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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

Meet Fortitude Valley Chef Andrew McCrea: Legally Blind But No Less Extraordinary

Andrew McCrea is not your average chef. With only 6 percent vision, he expertly navigates the kitchen by relying on his heightened sense of texture and flavour.

Read: Pawn & Co Bringing Melbourne Concept to The Valley Soon

As the former Executive Chef at Queensland Parliament House, the legally blind innovator dished up bold, creative menus for world leaders and dignitaries.

Now with his new venture, the intimate 12-seat Perspective Dining on Brunswick Street, Chef Andrew channels his trademark artistry, sustainably-sourced ingredients and extraordinary sensory prowess into a cutting-edge tasting menu.

Photo credit: Perspective Dining/Instagram

With menus changing daily based on seasonal ingredients, Chef Andrew promises to take diners’ on a wild and unforgettable gastronomic journey.

In addition to featuring ingredients from local producers, Perspective Dining utilises an offsite garden to source unique produce for inventive dishes. Starter plates may consist of components like beetroot paired with its stems, leaves, and Davidson plum, or mushrooms accompanied by sheep’s milk, soil, fungi ferment, and goats’ curd.

For the main course, the coral trout ia a must-try, a dish complemented by fingerroot, membrane essence, pickles, and effervescence, or Wagyu beef enhanced with ham fat, asparagus stem, saltbush wood, and kumara leaves. Meals culminate in decadent desserts like hokey pokey ice cream with buttermilk, malt, and honeycomb.

Read: More Than Standard Fare: Indulge in Fortitude Valley’s Creative Bar Snacks

Sustainability also drives Chef Andrew’s approach. Ingredients are meticulously sourced and special finishing touches – from proteins to tableware – aim to provide guests a multidimensional experience engaging all senses.

Perspective Dining offers an intimate and truly unique gastronomic event, with the talented Chef Andrew McCrea challenging dining norms to bring his creative fantasies to life. Visit them at TC Beirne & Co Shop 6/ 315 Brunswick Street. You may also follow them on Instagram @perspective_dining for updates.

Published 14-February-2024

Broncos Stars Adam Reynolds and Pat Carrigan Apologise After Late-Night Scuffle In Fortitude Valley

Brisbane Broncos captain Adam Reynolds and teammate Pat Carrigan have apologised after an alcohol-fuelled scuffle between the pair in Fortitude Valley early Monday morning.

Adam Reynolds, Pat Carrigan take responsibility

At a press conference on Tuesday, Carrigan stated he wanted to “accept responsibility” for his conduct during the incident. Reynolds acknowledged the scuffle “is not a good look” and said he was “embarrassed” by the events.

“It’s obviously not ideal behaviour that I’m proud of,” Carrigan told reporters. “But as a club we are moving forward and I am standing side-by-side with Adam.”

Both players expected to play in opener

Broncos 2024 Fan Fest — The scuffle unfolded just hours after Brisbane’s annual fan day event at Red Hill. Photo Credit: Instagram/Brisbane Broncos

Queensland Police interviewed both players at the scene and opted not to arrest them. Police ordered both players to go home immediately after the drunken altercation.

Despite the incident, the Brisbane Broncos do not expect to stand down Reynolds and Carrigan for their season opening clash against the Sydney Roosters in Las Vegas on March 3.

The NRL Integrity Unit is reviewing footage of the altercation and will determine any fines.

Eyewitness accounts

BREAKING: VIDEO SHOWING ALTERCATION BETWEEN BRISBANE BRONCOS PLAYERS #NRL pic.twitter.com/D1R6NH4ofc
— NRL Phantom (@NRLPhantom) February 12, 2024

According to reports, the players were among a group dining and drinking at the MAYA Mexican restaurant and bar in Fortitude Valley.

As Reynolds attempted to usher an intoxicated Carrigan into a taxi, a scuffle broke out between the pair and spilled onto the street.

Fellow Broncos players Corey Oates and Reece Walsh tried to intervene.

Brisbane chairman Karl Morris said the incident was “very disappointing”, occurring so close to the NRL season start. Broncos CEO Dave Donaghy held crisis meetings with both players on Monday and denied the club has a broader culture problem.

Published 13-February-2024

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

Whilst the Mountain Goat Valley Crawl feature big name headliners like These New South Wales and Peach Fur, the festival also have under-the-radar emerging acts sprinkled throughout the lineup.

Read: Tribute Band Revives Rock Legends at The Tivoli

Amongst those “hidden gems” at the music festival will be the sociopolitical sonic fury of local neo soul punks Dancing Water, channelling injustice into cathartic spoken word soundscapes. Fellow Brisbane act SAMMM. brought blunt lyrical authenticity touching on struggles with addiction and homelessness, matched with an infectious live energy.

Photo credit: Mountain Goat Valley Crawl/Facebook

Hailing from Canberra, fast-rising indie pop group Sesame Girl will blend ‘80s and ‘90s alt-rock influences à la Beach House and Soccer Mommy. Making the trip up from Sydney were Britpop-inspired rockers Jet City Sports Club, dealing in melodic ‘90s indie guitar stylings.

