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Fortitude Valley Transforms into a David Bowie Wonderland for Charity Event

Do the Bowie Walk and help fight cancer! Fortitude Valley is gearing up for an exciting, charitable event as the annual Bowies Down Brunswick returns.

Taking place on Saturday, 4 Nov 2023, this unique charity is a unique celebration of the legendary David Bowie. The evening kicks off at 5:00 p.m. at Netherworld along 186 Brunswick Street in Fortitude Valley. It promises to be an evening filled with glamour, music, and camaraderie, all in support of the Cancer Council.

Kristian Fletcher will host the highly anticipated Bowies Down Brunswick, which has become a beloved tradition for fans of the iconic musician David Bowie.

Participants are encouraged to don anything David Bowie-themed, from costumes to lightning bolt face paint or Bowie shirts. What’s more, this event isn’t just about paying homage to Bowie’s eclectic style; attendees can also make a donation to the Cancer Council to join the Bowies Down Brunswick charity walk.

Fortitude Valley — Photo Credit: Bowies Down Brunswick/Facebook

At 5:30 p.m., the enthusiastic “Bowies” will embark on their journey down Brunswick Street. The walk will include stops in the mall for memorable photo opportunities, as well as a visit to Marquee Bar for a mini-Bowie video party, scheduled from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.

The final destination on this Bowie-themed adventure is the Bloodhound Bar at 454 Brunswick Street. Here, the evening will reach its crescendo with a David Bowie Party commencing at 7:15 p.m. and continuing until 10:00 p.m. It’s a grand finale to an evening dedicated to the music, style, and spirit of David Bowie.

*Photo Credit:* Bowies Down Brunswick/Facebook

While participation in the charity walk requires a donation, the party at Bloodhound Bar has an entry fee of $10 per person. This contribution goes towards supporting the Cancer Council’s vital work in cancer research and support.

Known for his two decades of hosting retro events in Brisbane, Mr Fletcher has been presenting David Bowie-themed events every November since 2009, keeping the spirit of the legendary musician alive. The brains behind this fantastic event expects to see an array of Bowie-inspired looks and eras represented, making this year’s Bowies Down Brunswick more captivating than ever.

Take advantage of this opportunity to pay homage to the Starman himself and support a noble cause in the process.

Published 26-Oct-2023

Hoops Fans Score with Interactive NBA Exhibition at Queens Plaza

An interactive NBA Exhibition is set to captivate hoops enthusiasts when it dribbles into Brisbane next month.

The NBA Exhibition makes its Australian debut at Queens Plaza from 9 November. Organised by Istanbul-based creative agency Muse, the immersive showcase celebrates all things basketball in 20 themed sections across two levels and a thousand square metres.

The NBA Exhibition

Visitors can test their own skills by shooting hoops, seeing how high they can jump and testing their reflexes. Virtual reality goggles allow you to watch NBA highlights, while augmented reality technology allows fans to take photos with digitally rendered versions of their favourite players.

An exhibit dedicated to His Airness, Michael Jordan. Photo Credit: The NBA Exhibit Australia

The exhibition features a treasure trove of autographed jerseys, balls and sneakers from legends such as Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal. Historic artefacts include an original leather basketball from the 1940s and a massive size 22 shoe owned by Shaq.

Handprint of 2.11m tall, 2x NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. Photo Credit: The NBA Exhibit Australia

On opening weekend, visitors can get up close and personal with the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy. This coveted trophy, currently held by the Denver Nuggets, is awarded annually to the winner of the NBA Finals.

Celebrating Australian greats

Patty Mills led the Boomers to their first international medal at Tokyo 2020. Photo Credit: Twitter/Basketball Australia

There is also a section dedicated to memorable Australian NBA and WNBA stars such as Patty Mills, Ben Simmons, Luc Longley and Andrew Gaze. NBA-themed artwork by Australian artists will be on display.

General information

Dates: November 9 to December 9
Opening hours:
– Monday to Wednesday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
– Wednesday to Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
– Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
– Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Duration: the exhibition takes around 45 to 60 minutes explore.
Accessibility: the venue is wheelchair accessible with elevator access available on site.
Pricing: tickets are $30 for adults (seniors and students start at $24) and $21 for children 12 and under.

