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Countdown Begins for 2024 Brisbane Portrait Prize

The countdown to the 2024 Brisbane Portrait Prize has officially begun, with several of the 2023 winning portraits unveiled at a launch event held earlier this week at the Howard Smith Wharves.

Read: INVINCIBLE: A Tribute to Michael Jackson at The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley

The launch brought together artists and potential subjects ahead of the opening of submissions for the 2024 prize. Attendees also heard from past finalists during a Q&A session.

Now in its sixth year, the Brisbane Portrait Prize has received over 3,200 entries to date, including 466 submissions to the Next Gen category for emerging artists. A total of $428,000 in prize money and grants has been awarded since the competition’s inception.

Photo credit: Brisbane Portrait Prize/Instagram

“The Brisbane Portrait Prize is proud to play a role in supporting the creative economy in this city, providing opportunity for artists, and telling the stories of Brisbane and its characters,” said BPP board member Lady Jane Edwards.

This year the finalist exhibition will be held at the State Library of Queensland for an extended three-month run, the longest showing since the prize began.

The 2024 Prize consists of two key competitions: the Main Competition, which is open to all entrants 18 and over, and the Next Gen Prize, which is open to entrants 18 and under.

“We are delighted to be moving into the premier arts precinct in Brisbane, in the heart of South Bank at State Library of Queensland for what will be our most exciting year yet,” said Lady Edwards.

The 2024 chief judge Bree Pickering, Director of the National Portrait Gallery, said she is looking forward to seeing diverse mediums and approaches to portraiture.

Brisbane Portrait Prize — Chief judge Bree Pickering (Photo credit: brisbaneportraitprize.org)

“I’m expecting to see works across mediums that celebrate the art of portraiture in all its forms. As Chief Judge I’m looking for great artworks that reveal something about you as the artist, about your sitter and importantly, the people of Brisbane,” Ms Pickering said.

Alongside Pickering, the esteemed 2024 judging panel includes Francoise Lane, Artistic Director of Cairns Indigenous Art Fair, and Christine Clark, Head of Curatorial and Collections at Museum Brisbane.

Entries close on 22 May 2024, giving artists over three months to submit their work. The finalist exhibition will be held at the State Library in August.

The top honour is the Lord Mayor’s Prize of $50,000, presented by Brisbane City Council. Those who will be chosen for the “Support for emerging artists” award will take home $1,000 vouchers from Oxlades.

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

The Brisbane Portrait Prize celebrates Brisbane’s portrait artists and encourages engagement with the arts. Any artist with a connection to the city can enter.

Published 20-February-2024

INVINCIBLE: A Tribute to Michael Jackson at The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley

Hot on the heels of sold-out performances in New York City, “INVINCIBLE”, a tribute to Michael Jackson, promises an unparalleled experience for Brisbane fans at The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley.

Direct from the United States, the Jackson Family has endorsed the show.

Pete Carter and Jeffrey Perez embody Michael Jackson’s spirit with meticulously executed choreography, vocals, and non-stop action.

Produced and directed by leading dance producer Darrin Ross and choreographed by Lavelle Smith Jr, who has closely collaborated with icons such as Michael and Janet Jackson, Rihanna, Chris Brown, and the Rolling Stones, “INVINCIBLE” guarantees the closest encounter to witnessing the King of Pop in concert.

Accompanied by their live band and dancers, this concert at The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley on 24 February 2024, is bound to be the year’s highlight.

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Brisbane: A Special Place in Michael Jackson’s Journey

Brisbane holds a significant place in Michael Jackson’s history, being the first Australian city he ever visited.

In 1973, Brisbane welcomed the Jackson Five for their inaugural Australian tour, marking a historic moment as the first black pop group to embark on a national tour Down Under.

Michael returned to Brisbane during his Bad World Tour on 26 November 1987, where he performed two shows, including a memorable performance with Stevie Wonder on “Bad.”

Brisbane also hosted Michael during his HIStory World Tour in 1996.

Michael Jackson Invincible — Photo Credit: Invincible – Michael Jackson/YouTube

During Michael Jackson’s visits to Brisbane, historical moments were etched. Each visit left an indelible mark on the city’s cultural landscape, from his iconic performances to interactions with fans and media.

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Pawn & Co to Redefine Nightlife in Fortitude Valley

Prepare for a revolutionary addition to Brisbane’s nightlife as club promoters Josh Lefers, Stephen Wools, and Steve Thomas launch Pawn & Co in Fortitude Valley, a groundbreaking venture that blends the allure of a pawn shop with the excitement of a bar, entertainment venue, perfumery, nail salon, and corporate event space.

The 450-square-meter venue, spanning two levels, is poised to become a haven for those seeking entertainment beyond the ordinary.

On the ground floor, a perfumery awaits, allowing visitors to explore and purchase signature scents or indulge in a unique cocktail degustation with perfectly paired perfumes. A mini automated nail salon promises temporary nail art experiences for those seeking extra flair.

The club will also feature vending machines, games, and an outdoor cocktail garden to enhance the immersive experience.

In a cheeky twist, Pawn & Co goes all-in on the pawn theme, offering patrons the chance to buy the club, albeit at a hefty price.

According to Mr Lefers, the team has scoured the globe for highly unique and in-demand inventory, ranging from the latest gadgets to iconic collectibles such as Elvis Presley’s jumpsuit, the inaugural Rolex, and Marilyn Monroe’s iconic white dress. Lefers emphasised that every item would be carefully curated, with some expected to fetch prices as high as $1 million.

