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Brisbane City and Kangaroo Point Riverwalk Restored After Long Closure

Brisbane City and Kangaroo Point are now reconnected along a major riverfront route, with the upgraded CBD Riverwalk reopening and restoring a direct walking and cycling link near the Kangaroo Point Bridge approaches.

The upgraded strip was fenced off since 2023 during works at the Waterfront Brisbane site. Developers say the reopened section will connect Charlotte Street to Alice Street, restoring a continuous riverside route from the Story Bridge to the City Botanic Gardens.

A wider shared path through Brisbane City

The reopened section runs between the Riparian building and the Stamford Plaza area, giving people a direct riverside connection between the ends of Charlotte and Alice streets. Plans for the rebuilt walkway show it reaching up to 15 metres wide in places, with new concrete paths and steel railings designed for both commuters and recreational users.

Project information released for Waterfront Brisbane describes the rebuilt Riverwalk as a shared zone for pedestrians and cyclists, with multiple access points intended to improve movement between Eagle Street and the river’s edge.

This part of the Riverwalk is near the city-side access to the Kangaroo Point Bridge, which links Scott Street in Kangaroo Point to the corner of Alice Street and Edward Street in the CBD. With the Riverwalk section reopening, walkers and riders should have a more direct route along the waterfront and into the bridge approaches, rather than relying on detours.

The closure has been a sore point for some active transport users, with community cycling groups previously raising concerns about a key public route being blocked for a private development.

Work continues…

While the Riverwalk section is returning soon, work around it will continue. Hoardings are expected to screen construction activity linked to the broader Waterfront Brisbane build as works progress toward an estimated late 2028 completion.

The wider riverfront plan includes new public space and future dining areas set back from the path, along with landscaping described as subtropical or tropical in style. Plans also flag cyclist end-of-trip facilities, including bike storage and e-bike servicing. Developers say the rebuilt public realm is being shaped to keep the walkway usable while the larger site takes shape.

The bigger development beside it

The Riverwalk works sit alongside Waterfront Brisbane, a major redevelopment of the former Eagle Street Pier precinct, led by Dexus with builder John Holland. Public project material describes a future mix of two office towers, retail, food venues and public space, with the Riverwalk intended to be a key part of how people move through the area. John Holland previously confirmed its involvement in the project’s stage works on its company update page.

Dexus has previously cited weather and the complexity of building alongside the river as factors behind delays and cost pressures, while stating that the Riverwalk reopening has been prioritized.

Nearby routes are reopening, too

The Riverwalk announcement follows recent changes to other key pedestrian links, including ongoing works associated with the Story Bridge restoration program, which Brisbane City Council says has delivered new footpath decking and accessibility upgrades as part of longer-term works.

For regular CBD walkers, office workers, and riders commuting between Brisbane City and Kangaroo Point, the Riverwalk reopening is set to bring back a familiar waterfront line — now rebuilt to handle heavier daily use.

Published 29-Jan-2026

Wandoo Street’s Next Big Dining Room: What to Expect at Aunty

Photo Credit: Aunty/Instagram

Fortitude Valley’s Wandoo Street is about to welcome a new regular, with Aunty — the latest venue from Brisbane’s Tassis Group. Locals first heard whispers about the modern Asian newcomer back in mid-2025, when plans to transform the former City Winery site at 11 Wandoo Street were revealed. Now, the countdown is properly on — bookings are live, trading hours are published, and the menu’s broad direction is now clear.

Aunty will open on 5 February 2026 as a roughly 400-square-metre dining destination built for both intimate catch-ups and bigger, celebratory outings, with capacity for around 100 guests. Design-wise, the venue will lean into a moody, polished look — deep greens, timbers and marble — with subtle nods to Cantonese culture, including references that evoke mahjong.

More importantly for Valley diners: Aunty is expected to trade 11:30 a.m. ’til late, seven days a week.

What’s on the menu?

While full menus tend to land closer to opening day, multiple sources have flagged the broad direction: modern Asian, anchored by Cantonese flavours and technique, plus a dedicated dim sum offering.

A few dishes are already being positioned as signatures, including:

Whole chilli mudcrab
Half duck two ways
Char siu pork neck

The menu is described as share-friendly, pairing dim sum with larger signature dishes designed for the centre of the table.

