spirit with meticulously executed choreography, vocals, and non-stop action.

Produced and directed by leading dance producer Darrin Ross and choreographed by Lavelle Smith Jr, who has closely collaborated with icons such as Michael and Janet Jackson, Rihanna, Chris Brown, and the Rolling Stones, “INVINCIBLE” guarantees the closest encounter to witnessing the King of Pop in concert.

Accompanied by their live band and dancers, this concert at The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley on 24 February 2024, is bound to be the year’s highlight.

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Brisbane: A Special Place in Michael Jackson’s Journey

Brisbane holds a significant place in Michael Jackson’s history, being the first Australian city he ever visited.

In 1973, Brisbane welcomed the Jackson Five for their inaugural Australian tour, marking a historic moment as the first black pop group to embark on a national tour Down Under.

Michael returned to Brisbane during his Bad World Tour on 26 November 1987, where he performed two shows, including a memorable performance with Stevie Wonder on “Bad.”

Brisbane also hosted Michael during his HIStory World Tour in 1996.

Michael Jackson Invincible — Photo Credit: Invincible – Michael Jackson/YouTube

During Michael Jackson’s visits to Brisbane, historical moments were etched. Each visit left an indelible mark on the city’s cultural landscape, from his iconic performances to interactions with fans and media.

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Pawn & Co to Redefine Nightlife in Fortitude Valley

Prepare for a revolutionary addition to Brisbane’s nightlife as club promoters Josh Lefers, Stephen Wools, and Steve Thomas launch Pawn & Co in Fortitude Valley, a groundbreaking venture that blends the allure of a pawn shop with the excitement of a bar, entertainment venue, perfumery, nail salon, and corporate event space.

The 450-square-meter venue, spanning two levels, is poised to become a haven for those seeking entertainment beyond the ordinary.

On the ground floor, a perfumery awaits, allowing visitors to explore and purchase signature scents or indulge in a unique cocktail degustation with perfectly paired perfumes. A mini automated nail salon promises temporary nail art experiences for those seeking extra flair.

The club will also feature vending machines, games, and an outdoor cocktail garden to enhance the immersive experience.

In a cheeky twist, Pawn & Co goes all-in on the pawn theme, offering patrons the chance to buy the club, albeit at a hefty price.

According to Mr Lefers, the team has scoured the globe for highly unique and in-demand inventory, ranging from the latest gadgets to iconic collectibles such as Elvis Presley’s jumpsuit, the inaugural Rolex, and Marilyn Monroe’s iconic white dress. Lefers emphasised that every item would be carefully curated, with some expected to fetch prices as high as $1 million.

Lefers expressed their vision of becoming the most exciting club globally, offering a space that sparks curiosity and wonder. Targeting the corporate market, Pawn & Co aims to provide bespoke experiences for businesses looking to create memorable events for their guests or employees, with the club expected to open its doors to the public in December 2024.

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A post shared by Pawn & Co. (@pawnandco)

Pawn & Co will also feature a mechanical snow globe that moves between levels and a small automated nail salon. Top-notch DJs will propel bodies into motion via a brand-new sound system, whilst the bar will dispense interactive carnival-inspired cocktails.

Stay tuned as Pawn & Co prepares to open its doors to the public, promising to revolutionise Brisbane’s nightlife landscape with its blend of entertainment, uniqueness, and quirkiness.

Published 19-Feb-2024

Proposed Co-Living Tower Set to Elevate Urban Living in Fortitude Valley

A groundbreaking development proposal is set to reshape the landscape of Fortitude Valley as the Willemsen Group plans a transformative addition to the city’s residential offerings.

Acquiring the corner site at 458 Wickham Street from Silverstone Developments in 2020 for $11.5 million, Willemsen Group now seeks to elevate the urban living experience with a visionary 22-storey co-living tower.

This site, nestled amidst Brisbane’s vibrant lifestyle precinct, is primed to become the standard of modern communal living, catering to both returning residents and visitors alike.

Elevating Urban Living

The proposed co-living tower at Fortitude Valley (DA A00642449) aims to address an unmet need in Brisbane’s residential market, as highlighted in the development application documents.

With 381 fully furnished one-bedroom co-living units, the tower promises to redefine the concept of contemporary living.

458 Wickham Street Fortitude Valley — Photo Credit: DA A0064244

Notably, the development includes three levels of podium parking, a residents’ terrace on level 4, communal dining and gathering spaces on all levels, and a communal rooftop terrace.

Architect Bayley Ward’s innovative design ensures that the increased number of storeys does not compromise the integrity of the previously approved building height, maintaining harmony within the skyline.

Fulfilling a Market Gap

Emphasising flexibility and community engagement, the development offers a mix of short-term accommodation units and rooming accommodation units, coupled with ample communal spaces.

Drawing inspiration from hotel-like amenities, the co-living tower blends private residential spaces with extensive shared areas, catering to diverse demographics and age groups.

With an asset-sponsored community programming emphasis, shared living spaces, and all-inclusive central billing, the development aims to redefine the standards of urban accommodation.

A Vision for the Future

Designed with meticulous attention to detail, the co-living tower not only reimagines residential living but also integrates seamlessly with the surrounding urban fabric. The proposal envisions a harmonious blend of convenience and well-being, positioning Fortitude Valley as a premier destination for modern urban dwellers.

The project is set to unfold in two stages, including the construction of a new PCYC development.

Published 15-Feb-2024

From Yum Cha to Game Bar: Former King of Kings Site to Get Playful Reboot

In 2020, Fortitude Valley foodies bade farewell to King of Kings, the cherished yum cha eatery that was a Chinatown Mall mainstay for over three decades. After plans to revive the large venue at the corner of Duncan and Wickham Streets fell through, the space continued to sit vacant. Until now.

Read: Chinatown Mall Revamp to Breathe New Life into Fortitude Valley

However, the iconic site is getting an exciting new lease on life under Melbourne hospitality group Ballers Clubhouse.

Set to launch in late 2024, Ballers Clubhouse Brisbane will transform the former restaurant into a high-tech playground for grownups spanning two floors and 1100 sqm.

Photo credit: Ballers Clubhouse/Facebook

Gaming activities like augmented ping pong, shuffleboard, and karaoke will pair with finger foods, cocktails and other menu options accessible for diverse gatherings.

Ballers Clubhouse is designed as a lively hangout spot for friends’ nights out, dates, celebrations and corporate team building alike. Their 2500 sqm venue in the Melbourne CBD is the city’s largest licensed space, equipped with 75 taps, 10 private functions spaces, 15 pimped-up ping pong tables, 6 stand-up shuffleboard among others.

The planned expansion doesn’t end in Brisbane – Ballers Clubhouse has revealed plans to bring its high-tech gaming playground concept to Adelaide, Hobart, and Geelong soon.

The concept echoes Pawn & Co, another upcoming adult-focused play spot from the group housing a pawn shop, bar, eatery and perfume counter in Fortitude Valley’s former Laruche complex.

Chinatown Mall may feel King of Kings’ absence, but Ballers Clubhouse looks set to breathe fresh life into this iconic address at the Chinatown Mall. Get ready for the playground to welcome grownup kids once more when doors open later this year in the Valley!

Read: Meet Chef Andrew McCrea: The Man Bringing an Extraordinary Tasting Experience to Perspective Dining

Published 14-February-2024