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After 35 Years, Myer to Leave Queen St Mall and Look For New Location

Myer will soon be leaving its home for 35 years on Queen St in the CBD and will be looking for a new site for its flagship location.

Myer CEO John King announced the move to close its Brisbane flagship store by the end of July 2023, citing that they could not renegotiate a reasonable term with their landlord, Vicinity Centres and ISPT. However, the department store will still continue to trade online and in its other outlets in Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly and Mt Gravatt.

“Whilst we remain committed to the Brisbane market, we have been unable to negotiate a reasonable commercial outcome with the landlord and as such will continue to look for an alternative CBD location,” Mr King said in a statement.

“We thank our team members for their service and will be providing redeployment opportunities at nearby stores.

“For our loyal customers, we will continue to serve the Brisbane area with our surrounding stores and our 24/7 online business while we explore future Brisbane CBD options, and we thank you for your ongoing loyalty.”

Vicinity Centres also released a statement indicating its options for the building once Myer leaves.

“(We’re) investigating a number of options for the centre including a downsized contemporary department store and plans without a department store which we can now progress with certainty,” the company stated.

“We look forward to delivering a re-imagined destination in the heart of Brisbane’s evolving CBD and anticipate sharing our plans shortly.

“In the meantime, the centre will continue to offer the growing number of visitors, locals and CBD workers a diverse mix of retail, dining and entertainment options with no impact to public transport or carpark access.”

Shoppers, especially those with tons of memories at the centre, said that the closure marked an end of an era. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner described the announcement as a “sad day for generations of Brisbane residents” but added that the upcoming changes will be a “fantastic opportunity for the centre to be reinvigorated into a vibrant, modern retail experience for residents and visitors.”

Published 17 March 2023

Art of Banksy Exhibition to Run at Queens Plaza

Photo Credit: Art of Banksy Australia/Instagram

Mark your calendars and get ready to score tickets to the Art of Banksy Exhibition at Queens Plaza in the CBD. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or not, this event is a must-see and a chance to experience the allure and mystery of a famous contemporary artist.

Banksy is widely popular even as no one actually knows his real identity. The exhibition at Queens Plaza will give guests a peak into his big ideas. A total of 150 pieces, collected from all over the world, will be showcased at “The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits.” These includes his photos, sculptures, murals and installations, including exclusives for this event.

“The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits” will be divided into four sections: The Infinity Room, Dismaland Experience, Murals, and Louis Michel. Each section details what motivated the artist to create his masterpieces.

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A post shared by The Art of Banksy Without Limits Australia (@artofbanksy_australia)

Additional displays will include video documentaries and audio guides that will allow the guests to understand the artist even better, except his identity will remain a secret.

“The Art of Banksy: “Without Limits” will run from Monday to Sunday beginning 3 May to 8 July 2023. Tickets will go on sale beginning 15 March 2023.

Learn more from the official site. Follow the updates on Instagram.

Published 10 March 2023

Babylon Gardens: Eagle Street’s Newest Riverfront Spot

Photo credit: Facebook / Babylon Gardens

Babylon Gardens, a two-level waterfront bar, has opened on Eagle Street. The new venue offers Middle Eastern and Eastern Mediterranean fare and cocktails on two tiers of outdoor terraces that pair perfectly with its indoor venue, Babylon Brisbane.

The 645-sqm Hogg and Lamb-designed outdoor space accommodates about 500 customers in a space where they can enjoy scrumptious eats whilst sipping a refreshing beverage amid a backdrop of greenery and stunning river views.

The venue features pale brick walls, white timber furniture, green marble table tops, leather banquettes and a 10-metre brass bar with the rest of the space dotted with trees and plants.

Babylon Garden’s two tiers of terraces perfectly complements Babylon Brisbane’s indoor setup where 120 people can enjoy a sitdown meal with a magnificent river view.

Babylon Gardens: Eagle Street's Newest Riverfront Spot — *Photo credit: Facebook / Babylon Gardens*

Babylon Gardens is perfect to unwind after a long day. Enjoy a sip of their signature cocktails whilst admiring the views and feeling the soothing breeze enveloping the space. Cocktail options include Seramis Throne which is an exquisite mix of Tanqueray Sevilla, Mastic Tears, apricot, lemon, falernum and orange blossom); Rosey Lokum with Vanilla vodka, Bombay Citron Presse, rose, lemon and egg white; and Devine Levanthyme, a refreshing concoction of Limoncello, lemon gin, thyme, sugar and egg white.

