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Community Engagement Event: Sport in the Park at Brisbane City Botanic Gardens

The Brisbane City and Fortitude Valley Crime Prevention Units, along with PCYC, will be hosting Sport in the Park, a special event that brings together local police officers and young members of the community for a fun-filled day of sports and engagement at the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens.

Held on Saturday, 10 February 2024, Sport in the Park is a community engagement initiative aimed at fostering positive relationships between young people and law enforcement.

The event encourages youth to join their local police officers in kicking a ball around and participating in various sports activities.

Beyond just sports, Sport in the Park offers a unique opportunity for members of the public to engage with law enforcement in a relaxed environment. Attendees can discuss any concerns they may have with the police officers present, fostering open dialogue and community trust.

Brisbane City Botanic Gardens — Photo Credit: QPS

Particularly for young people, this event serves as a platform for positive interactions with police, helping to break down barriers and build mutual respect.

If you’re interested in participating, feel free to come down Saturday, between 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and enjoy some sport in the park with your local officers. Whether you’re kicking a ball around or simply engaging in conversation, it promises to be a rewarding experience for all involved.

In addition to the sporting activities, there will be crime prevention resources available onsite, as well as gazebos for shade to ensure everyone’s comfort throughout the day.

Published 9-Feb-2024

Improved CBD Transport Part of Brisbane Election Pitches

Operating hours for night buses in the CBD could be expanded, and fares could be waived to guarantee safe and economical transportation home from the City and Fortitude Valley.

Read: E-Scooter Safety Heightens Concerns Following Fortitude Valley Collision

This would happen if one particular party wins the next election in Brisbane. Under the proposal, fareboxes would be turned off between midnight and 5:00 a.m. to ensure people have a safe and affordable way of getting home.

It’s part of Brisbane Labor’s three-tiered approach to transport in Brisbane, which includes cheaper public transport, making buses more accessible and more frequent, and tackling roads and congestion.

Labor candidate for Lord Mayor Tracey Price stated that rising costs are challenging residents who want to save money and time when travelling. She emphasised the need for safe, affordable transit as the population grows.

The Labor party has also proposed a 50 percent reduction in bus fares for Zone 1 and Zone 2 in Brisbane, which they believe would save commuters around $1,000 a year in fares.

Meanwhile, LNP councillor Ryan Murphy critiqued Labor’s pledge to subsidise bus fares, which he argues would unfairly burden Brisbane ratepayers to benefit the whole South East Queensland region. Murphy also suggested Labor’s plans allow no room to expand the Brisbane Metro beyond 2024.

Brisbane Metro is an all-electric, high-capacity turn-up-and-go public transport system, which is designed to link the city to the suburbs. It will deliver major infrastructure throughout the city, including a new tunnel beneath Adelaide Street and revitalised streetscape from North Quay to Edward Street.

Greens’ Proposal

The Greens outlined their own vision for the CBD, pushing to create a “green spine” along Albert Street closed to cars. Lord mayoral hopeful Jonathan Sriranganathan also called for lowering speed limits from 40 to 30kph to improve pedestrian and cyclist safety. He believes most drivers already struggle to reach 40kph in congested peak times.

“Our plan would turn Albert St into a relaxed and lively ‘Green Spine’ linking together the whole CBD. It would run from the entrance to Roma St Parklands at Turbot St, through King George Square, the Queen Street Mall, past the new Albert St train station all the way to the Botanic Gardens,” said Sriranganathan.

Read: Works Progressing Well on Adelaide Street for Brisbane Metro

The election promises showcase each party’s approach to upgrading transit infrastructure and improving affordability and accessibility for Brisbane residents. With the election nearing, the campaigns are ramping up efforts to showcase their transportation solutions.

Published 30-January-2024

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

Brisbane’s acclaimed Agnes restaurant has a new head chef taking over the stoves after the recent resignation of Alex Gregg, who led the eatery to be named Australian Restaurant of the Year in 2023.

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

Gregg departs after an impressive three year tenure at Agnes, located in Fortitude Valley. Under his guidance, the cosy 87-seat woodfired bistro was elevated to the pinnacle of fine dining in Australia.

Gregg crafted unique dishes all prepared using fire, smoke and flame. His beef tartare, wagyu, and duck plates drew particular acclaim.

Head chef, Alex Gregg (right) with group pastry chef, Danny Rahilly (Photo credit: Agnes Restaurant/Facebook)

Gregg expressed what an amazing experience it was to lead the Agnes kitchen and achieve such honours in his time there. However, he and his partner decided a move to the coast was best for them now, leading to his difficult resignation.