Book your tickets here.

With interactive games, digital projections and all things hoops, The NBA Exhibition is a slam dunk destination for Brisbane’s basketball fans.

Published 26 October 2023

Colourful Homes, Happy Hearts: Get to Know Tamzyn Adding’s Mission in Australia

Meet Tamzyn Adding, the celebrity fashion stylist bringing a burst of colour to Aussie homes. Freshly arrived, her mission is simple: fill houses with happy, personality-packed colours. Learn more about her story here.

Read: Fortitude Valley’s The Calile Hotel Ranks High on 2023 World’s Best Hotels List

She just relocated from New Zealand this September, and she’s already leaving her mark. Her initial commercial project is in progress at a new hotel in Fortitude Valley, and there’s an exciting collaboration with the popular Sydney-based brand Incy Interiors set to launch later this year.

Ms Adding, who moved her business to Brisbane from Auckland, shared that when she started her business in 2013, her main goal was to make the concept of colour in interiors less intimidating.

Her business, fittingly named Miss Lolo, reflects her innate understanding of colour, transforming each piece into a focal point that turns living spaces into works of art.

Tamzyn Adding — Photo credit: misslolo.com

At the heart of Miss Lolo lies a collection of wallpapers and upholstery that range from $150 to $2,220, ensuring there’s a piece for every budget.

Beginning with the transformation of vintage furniture using exquisite fabrics, Ms Adding breathed bold and vibrant new life into each piece. Growing up in a family of artists and armed with a design degree, Tamzyn used her natural sense of colour to create eye-catching pieces that easily became the centre of attention in any room.

Evolving from there, she ventured into creating her distinct line of fabrics and wall coverings.

Within just a few years, Ms Adding not only earned national business awards but also cultivated a substantial social media following. This success has enabled her to spread the joy of colour across numerous homes and businesses throughout New Zealand, as well as in the US, Canada, and Australia.

Her philosophy revolves around breaking free from the conventional, challenging the notion that neutral tones are the only path to resale success or that Scandi design reigns supreme.

In recent visits to Australia, Ms Adding mentioned that she has been having continuous interviews with potential clients. She noted that these clients were seeking something different and new, and they were all open to giving her a chance.

Read: Superstar Chef Opens Thai Eatery and Asian Food Store in Fortitude Valley

Ms Adding emphasises that the essence of homes lies in being filled to the brim with happiness, sometimes requiring daring design choices.

If you’re eager to explore her designs, be sure to check out the full range available at Ms Lolo.

Published 17-October-2023

Fortitude Valley’s Thrilling Lineup of Upcoming Events for Summer 2023

Prepare to be captivated by an array of thrilling events in Fortitude Valley! From the allure of Flamenco to the blossoming beauty of Spring Fling, our suburban showcase delivers a diverse and vibrant lineup, ensuring there’s something to delight every taste.

Authentic Flamenco Presents Paula Rodriguez

Judith Wright Arts Centre
Friday to Sunday
13 to 15 October 2023

After taking the world by storm with over 70,000 attendees in various cities worldwide, Authentic Flamenco is finally making its debut in Brisbane. Paula Rodríguez, a renowned flamenco artist, will grace the stage with her passionate performance, brought to you by the Royal Opera of Madrid and Fever. This is your chance to witness the raw power of this captivating Spanish art form from the heart of Brisbane.

From Friday, 13th October, to Sunday, 15th October, the Judith Wright Arts Centre will come alive with the electrifying performances of brilliant flamenco artist Paula Rodriguez and her team of superb Spanish performers. This captivating display of authentic Spanish artistry, created with the Royal Opera Of Madrid, promises a weekend full of dance, song, and rich tradition suitable for all ages.

GET TICKETS

Spring Fling

The Prince Consort
5 October-11 November 2023

As the days grow longer and the temperature rises, The Prince Consort in Fortitude Valley is transforming into a vibrant spring oasis for Spring Fling 2023. Contrary to the name, this promises to be no ordinary school disco. Picture yourself stepping into a real-life botanical garden, where over 40,000 flower stems adorn the venue, creating five weeks of spring celebrations.

