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Rydges Fortitude Valley Welcomes New Italian Eatery Bar Gusto

The vibrant food and bar scene of Fortitude Valley has a delicious new addition with the opening of Bar Gusto on the ground floor of Rydges Fortitude Valley.

Read: Nice Thai by Kid Curry in Fortitude Valley Closes But Owners Tease New French Concept

The 190-seat venue aims to bring authentic Italian flavours and family recipes straight from the kitchens of Executive Chef Francesco Trucco in Italy.

According to Chef Trucco, Gusto means taste and enthusiasm in Italian. He wants to share the love of food that has been passed down in his family with Brisbane families through Bar Gusto’s authentic recipes and hospitality.

True to his word, the menu focuses on handmade wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, antipasti, and seafood. Highlights include the Gusto Crab Meat Gamberoni e Caviale pizza, signature black squid linguine, and Mooloolaba tiger prawns with chilli garlic butter.

Rydges Fortitude Valley — Photo credit: Bar Gusto/Facebook

The 40-seat private dining space provides an intimate option for group dining, whilst the outdoor deck offers alfresco Italian fare. This new local hot spot is inspired by summer time dining on northern Italy’s Riviera Coast.

Guests can also belly up to the bar for Aperol spritzes and cocktails like the Gusto Aperitivo with Campari, Regal Rogue wild rose, lime, and grapefruit soda.

Trucco aims to create an immersive Italian dining experience at Gusto, where the food, drinks, and service make guests feel as though they have been transported to his hometown in Italy.

Based on the tantalising menu and family recipes straight from Trucco’s childhood, Gusto seems poised to deliver on that goal.

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

Bar Gusto is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to late, located on the ground floor of Rydges Fortitude Valley on King Street.

Published 22-September-2023

Listen Out Set to Heat Up the Showgrounds for Festival Season

The countdown to Listen Out 2023 has begun, and music enthusiasts across Australia are gearing up for an electrifying festival experience at the iconic Brisbane Showgrounds.

With a stellar lineup featuring international headliners Skrillex and Four Tet, as well as a diverse array of talented artists, this year’s Listen Out promises to be a celebration like no other.

Fresh from their Coachella performances earlier this year, Skrillex and Four Tet are all set to grace the stage at the Brisbane Showgrounds on Saturday, 23 Sept 2023. While their Coachella appearances were an unexpected delight, their headlining slots at Listen Out 2023 are eagerly anticipated, and fans can expect an unforgettable showcase of electronic and hip-hop music.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, Listen Out has curated stages to cater to a wide spectrum of musical tastes.

The Atari Stage will feature some of the hottest hip-hop acts, while the 909 Stage will set the dance floor on fire with major electronic and dance artists. Meanwhile, the Prophet Stage promises cutting-edge electronic and house acts for those seeking an immersive sonic experience.

This diverse mix of talent will ensure that festival-goers have an eclectic musical journey.

Listen Out 2023 Lineup:

Arrdee
Coi Leray
Four Tet
Friction
Ice Spice
Jbee
Jpegmafia
Jyoty
Kenny Beats
Lil Uzi Vert
Mallrat
Marc Rebillet
Metro Boomin
Piri
Skrillex
Spinall
Venbee
Wongo B2B Little Fritter
Young Franco
Yunè Pinku
Ebony Boadu as host
1TBSP
Ayebatonye
Donatachi
Handsome
Kobie Dee
VV Pete
Willo
Plus triple j Unearthed artists to be announced

GRAB TICKETS

Brisbane Showgrounds General Manager of Venue Sales and Marketing, Jago Coyle, expressed his excitement about hosting Listen Out once again.

“The Brisbane Showgrounds is truly the home of the Sunshine State’s music festivals, as we have a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces that set the perfect scene for any festival,” he said.

