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Nigella Lawson Describes Brisbane’s Agnes ‘An Extraordinary Experience’

The queen of indulgent home cooking, Nigella Lawson, recently brought her speaking tour to the Queensland Performing Arts Centre- but it was one of the city’s hottest restaurants that truly delighted her palate.

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

The bestselling author and television host visited Agnes in Fortitude Valley and documented the sublime experience on Instagram for her millions of followers.

“Ever since I found out that Adam Wolfers was opening Agnes Restaurant, I had been longing to go,” Lawson gushed.

She started her feast with “rock oysters with coal mignonette (suitable for a former foundry) and Koji hot sauce, which was an extraordinary experience.”

“I must also report ecstatically the raw beef – chopped bigger than a regular tartare – with dripping toast. And the Bangalow pork chop with piccalilli and a concentrated sauce of trottery pork broth spoke insistently to me,” she wrote.

Agnes’ open kitchen (Photo credit: Suzie Lee/Google Maps)

However, it was Agnes’ chicken skewer that Lawson declared “quite spun my senses.” The “chicken oysters brined in onion juice, flamed and brushed with toum, along with turmeric and fresh fenugreek” left Lawson “still reeling with pleasure” at the combination of flavours.

Agnes seemed equally enamoured with their famous guest, responding that it was an absolute pleasure having Nigella Lawson dine with them and to see her joy when it comes to food first hand.

Launched in 2020 by Anyday, the team behind Same Same and Honto restaurants – Tyron Simon, Bianca Marchi and Frank Li – along with former head chef of Gerard’s Bistro, Ben Williamson, Agnes has recently welcomed Adam Wolfers into the fold. Wolfers, who has joined the hospitality group this year, now serves as the new group chef overseeing operations at Agnes.

Read: How Brisbane’s Brooki Bakehouse Became an International Delectable Destination

For the beloved British personality known for her unabashed celebration of rich flavours and romantic descriptions of food, the ringing endorsement of Brisbane’s Agnes is sure to be a crowning feather in the restaurant’s cap.

Published 19-March-2024

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

In a heritage building tucked away in Fortitude Valley, an unassuming bakery has ignited a craze that defies all expectations. Brooki Bakehouse, helmed by owner Brooke Saward, has captured the hearts and appetites of dessert enthusiasts worldwide with a viral Tiktok presence and over 700,000 followers on Instagram.

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

Saward’s baking journey started with travelling the world to find the best bakeries and sweets.

After improving her skills through cooking classes in Paris and online videos, she opened Charlie’s Dessert House in her hometown of Launceston, Tasmania in 2016, tempting locals with her macarons, cupcakes, cookies, and more.

But Saward and her fiancé, Justice Bellamy, had bigger dreams. In late 2021, they moved to Brisbane, drawn by the city’s growth opportunities and a sense of possibility without feeling overwhelmed.

Brooki Bakehouse — Photo credit: Brooki/Instagram

When her sole employee was out sick with Covid-19 for three weeks, Saward boldly launched a TikTok account and creatively filmed herself hard at work in the bakery. She decided to film a “day in the life” video for TikTok in her chef’s clothes. Her friendly personality and tasty creations struck a chord, and the video quickly went viral, getting millions of views and fans worldwide.

Saward shared people come from all over Australia and literally everywhere to visit the bakery. The bakery now sells a shocking 1,000 cookies daily in-store, plus thousands more online.

She said some days before TikTok they made hundreds of dollars, and now every day it’s thousands, so it’s a totally different business from the first six or eight months, and that’s because of using social media.

However, Brooki’s huge success isn’t just about social media skills – it’s also thanks to Saward’s entrepreneurial spirit, passion, and hard work. When TikTok exploded, she did not wait for customers to come; instead, she found a way to send her cookies worldwide. With clever packaging and problem-solving, she developed a system to ship her treats globally.

Saward has even bigger goals. She wants Brooki to become a global baking brand, already selling merchandise, teaching online classes, working with major brands, and releasing her first cookbook later this year.

Despite the overwhelming success, Saward remains humble and grateful, valuing every customer and spending hours each week talking to followers on social media. It’s this real connection, along with her delicious baked goods, that keeps people lining up and coming back.