With over 20 events to choose from, including a seafood festival, a wine walk, and a burlesque show, there’s something for everyone. So, come and experience the magic of spring in Fortitude Valley.

EXPLORE THE PROGRAM

Urban Wine Walk

Various locations
Saturday 11 November

Experience the ultimate wine-tasting adventure in Fortitude Valley with the Urban Wine Walk™. This self-guided wine-tasting experience is designed for friends to enjoy together on a Saturday afternoon.

The event features hand-picked local bars and restaurants, all within easy walking distance of each other. You’ll have the opportunity to sample a range of wines from different wineries, making it a delightful day out for wine enthusiasts. Join the trail of tipples and good times through Fortitude Valley this November.

Valley Fiesta

Fortitude Valley street venues
Friday/Saturday
3 and 4 November

Valley Fiesta is Brisbane’s biggest annual party, drawing party-hungry music fans to Fortitude Valley. Join the street party and soak up the atmosphere on 3 to 4 November 2023.

This year marks the 26th anniversary of Valley Fiesta, a celebration of music, culture, and community proudly presented by Brisbane City Council and produced by QMusic. The outdoor stages will feature a stellar lineup of acts, including headliners Mallrat, Mildlife, and Hatchie, supported by the best local talents.

VIEW THE LINE-UP

The program also includes a host of events that will electrify the Valley precinct, with outdoor street vendors, DJs, and plenty of live music to keep the energy flowing.

Take advantage of Brisbane’s biggest annual party. Join the festivities and take to the streets of Fortitude Valley for a memorable weekend of music, fun, and celebration.

SECURE TICKETS

Published 13-Oct-2023

Chris Hemsworth Joins the Craze, Free Samples of Woolworths Cakes and Baked Treats For a Limited Time Only

Woolworths’ cakes are taking social media by storm for their scrumptious flavours and budget-friendly prices, attracting even A-list devotees like Chris Hemsworth.

Read: Superstar Chef Opens Thai Eatery and Asian Food Store in Fortitude Valley

Chris Hemsworth opted for a $29 Woolworths chocolate drip cake to celebrate his recent 40th birthday, showing the supermarket’s baked goods are fit for an Avenger.

To celebrate the launch of its new bakery range, Woolworths will be touring all across Queensland. The supermarket giant is bringing its ‘Bake Away Van’ to Brisbane on October 5, giving customers a tasty preview of nearly 150 new and improved baked goods.

The Bake Away Van will be stationed at the Queen Street Mall Wintergarden from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m, handing out thousands of free samples from the new range. Some of the sweet treats up for grabs include the new Lemon Meringue Tart, Caramel Celebration Cake, and hidden surprise Smash Cake.

Woolworths’ updated bakery range has been over a year in the making and the team worked tirelessly developing and taste testing each product to perfection.

The revamped bakery range features showstopping cakes and desserts at great value, including:

Oversized Chocolate Chunk Cookie Pie ($14): Belgian chocolate oozes when heated
Lemon Meringue Tart ($23): Zesty lemon curd and torched meringue
Birthday Drip Cake ($29): Chocolate sponge, buttercream, ganache drizzle
Caramel Celebration Cake ($29): Dulce de leche between caramel sponge and buttercream
Smash Cake ($35): Hidden rainbow treats inside chocolate dome
Chocolate Chunk Cookies ($5.50): Chewy with creamy chocolate chunks
Loaded Carrot Cake Muffins ($7.50): Cream cheese filling with spiced crumble

Chris Hemsworth — Chocolate Chunk Cookie Pie (Photo supplied)

The new range aims to deliver great value along with quality ingredients and artisanal touches. Many cakes and desserts are hand-finished for an extra special treat. Fans of Woolworths’ iconic mud cakes can rest easy – the chocolate, caramel and white chocolate varieties are here to stay.