Gregg previously honed his skills at the esteemed MoVida restaurant in Melbourne before relocating to Queensland in 2021. He said he leaves Agnes very proud of all he accomplished, finishing on a high note as the country’s premier restaurant. Though he has no concrete plans yet, Gregg mentioned he is interested in running a smaller establishment on the Gold Coast next.

Agnes restaurant — Photo credit: agnes.restaurant/Instagram

Now taking over head chef duties at Agnes is Ryan Carlson, formerly the sous chef. Carlson draws inspiration from Fergus Henderson, whom he worked under at the acclaimed St John in London. That stint remains a career highlight for Carlson, providing invaluable experience alongside star chefs in one of the world’s top restaurants.

Read: Aesop James Street in Fortitude Valley: Where Art Meets Innovation in Retail

Carlson also credits his mentor Ben Williamson, Agnes’ executive chef, for pushing him to excel. In his spare time, Carlson enjoys charcuterie and sausage making. He feels ready to continue Agnes’ success, with Gregg offering praise and confidence in Carlson’s abilities to carry the torch.

Published 30-January-2024

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

Fortitude Valley is home to some of Brisbane’s best bars and restaurants. Whilst many spots in the Valley are known for upscale dining, the area also boasts excellent bar snacks to accompany your cocktail or beer. From Italian charcuterie to Asian-inspired small plates, here are five places in Fortitude Valley with bar snacks you won’t want to miss:

Read: Chef Ben O’Donoghue Debuts Italian-Inspired Dining Destination in Fortitude Valley

Crunchy Schiaffoni at Stranded Bar

In addition to excellent cocktails and live music, Stranded Bar offers shareable plates like their Large Rigatoni stuffed with Buffalo Ricotta, Mozzarella & Lemon Zest, served with a bright Tomato Chutney. Pair this crunchy, cheesy pasta with one of their craft cocktails for good times.

Charcuterie at Before + After

As Brisbane’s first amaro bar, Before + After unsurprisingly excels at Italian-inspired bar bites. A standout is their charcuterie plate, featuring cured meats like black truffle salami and venison mortadella, accompanied by pickles, relishes, olive oil, and toast for dipping. Sip on an amaro cocktail whilst enjoying these artisanal meats and condiments.

Chicken Tikka at Bloodhound Corner Bar and Kitchen

Photo credit: Bloodhound Corner/UberEats

With a massive selection of beers and spirits, Bloodhound Corner Bar pairs well with bar snacks like their char-grilled Chicken Tikka. The tender chicken breast is marinated in yogurt and spices, served with a cooling yoghurt and mint sauce.

Oysters at Exhibition Restaurant

Attached to chef Tim Scott’s omakase restaurant is Exhibition’s walk-in wine bar, with creative bar snacks like their caviar waffles. Besides caviar, one of the highlights of their specially curated bar menu is the freshly shucked oysters, best paired with a glass of wine. Their freshly shucked Cool Water Pacific oysters are dressed in a vibrant mango and fig leaf dressing, accented with local yuzu and fingerlime.

Ma Hor Pork Relish at LOS

Photo credit: Los_landofsmiles/Instagram

For Thai flavours, try LOS’ Ma Hor, a pork relish with pineapple, chilli, and peanut. Served alongside a margarita, it’s a perfect combination of savoury, spicy, and sweet. LOS, meaning Land of Smiles, offers many satisfying Thai small plates alongside their cocktail menu.

From amaro to omakase, Fortitude Valley’s bars offer nibbles as diverse and crave-worthy as their drinks. Try these inventive bar snacks on your next night out in the Valley.

Read: Gerard’s Reopens on James Street with New Look and Menu

Published 22-January-2024

Two Males Stole Parcels, Police Investigating

Photo Credit: myPolice Brisbane Central

Two males allegedly stole some parcels from Fortitude Valley home. The police are on the hunt for these suspects after a report of parcel theft that occurred on December 5, 2023.

Initial investigations reveal that the two males entered the foyer of a Water Street address in Fortitude Valley and stole numerous parcels.

Investigations are still ongoing, and the police are appealing to the public to contact them for any information.

You may contact them using the online suspicious activity form which is open 24 hours at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. When reporting, please quote the reference number: QP2302075801.

Stay safe, Fortitude Valley!

Published 18-January-2024

Aesop James Street in Fortitude Valley: Where Art Meets Innovation in Retail

In a vibrant corner of Fortitude Valley, there’s a special place that goes beyond your regular retail shop. The Aesop store on James Street is one-of-a-kind, blending art, innovation, and nature that shoppers will not want to miss.

The decor and layout of the store is truly amazing, blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. Aesop James Street tapped March Studio, a famous design team, to work on the place and they used a special material called fibreglass that’s known for its translucency and versatility.