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A post shared by Aunty on Wandoo | Modern Asian Dining in Brisbane (@auntyonwandoo)

Drinks, lunch-to-late hours and a reason to arrive early

Aunty is also leaning heavily into its beverage program. The wine list spans around 250 labels, alongside cocktails drawing on Asian flavours.

The venue’s lunch-to-late trading hours suggest it’s aiming to suit both daytime diners and late-night crowds — and with interest building ahead of opening day, expect more detail (including the full menu and banquet options) to land closer to launch.

How to book (and what to watch for next)

Bookings are already live via Aunty’s official site. For Wandoo Street, the opening adds another high-profile dining room to the strip — one built to run from lunch through late, every day of the week.

Book a TABLE

Published 27-Jan-2026

Brisbane CBD Albert Street Station Takes Shape With Queensland’s Longest Escalator

Cross River Rail

Brisbane CBD Albert Street station construction has reached a visible milestone, with the massive 42-metre-long entrance canopy now installed, sitting 16 metres above street level.

The underground station is transforming the southern end of the city centre, giving passersby their first clear view of how the new infrastructure will reshape the area between Queen Street Mall and the Botanic Gardens.

Record-Breaking Escalator Connects Street to Platform

The Brisbane CBD Albert Street station installed Queensland’s longest escalator late last year, measuring 37.5 metres in total length. Located at the northern entrance, the escalator provides direct access from Queen Street Mall down to the station platforms below.

The scale of the underground station required engineering solutions beyond typical transit infrastructure. Moving passengers efficiently between street level and deep underground platforms meant installing equipment that breaks state records for size.

Platform construction — *Photo Credit: Cross River Rail*

Massive Canopy Provides Shade and Flood Protection

The station’s entrance canopy now dominates the Albert Street streetscape. The steel structure weighs 153 tonnes, spans 22 metres wide and stretches 42 metres long, sitting 16 metres above the street.

Albert Street station design — *Photo Credit: Cross River Rail*

Construction crews assembled the canopy from four pre-fabricated trusses, each so large they required nighttime transport through the city. The finished structure serves dual purposes: shading the public plaza below during regular operation and storing flood barrier systems that can be deployed to protect the underground station during flood events.

Green Spine Reconnects CBD Spaces

Sections of the Albert Street green spine reopened to pedestrians before Christmas, with more areas opening throughout 2026. The subtropical plaza runs between Mary and Elizabeth streets, creating new public space outside the station entrance.

The green spine design includes space for outdoor dining, shaded seating areas and improved pedestrian connections linking Queen Street Mall to the Botanic Gardens. This north-south corridor addresses a longstanding gap in CBD pedestrian infrastructure, where crossing between these destinations previously meant navigating busy traffic.

What This Means for Brisbane CBD

The Brisbane CBD Albert Street station represents the largest public transport infrastructure change to the city centre in decades. The underground station removes the bottleneck that currently limits train frequency through the CBD, allowing more services to run across the entire rail network.

For CBD workers and residents, the station provides a second major transit hub beyond Central station. The southern CBD location serves office towers, cultural institutions and riverside precincts that previously sat further from convenient rail access.

Construction continues on remaining station elements, with completion expected as part of the broader Cross River Rail project opening. More details at crossriverrail.qld.gov.au.

Published 26-January-2026.

BrisAsia Festival 2026: Fortitude Valley and CBD Take Centre Stage in Year of the Horse Celebrations

The heart of Brisbane will pulse with Asian culture next month as the BrisAsia Festival brings a packed program of events to Fortitude Valley and the CBD, with the 14th annual celebration marking the Year of the Horse across 10 days in February.

Read: Brisbane Filipino Community to Celebrate Sinulog Festival at St Stephen’s Cathedral

From improv comedy workshops in the Valley to dance battles in South Brisbane and traditional Japanese music at City Hall, the inner-city precincts will host several key events between 13 and 22 February.

The festival has expanded significantly this year, now featuring more than 350 artists across 17 suburbs with 10 new events added to the program. The Year of the Horse theme, characterised by its energetic and adventurous spirit, runs throughout the festival’s diverse offerings.