Whilst the Bake Away Van will only be in Brisbane for a day, the new Woolworths bakery range is rolling out across the country. Brisbane residents will be the first to get an exclusive preview before the products hit shelves nationally.

Read: Rydges Fortitude Valley Welcomes New Italian Eatery Bar Gusto

With thousands of free samples up for grabs, Woolworths is inviting Queenslanders to be among the first to experience the exciting new range. The Bake Away Van is sure to draw sweet tooths and bargain hunters alike to the Queen Street Mall on Thursday.

Published 3-October-2023

Fortitude Valley’s The Calile Hotel Ranks High on 2023 World’s Best Hotels List

The Calile Hotel in Fortitude Valley has been recognised as one of the top hotels in the world, coming in at number 12 on The World’s 50 Best Hotels list for 2023.

Read: Rydges Fortitude Valley Welcomes New Italian Eatery Bar Gusto

The boutique hotel, located in the trendy James Street district, is known for its modernist Miami-meets-Palm Springs aesthetic courtesy of local architects Richards & Spence.

With amenities like a pool, spa, and fitness centre, The Calile caters to both leisure and business travellers.

Photo Credit: The Calile Hotel/Google Maps

“The Calile’s young staff, decked out in chic linen uniforms combine Brisbane’s relaxed friendliness with an admirable efficiency that will have you booked into the Kailo Medispa (complete with onsite cosmetic physician), a cabana or a table at one of Brisbane’s hottest restaurants with signature ‘no worries’ ease,” The World’s 50 Best praised.

Beyond the global recognition, the hotel has also been named “The Best Hotel in Oceania 2023.”

The hotel has earned the distinction of being the only Australian hotel to be on the list, marking a major achievement for both the hotel and Australian hospitality.

In response to the honour, The Calile said: “It is not just us of course, just like it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a community to create a hotel. We do not exist in a vacuum, and we value highly the vital part that our community plays in making us a better place daily.”

The hotel also thanked its staff and surrounding businesses in the James Street precinct, such as restaurants, cafes, and boutiques that all contribute to making The Calile a world-class hotel experience.

About The World’s 50 Best Hotels

The World’s 50 Best Hotels is an annual ranking decided by a panel of 580 hospitality experts around the globe. This year’s number one spot went to Passalacqua in Lake Como, Italy.

Read: Celebrity Chef Ben O’Donoghue to Open Italian Steakhouse ‘Establishment 203’ in Fortitude Valley

The World’s 50 Best Hotels list is published by William Reed Media, which also publishes The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and The World’s 50 Best Bars rankings.

Published 2-October-2023

The Prince Consort Spring Fling 2023: A Blooming Extravaganza

As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, The Prince Consort is set to transform into a vibrant Spring Oasis for Spring Fling 2023, a five-week extravaganza celebrating the arrival of blooming season.

The pub on Wickham Street will bloom with 40,000 flower stems during this festival, creating a vibrant and picturesque atmosphere. Each Saturday during the event will be dubbed “Saturdaisy,” offering patrons the chance to dance in a botanical garden setting.

From Thursday, 5 Oct 2023, to Saturday, 11 Nov 2023, The Prince Consort will be the place to be, hosting more than 20 events to cater to a wide range of tastes. Guests can look forward to disco fun in the Garden Bar, burlesque performances at La La Land, a seafood festival, and a Halloween margarita party.

A standout feature of the festival is the reunion of the legendary Monastery nightclub, which once graced Ann Street in Fortitude Valley.

Monastery, which has been closed for over a decade, will make a comeback on the floating bar Oasis and continue at The Prince Consort for an unforgettable after-party. Felix Da Housecat and DJs who once rocked Monastery’s decks will be part of the lineup at both events.

