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Iconic Alice Street High-Rise The Gardens Apartments Sold for $130M

Brisbane has witnessed its largest building amalgamation to date after developers acquired The Gardens Apartments, a prominent high-rise located on Alice Street.

Read: Queen’s Wharf Brisbane Prepares to Open in Stages in 2023

In May 2023, Meriton’s Founder and Managing Director Harry Triguboff finalised the deal for The Gardens through Mane Property, marking his return to Brisbane after an absence of over a decade.

The 5,485 sqm property at 204 Alice St, Brisbane City offers picturesque views of the Botanic Gardens, with Margaret Street at its rear.

Photo credit: The Gardens Apartments Brisbane/Facebook

Meriton, known for completing impressive projects like the 74-floor Soleil in Adelaide Street (2010) and the 81-level Infinity in Herschel Street (2013), which both feature Meriton Suites hotels, plans to develop two new buildings on The Gardens site.

These structures will include apartment and rental towers, with one of them incorporating a serviced-apartment hotel. Mr Triguboff expressed his excitement, stating that he now possesses “the best site in Brisbane.”

Mr Triguboff was satisfied with the acquisition, acknowledging the challenges faced during the lengthy process of securing the property. Some of the sellers had held their units for more than 40 years.

The complexity of the transaction was attributed to the large number of owners involved, with the building consisting of 107 apartments. However, all 87 owners of the apartments unanimously agreed to the sale, making it a significant milestone.

This could potentially be the last of its kind under Queensland’s current legislation, which requires the consent of 100 percent of owners for such transactions.

Read: Former Waltons Department Store Site Hits the Market

The $130 million acquisition of the high-rise by Meriton signifies a significant milestone for the Brisbane property market and sets the stage for an exciting new chapter in the city’s architectural landscape.

Published 13-May-2023

Queen’s Wharf Brisbane Prepares to Open in Stages in 2023

Queen’s Wharf, a $3.6 billion development located on William Street on the edge of the Brisbane River, is poised to support the River City’s transformation into a global tourism destination as it prepares to open in stages in 2023.

Read: Louis Vuitton Moves Into Former NAB Building on Queen St

The development is set to be a once-in-a-generation project that will bring significant benefits to Brisbane. It covers an area of 27 hectares, including a new public space equivalent to 12 football fields.

Queen's Wharf Brisbane — Photo credit: Queen’s Wharf Brisbane/Facebook

The project will feature a new pedestrian bridge, named after Neville Bonner, who served as the first Aboriginal Australian to be elected to the Federal Parliament.

The bridge will not only provide a vital connection between the Queen’s Wharf development and South Bank, but it will also be a symbol of the city’s commitment to celebrating its indigenous heritage.

The new public space will be accessible to all, and the pedestrian bridge will provide a vital connection between two key areas of the city.

The development is set to transform the CBD with the construction of four new luxury hotels, over 50 new bars and restaurants, and the potential for up to 2,000 new residential apartments.

The integrated resort, set to open in stages from 2023, is being developed by the Destination Brisbane Consortium, a joint venture between The Star Entertainment Group, Chow Tai Fook Enterprises, and Far East Consortium.

Robbie Cooke, the CEO of The Star Entertainment Group, one of the key developers of the project, has expressed their pride in being involved in the project, which was awarded to them in 2015.

Demolition works began in 2017, and construction officially commenced in early 2018.

The project is expected to create thousands of new jobs, with the construction phase alone providing employment for around 2,000 workers.

Read: Oasis: New Luxury Party Boat Sets Sail on the Brisbane River

With its stunning mix of heritage and contemporary architecture, this development promises to create a vibrant new tourism playground in Brisbane’s CBD.

Published 25-April-2023

Anzac Square Memorial Galleries Hosts Free Talk To Honour The Memory Of AHS Centaur

The sinking of the 2/3 Australian Hospital Ship (AHS) Centaur in 1943 was one of the most tragic events of the Second World War. Stories from the survivors, including the story of the only nurse to survive the sinking, will be shared during a free talk to be held at the Anzac Square Memorial Galleries.