Japanese Music Meets Contemporary Innovation

The Lord Mayor’s City Hall Concerts presents Shu Ha Ri at Brisbane City Hall on 17 February from noon to 1pm. The free lunchtime concert explores the intersection between classical Japanese music and contemporary interpretation, with the title itself meaning to bridge between tradition and innovation.

Dance Battles Hit South Brisbane and Queen Street

Dance crews will descend on South Brisbane’s VENTspace for the BrisAsia Dance Battles qualifying rounds on Saturday 21 February from 10am to 7pm. The competition, open to all ages with entry from $20, culminates the following day with free finals at the Queen Street Mall Stage from 4pm to 7pm on Sunday 22 February.

Neo-Soul Night in the Valley

Fortitude Valley’s Mr Vain Restaurant and Bar transforms into the Velvet Lounge on 19 February from 6pm to midnight, hosting an intimate neo-soul and R&B experience featuring Brisbane’s finest Asian DJs.

Comedy Improv Workshops

Big Fork Theatre in Fortitude Valley will host beginner improv workshops on 22 February from 1.30pm to 4.30pm, an expansion of the festival’s new comedy program. The workshops follow the inaugural BrisAsia Comedy Gala, offering participants hands-on experience with improvisational comedy.

The BrisAsia Festival has grown into Brisbane’s largest showcase of Asian culture, cuisine, art and music since its inception. The 2026 program reflects the city’s increasingly diverse cultural landscape, with events designed to appeal across generations and communities.

Read: World Premiere: New Banksy Exhibition Transforms Brisbane CBD into Global Art Hub

Most events throughout the festival are free, making it accessible to Brisbane residents wanting to experience Asian culture. For the full program and booking information for ticketed events, visit the BrisAsia Festival website.

Published 22-January-2026

Brisbane Prepares for National Day of Mourning

Mijal Bitton/Substack

Queensland marks National Day of Mourning on Thursday, January 22, to honour victims of the Bondi Beach attack with silence, lights, and acts of kindness across the state.

The day carries the Chabad Community’s theme “Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance,” marking the December 14 attack during a Hanukkah event where 15 lost their lives.

Brisbane residents join 15 Pillars of Light installations beaming nationwide, including local sites, while flags fly at half-mast and buildings glow white.

Community Voices on Remembrance

Premier David Crisafulli said the day offers an opportunity for Queenslanders to stand alongside the rest of the country in remembering the victims.

“Queenslanders will join with millions of Australians to pay their respects to the victims who lost their lives during the Bondi Beach terrorist attack,” he added.

He also noted that the National Day of Mourning is a moment to come together and acknowledge courage shown in the face of violence.

“This is a time for unity, to remember those innocent people who died and reflect on the brave actions of those who risked their lives to intervene.”

Ways Brisbane Locals Can Take Part

Stand for one minute’s silence at 6:01pm Queensland time from your home or nearby park.

Light a candle on your doorstep, share a family meal, or do a good deed like visiting someone unwell.

Free entry opens the Queensland Holocaust Museum and Education Centre at Charlotte Street, where visitors sign a condolence book.

These steps build community ties in the inner city.

Looking Ahead Together

Brisbane communities embrace the “Light will win” theme to honor victims and brave helpers from the Bondi tragedy.

Families across Brisbane’s inner city unite through simple remembrances, building stronger neighborhood bonds.

Published 21-January-2026.

Chet Faker Brings ‘A Love For Strangers’ Tour to Fortitude Music Hall

Nick Murphy is bringing Chet Faker back to Brisbane, and this time he’s landing at one of the city’s best live music venues. The ARIA-winning artist will perform at Fortitude Music Hall in March 2026, as part of his A Love For Strangers world tour.

Read: World Premiere: New Banksy Exhibition Transforms Brisbane CBD into Global Art Hub

For fans who have followed Murphy’s musical journey—whether under his birth name or his Chet Faker alias—this headline show promises an intimate experience that festival slots simply can’t deliver. With new material from his upcoming album and a setlist packed with career favourites, it’s shaping up to be one of the Valley’s standout gigs of 2026.