Here are the highlights of the activities for Spring Fling 2023:

Queens and Canvas (Sunday, 15 October): Unleash your inner artist guided by daring drag queens with vibrant paints and delightful cocktails. | BUY TICKETS
Kosheen 25th Anniversary Performance (Thursday, 19 October): Enjoy a live performance featuring Kosheen’s hit singles.
Spring Fling Seafood Festival (Sunday, 22 October): Savour a selection of seafood delights, including roaming oyster shuckers, cooking demonstrations, and paella.
Halloween Margarita Party (Saturday, 28 October): Embrace the spooky season with mouthwatering margs, Mexican-inspired treats, and live Mariachi band performances. | FREE EVENT BUT BOOKING REQUIRED
Sunday Garden Party (Sunday, 5 November): Sip on unique cocktails, soak up the spring sun, and enjoy a soundtrack curated by David Subritzky.
Melbourne Cup Celebrations (Tuesday, 7 November): Attend a glamorous race-day event with cocktails, delectable dishes, and captivating live performances.
Urban Wine Walk (Saturday, 11 November): Embark on a wine-tasting journey through Fortitude Valley with self-guided visits to nine local watering holes and meet the winemakers. | BUY TICKETS
Felix Da Housecat Performance (Saturday, 11 November): Dance to the beats of Felix Da Housecat’s unique blend of house, techno, and electro music.

In addition to the exciting events, Head Chef David Blackman will revamp the pub’s menu with a spring-themed twist.

The Prince Consort is located at 230 Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley, and is open daily from 11:00 a.m. till late. For more information and event details, visit the Spring Fling 2023 festival’s website.

Published 2-Oct-2023

Gerard’s Bistro Appoints New Executive Chef, Will Introduce New Menu and Revamped Look Soon

Photo Credit: Facebook / Gerard’s Bistro

There will be a lot of new things in store for customers of Gerard’s Bistro when it reopens in October, after an extensive revamp to give it a new look and a new menu, thanks to Jimmy Richardson, its former Head Chef who now returns as Executive Chef with some Michelin creds under his toque.

Jimmy Richardson culinary stints include working at Leonard’s Bar & Bistro, Shangri-La Sydney’s Altitude Restaurant, The Bridge Room Café Paci, The Tilbury, and Annata.

Whilst his new menu is yet to be revealed, Chef Richardson will focus on more traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, particularly those coming from the Levant region, but with a modern twist. He will also bring some Persian influence into his menu, thanks to a stint at a Lebanese restaurant and his Persian brother who introduced him to Middle Eastern cuisine.

Gerard’s Owner Johnny Moubarak expressed confidence that Chef Richardson’s culinary creativity will shine once the new menu is revealed. He said that his Executive Chef understands the history, flavour and structure of the dish very well which gives him confidence to innovate and give it a fresh twist.

Gerard’s Bistro was temporarily closed to undertake a major renovation, as executed by designer and architect Jared Webb. The refurbished venue will sport a minimalist design with the kitchen letting the woodfire and charcoal cooking take centre stage.

The venue commenced renovations in June and is scheduled to reopen in mid to late October. It first opened its doors 11 years ago and has established itself as one of the finest and most influential restaurants in Brisbane.

Published 26-September-2023

Hey Felicia! Drag & Dine Returns to the Valley

Photo Credit: Facebook / Hey Felicia - A Drag Queen Musical 2.0

Hey Felicia! Brisbane’s favourite drag musical extravaganza is back for a third season at Cloudland in Fortitude Valley, where six amazing divas in drag will perform songs from Mamma Mia, Chicago, Hairspray, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Priscilla Queen Of The Desert, Spice Girls, Shania Twain, Cher, Dolly Parton and many more iconic anthems.

HEY FELICIA!! Stars Vollie LaVont, Mandy Moobs, BeBe Gunn, ShuShu Funtanna, Scarlett Fever & Coco Ray with Music by Harry K!

For two amazing hours on the 29th of September 2023, experience all the glitz and glamour as not just one, not two but six Drag Queens keep you entertained throughout the Drag & Dine Musical 2.0. They will bring to life all the songs from the greatest musicals ever produced and all your favourite Divas.

Hey Felicia! Drag & Dine Returns to the Valley — *Facebook / Hey Felicia – A Drag Queen Musical 2.0*

Grab your friends for a hilarious night of fun, frivolity and timeless music this 29 September 2023. Doors open and meet the Queens from 6.30 p.m. and the show concludes at 10.30 p.m.

