Fortitude Valley welcomed a unique addition to its nightlife scene with the opening of Pawn & Co, a Melbourne-born concept that seamlessly blended a bar, a pawn shop, and a perfumery.
The venue was more than just a place to grab a drink; it was an immersive experience where everything, from the furniture to the fragrances, was displayed.
Occupying the former Laruche site on Ann Street, the 500-square-metre space underwent a $4-million transformation. Co-founders Josh Lefers, Stephen Wools, and collaborators Steve Thomas and Alex Docherty envisioned it as a luxurious, art deco-inspired piano bar with a twist. It was where martinis and Rolexes coexisted, and every visit was an adventure.
Lefers wanted to create a space where each drink, curiosity, and perfume told a story. The integration of a perfumery, where patrons could even craft their signature scents, further distinguished Pawn & Co from traditional bars.
Docherty highlighted Fortitude Valley’s strategic choice for their first Queensland venture. He saw the precinct as the rising star of Australia’s late-night scene, with post-pandemic energy and the upcoming Olympics contributing to its growth.
Thomas assured that while the venue had undergone extensive renovations, key elements of its predecessors, Laruche and Beehive, were retained. The recognisable vaulted beehive ceiling and the iconic back bar design remained, paying homage to the good times shared within those walls.
This establishment was a captivating addition to the city’s vibrant nightlife. It was a testament to the evolving hospitality landscape, where creativity and commerce intertwine to offer patrons an unforgettable experience.
Jon Stevens and Kate Ceberano are set to reunite for the “Superstars Live” tour at Fortitude Valley Music Hall, offering fans a rare chance to relive their legendary performances from the 1992 production of “Jesus Christ Superstar.”
This tour, marking the golden jubilee of the “Jesus Christ Superstar” musical, will see Stevens and Ceberano perform hits that have resonated with audiences for decades, such as “Everything’s Alright” and “I Don’t Know How To Love Him.”
The duo’s musical journey began over thirty years ago, which set them on the path to becoming revered figures in the Australian music scene.
Stevens, known for his raw vocal power, rose to fame as the lead singer of the rock band Noiseworks, belting out hits like “Take Me Back” and “Touch.” His solo career further cemented his status as a rock icon in Australia.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Ceberano, with her versatile voice that effortlessly spans jazz, pop, and soul, has been a prominent figure in the industry since her days fronting the band I’m Talking. Her solo tracks – including the likes of “Pash” and “Brave” – have earned her numerous accolades and a devoted following.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Common
Tribute and Innovation
A poignant part of their performances will be a tribute to John Farnham, whose portrayal of Jesus in the same 1992 production remains one of the most iconic in Australian theatre history. The shows will blend nostalgia with innovation, with both artists bringing fresh interpretations to their acclaimed hits, backed by a dynamic rock band.
Reflecting on their enduring partnership and mutual artistic respect, Ceberano shared that their decision to perform together again felt both natural and necessary, spurred by fan reactions and personal milestones. The live performances aim to create a bridge between generations of music lovers, celebrating both the past and the present of Australian music.
A Celebration of Live Music
The “Superstars Live” tour is not just a concert series but a celebration of the rich tapestry of live music that Stevens and Ceberano have participated in. Their performances are expected to be more than just musical sets; they promise to be immersive experiences where stories are shared, and memories are made, ensuring that everyone in the audience feels part of something truly special.
In a dynamic shift for Australia’s premier music festival and conference event, BIGSOUND has announced its new Conference Co-Programmers for 2025. Industry veterans Cathy Oates and Niriko McLure are set to take the reins, ushering in a fresh perspective for the beloved Fortitude Valley gathering.
The duo succeeds Tom Larkin, who departs after an impressive seven-year tenure that helped cement BIGSOUND’s reputation as a cornerstone of the Australian music industry calendar.
Cathy Oates, founder of Original Matters, has been a pivotal figure in Australian music management for nearly two decades. Her keen eye for talent led her to sign Angus & Julia Stone in 2006 and Dean Lewis in 2017, both acts that have gone on to achieve international acclaim. Oates’ longstanding relationship with BIGSOUND as an attendee and participant makes her intimately familiar with the event’s significance.
Photo credit: BIGSOUND/Facebook
Oates expressed that BIGSOUND has consistently been a crucial event in her calendar, not just for her artists’ performances but also as a significant networking opportunity and a concentrated period of enjoyment.