Listen Out will mark the beginning of the Spring/Summer music festival season, with many more exciting events to follow at the Brisbane Showgrounds, including Fridayz Live, Post Malone, Good Things, Wildlands NYE, and Laneway Festival in the new year.

With more than 35,000 music enthusiasts expected to gather at the Brisbane Showgrounds, Listen Out promises to be a sensational kickoff to the festival season. Tickets are still available online for those eager to join in the excitement.

The Brisbane Showgrounds precinct, located just 1.5 kilometers from Brisbane’s CBD, is Queensland’s largest indoor/outdoor events site, offering a dynamic and vibrant backdrop for events of all kinds.

For more information and ticket details, visit www.brisbaneshowgrounds.com.au.

Published 21-Sept-2023

Quintessential Secures Long-Term Lease from St Patrick’s Church for The Arbory in Fortitude Valley

A $175-million project between the historic St. Patrick’s Church and developer Quintessential in Fortitude Valley is set to redefine the city’s business landscape, paving the way for the construction of The Arbory, a cutting-edge, environmentally conscious office building.

Quintessential’s long-term leasehold agreement with St Patrick’s Church has received approval to commence the construction of The Arbory, an eight-story, $175 million office building located at 58 Morgan Street. This project represents a significant addition to the inner-city precinct and the ongoing regeneration efforts around the iconic church, which dates back to the 1880s.

The Arbory has been designed by the renowned architectural firm Blight Rayner and is poised to become a symbol of innovation and sustainability in the heart of Fortitude Valley. The building will span 15,000 square meters of space, featuring 2000-square-meter floor plates, and will stand as a 100% electric, green-powered, fossil fuel-free office space.

The site will also encompass a remarkable 4,200-square-metre public space featuring lush landscaping and Ficus Obliqua fig trees, all centred around the heritage-listed property. This ambitious development aims to harmonize modernity and history by celebrating the architectural legacy of the area while introducing state-of-the-art office facilities.

The Arbory Fortitude Valley — Photo Credit: Quintessential

The proposal’s unique design allows for the preservation of St. Patrick’s Church’s significant fabric and external elements, further enhancing the historical and cultural significance of the precinct. The plaza on the ground floor will serve as an expansive gathering space, providing a unique backdrop to the historic church and promoting visitation and awareness.

In addition to the plaza, the project will also feature a rooftop recreation deck, offering users a covered court, olive tree courtyard, sunken courtyard, seating areas, and lush greenery.

Andrew Borger, Chief Investment and Operations Officer at Quintessential, describes The Arbory as a “next-generation” workplace.

“The Arbory is supported by a unique green space environment and proximity to the retail and hospitality amenity offered by James St and the wider Fortitude Valley,” he said.

To facilitate the church’s restoration efforts, the leasing agreement between Quintessential and the Archdiocese will help fund the church’s refurbishment and upkeep. Additionally, the building will provide infrastructure support to the church, including solar power generation and potable water from its roof.

Andrew Carlton of CBRE, who has been appointed as the leasing agent for The Arbory project, anticipates a swift leasing campaign due to the high demand for premium office spaces in Fortitude Valley.

“The Arbory is a green office oasis hidden in the heart of the city fringe’s most vibrant and connected precinct.

The development application for ‘The Arbory’ can be accessed on Brisbane City Council’s Planning & Development Online platform under application A005698653.

‘The Arbory’ has been hailed as a groundbreaking project that combines cutting-edge design with environmental consciousness. It promises to redefine the concept of a modern office space while preserving and celebrating Brisbane’s historical heritage.

Published 16-Sept-2023

Nice Thai by Kid Curry in Fortitude Valley Closes But Owners Tease New French Concept

The owners of the popular dining establishment Nice Thai by Kid Curry in Fortitude Valley have decided to close, leaving loyal customers heartbroken. The closure isn’t the end though, as plans are afoot for a pop-up with a rotating concept to take its place.