This store marks a significant milestone as the 17th completed project for the acclaimed design firm.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the choice of fibreglass pays homage to Queensland’s outdoor lifestyle, where activities like kayaking and surfing are part of the cultural fabric. As a result, the store radiates an ethereal, light-filled ambiance that beckons passersby, inviting them to step inside and explore. When you step inside, you’ll feel like you’re in a dreamy, light-filled space.

*Photo Credit: March Studio for Aesop in Fortitude Valley*

The design team had to work with fibreglass sheets that could only bend in one direction. But this limitation turned into something cool. The store’s shape is like the horn of a phonograph, and the sound inside travels out to James Street, making it sound unique.

The team also thought of the store as a separate structure that fits inside. This way, it could have a special area for trying out products and divide the floor into two back areas and an enticing window display.

The inspiration for this design came from the imagery of upturned fibreglass swimming pools, which not only influenced the fluid form of the structure but also the choice of material: fibreglass itself.

Aesop James Street in Fortitude Valley is more than a place to shop; it’s a showcase of innovative design, creative problem-solving, and the power of architecture to transform spaces. It shows how form and function can come together, making it an architectural wonder that will captivate visitors for years to come.

Trading Hours

Published 12-Jan-2024

Get Ready to Sing Along! Club Broadway Comes to The Tivoli this January

Get ready Brisbane, because the musical theatre extravaganza Club Broadway is strutting its way to The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley this January!

Read: Tribute Band Revives Rock Legends at The Tivoli

Known for its razzle-dazzle tributes to the greatest showtunes of all time, Club Broadway will transform the stage into a fabulous musical paradise.

Expect hits from Hamilton, Sondheim classics, popular contemporary shows like Six and Muriel’s Wedding, Disney animated features, epic Les Mis, acclaimed works like Chicago and Rent, vintage faves Cabaret and Little Shop of Horrors, and more fan favourites new and old.

DJ Dan Murphy (Photo credit: Club Broadway/Facebook)

Local drag superstars will also join the production, serving face, grace and plenty of musical theatre realness.

It’s the perfect girls’ night out or date night full of all the drama, camp and excitement of Broadway and the West End. Close your eyes and you might think you’re front row at the Great White Way!

Also for the first time in Brisbane, there will be a dedicated all-ages area on the balcony where younger guests can enjoy the show. Those with an All Ages ticket will have access to an unlicensed (no alcohol), limited-capacity area on the mezzanine balcony, whilst 18+ ticket holders can enjoy the main floor’s full bar service and excitement.

Brought to you by DJ Dan Murphy, Harry K, and Showtime Management, Club Broadway takes over The Tivoli in Fortitude Valley for a spectacular one-night-only performance on 12 January 2024.

Read: Get Ready to Rock: Mountain Goat Valley Crawl Fest to Take Over Valley in February 2024

Gather your fabulously festive friends and get set for a glitzy, song-filled celebration — Club Broadway is bringing the best of musical magic to The Tivoli in the Valley for one gorgeous night. Don’t miss the musical event of the season!

To buy your tickets, visit https://thetivoli.com.au/events/club-broadway.

Published 1-January-2024

Hutchinson Receives National Education Facility Award for Fortitude Valley State Secondary College Project

Photo Credit: Donald Cant Watts Corke

Did you know that Hutchinson has been conferred a National Education Facility Award for its transformative work at Fortitude Valley State Secondary College?

The completion of Stage 2 of the project at Fortitude Valley State Secondary College marks a significant milestone in the school’s evolution. This phase introduces modern classrooms and a state-of-the-art sports center to Queensland’s first-ever vertical school. The expansion has created over 300 secure jobs for locals, fostering growth and development.

FVSSC_Stage_Two_35 — *Photo Credit:* Donald Cant Watts Corke

At a cost of $43 million, Stage 2 adds an innovative senior learning precinct, poised to welcome the first cohort of Year 10 students. Education Minister Grace Grace highlighted the government’s substantial $143 million investment, enriching both education and employment opportunities in our inner-city suburb.

The new facilities encompass 13 purpose-built classrooms, tailored for Years 10 to 12 students. These spaces are equipped with cutting-edge amenities, including technology labs, industry-standard kitchens, senior science labs, a textiles studio, and dedicated breakout areas fostering collaborative learning.

FVSSC_Stage_Two_19 — *Photo Credit:* Donald Cant Watts Corke

Minister Grace emphasized the integration of these classrooms above a comprehensive sports facility with two versatile courts, showcasing the project’s innovative design and functionality.

FVSSC_Stage_Two_08 — Photo Credit: Donald Cant Watts Corke

Hutchinson Builders’ triumph in the National Education Facility Award spotlights their commitment to delivering exceptional learning environments. This recognition reinforces their position as leaders in creating state-of-the-art educational infrastructure within our community.