Niriko McLure brings a multifaceted background to the table, having held senior positions across various sectors of the music industry. Her experience spans management, labels, publishing, music tech, policy, and event investments.
Photo credit: BIGSOUND/Facebook
McLure’s client roster boasts heavyweight names like Matt Corby and 5 Seconds of Summer, while her festival experience includes global juggernauts such as Glastonbury, Lollapalooza, and Splendour In The Grass.
As the music world continues to evolve rapidly, BIGSOUND’s role as a crucible for new ideas and connections becomes ever more vital. With Oates and McLure at the helm of conference programming, attendees can look forward to a rich tapestry of insights, opportunities, and, as Oates puts it, “a lot of condensed fun.”
The industry now eagerly anticipates how this dynamic duo will shape BIGSOUND 2025, building on the strong foundation laid by their predecessor and steering the conference into new and exciting territories.
Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, already home to the superhero-themed bar 1st Edition, has further embraced its comic book alter ego with the recent additions of Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy.
This trio of watering holes, all located in California Lane, offer patrons a unique bar-hopping experience. Each has its own distinct vibe and a shared “multiverse menu” of food and drinks.
A Trio of Themed Havens
1st Edition, which opened in 2021, sets a moody atmosphere with artwork featuring a roster of iconic characters. Harley Quinn, launched in May 2024, offers a more casual ambience, even functioning as a cafe during the day. The newest addition, Poison Ivy, boasts a vibrant green aesthetic with a striking mural of its namesake.
The shared multiverse menu features cocktails inspired by a range of comic book characters, from the Poison Ivy (gin, bay leaf cordial, celery shrub, sea salt) to The Tesseract! (gin, Italicus, blue curacao) served under a smoke-filled dome. Food options range from KFC ribs with kimchi and shallots to beef carnita gyoza with pineapple. Harley Quinn’s daytime menu offers a selection of curry pies, muffins, and bacon and egg rolls.
With the opening of Harley Quinn and Poison Ivy, California Lane is set to become even livelier. Laneway parties featuring house music are planned for the last Saturday of every month, starting at sunset.
This trio of bars has transformed a section of Fortitude Valley into a comic book-inspired quarter, offering patrons a unique and immersive experience. Whether you’re a Batman, Harley Quinn, or Poison Ivy fan, a spot in California Lane suits your superhero (or supervillain) fancy.
David Flynn, along with his Rick Shores and Southside co-owners Frank Li, Andrew Hohns, and Nick Woodward, are expanding their culinary influence from South Brisbane to the city centre. The new restaurant will be located in the historic Piccadilly Arcade building on Queen Street.
Photo Credit: Fergus Hurst
Benny Lam and Maui Manu, currently the executive chef and restaurant manager at Southside respectively, are joining as partners in the new venture.
Photo Credit: Fergus Hurst
The 80-seat subterranean restaurant will offer a menu inspired by Hong Kong’s Central district, featuring dim sum items such as prawn har gao and Peking duck potstickers. The menu will also include larger dishes like drunken chicken, char siu pork, and roasted duck.
Photo Credit: Fergus Hurst
Peter Marchant, the group’s wine director, will oversee a wine list with about 30 options available by the glass, half glass, and half bottle. The cocktail menu will include variations on classic drinks.
Photo Credit: Fergus Hurst
Flynn described the concept as a more focused take on Southside’s broadly Chinese menu, emphasising Hong Kong flavours and dumplings.
Photo Credit: Fergus Hurst
Architect Jared Webb of J.AR OFFICE, known for his work on the refurbished Gerard’s Bistro, has been engaged to design the space. The interior will reference both the building’s history as the former Primitif Café and the underground nightlife of Hong Kong.
Queenslanders are invited to participate in naming the first new train station in Brisbane CBD in over a century. Situated on Albert Street, the new train station is part of the transformative Cross River Rail project.
The Albert Street facility promises enhanced rail travel across South East Queensland and improved access to the southern CBD, setting a significant milestone in Brisbane’s public transport development.
Historically, public transport stations have been named after their geographic locations, such as nearby suburbs, significant streets, or landmarks, ensuring ease of navigation for users.
Photo Credit: Cross River Rail
Four proposed names have, so far, been proposed: “Albert Street,” “Brisbane City,” “City Botanic Gardens,” and “Frog’s Hollow,” each reflecting distinctive aspects of the local area. However, residents are also encouraged to propose alternative names, reflecting a broad opportunity for public engagement.