The restaurant, which had earned its place among the top 100 restaurants in Queensland, recently underwent renovations. It ranked an impressive No. 45 in a poll recognising the best dining establishments in the state in 2022.

Nice Thai by Kid Curry will officially close in late September but it’s not the end for this culinary hotspot. The Votan brothers plan to introduce a rotating pop-up concept in its place, starting with a French-themed bistro named Mini.

Mini will serve as a sneak peek into the sibling duo’s upcoming fourth restaurant, Petite, a French bistro and wine bar slated to open along the East St thoroughfare in January 2024.

The decision to close Nice Thai by Kid Curry comes as a shock to many, as the restaurant was seemingly thriving. However, owners and brothers Cameron and Jordan Votan explained that they felt the need for a fresh concept in the space.

The Votans cited the challenge of being located in close proximity to their other successful eateries, Happy Boy and Snack Man, which may have impacted Nice Thai’s distinct identity.

“It was a hard decision. It definitely was hitting its stride, and it definitely had a level of custom that was sustainable…but for how good it was, it did suffer a little bit for being another Asian restaurant next to Happy Boy and Snack Man,” Cameron said.

Cameron explained that Mini seems to be an ideal concept for their vision. They drew inspiration from their fond culinary memories of Paris and are excited about prospect of creating an enchanting outdoor French setting. Guests will indulge in cheese platters, charcuterie boards, exquisite cocktails, and exceptional French wines.

Whilst the closure of Nice Thai by Kid Curry has left its loyal patrons saddened, the prospect of a French bistro and wine bar taking its place has generated significant anticipation among food enthusiasts.

Published 16-Sept-2023

Victoria University’s First Brisbane Campus Opens

Photo Credit: / Victoria University / vu.edu.au/vu-brisbane

Victoria University has officially opened its new flagship campus, Victoria University Brisbane, in Fortitude Valley.

Victoria University Brisbane (VU Brisbane) is modelled on the successful Sydney campus and will work in partnership with the Education Centre of Australia (ECA). VU Brisbane will offer international and domestic students globally recognised and industry-relevant courses taught by experienced academics.

According to VU Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker, VU Brisbane is set to transform the lives of prospective students. Professor Shoemaker further said, “We are incredibly proud to offer international students a chance to discover VU Brisbane. It marks an exciting opportunity to forge a career that is every bit as inspiring and unique as they are.”

“VU Brisbane will ensure students have the skills to either embrace further study or embark on an in-demand job. These students will join over 13,000 VU international students from across 108 countries,” she said.

Strategically located in Fortitude Valley, one of Brisbane’s liveliest hubs, the new campus offers excellent teaching quality, with a strong focus on employability, along with the VU Block Model, VU’s award-winning approach to learning.

With smaller class sizes (maximum 35 students), three-hour classes, and fast and effective feedback, the VU Block Model actively supports positive outcomes for students.

VU Brisbane features spacious rooms and workshop-style classes that encourage collaborative learning, whilst ensuring teachers and classmates get to know each other in a supportive and inclusive environment.

VU Brisbane/Sydney Campus Director, Celina Chopard said they are looking forward to meeting the inaugural VU Brisbane cohort, with almost a hundred students already enrolled in future-focused courses across IT and Business.

“We are ready to do all we can to ensure our students thrive as they begin this exciting chapter,” she said.

“International engagement has always been a key focus for VU. Ranked in the world’s top 3 per cent (THE World University Rankings), the University seeks to foster transformative educational opportunities for students, while partnering with industries and communities around the world,” said Professor John Germov, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Higher Education.

In addition to its reputation as one of the most budget-friendly destinations for international students in Australia, Brisbane boasts a rich diversity, featuring a population where approximately 33 per cent of residents hail from abroad, and 20 per cent converse in languages other than English within their households.

ECA Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Rupesh Singh, said the company was delighted to build on the partnership with VU.