Read: Oasis: New Luxury Party Boat Sets Sail on the Brisbane River

During the free talk, visitors will have the opportunity to hear stories from those who survived the sinking of the Centaur. These stories will provide insight into the bravery and courage displayed by medical personnel during the war, as they risked their lives to save others.

Visitors will also learn about Sister Ellen Savage, who was the only nurse to survive the sinking and was awarded the George Medal (GM) for her bravery and courage.

Ellen Savage (Photo credit: Australian War Memorial ID Number: 061952)

In addition to these stories, visitors will learn about the establishment of the Centaur Memorial Fund for Nurses. This fund was established in 1948 as a memorial tribute to the nurses of Queensland who served during two World Wars on the home and military fronts.

A propaganda poster calling for Australians to avenge the sinking of Centaur (Photo credit: www.awm.gov.au)

Naming the fund for the Centaur recognised the 268 non-combatant personnel who died in the sinking. This fund has provided support to nurses and nursing education programs in Queensland for over 70 years.

After the talk, visitors can stay to explore the Memorial Galleries, which will be open until 6:00 p.m. The Anzac Square parklands will also host the 2023 Nurses’ Memorial Candlelight Vigil, providing visitors with the opportunity to pay their respects to the nurses who lost their lives during the war.

The free talk will be held on Monday, 24 April 2023.

About the AHS Centaur

The 2/3 AHS Centaur was a Scottish-built vessel which was a combination passenger liner and refrigerated cargo ship before it was converted into a hospital ship for the Australian military during the Second World War.

Read: ‘Look Mum, No Pilot!’ Self-flying Air Taxis Being Developed In Time For 2032 Brisbane Olympics

The sinking of the 2/3 Australian Hospital Ship (AHS) Centaur on 14 May 1943 was one of the most tragic events of the war. On this day, the Centaur, a hospital ship carrying medical personnel, was attacked by a Japanese submarine off the coast of South-East Queensland, resulting in the death of 268 non-combatant personnel.

Mark your calendars!

What	Commemorating the sinking of Australian Hospital Ship (AHS) Centaur
Where	Anzac Square Memorial Galleries, 285 Ann Street, Brisbane
When	Mon 24 April 2023, 3–3:30 p.m.

Published 20-April-2023

Oasis: New Luxury Party Boat Sets Sail on the Brisbane River

Oasis is Brisbane’s new, $10-million floating party venue, described as a “nautical and hospitality masterpiece” cruising the Brisbane River with VIP service, a well-equipped bar, a rotating roster of talented DJs and other luxurious party amenities.

Oasis is the ultimate party boat, with three distinct levels of expansive elegance designed by Alex Zabotto-Bentley. His vision was to capture the vibe of Sicily and Capri to entice the guests the moment they are aboard.

The lower deck is very textural, rich and opulent with coppers, moody dark hues and a pressed tin ceiling.

The middle deck is luxurious with lots of lush greenery, pops of rajans and wood features.

The top deck is the most playful with a candy pink and white striped deck, pops of mint green and lush tropical plants.

Oasis delivers a combination of full-service VIP tables, bookable spaces and general bar and chill areas. Singles and couples can buy tickets for the cruises and immerse themselves in the music, food and entertainment areas.

Music lovers are in for a floating treat, with Oasis featuring a rotation of local DJs and artists every week, including international names like Torren Foot, Airwolf Paradise and Paluma, as well as club favourites Kessin and De Saint.

“Brisbane is famous for its energised spirit, its youthful vitality, its vibrant love of the outdoors, and its love of celebration, and Oasis has been designed to amplify this. As we look forward to the Olympics in 2032, Brisbane will become one of the hottest cities in the world, and the Brisbane River, one of the hottest pieces of real estate – and that’s where Oasis calls home!” said Dave Auld, Oasis Founder.