The naming of the station holds cultural importance as well, with the potential name “Frog’s Hollow” reflecting an historical Brisbane neighbourhood known for its natural low-lying geography. This option, among others, illustrates the effort to tie the new station to Brisbane’s rich historical tapestry. The discussion also includes names significant to the Aboriginal community, such as “Meanjin,” which denotes the central Brisbane area in the Turrbal language, highlighting a growing recognition of indigenous heritage and its integral role in public spaces.
Photo Credit: Cross River Rail
The selection of the station’s name is crucial for user orientation and the station’s integration into the existing Translink network. The aim is to select a name that resonates with both historical significance and practical orientation. A name accurately reflecting the station’s location can facilitate transit use and community connection.
Residents wishing to influence the station name are encouraged to visit the Cross River Rail project’s website and submit their feedback or suggest new names.
Following the public consultation, the collected feedback will be reviewed, and a recommendation will be made to the minister, who will make the final decision on the station’s name.
Queensland hospitality figures have expressed fury over the proposed tax relief plan for Star Entertainment, owner of the newly opened Queen’s Wharf precinct in Brisbane.
Discussions about potential taxpayer assistance for Star Entertainment were confirmed on Wednesday, 4 September. It was suggested that delayed tax payments would be the most likely form of support to be extended to the operator.
Background of the Situation
Star Entertainment opened its $3.6 billion Queen’s Wharf development in Brisbane’s CBD on 29 August. The 12-hectare precinct employs 3,000 people, including 1,400 new jobs. However, reports indicate the company needs $300 million in short-term funding to continue operating the project.
The potential tax relief for Star has sparked outrage among local restaurant and cafe owners, who are already facing significant financial pressures due to the cost-of-living crisis and reduced dining out by Queenslanders.
Simon Gloftis, owner of several prominent Queensland restaurants, including Hellenika, SK Steak and Oyster, Sushi Room, and Sunshine, called the proposition “absolute bullsh-t.” He argued that if there is tax relief for Star, the same benefit should be extended to all businesses.
Amanda Scott, owner of Farmhouse Kedron, expressed her anger over the proposal. Scott, who recently received a $344,000 payroll tax bill from the state government, said she felt unsupported as a small business owner.
Phillip Di Bella, a coffee industry leader and hospitality advocate, emphasised that Star should not receive special treatment. He called for a “one size fits all” approach to tax relief.
Avoiding Queen’s Wharf Closure
Premier Steven Miles stated that keeping Queen’s Wharf open is the priority, describing it as a “fantastic asset” for the city and an important platform for the Brisbane 2032 Olympics. He emphasised that they must do everything to avoid closing Queen’s Wharf.
While no decision has been made, Mr Miles emphasised the need to protect thousands of Queensland jobs. He stated that tax payment deferrals for Star are being discussed, provided that the taxes are ultimately paid.
Photo Credit: Josh Potter/Google Maps
He further explained that the state government often discussed tax deferrals for projects with large capital costs and significant job dividends. He stressed the importance of Queen’s Wharf as a major attraction and job generator for the city and state.
Broader Context
The situation in Queensland comes as Star Entertainment faces challenges across its operations. The company’s Sydney licence remains suspended following an inquiry that found evidence of anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism failings.
In New South Wales, the state government has already ruled out providing further taxpayer assistance, stating it would “primarily support the Star’s Queensland expansions.”
Regulators approved a gaming licence for Queen’s Wharf just two days before the release of a New South Wales report that Star still needs to reassess its operations before it can hold a gaming licence in that state.
Star Entertainment’s financial troubles have been evident in recent days. The company’s shares were temporarily suspended from trading on the ASX after it failed to lodge its financial results on time.
From an inspiring start in Burleigh Heads, Justin Lane brings its famous handmade pizzas and pasta to Brisbane, brightening up the corner of Alfred and Constance Streets in Fortitude Valley.
Taking over the space formerly occupied by the beloved A&C (Alfred & Constance), this new venture aims to recapture the vibrant energy that once made this spot the place to be in the early 2010s.
Photo credit: Justin Lane/Facebook
Inspired by its humble Burleigh Heads origins, Justin Lane brings its famous handmade pizzas and pasta to the heart of Brisbane. The sourdough-based pizzas have already become a talking point among locals and visitors alike. But it’s not just about the food – an impressive drinks list featuring cocktails, wine, spirits, beer, and cider complements the culinary offerings.