What’s on the Setlist

The tour centres around Faker’s new album A Love For Strangers, dropping on 13 February via BMG, just weeks before the Brisbane performance. Recent singles “Far Side of the Moon” and “This Time For Real” offer a glimpse into the album’s sound, which blends the nostalgic, late-night groove that made Faker famous with renewed melodic depth and emotional vulnerability.

But longtime fans needn’t worry about missing the classics. The setlist is expected to feature career-spanning favourites including “Gold”, “Talk Is Cheap”, and “1998”, alongside material from his 2014 debut Built On Glass. Tracks from 2021’s Hotel Surrender and the 2020 comeback single “Low”—which marked Faker’s return after four years performing under his birth name—are also likely to make appearances.

In an intimate venue like Fortitude Music Hall, these songs will resonate differently than they do at massive festival stages. There’s a closeness to headline shows that allows the music to breathe, and for an artist whose work thrives on groove, texture, and atmosphere, that intimacy matters.

The Artist Behind the Music

Nicholas James Murphy, born 23 June 1988, has carved out a unique path in Australian music. He first emerged as Chet Faker in 2012 with the EP Thinking in Textures, quickly signing to Downtown Records in the United States. That same year, he won Breakthrough Artist of the Year at the Australian Independent Records Awards, with the EP also taking home Best Independent Single/EP.

His widely recognised cover of Blackstreet’s “No Diggity” introduced his smoky vocals and electronic production to a global audience. The 2014 album Built On Glass cemented his status as one of Australia’s most internationally recognised electronic artists.

In 2016, Murphy made the bold decision to drop the Chet Faker moniker, releasing material under his birth name including the 2017 EP Missing Link, the 2019 album Run Fast Sleep Naked, and the surprise 2020 instrumental record Music for Silence, initially released via the Calm meditation app.

But in October 2020, four years after shelving the alias, Murphy surprised fans by reviving Chet Faker with the single “Low”. Now, with A Love For Strangers, the project feels like it’s come full circle. The album explores themes of heartbreak, uncertainty, and fractured human connections, whilst searching for hope in repairing those relationships—a creative return to his early spirit that deepened after celebrating a decade since Built On Glass.

When and Where to Catch the Show

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A post shared by Chet Fakerrr (@chetfaker)

Chet Faker will take the stage at Fortitude Music Hall on 3 March 2026, marking his only Brisbane appearance on the Australian leg of the tour. The Fortitude Valley venue, known for its excellent acoustics and sightlines, provides the perfect setting for Faker’s bass-heavy, atmospheric production.

Tickets go on sale to the general public on Monday 19 January through Ticketmaster. The Brisbane show sits within a broader Australian tour that kicks off at Adelaide’s A Day in the Gully festival on 28 February, with additional performances scheduled in Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth throughout early March. Following the Australian dates, Murphy will embark on an extensive 21-date North American tour in April and May, followed by European shows in July.

Read: Chef Shimpei Raikuni Brings Sushi Room’s Culinary Excellence to Australian Open

For Brisbane fans, whether you discovered Murphy through his viral covers, danced to “Gold” at festivals, or followed his evolution across both identities, this March show offers a rare opportunity to experience one of Australia’s most compelling electronic artists in a proper live setting. In the heart of Fortitude Valley, where the city’s music scene pulses strongest, it’s exactly where this homecoming should happen.

Published 20-January-2026

World Premiere: New Banksy Exhibition Transforms Brisbane CBD into Global Art Hub

Photo Credit: Art of Banksy

A massive collection of more than 300 street art pieces has transformed a space in the Brisbane CBD into a major cultural hub for the global premiere of a new Banksy exhibition.

A Record-Breaking Showcase

The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits” Chapter 2 has officially launched at Uptown on Queen Street Mall, marking a significant milestone for the city’s art scene. Spanning 1,550 square metres, this new chapter is twice the size of the 2023 edition and presents the most expansive collection of the artist’s work ever staged. The exhibition features over 100 original artworks, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the mind of the elusive creator.

Organisers describe the event as a “museum-quality experience” that captures the raw energy of street art. The collection includes iconic favourites such as Cinderella at Dismaland, London Zoo, and the Ice Cream Van. These works sit alongside never-before-seen pieces, creating a narrative that explores the wit and defiance for which Banksy is known.