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

At a time when social media rules marketing, Brooki Bakehouse shows how smartly using these platforms can make a small business world-famous. But at its core, it’s Saward’s passion, creativity and commitment to baking that have truly made Brooki Bakehouse a sweet global favourite.

Published 18-March-2024

Remembering ‘Succulent Chinese Meal’ Scandal: Australia’s Quintessential Viral Sensation

Photo Credit: Aussie TV/YouTube

On a calm October night in 1991, an unusual arrest occurred outside a Chinese restaurant in Fortitude Valley. Reporter Chris Reason and his crew captured the incident on video, later known as the “Succulent Chinese Meal” scandal.

Despite the incident occurring in the ‘90s, it wasn’t until 2009 that the video, now dubbed the “Democracy Manifest” video, found its way onto the internet and ignited curiosity and speculations. The Guardian later dubbed the viral video Australia’s definitive meme of the decade. The story of the “Succulent Chinese Meal” became an internet sensation and garnered millions of views on YouTube.

The man’s theatrical exclamations, such as “This is Democracy Manifest!” and the unforgettable “Get your hand off my penis!” that immortalized the event.

His audacious inquiries to the officers—”What is the charge? Eating a meal? A succulent Chinese meal?”—and his commentary on an officer’s judo skills not only infused the incident with humour but also cemented its place in the annals of internet legend.

But who was the man being arrested in the video? Initially, theories erroneously pointed to Hungarian chess master Paul Charles Dozsa, but the true narrative took a turn in 2020.

With a colourful history of serial prison escapes and allegations of credit card fraud, Jack Karlson stepped into the spotlight in a music video by The Chats, confirming his role in the iconic meme.

Mistaken Identity?

The backstory of the “Succulent Chinese Meal” scandal is as tangled as it is captivating. Mr Reason, the reporter at the scene, later revealed the arrest to be a dramatic case of mistaken identity, with police believing they had cornered one of Queensland’s most sought-after fugitives.

Yet, as more details surfaced, it became evident that Karlson was under suspicion for a string of frauds. Known by various aliases, including Cecil George Edwards and Johann Kelmut Karlson, his true motivations and identity remained mysterious until he embraced his viral fame, attributing his theatrical display to a ploy aimed at being deemed insane for an easier escape.

The Truth Revealed

The tale took another twist in 2021 when Seven News revisited the incident, featuring interviews with Mr Reason and the meme legend himself, now going simply by Jack. His reluctance to provide a last name added another layer of intrigue and charm to the enduring “Succulent Chinese Meal” mystery.

In 2023, the narrative deepened with the release of Mark Dapin’s biography, “Carnage: A Succulent Chinese Meal, Mr. Rent-a-Kill and the Australian Manson Murders.”

succulent chinese meal fortitude valley — *Photo Credit: Amazon*

Dapin’s investigation into Karlson’s life and connections to other notorious figures and events in Australian criminal history offered a comprehensive view of the enigmatic figure behind the meme.

In February 2024, and the enigmatic Mr Karlson finally shed light on the events of that day. In a candid interview with New Zealand comedian Guy Williams, he admitted to fabricating the claim of physical impropriety by the police for dramatic effect. The revelation came alongside discussions of his life’s complexities, from his incarcerations in Australia’s most notorious prisons to his multiple escapes and the tragic murder of his wife, intertwined with Australia’s criminal underworld.

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A post shared by Guy Williams (@guywilliamsguy)

From its origins as a quirky news segment to its status as a subject of scholarly and journalistic inquiry, the “Succulent Chinese Meal” scandal remains a fascinating chapter in Australia’s cultural and digital landscape, blurring the lines between criminality, performance art, and the whims of internet fame.

Published 15-March-2024

BIGSOUND 2024 Opens Artist Applications

Photo Credit: BIGSOUND

All eyes are set on Fortitude Valley as BIGSOUND 2024 opens its doors for artist applications until April 16, 2024. The event is set to run from September 3 to 6, 2024.

BIGSOUND has made its name as the platform for spotlighting up-and-coming artists and bringing them to the world stage. Notable artists like Flume, Tones and I, and Courtney Barnett had their names skyrocket after being on BIGSOUND.