“In addition – and importantly as a Brisbane-based business – Oasis will employ a team of 70 across front and back of house and boat management.”

The boat will depart from the City Botanic Gardens River Hub along Alice Street, Brisbane City. Departure times are based on scheduled events. Cruises usually last four hours, with evening cruises on Friday and Saturday and afternoon cruises on Saturday and Sunday.

Secure Tickets

Check out the luxury boat’s upcoming events or enquire about its private functions offers via 07 3171 7800. Follow their Instagram page for updates.

Published 20-April-2022

Tiffany & Co Plans New Flagship Store at Former Louis Vuitton CBD Site

Photo Credit: Tiffany & Co/Facebook

Iconic jeweller Tiffany & Co lodged plans to redevelop a new flagship store, expanding to the site of the former Louis Vuitton retail outlet in Queen Street Mall, CBD.

After Louis Vuitton moved to the heritage-listed NAB building, Tiffany & Co proposed to upgrade the internal and external features of the store fronting the corners of Queen and Edward streets through DA A006236266, filed on 22 March 2023.

Urbis, the planner for this development, indicated the addition of a larger entrance for the new fit-out on Edward Street that will create “the illusion of one large facade instead of two separate frontages.”

“The proposal will also include an internal fit out to the suit the operational aspect of the brand, as well as an updated entrance accessible from the internal walkway in Queens Plaza.”

Some demolition inside the store has also been detailed in the proposal, including changes to the display units, the infrastructure, and internal services, new furniture and flooring, as well as changes to the store presentation.

“The façade will incorporate various formats of jewellery displays, complementing the overall design of the shopfront and contributing towards the pedestrian experience along Queen and Edward Streets.”

Tiffany & Co has 10 outlets across the country, with two stores in Brisbane CBD and Broadchurch in Queensland.

Published 11-April-2023

Customer Service Rep With Autism Thrives in The Workforce With Support from atWork Australia

Photo Credit: Tima Miroshnichenko/Pexels

Will Sawyer, who has autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is working full-time as a Customer Service Representative and thriving despite her neurodivergence, with the support of atWork Australia.

Having worked in a number of roles, Will sought advice and practical support to help him find more sustainable, long-term employment. As a full-time as Customer Service Representative, assisting with social media and customer enquiries for a large organisation, Will has had structured support assistance to develop his confidence speaking to managers and develop strategies to better manage his ADHD at work.

“I really struggled to get into the workforce, especially with some of the barriers I face as a neurodivergent person. At times, my ADHD made me feel like applying for jobs was an impossible task – I didn’t know where to start,” said Will.

will sawyer autism — Photo Credit: Supplied

Whilst over 200,000 Australians live with autism, only 38 per cent of autistic people between the working age of 15 to 64 years old are part of the Australian labour force but leading employment agency atWork Australia says it doesn’t have to be this way.

Autism is a complex, lifelong condition that begins in early childhood, with wide-ranging characteristics including difficulty in communicating and interacting socially, and highly focused or repetitive behaviour, per the Australian Bureau of Statistics. These characteristics are just some of the factors that impact their chances of employment.

Currently, research shows that around 3 in 10 autistic Australians are unable to work due to their disability. The remaining 7 in 10 can face difficulties finding a preferred job, experience restrictions on the type of job available to them or require regular supervision and assistance. The median income of those who live with a disability, including those who are autistic compared to those who aren’t, is half, according to the Australian Institute of Welfare.

Will, and the support he received, is an example of how the Federal Government’s recent announcement of funding for Brisbane’s Autism Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) can provide advice and resources for prospective employers to better support autistic Australians. For people like Will, this can mean a better understanding of their capabilities and how to set employment goals that are right for them.

As someone with lived experience, Will is passionate about empowering neurodivergent individuals, “I hope to see more spaces for neurodivergent people in employment settings where they can thrive,” said Will.

“This job is another step in the right direction for me and hopefully will get me one step closer to my goal of starting my own business, it’s a really supportive workplace, and I work with some really great people.” continued Will.