Multi-Sensory Experience

Beyond traditional canvases, the exhibition offers a multi-sensory journey designed to engage audiences of all ages. Visitors can expect immersive installations, digital mapping, and sculptures that bring the art to life. A standout feature is the cutting-edge hologram display, which adds a futuristic dimension to the artist’s satirical vision.

The show aims to challenge and provoke thought on topics such as politics, culture, and human rights. By combining these themes with high-tech displays, the exhibition provides a fresh perspective on the artist’s influence as a cultural icon.

Community Offers and Details

To make the event accessible to the wider community, organisers have introduced special pricing for the school holidays. Families can purchase a discounted bundle at $25 per person, while a “New Year, New Rules” promotion offers a Duo Pass for $29 per person for a limited time.

The venue is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience. Tickets for the general public start from $39 for adults and $27 for children. The visit typically takes between 45 and 60 minutes, allowing ample time to explore the vast collection.

Published Date 15-December-2026

51-Storey Hotel Tower Proposed Above Victory Hotel Site In Brisbane CBD

Photo Credit: DA/A006934633

A 51-storey hotel tower has been proposed for the Victory Hotel site in Brisbane’s CBD, with planning documents indicating the venue’s street-level beer garden would be built over as part of the redevelopment.

A Heritage Pub Site Facing Major Change

The development application seeks approval for a 284-room hotel tower positioned behind and above the locally heritage-listed Victory Hotel at the corner of Edward and Charlotte streets. The pub has operated on the site since 1855.

Plans described in the application indicate the tower would be constructed over the existing Charlotte Street-facing beer garden, changing how the ground-level venue operates.

Victory Hotel tower — *Photo Credit: DA/A006934633*

Reverse Podium Design And Tower Form

Architecture firm Bureau Proberts has proposed a reverse or “negative space” podium arrangement, intended to maintain the visual prominence of the heritage pub at street level. The tower would be located toward the rear corner of the 924-square-metre site, with higher levels cantilevered from level six upwards.

Material submitted with the application states the form is designed to maintain views toward the Victory Hotel and the adjacent state heritage-listed Metro Arts building.

Brisbane CBD development — *Photo Credit: DA/A006934633*

Uses, Levels And Site Coverage

The proposal includes hotel rooms, bars and dining venues, function spaces, a gym and wellness facilities, along with multiple rooftop areas. A rooftop bar is proposed on level 50, and a pool deck and day spa are proposed at level 38.

The tower is proposed to rise to about 206.6 metres and would cover around 50.3 per cent of the site, exceeding the 45 per cent site cover referenced under planning controls. Onsite car parking is not proposed.

Edward Street hotel tower — *Photo Credit: DA/A006934633*

Assessment And Next Steps

Due to its scale and site cover, the application is impact assessable and subject to public notification and assessment by Brisbane City Council. Separate approved refurbishment works for the pub are set to start in the second quarter of 2026, while the tower is planned for completion before 2032, subject to approvals.

Published 14-Jan-2026

Tributes Flow in Fortitude Valley After Death of Brisbane Grammar School Graduate

Photo Credit: Brisbane Grammar School/Facebook

Tributes have flowed for Brisbane Grammar School graduate Rylan Pribadi following his death overseas, with school and sporting communities reflecting on his life, character and contributions.

Remembering Rylan Pribadi

Rylan Pribadi, 17, died in Japan on January 7 after what was described as a sports-related accident. He was just weeks away from turning 18 at the time of his death.

News of his passing prompted an immediate response from teachers, former classmates, boarding staff and sporting peers, many of whom shared memories focused on his character rather than his achievements.

School Community Response

Brisbane Grammar School confirmed Rylan joined the school as a boarder in 2022, entering Year 9. He quickly became a respected and well-liked member of the boarding community and later graduated in 2025.

During his final year, he contributed to the school’s premiership-winning First XI football team and served as a boarding prefect. The school noted his friendly and approachable nature, along with his reliability and commitment to those around him, stating that his passing had deeply affected the school community.

Sporting Life and Team Involvement

Rylan was also involved in community football, spending several years as a former academy player with Taringa Rovers Soccer Football Club. The club acknowledged the impact of his passing on teammates, coaches and friends who shared time with him both on and off the field.