Lefers expressed their vision of becoming the most exciting club globally, offering a space that sparks curiosity and wonder. Targeting the corporate market, Pawn & Co aims to provide bespoke experiences for businesses looking to create memorable events for their guests or employees, with the club expected to open its doors to the public in December 2024.

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Pawn & Co will also feature a mechanical snow globe that moves between levels and a small automated nail salon. Top-notch DJs will propel bodies into motion via a brand-new sound system, whilst the bar will dispense interactive carnival-inspired cocktails.

Stay tuned as Pawn & Co prepares to open its doors to the public, promising to revolutionise Brisbane’s nightlife landscape with its blend of entertainment, uniqueness, and quirkiness.

Published 19-Feb-2024

Proposed Co-Living Tower Set to Elevate Urban Living in Fortitude Valley

A groundbreaking development proposal is set to reshape the landscape of Fortitude Valley as the Willemsen Group plans a transformative addition to the city’s residential offerings.

Acquiring the corner site at 458 Wickham Street from Silverstone Developments in 2020 for $11.5 million, Willemsen Group now seeks to elevate the urban living experience with a visionary 22-storey co-living tower.

This site, nestled amidst Brisbane’s vibrant lifestyle precinct, is primed to become the standard of modern communal living, catering to both returning residents and visitors alike.

Elevating Urban Living

The proposed co-living tower at Fortitude Valley (DA A00642449) aims to address an unmet need in Brisbane’s residential market, as highlighted in the development application documents.

With 381 fully furnished one-bedroom co-living units, the tower promises to redefine the concept of contemporary living.

458 Wickham Street Fortitude Valley — Photo Credit: DA A0064244

Notably, the development includes three levels of podium parking, a residents’ terrace on level 4, communal dining and gathering spaces on all levels, and a communal rooftop terrace.

Architect Bayley Ward’s innovative design ensures that the increased number of storeys does not compromise the integrity of the previously approved building height, maintaining harmony within the skyline.

Fulfilling a Market Gap

Emphasising flexibility and community engagement, the development offers a mix of short-term accommodation units and rooming accommodation units, coupled with ample communal spaces.

Drawing inspiration from hotel-like amenities, the co-living tower blends private residential spaces with extensive shared areas, catering to diverse demographics and age groups.

With an asset-sponsored community programming emphasis, shared living spaces, and all-inclusive central billing, the development aims to redefine the standards of urban accommodation.

A Vision for the Future

Designed with meticulous attention to detail, the co-living tower not only reimagines residential living but also integrates seamlessly with the surrounding urban fabric. The proposal envisions a harmonious blend of convenience and well-being, positioning Fortitude Valley as a premier destination for modern urban dwellers.

The project is set to unfold in two stages, including the construction of a new PCYC development.

Published 15-Feb-2024

From Yum Cha to Game Bar: Former King of Kings Site to Get Playful Reboot

In 2020, Fortitude Valley foodies bade farewell to King of Kings, the cherished yum cha eatery that was a Chinatown Mall mainstay for over three decades. After plans to revive the large venue at the corner of Duncan and Wickham Streets fell through, the space continued to sit vacant. Until now.

Read: Chinatown Mall Revamp to Breathe New Life into Fortitude Valley

However, the iconic site is getting an exciting new lease on life under Melbourne hospitality group Ballers Clubhouse.

Set to launch in late 2024, Ballers Clubhouse Brisbane will transform the former restaurant into a high-tech playground for grownups spanning two floors and 1100 sqm.

Photo credit: Ballers Clubhouse/Facebook

Gaming activities like augmented ping pong, shuffleboard, and karaoke will pair with finger foods, cocktails and other menu options accessible for diverse gatherings.

Ballers Clubhouse is designed as a lively hangout spot for friends’ nights out, dates, celebrations and corporate team building alike. Their 2500 sqm venue in the Melbourne CBD is the city’s largest licensed space, equipped with 75 taps, 10 private functions spaces, 15 pimped-up ping pong tables, 6 stand-up shuffleboard among others.

The planned expansion doesn’t end in Brisbane – Ballers Clubhouse has revealed plans to bring its high-tech gaming playground concept to Adelaide, Hobart, and Geelong soon.

The concept echoes Pawn & Co, another upcoming adult-focused play spot from the group housing a pawn shop, bar, eatery and perfume counter in Fortitude Valley’s former Laruche complex.

Chinatown Mall may feel King of Kings’ absence, but Ballers Clubhouse looks set to breathe fresh life into this iconic address at the Chinatown Mall. Get ready for the playground to welcome grownup kids once more when doors open later this year in the Valley!

Read: Meet Chef Andrew McCrea: The Man Bringing an Extraordinary Tasting Experience to Perspective Dining

Published 14-February-2024

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

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: Perspective Dining/Instagram

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

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

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

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

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

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

Published 14-February-2024

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

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

Adam Reynolds, Pat Carrigan take responsibility

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

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

Both players expected to play in opener

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

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

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

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

Eyewitness accounts

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

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

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

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

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

Published 13-February-2024

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

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

Read: Tribute Band Revives Rock Legends at The Tivoli

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

Photo credit: Mountain Goat Valley Crawl/Facebook

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Published 8-February-2024

Chinatown Mall Revamp to Breathe New Life into Fortitude Valley

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Published 13-Feb-2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Published 12-Feb-2024