“After 15 years of growth at VU Sydney, it is exciting to be able to offer to students the same excellent study options in Queensland’s capital. We are confident that VU Brisbane will grow in the months and years ahead by offering high quality courses and a fantastic student experience,” Mr Singh said.

“ECA is committed to this long-term partnership, and we are grateful for the vote of confidence from VU as they expand their footprint to Brisbane – a city which offers students a wonderful lifestyle and great career opportunities.”

Explore a 360° virtual tour of Victoria University Brisbane.

Published 12-September-2023

Music Fans Flock to Fortitude Valley for Bigsound Festival

Fortitude Valley is fortunate enough to host Bigsound Festival, Australia’s largest music industry conference and festival. Held from September 5 to 8, Bigsound 2023 ended on a high note after four days and three nights packed with up-and-coming musical acts, insightful panels, and exciting revelations.

Read: Local Man Aims for Macarena World Record at Bigsound

First launched in 2002 by industry development organisation QMusic, Bigsound has grown into a thriving community of musical innovation and togetherness.

The conference now draws over 1,700 music industry delegates, whilst the festival showcases attract an impressive combined audience of more than 20,000 fans eager to discover the next big thing.

Bigsound Festival — Photo credit: bigsound.org.au

Now in its 22nd year, Bigsound brought the music to Brisbane, showcasing over 150 artists across dozens of Valley venues each night. This year’s Bigsound was full of incredible highlights that left crowds buzzing.

Powerhouse indie rocker Beckah Amani electrified audiences with her high-energy set on Wednesday night. On Wednesday and Thursday night, soulful folk duo FELIVAND wowed with their breathtaking vocal harmonies. Meanwhile, King Ivy and Southeast Desert Metal represented First Nations artists, bringing powerful messages and hard-hitting rock to the stage.

Thursday night saw the massive lineup of Battlesnake, Chitra, and Radio Free Alice take over Fortitude Valley. These three emerging acts showed off their distinct sounds and awe-inspiring talent, capping off the festival on a euphoric note.

With its impeccable track record for spotting stars on the rise, Bigsound has cemented itself as a can’t-miss event on Brisbane’s cultural calendar. Music lovers eagerly anticipate what fresh faces the festival will unveil each year, knowing Fortitude Valley will play host to future household names in the Australian music scene.

Read: Newly Renovated GPO Building Now Home to Tama Restaurant and The Gatsby Lounge Bar

For both fans and aspiring musicians alike, Bigsound Festival is an unforgettable experience that epitomises the Valley’s vibrant arts culture.

Published 12-September-2023

Joedy’s Cafe Scales Back, Shuts Fortitude Valley and Sinclair Locations

After three years of rapid growth, the popular local cafe chain Joedy’s Cafe has announced it will be closing two of its Brisbane locations, including the express cafe at The Eminence in Fortitude Valley to ‘focus on providing the best possible service and menu item’ for customers.

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

In a social media post on Friday, owner Joedy Kyle said the Fortitude Valley and Sinclair locations will permanently close their doors on August 25 and 27 respectively and will have their final service at around 3:00 p.m.

“After three years of unbelievable growth we have made the decision to cut back to basics and focus on providing the best possible service and menu items for our guests,” the post read.

Joedys Cafe — Photo credit: Joedy’s Express Cafe/Google Maps

“After all we are known for providing experiences beyond expectations for our guests, even when we don’t fully hit the mark we learn and grow from these instances and become better every single day.”

Joedy’s swift expansion since opening in 2020 comes as no surprise given Kyle’s extensive hospitality experience. He has worked in several award-winning Brisbane venues including Blackbird Bar & Grill, Black Hide by Gambaro, Motorwagen Cafe & Restaurant and the nationally acclaimed specialty coffee roasters Fonzie Abbott.

However, the popular cafe appears to have grown too quickly and is now streamlining operations. Whilst the Fortitude Valley and Sinclair outposts will shut down this month, Joedy’s original New Farm and Bowen Hills locations will remain open.