Since 2003, atWork Australia has been helping build people’s confidence and works collaboratively with clients to find creative solutions so everyone can find employment that is right for them. The organisation has over 360 locations and has partnerships with over 3,500 employers across the country.

To find out more about atWork Australia’s support services, please visit: www.atworkaustralia.com.au.

Published 31 March 2023

Louis Vuitton Moves Into Former NAB Building on Queen St

Louis Vuitton has taken over the former building of the National Australia Bank on Queen St Mall in the CBD. Spanning three levels, the new store offers a women’s and men’s collection of shoes and leather goods, ready-to-wear apparel, fragrances and accessories.

The iconic building has been designed to mimic the same architectural concepts of Louis Vuitton’s store in Place Vendome, Paris. Inside, the store is cleverly arranged to feature the women’s department covering the whole ground floor. Unique lights that accentuate the building’s pilasters are fitted into the interiors whilst the basement, which used to be the bank’s vault, has been transformed into the men’s department.

Louis Vuitton in Paris
Photo Credit: Louis Vuitton

Impressive artworks and furniture designed by Australian artists, such as Edward Linacre, George Hall, Khai Liew, Gustave Xavier and Thomas Lentini, are displayed all around the store, with the main attractive piece located at the staircase leading to the basement. It features a mural of the Gumbaynggirr clan totem, Gaag, designed and created by First Nations artist Otis Hope Carey.

Louis Vuitton on Queen St also houses two salons in the mezzanine area where private appointments are serviced. The mezzanine has art exhibits from several artists featured at the China Heights Gallery.

The news comes as Louis Vuitton will unveil its 2024 cruise collection by May 2023.

Published 28 March 2023

Griffith Uni Considering Tenancy of Myer Centre Location When Retail Chain Leaves

Photo credit: Facebook / The Myer Centre

Griffith University may be considering tenancy of the Myer Centre location in the Brisbane CBD. The retail chain recently announced that it will be leaving its flagship store by the end of July 2023.

The Myer lease will end in July 2023, but it seems that the site could be taken soon after Myer leaves the five-level building with Griffith University emerging as its likely new tenant. The school is reportedly needing up to 15,000 square metres of space as a requirement for a CBD campus and the Myer Centre site could be leased as a stopgap measure whilst a permanent location is being sought.

After 35 years, Myer Centre revealed in mid-March 2023 that it will not be renewing its lease at its 28,000 sqm location in the heart of Brisbane next to Queen Street Mall after failing to “reach appropriate and reasonable commercial terms with the current landlord.”

Myer stressed that it remains committed to keeping its presence in the Brisbane CBD and is now looking for alternative locations. The announcement came as Myer announced that it posted a record half-yearly sales growth of 24 per cent, despite closing many of its stores across Australia

A spokesperson for Vicinity and ISPT said that the co-owners are investigating options for the site including a small-scale department store.

Some experts believe that Myer Centre’s decision not to renew its lease would further impact Brisbane’s CBD vacancy figures which currently has one of the lowest occupancy rates in any Australian CBD.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, however, sees it as an opportunity to reinvigorate the space into a more vibrant retail experience for local residents and visitors alike.

“Myer first opened at its current location just before Expo ‘88 and with the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, now is the perfect time for the centre’s owners to reimagine one of Queensland’s premier retail spaces,” he said.

“The Myer Centre once had live music on its lower levels as well as a fun park at the top and has always evolved and moved with the times.

“I think this is a fantastic opportunity for the centre to be reinvigorated into a vibrant, modern retail experience for residents and visitors and I look forward to working with the owners on their future plans.”

Myer said that whilst they explore future CBD options, their Indooroopilly, Chermside, Carindale and Mt Gravatt stores as well as their 24/7 online business will continue to trade. The retail chain is also exploring redeployment options within the business and remaining stores for its team members, wherever possible.