Meanwhile, two homegrown Queensland gems include singer-songwriter Layla Borhani’s brooding musical alter ego Felony along with local indie pop merchants Flamingo Blonde’s sun-kissed summer dreamscapes.

Capping the emerging talent will be Ashgrove’s own Blue Diner, ready to deliver much-buzzed about performances of their cathartic post-punk shoegaze creed. Attendees needed only close their eyes, point randomly at the lineup and discover an as-yet-uncelebrated future star.

Mountain Goat valley — Photo credit: Mountain Goat Valley Crawl/Facebook

Now in its ninth year, the iconic music festival on Saturday, 10 February 2024 over 40 acts across eight different venues at the Valley, is expected to come at a successful close after a day celebrating the biggest night of music in the city.

Read: See You Next Year! Belinda Carlisle Reschedules Fortitude Valley Gig

The choose-your-own-adventure ethos of the free roving Valley Crawl remained a unique chance for music fans to catch emerging acts whilst supporting the country’s most vibrant and tightly-knit musical community.

Published 8-February-2024

Chinatown Mall Revamp to Breathe New Life into Fortitude Valley

Did you know that the iconic Chinatown Mall, nestled in the heart of Fortitude Valley, is about to undergo a million-dollar transformation?

The landmark strip, renowned for its cultural vibrancy, is set to commence rejuvenation works in the coming weeks, with completion expected by May 2024.

It comes as the developer, Tribune Properties Pty Ltd, is also set to receive several new tenancies later this year at the $375-million commercial office tower next door.

The initiative, which was approved before the pandemic, aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the concrete playground and reinvigorate the commercial space.

The forthcoming renovation project for Chinatown Mall will introduce several enhancements to the urban landscape. Planned improvements include the installation of three new garden beds, the addition of low-set seating areas, and the implementation of decorative lighting and poles.

Furthermore, the iconic carp installation will be relocated further into the mall, contributing to the overall revitalisation efforts. With a new commercial office tower already in place, the timing is ideal for enhancing the mall’s appeal and functionality.

The rejuvenation signals a resurgence of activity and interest in the Fortitude Valley precinct. Following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and years of vacant tenancies, the cultural hub is experiencing a renaissance.

As a focal point of the city’s night-time economy and a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, the rejuvenated mall is poised to continue its legacy as a cultural and culinary hub in the years to come.

Published 13-Feb-2024

71-Storey Nature-Inspired CBD Tower Proposed on Mary St

A 71-storey residential tower, inspired by nature, has been proposed for Brisbane’s CBD, bringing a blend of urban living and natural elements to the cityscape.

The development application (DA A006456951) for this CBD tower, lodged with the Brisbane City Council on 6 Feb 2024 for the property at 25 Mary St, would push close to the city’s height limit, which will become a transformative addition to the skyline.

Spearheaded by James and John Kaias, alongside the Bellevue TCE Properties Unit Trust and Mary Street Holding Unit Trust group, the proposal has been designed by renowned Japanese architect Koichi Takada and it’s expected to redefine contemporary living.

Situated just a few metres away from the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens and Queens Wharf Brisbane, the project aims to seamlessly blend nature with urban architecture.

The proposed CBD tower, reaching a height of 264 meters, seeks to replace existing structures. The site’s current occupant, a two-storey retail commercial building and synagogue, would make way for this ambitious development, promising a modernized urban landscape.

As demolition works progress on-site, making way for the forthcoming development, attention turns to the intricate details of the proposed tower.

Plans unveil a mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments spread across 71 floors, complemented by eight basement levels and five podium levels. Notably, the sixth and seventh levels are earmarked for an array of amenities, including a pet spa, yoga rooms, and recreational facilities, promising residents a lifestyle of luxury and convenience.

The building’s design draws inspiration from nature, with breathable balconies and organic, landscaped recreation levels that break up the vertical height, offering residents unparalleled views of the cityscape.

Spanning over 7,000 square meters, the proposed communal spaces are distributed across five distinct recreation levels, catering to the diverse needs of residents. From wellness areas and fitness zones to communal lounges and swimming pools, the CBD tower promises an unrivalled living experience.

Furthermore, the incorporation of innovative design solutions, such as wind-protected balconies and shading elements, highlights a commitment to sustainable and comfortable urban living.

Published 12-Feb-2024

Community Engagement Event: Sport in the Park at Brisbane City Botanic Gardens

The Brisbane City and Fortitude Valley Crime Prevention Units, along with PCYC, will be hosting Sport in the Park, a special event that brings together local police officers and young members of the community for a fun-filled day of sports and engagement at the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens.

Held on Saturday, 10 February 2024, Sport in the Park is a community engagement initiative aimed at fostering positive relationships between young people and law enforcement.

The event encourages youth to join their local police officers in kicking a ball around and participating in various sports activities.

Beyond just sports, Sport in the Park offers a unique opportunity for members of the public to engage with law enforcement in a relaxed environment. Attendees can discuss any concerns they may have with the police officers present, fostering open dialogue and community trust.