In his social media announcement, Kyle encouraged customers to continue supporting small businesses, writing “We all need it and always appreciate it.”

Read: How Mary St Pub Owner Andrew Lewis Went From Cleaning Out Ashtrays to Becoming a Global Entrepreneur

Locals who have come to love their neighbourhood Joedy’s Cafe will certainly miss their regular coffee and breakfast runs, but Kyle seems confident this is the right move to get back to the cafe’s quality roots.

Published 11-September-2023

Brisbane’s Third Farm Fresh Market to Open at St Stephen’s Cathedral

Did you know that Brisbane will soon welcome its third farm fresh market, set to open at the historic St Stephen’s Cathedral?

Goodwill Projects, a dynamic events and venues company, is partnering with St Stephen Cathedral Catholic Parish to give the city a new farm fresh market, set to open on Tuesday, 12 Sept 2023. The market, which runs from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., will continue every Tuesday thereafter.

The St Stephen’s Cathedral market is set to be a hub for community initiatives, providing a platform for people to come together, socialise, and enjoy a safe, outdoor, and welcoming atmosphere. This vision aligns seamlessly with the essence of both the parish and the markets, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity.

What to Expect at St Stephen’s Markets

What sets a market apart are its vendors, artisans, farmers, growers, makers, bakers, designers, and artists who believe that no idea is too small and encourage thinking big.

According to Goodwill Projects, in Australia, small to medium-sized enterprises account for a significant portion of the economy, often starting with a simple idea, skill, or passion. The company aims to turn these ideas, dreams, and passions into reality whilst transforming iconic spaces into bustling, vibrant, and inclusive markets across South East Queensland.

As the project prepares forits grand opening, visitors can look forward to an array of enticing offerings from a diverse range of vendors. These are just some of the carefully curated stalls that promise to provide an exceptional shopping and dining experience that reflects the market’s commitment to quality and variety.

Pastel Bossa: Delve into the flavors of South America with Pastel Bossa. This vendor specializes in pastels, a South American staple that consists of stuffed pastries deep-fried until crispy. Prepare your taste buds for a delightful journey as you explore the mouthwatering varieties of these savory pastries.

Three Little Birds Homewares: Three Little Birds is not your average homewares business. They exclusively operate at markets, bringing a unique selection of home decor items to St Stephen’s Markets. From an impressive range of plants and potted colour to stylish pots, dried flower arrangements, tote bags, and other plant-related items, Three Little Birds Homewares is a must-visit for plant lovers and proud plant parents alike.

Good Intentions Clothing Brand: Founded by two brothers on the Gold Coast, Good Intentions Clothing Brand is not just about fashion; it’s about making a positive impact. With every sale, they donate 10% to charities such as Beyond Blue, Foodbank, or RizeUp. So, when you shop at their stall, you’re not just getting stylish clothing but also contributing to meaningful causes.

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Whisk N Flip Pancakes & Waffles: If you have a craving for delicious pancakes and waffles on a stick, look no further than Whisk N Flip. This husband-and-wife team, local to Ipswich, will be serving up these delectable treats from their mobile food van. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or innovative toppings, their offerings are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

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A post shared by Whisk N Flip Pancakes & Waffles (@whisknflip22)

Other Market Days

In addition to the new St Stephen’s Cathedral site, visitors can enjoy the famous Reddacliff Place market, located at the top of Queen Street Mall, every Wednesday, and the Cathedral Square market at the corner of Ann and Wharf Street every Thursday.

Stay connected and get updates on the Brisbane City Markets through their Facebook Page.

Published 9-Sept-2023

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

Get ready for an epic experience, Brisbane as celebrity chef Ben O’Donoghue brings his formidable talents to Fortitude Valley this November with the opening of Establishment 203, an Italian-inspired steakhouse set to shake up the local dining scene.