Photo credit: Justin Lane/Facebook
The heritage-listed building has undergone a dramatic transformation while retaining its exterior charm. Inside, acclaimed Gold Coast design firm Space Cubed has worked its magic, creating a dining area for 200, alongside a high-end underground cocktail bar, rooftop space, cafe, and takeaway area.
Photo credit: Justin Lane/Facebook
Justin Lane Brisbane caters to both spontaneous visitors and those who plan ahead, with a “Walk-Ins Welcome, Bookings Recommended” policy. The main takeaway area is perfect for those on the go, while the various dining spaces offer something for every occasion.
Photo credit: Justin Lane/Facebook
This new chapter in the building’s history comes after a tumultuous period that saw the closure of A&C in late 2017. Now, under the guidance of the local Justin Lane Group hospitality empire, the venue is poised to reclaim its status as a Valley hotspot.
With its blend of casual dining, upscale drinking experiences, and a nod to its predecessor’s legacy, Justin Lane Brisbane is set to become the new go-to destination in Fortitude Valley.
Whether you’re craving a slice of pizza, a crafted cocktail, or a night out on the town, this revamped corner promises to deliver the good times once again. Visit their website to make a booking.
The heritage home of Brisbane’s musical pioneers, the Benvenuti family, has sold for $2.75 million at auction on August 30, 2024. The sale price exceeded the reserve by over $1 million, marking the first time the property at 27 Agnes Street has changed hands since its construction over a century ago.
The Benvenuti family, Italian immigrants who arrived in Australia in the 1800s, significantly influenced Brisbane’s cultural development. Their four-bedroom, two-bathroom family home was one of three properties they built side by side over two decades, with number 27 serving as their primary residence.
The auction, conducted by David Holmes of Holmes Auctions, saw fierce competition among five registered bidders. Beginning with a vendor bid of $1.3 million, the property quickly went on the market at $1.7 million. What followed was described by Holmes as an “absolutely brutal mathematical test,” with 65 bids driving the price to its final figure.
Ivo Kornel, agent at Sixty Four Property New Farm, reported that the winning bidder is a local Fortitude Valley resident. Kornel expressed surprise at the final sale price, which far exceeded initial expectations of $1.6-1.7 million.
The Benvenuti family’s musical legacy in Brisbane dates back to the 1870s. They formed a four-piece orchestra with father Antonio on violin, and sons Luigi, Victor, and Italo playing double bass, piano, and flute respectively. Victor Benvenuti also gained recognition as a composer, known for works including ‘Britons to the Fore’.
Archibald Prize finalist Mirra Whale is set to showcase her latest works in a solo exhibition titled “Quiet and Still” at the Mitchell Fine Art in Fortitude Valley.
Running from September 3-28, the exhibition explores the nuances of still life painting, presenting everyday objects from unique perspectives.
Whale, a Sydney-based artist, drew inspiration for this collection during a 2023 residency at the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre. The works reflect on the “quiet beauty” inherent in still life painting, examining the interplay of shape, colour, and form.
‘Pears & Wishes’ (Photo supplied)
“There is a quiet beauty that is entangled within the act of ‘still life ‘painting. Meticulously scanning the many perfections and imperfections that make each object unique and beautiful,” said Whale.
Mirra Whale has been a finalist in several art prizes including the Archibald Prize, Mosman Art Prize, Salon Des Refuses, Portia Geach Portrait Prize and the Doug Moran National Portrait Prize.
Her educational journey in art spans nearly a decade, beginning with a Bachelor of Fine Art in Printmaking from the National Art School in 2003. She later diversified her skills with a Diploma in Graphic Design and Communication in 2010. The following year, she pursued studies at Julian Ashton College, culminating in an Honours degree from the National Art School in 2012.
While the exhibition runs from 3 – 28 September, an opening event will be held on 7 September at 2:00 p.m., which will be attended by Whale. It’s a free event, with no RSVP required.
Mitchell Fine Art, located at 86 Arthur St in Fortitude Valley, offers free onsite parking and is open Monday through Saturday (10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekdays and 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays). To enquire on any artworks phone 07 3254 2297 or email admin@mitchellfineartgallery.com. Sign up to the gallery’s mailing list to receive information on exhibitions and events.