Brisbane City Botanic Gardens — Photo Credit: QPS

Particularly for young people, this event serves as a platform for positive interactions with police, helping to break down barriers and build mutual respect.

If you’re interested in participating, feel free to come down Saturday, between 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and enjoy some sport in the park with your local officers. Whether you’re kicking a ball around or simply engaging in conversation, it promises to be a rewarding experience for all involved.

In addition to the sporting activities, there will be crime prevention resources available onsite, as well as gazebos for shade to ensure everyone’s comfort throughout the day.

Published 9-Feb-2024

Improved CBD Transport Part of Brisbane Election Pitches

Operating hours for night buses in the CBD could be expanded, and fares could be waived to guarantee safe and economical transportation home from the City and Fortitude Valley.

Read: E-Scooter Safety Heightens Concerns Following Fortitude Valley Collision

This would happen if one particular party wins the next election in Brisbane. Under the proposal, fareboxes would be turned off between midnight and 5:00 a.m. to ensure people have a safe and affordable way of getting home.

It’s part of Brisbane Labor’s three-tiered approach to transport in Brisbane, which includes cheaper public transport, making buses more accessible and more frequent, and tackling roads and congestion.

Labor candidate for Lord Mayor Tracey Price stated that rising costs are challenging residents who want to save money and time when travelling. She emphasised the need for safe, affordable transit as the population grows.

The Labor party has also proposed a 50 percent reduction in bus fares for Zone 1 and Zone 2 in Brisbane, which they believe would save commuters around $1,000 a year in fares.

Meanwhile, LNP councillor Ryan Murphy critiqued Labor’s pledge to subsidise bus fares, which he argues would unfairly burden Brisbane ratepayers to benefit the whole South East Queensland region. Murphy also suggested Labor’s plans allow no room to expand the Brisbane Metro beyond 2024.

Brisbane Metro is an all-electric, high-capacity turn-up-and-go public transport system, which is designed to link the city to the suburbs. It will deliver major infrastructure throughout the city, including a new tunnel beneath Adelaide Street and revitalised streetscape from North Quay to Edward Street.

Greens’ Proposal

The Greens outlined their own vision for the CBD, pushing to create a “green spine” along Albert Street closed to cars. Lord mayoral hopeful Jonathan Sriranganathan also called for lowering speed limits from 40 to 30kph to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety. He believes most drivers already struggle to reach 40kph in congested peak times.

“Our plan would turn Albert St into a relaxed and lively ‘Green Spine’ linking together the whole CBD. It would run from the entrance to Roma St Parklands at Turbot St, through King George Square, the Queen Street Mall, past the new Albert St train station all the way to the Botanic Gardens,” said Sriranganathan.

Read: Works Progressing Well on Adelaide Street for Brisbane Metro

The election promises showcase each party’s approach to upgrading transit infrastructure and improving affordability and accessibility for Brisbane residents. With the election nearing, the campaigns are ramping up efforts to showcase their transportation solutions.

Published 30-January-2024

Agnes Restaurant Head Chef Calls It Quits, Passing Torch to Sous Chef

Brisbane’s acclaimed Agnes restaurant has a new head chef taking over the stoves after the recent resignation of Alex Gregg, who led the eatery to be named Australian Restaurant of the Year in 2023.

Read: More Than Standard Fare: Indulge in Fortitude Valley’s Creative Bar Snacks

Gregg departs after an impressive three year tenure at Agnes, located in Fortitude Valley. Under his guidance, the cosy 87-seat woodfired bistro was elevated to the pinnacle of fine dining in Australia.

Gregg crafted unique dishes all prepared using fire, smoke and flame. His beef tartare, wagyu, and duck plates drew particular acclaim.

Head chef, Alex Gregg (right) with group pastry chef, Danny Rahilly (Photo credit: Agnes Restaurant/Facebook)

Gregg expressed what an amazing experience it was to lead the Agnes kitchen and achieve such honours in his time there. However, he and his partner decided a move to the coast was best for them now, leading to his difficult resignation.

Gregg previously honed his skills at the esteemed MoVida restaurant in Melbourne before relocating to Queensland in 2021. He said he leaves Agnes very proud of all he accomplished, finishing on a high note as the country’s premier restaurant. Though he has no concrete plans yet, Gregg mentioned he is interested in running a smaller establishment on the Gold Coast next.

Agnes restaurant — Photo credit: agnes.restaurant/Instagram

Now taking over head chef duties at Agnes is Ryan Carlson, formerly the sous chef. Carlson draws inspiration from Fergus Henderson, whom he worked under at the acclaimed St John in London. That stint remains a career highlight for Carlson, providing invaluable experience alongside star chefs in one of the world’s top restaurants.

Read: Aesop James Street in Fortitude Valley: Where Art Meets Innovation in Retail

Carlson also credits his mentor Ben Williamson, Agnes’ executive chef, for pushing him to excel. In his spare time, Carlson enjoys charcuterie and sausage making. He feels ready to continue Agnes’ success, with Gregg offering praise and confidence in Carlson’s abilities to carry the torch.

Published 30-January-2024