Former teammates recalled his dedication to training and his enjoyment of shared successes, particularly during the 2025 season.

Reflections From Teachers and Peers

Former boarding supervisors and tutors reflected on Rylan’s quiet determination and humility, describing him as someone who avoided attention despite his capabilities. Teachers noted his positive influence in the classroom, where he contributed to a strong and respectful learning environment.

Peers recalled his sense of humour, his willingness to support others and his role in building strong friendships across year levels. Several reflected on his presence within boarding houses, where he was remembered for creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

Others spoke of his enthusiasm for football and the pride he took in representing his school, describing the 2025 premiership season as a shared milestone that was closely tied to his leadership and teamwork.

Ongoing Community Mourning

Brisbane Grammar School, its alumni and associated sporting communities continue to mourn the loss of a former student whose life was shaped by education, sport and friendship. Tributes remain focused on his character, his contributions and the lasting impression he left on those who knew him.

Published 13-Jan-2026

Behaviour Rules Front and Centre in Fortitude Valley Dog Daycare Plan

Photo Credit: Unsplash

A proposed luxury dog daycare in Fortitude Valley plans to care for up to 80 dogs a day inside Brisbane’s nightclub precinct, with firm behaviour rules that allow staff to separate overstimulated dogs or send them home early if they fail to settle.

The plan (DA A006928434) was lodged on December 22, 2025, and outlines a premium indoor dog care centre to be built in the basement of a coworking building on Brunswick Street.

A New Kind of Business for Fortitude Valley

The proposal, submitted by The Houndry Pty Ltd, would see a former office tenancy transformed into a high-end dog daycare, grooming and boarding facility in the heart of Fortitude Valley. Planning documents show the centre would operate mainly during business hours and cater to inner-city residents who live in apartments and work nearby.

The facility would include indoor activity zones such as a dog gym, a nature-style play area with textured surfaces, and dedicated rest spaces where dogs can calm down between activities. Dogs would be grouped by size, temperament and energy levels, and rotated through different areas during the day.

The site, located beneath the Wotso coworking space, was selected for its distance from traditional low-density housing and its proximity to surrounding commercial uses. Planning consultants noted that moving dogs from apartments into a managed indoor setting could reduce daytime barking complaints across residential areas.

Strict Behaviour Management Built Into the Plan

Unlike many traditional dog daycares, the Fortitude Valley proposal places strong emphasis on behaviour control. Management plans submitted to Council state that dogs showing unsafe, aggressive or overly reactive behaviour would be removed from group play and placed in a separate calming area. If behaviour does not improve, owners would be contacted for early collection.

The documents describe these measures as necessary to maintain safety for dogs and staff, particularly in a high-density indoor environment. Care ratios are expected to be lower than the minimum required standard, allowing closer supervision throughout the day.

The centre also proposes overnight boarding for up to 20 dogs, with staff on-site and similar behaviour controls in place after hours.

Noise, Design and Council Oversight

Given Fortitude Valley’s mix of nightlife, offices and apartments, noise management has been a key focus of the application. An acoustic report submitted to Council estimates barking noise levels and outlines mitigation measures including acoustic ceiling panels, sound-treated walls and airlock entry points.

The report states that predicted noise levels would be lower than those commonly permitted for licensed entertainment venues in Queensland. Planning documents also note that the entire facility would be indoors, with no external dog runs.

Architectural plans show a total floor area of approximately 563 square metres, including grooming rooms, veterinary treatment areas, staff facilities and reception. No major external building changes are proposed beyond internal works and a minor roller door modification.

Growing Demand for Inner-City Dog Care

Brisbane City Council records show more than 105,000 registered dogs across the city as of October 2025, with demand for daycare services increasing alongside apartment living and return-to-office work patterns. Planning reports note that many existing dog daycare centres operate at capacity due to council limits on animal numbers.

The Houndry has indicated it plans to operate on a membership model, similar to other premium dog care providers in Brisbane. Pricing has not yet been released.

Council will assess the application under impact assessment rules, which allow for public submissions before a final decision is made.

Published 9-Jan-2026