Read: Newly Renovated GPO Building Now Home to Tama Restaurant and The Gatsby Lounge Bar

Located on Ann Street, the restaurant’s rustic and inviting interiors will provide the perfect backdrop for O’Donoghue’s farm-to-table fare.

Diners can expect the finest steaks in the country, hand-selected by O’Donoghue and cooked over wood to enhance the natural flavours of the meat. Signature cuts like bistecca alla Fiorentina, bone-in tomahawks and sirloins will take centre stage.

Chef Ben O’Donoghue (Photo credit: @thebenodonoghue/Instagram)

According to O’Donoghue, Establishment 203 will combine classical and modern techniques to create an exceptional steak dining experience. The restaurant will source ingredients locally and employ wood-fire grilling methods to allow the flavours of the fresh produce to shine through.

Image is for illustration purposes only (Photo credit: Snapwire/Pexels)

Whilst steaks are the highlight, the menu will also feature a range of pastas, seafood and poultry dishes. Drinks will include a wine list focused on Italian varietals, with some rare finds, along with Brisbane craft beers and signature cocktails.

The open kitchen allows guests to watch the culinary action as chefs prepare dishes from scratch using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Establishment 203 promises to bring a fine dining steakhouse experience with the warmth of Italian hospitality. O’Donoghue’s talent for blending cooking techniques and global flavours is on full display.

Read: Local Man Aims for Macarena World Record at Bigsound

Although Establishment 203’s doors don’t officially open until November, the hotly anticipated steakhouse will start accepting reservations starting in October. Brisbane foodies eager for a fresh take on premium steaks, pastas and more only need to book a table at Ann Street’s newest culinary destination.

Establishment 203 is located at 621 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley. Stay tuned on their Instagram page for updates.

Published 5-September-2023

Michael Trevor Royce Collins Found Guilty in Fatal 2020 Fortitude Valley Assault

After a week-long trial in the Brisbane Supreme Court, Michael Trevor Royce Collins has been found guilty of a fatal one-punch attack in Fortitude Valley on Melbourne Cup Day 2020. The altercation stemmed from a petty dispute between the 30-year-old Brisbane man and the victim, 37-year-old Shannon Finemore.

Balcony altercation

On November 3, 2020, Collins and his co-accused, Harley James Raithby Hoodless, had spent the afternoon drinking on the balcony of Collins’ apartment. According to the prosecution, the men became involved in a verbal altercation with Finemore and another man, Scott McGillivrey, as they walked past the balcony.

Collins said in a police interview that he believed Finemore was “joking” and mocking him. On the contrary, McGillivrey testified that the verbal exchange was sparked by the men shouting down at them.

Prosecutors said Finemore and McGillivrey continued walking after the verbal exchange. But Collins and Hoodless allegedly armed themselves with a crowbar and confronted the men on the street.

Fatal punch thrown

While Collins claims he only wanted to scare Finemore and McGillivrey, prosecutors allege the men formed a common intention to attack them. During the ensuing confrontation, Hoodless punched Finemore in the head, rupturing his femoral artery.

Finemore was knocked unconscious and died in hospital days later, on November 9, without ever regaining consciousness.

Michael Trevor Royce Collins convicted

Ahead of Collins’ trial in the Brisbane Supreme Court this week, Hoodless pleaded guilty to unlawful striking causing death. Collins pleaded not guilty to the same charge, but admitted to a charge of going armed to cause fear.

Collins’ defence lawyer contended he did not have a common intention with Hoodless to assault the men. She argued that any common assault plan ended before Hoodless threw the fatal punch, noting that Collins verbally tried to stop Hoodless during the attack.

In his police interview, Collins maintained that he only intended to “put the wind up them.”

However, the prosecution maintained that a common assault was intended based on both men arming themselves and pursuing the victims.

Collins will be sentenced at a later date after the jury found him guilty of one count of unlawful striking causing death.

Published 1 September 2023