The Master Builders National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards celebrated outstanding projects and talent across various sectors. Hutchinson’s success underscores the dedication to excellence witnessed in the construction and development industries, resonating within our community and beyond.

This achievement not only elevates the school’s educational offerings but also shines a bright spotlight on Fortitude Valley’s commitment to fostering progressive and advanced learning environments for our residents.

Published 29-December-2023

Brisbane Grammar School Student Named 2023 Young Historian of the Year

Isaac Robinson, a Year 12 student at Brisbane Grammar School, has been named the 2023 Young Historian of the Year at the National History Challenge for his essay and video on “The Collapse of the USSR.”

Read: Brisbane Girls Grammar Student Honoured with Premier’s Anzac Prize

Robinson is the first BGS student to win the national competition, which assessed over 6,500 students across Australia on their historical research and critical thinking abilities. His 10-minute documentary on Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev examined the topic “Democracy Matters” and the factors that led to the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

The student was presented with his Young Historian of the Year award by Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh at a ceremony in Parliament House.

Robinson – fourth in front, with other BGS students who took part in the National History Challenge (Photo credit: Brisbane Grammar School/Facebook)

About the National History Challenge

The National History Challenge is run by the History Teachers’ Association of Australia (HTAA).

The contest motivates students across Australia to embrace research and critical thinking as they dive into the past. As young historians, participants can illuminate their local communities, delve into personal or family histories, and analyse ideas throughout history.

It promotes engagement with primary and secondary sources while allowing creativity through varied multimedia presentation options. Winners are rewarded with cash prizes and educational travel opportunities, but more importantly, all students gain valuable skills.

Students from primary through high school entered projects this year related to the theme of “Continuity and Change.”

Robinson’s work was chosen from a record number of entrants, over 700 schools, the highest since before the COVID-19 pandemic began. The Australian government provides over $500,000 in grants each year to the History Teachers Association of Australia to organise the challenge.

Minister for Education Jason Clare congratulated Robinson on his achievement, stating his USSR essay stood out as an exceptional demonstration of historical analysis and interpretation.

Read: Brisbane Girls Grammar School to Open Junior School, Accept Years 5 and 6 Students in 2026

A full list of 2023 winning entries can be found at historychallenge.org.au.

Published 15-December-2023

Brisbane Girls Grammar Student Honoured with Premier’s Anzac Prize

Year 10 student Jacqueline Loh from Brisbane Girls Grammar School in Spring Hill has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious 2024 Premier’s Anzac Prize. This award, sponsored by RSL Queensland and partnered with the State Library of Queensland, offers a unique opportunity for young Queenslanders to delve into the Anzac legacy.

Alongside Jacqueline, the other recipients also include:

Eloise Brown, Mansfield State High School (Brisbane)
Elann Malot, Pimlico State High School (Townsville)
Bryna van Stom, Pimlico State High School (Townsville)
Sophie Robertson, Ayr State High School (Ayr)
Bronte Fleming, All Hallows’ School (Brisbane)
Katie Somerville, St Monica’s College (Cairns)
Grace Roberts, St Joseph’s School (Stanthorpe)

The students, accompanied by teacher chaperones, Michelle Pipe and Courtney Walls, will embark on a 14 to 16-day tour across France, Belgium, and the UK, visiting significant WW1 and WW2 sites and participating in the Anzac Dawn service at the Australian War Memorial in France.

Brisbane Girls Grammar Premier Anzac Prize — Photo Credit: GraceGraceMP/Facebook

The Premier’s Anzac Prize provides an immersive learning experience, allowing students to explore the Anzac spirit through a combination of research, workshops, and tours of key historical sites in Europe. Described as a life-changing opportunity, the program is designed to engage high school students with the Anzac tradition and explore its contemporary relevance.

Minister for Education Grace Grace praised the strength of the applications, highlighting the deep interest of young Queenslanders in the Anzac legacy. The program includes various tasks such as research and commemoration activities, community engagement, and fundraising projects.

“It’s heart-warming to see how the Premier’s Anzac Prize continues to inspire Queensland’s youth,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk remarked.

“The winning students and teachers will soon embark on a poignant journey to visit war memorial sites in Europe where they will have an unparalleled opportunity to deepen their understanding of Australia’s rich Anzac history.

“Experiencing these historical sites firsthand allows the students to immerse themselves in the Anzac tradition, and upon their return they serve as ambassadors for the Anzac legacy within their school communities.”

Since its inception in 2013, the Premier’s Anzac Prize has awarded 136 students this unique opportunity. This program stands as an integral part of Queensland’s commitment to educating its youth about the country’s rich history and the sacrifices made by Australians in global conflicts.

Published 10-Dec-2023