Published 27-March-2023

Former Waltons Department Store Site Hits the Market

The former Waltons department store site in the heart of Fortitude Valley is on the market. The property includes the 1890s-built historic building which is currently “largely underutilised” along with a development opportunity of up to 30 storeys.

The 3,489 sqm site located at 250 Wickham Street has recently been listed which includes the six-storey building that was the former Overells, built for drapery firm, W.J. Overell and Sons in the late 1890s.

WJ Overell & Sons Ltd, Brunswick Street (EJT Barton (ed), Jubilee history of Queensland: a record of political, industrial and social development from the landing of the first explorers to the close of 1909, Brisbane: Diddams, 1910). The appearance of a bend in the building is likely a photographic illusion, as the building was not on a corner site | Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / heritage.brisbane.qld.gov.au

In February 1904, the premises caught fire and was burned to the ground. It caused the death of one man, knocked out power to the trams and destroyed the next-door Bank of New South Wales.

Fire damaged Overells Department Store in Fortitude Valley, 1904 (JOL, SLQ, image number 9614) | Brisbane City Council / *Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council /* heritage.brisbane.qld.gov.au

A new three-storey brick building designed by architects Eaton and Bates was built to replace the fire-damaged building. A further 291.63 sqm of land fronting Wickham Street and with the present-day Overells Lane at the side was purchased from the Bank of New South Wales as part of Overell’s expansion.

Three upper floors were added to the Wickham Street building and were opened in September 1927. The additional storeys made the building one of the tallest in the Valley at the time.

In 1956, Waltons, a large Sydney retailer, acquired the company and the buildings as part of its expansion into Queensland. Thereafter, Waltons made significant alterations to the premises from 1960 to 1975.

Ownership once again exchanged hands after Cathay Pty Ltd bought the building complex in 1984. The Waltons department store building closed down in 1987.

The significant landholding has an existing code assessable application for a 30-storey mixed-use Educational Establishment, Rooming Accommodation and associated Centre Activities development.

Published 23-March-2023

City Botanic Gardens To Transform Into Outdoor Gallery

Did you miss the Botanica: Contemporary Art Outside? On May 2023, the popular art festival will be returning to the City Botanic Gardens to transform the gardens into an outdoor gallery. Here’s what to look forward to in this free and fun event for all ages.

Read: Babylon Gardens: Eagle Street’s Newest Riverfront Spot

Artists and Artworks

This year will see ten large-scale installations, ranging from sculpture and projections to augmented reality and interactive creations.

The theme this year is ‘Tread Softly’ with a focus on sustainability, which considers a millennium of human influence by reflecting on our natural environments.

This year, look forward to the works of local artists such as Phoebe Paradise, Theatre of Thunder and Keemon Williams.

Photo credit: Museum of Brisbane/Facebook

Another artist to watch out for this year is Noa Haim, which will be the event’s first international artist. Ms Haim is the founder of Collective Paper Aesthetics, a studio that designs and develops audience engagement materials and STEAM education resources in the form of pop-up architecture and furnishing.

Her work, Light Lilies, was done in collaboration with fellow designer Adriann de Man. The artwork are interactive and modular structures inspired by the water lilies once in abundance in the lagoons surrounding the City Botanic Gardens.

Activities for all ages

Aside from attending an AfterDark art walk, complete the children’s discovery trail and enjoy performance. Each evening, there will be drinks at the outdoor bar and a selection of food trucks at the venue. You can also bring your own picnic blanket!

Meanwhile, those who want to become a Botanica 2023 volunteer, may submit their expression of interest through Brisbane City Council’s website.

Read: The Candlelight Club Brings an Exclusive Speakeasy Dining Experience to the Valley

Botanica: Contemporary Art Outside is an event presented by the Brisbane City Council and produced by Museum of Brisbane.

Mark your calendars

What	Botanica: Contemporary Art Outside
Where	Brisbane City Botanic Gardens
When	12-21 May 2023, 5:00 ‑10:00 p.m.

Published 20-March-2023