Ticket price is $109.1 and includes the show, alternate-drop main meal and a 2-hour drinks package with your Drag Queen hosts.

Can’t get enough of the Queens?

The Drag Queens will be back on the 20th of October 2023 for their last Drag & Dine musical regular dates.

And due to popular demand, Hey Felicia Christmas Extravaganza will bring back the Queens to cast their own brand of Christmas magic on the big stage. Catch any of their Matinee and Dinner shows on the following dates:

Sunday 26th November 2023 – Cloudland’s Rose Room
Matinee Show from 1 pm – 4 pm
Dinner Show from 6 pm – 9 pm

Sunday 3rd December 2023 – Cloudland’s Rose Room
Matinee Show from 1 pm – 4 pm
Dinner Show from 6 pm – 9 pm

Sunday 10th December 2023 – Cloudland’s Rose Room
Matinee Show from 1 pm – 4 pm
Dinner Show from 6 pm – 9 pm

Sunday 17th December 2023 – Cloudland’s Rose Room
Matinee Show from 1 pm – 4 pm
Dinner Show from 6 pm – 9 pm

Ticket price is $105 + booking fee and includes the show, alternate-drop main meal and a 2-hour drinks package of French sparkling, wines and premium beers with your Drag Queen hosts.

Note: Drinks are available for purchase from the bar outside of the 2-hour drinks package.

Book here

Published 25-September-2023

Superstar Chef Opens Thai Eatery and Asian Food Store in Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: Short Grain / shortgrain.com.au

This superstar chef acclaimed for his work at iconic Sydney and Melbourne Thai restaurant Longrain has opened his first Brisbane restaurant. Charmingly named ‘Short Grain by Martin Boetz,’ the new Fortitude Valley venue is a retail store and smart-casual Thai eatery, offering good service and accessible food.

Martin Boetz is one of the few names that stand out when it comes to Thai cuisine. Celebrated for his illustrious career that includes stints in finest restaurants, two cookbooks, television appearances, numerous awards and accolades, his new venture marries his passion for Thai and South Asian cuisine with his desire to make his culinary creations accessible to everyone..

Renowned Chef Opens Thai Eatery and Asian Food Store in the Valley — Photo Credit: Short Grain / shortgrain.com.au

Whilst hunting for a suitable location, Martin chanced upon and fell in love with a double tenancy at the 1890s Stewart & Hemmant building on McLachlan Street in Fortitude Valley.

The 225-sqm space with high ceilings, large windows and exposed brick, however, is too large for a Thai grocer. Martin thought that an eatery would be a great addition to this space. And so ‘Short Grain’ was born.

The venue features a 60-seat eatery and an in-house Asian Food retail store where patrons can buy his signature curries and other ingredients including chilli jam, soy mirin dressing, yellow-bean soy dressing, fish and soy sauces and other condiments as well as pre-prepared meals. The store also offers socially curated bottles of wine which includes a house red and white options.

The Thai Eatery offers 15 concise, mouth-watering options including snacks, salads and curries. Some of the must-try appetisers include chicken skin with smoked trout, green mango and peanut relish; hot and sour squid with Vietnamese mint, green shallots and roasted rice; and crab served with sweet pork, green papaya and betel leaves.

The Mains dishes include options include the likes of fried whole market fish served with caramelised turmeric, pineapple and fried basil; caramelised pork hock with fried garlic, chilli vinegar and coriander; and soy braised quail, crisp garlic and peppercorns and black vinegar.

Renowned Chef Opens Thai Diner and Asian Food Store in the Valley — Crisp Fried Whiting with Green Chilli & Galangal Nahm Jim | Photo Credit: Short Grain / shortgrain.com.au

The menu will eventually evolve once new head chef Daniele Passaretta takes over.

According to Martin, his return to Brisbane wasn’t about opening a restaurant; it was about a change of pace and wanting to take some time off. However, this does not mean he is ready to retire; he explains that he still has plans to open a Thai store to keep himself occupied.

Located at 15 Marshall Street, Fortitude Valley, Short Grain is open Wednesday to Saturday from 12 pm until late, and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm.

Published 23-September-2023