**Flume**
Photo Credit: Facebook / Flume

**Tones and I**
Photo Credit: Facebook / Tones and I

Courtney Barnett
Photo Credit: Facebook / courtney barnett

Kris Stewart, the CEO of QMusic and BIGSOUND encourages artists to apply.

“We are calling for diverse acts of all genres, signed and unsigned, emerging and established – BIGSOUND’s role is to create opportunities for artists, so if you’re ready to play in front of industry reps from all over the world, we urge you to apply.”

BIGSOUND has taken it up a notch this year by introducing two new names to their team. Casey O’Shaughnessy and Katie Rynne are their new Music Programmers, both hailing from Select Music. Their combined experience and passion will bring a fresh perspective to the event.

**Casey O’Shaughnessy and Katie Rynne, BIGSOUND’s new Music Programmers**
Photo Credit: BIGSOUND

If you are interested in joining BIGSOUND 2024, applications are now open at www.bigsound.org.au. Applications close on Tuesday, April 16, 11:59pm AEST.

As BIGSOUND evolves every year, it remains committed to fostering talent and shaping the future of Brisbane’s music industry.

Published 10-March-2024

James St Up Late: On the Night Prowl in Fortitude Valley

Over 90 businesses will soon be transforming the stretch of James St in Fortitude Valley into the ultimate nocturnal adventure, with James St Up Late.

This year, the district’s scale and reputation promise the most extensive James St Up Late schedule to date, solidifying James St’s position as a vibrant community hub.

The event will spotlight over 90 businesses. These establishments are not only extending their trading hours but are also offering an array of shopping incentives, engaging activities, and the opportunity to meet renowned designers.

This unique evening, now in its 12th edition, will take place on Thursday, 14 March 2024, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

International Designers Spotlight

This year’s event will be graced by international designers who bring a world of style directly to James St’s doorstep. Katie Kolodinski, the visionary founder of Silk Laundry from Canada, will be present in-store throughout the evening.

James St Up Late — Photo Credit: Supplied/Andre Cois

The celebrated Parisian footwear designer Laurence Dacade will visit Maryon’s from France. Both venues will host creative, arty-crafty activities.

The event further cements its artistic credentials with Heidi Middleton of ARTCLUB and Lucy Folk, offering a glimpse into their creative worlds with the Artists In Residence pop-up at The Calile.

Exclusive Shopping Incentives

As a token of appreciation, James St offers three exclusive opportunities for shoppers to take home something special. The event features goody bags filled with premium products, complimentary night blooms for the early birds, and a chance to win a share in over $10,000 worth of prizes.

These initiatives enhance the shopping experience and strengthen the community spirit that James St is renowned for.

The Goody Bags

A highlight of the evening will be 1,000 custom-branded James St canvas tote bags up for grabs. These goody bags, a symbol of the event’s exclusivity, contain a variety of gifts from esteemed “friends of the street,” offering an additional incentive for early purchases at participating retailers.

Flower Fountain and Catch The Loot

The Flower Fountain collaboration with James St Florist ensures that the first 100 shoppers receive beautifully wrapped night blooms, adding a touch of nature’s beauty to the shopping spree. Meanwhile, the ‘loot booth’ offers a thrilling chance to win generous prizes donated by James St’s resident businesses, from hotel stays to dining experiences and shopping vouchers.

Expanding Retailer Program

This year witnesses the largest retailer program in James St Up Late’s history, featuring exciting dining collaborations, first-time participants, and more discounts and gifts with purchase than ever before.

Despite Cru Bar’s temporary closure for renovations, its sibling venue Sixes And Sevens steps up to offer a ‘Taste of Cru’ tasting platter, alongside newcomers like James & Antler and Carmen opening their doors for their first Up Late event.

Fashionable Dining and Accommodations

The Calile, James St Up Late’s event partner, enhances the evening with fashionable snacks at the Lobby Bar Snack Stop and offers complimentary snacks during aperitivo hour in the Lobby Bar. Guests planning an overnight stay are treated to a Calile branded water bottle and guaranteed a James St Goody Bag, making the event an all-encompassing experience that celebrates the community’s vibrant lifestyle and the unique charm of James St.

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Published 7-March-2024

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.

Buy tickets

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