You may also try their Babylon Twist options: Raki Sour (Lion’s Milk) a mix of lemon, honey, egg white and finger fennel; Babylon Margarita with Ilegal Joven Mezcal, agave, chilli green capsicum, coriander root, lime and Aleppo salt; and Turkish Espresso Martini mix of Turkish coffee and cardamon infused Metaxa 7, chocolate liqueur, orgeat and cold brew.

To complement your drink are savoury snacks dished out by Babylon Brisbane’s Head Chef Ferdinand Sariin and Babylon Sydney’s Head Chef Robert Taylor. Options include Spicy chicken wings with baharat spice, harissa and labneh; Lamb Kofte with iskender sauce and herb yoghurt; and Kadinbudu -spiced beef with kashar cheese and rice balls, and muhammara.

*Gozleme is an ideal street snack in Turkey. Options are potato, lamb or spinach and feta dishes | Photo credit: Facebook / Babylon Gardens*

Meanwhile, Bread options include Lamb gozleme with garlic labneh, iskender sauce and parsley and Beef rump shawarma with pickled chilli, sumac onions, iskender sauce, haloumi, toum and tomato.

Babylon Gardens is located at 145 Eagle Street. You can find the entrance next to 167 Eagle Street Secure Car Park.

For more information and updates, check out their website here.

Published 7 March 2023

Laruche Bids Farewell With a 16-Hour Closing Party

The award-winning venue, Laruche, has announced its closure. The iconic Fortitude Valley bar that has for years been the ultimate party destination this side of Brisbane held its epic 16-hour closing party last 26 February 2023.

“LARUCHE CLOSING PARTY 26.02.23! An iconic Brisbane venue that has meant so much to the underground scene is closing its doors,” Laruche announced on its social media.

“Dragonfruit is proudly hosting a 16-hour project between Bakery Lane and Laruche. An event not to be missed.”

Many users expressed disappointment and sadness that their beloved spot will finally close its doors.

“Another one bites the dust 😥,” comments R. Watt.

“Loved it there when I lived in brissy,” D. O’callaghan wrote.

“Awesome little bar! Sad to hear you’re closing,” comments N. Lambert.

“Devastating, so many memories at this fine establishment 😢 best music in Brisbane by a MILE 😎😎 I will be there to pay my respects and go hard one last time 🙏🙏🙏,” said B. Skerrett.

Laruche Bids Farewell With a 16-Hour Closing Party — Photo credit: Facebook / LarucheBa

Owner Geoffrey Slater took ownership of the venue back in 2019 but pandemic-induced lockdowns and interest rates hikes have proven to be too much for the business. He said that the venue will undergo some renovations for several months but did disclose the plans of the new owners for the space but said that it will be an entirely new and exciting place.

He also gave reassurance that the new operator has the capacity to refurbish and expand the venue and will see to it that much of what we love about it will stay the same.

Laruche opened its doors in 2009 and is split into two levels. Located downstairs are three spaces with a restaurant area, a private dining room and a small cocktail area. Moving upstairs, one will find a luxurious-looking 100-guest space with high chandeliers plus red and gold couches.

It has since become the go-to party destination with its excellent lineup of DJs, both from the local and international scene. The venue is also a popular spot for hosting formal and social events such as birthday bash, corporate events, and engagement parties.

Published 25-February-2023

Lendlease and QuadReal to Build First Build-To-Rent Project in Australia at Brisbane Showgrounds

Lendlease and QuadReal have teamed up to launch first build-to-rent project in Australia to be located at Brisbane’s showgrounds.

The partnership is planning for 443 build-to-rent units comprising studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments across 37 levels. Fully electric and targets a 5-Star Buildings Version 1 rating, the project is set to be located on a corner site at 498 St Pauls Terrace with frontage to Exhibition Street within the Royal National Association (RNA) showgrounds.

Residents will be provided with access to premium amenities and communal spaces including a 25m lap pool with beach edge, podcast/music recording studios, BBQ pavilion, fully equipped gym, co-working facilities, outdoor spa retreat, dog wash facilities, yoga rooms, resident lounges and more.

Lendlease currently has a $28 billion global build-to-rent pipeline and it has delivered more than 2,600 residential-for-rent apartments internationally since 2019. It has another 1,500 in delivery in key cities including Chicago, New York and London.

Lendlease will also act as the project’s development and investment manager.

“We see enormous potential in the emerging build-to-rent sector in Australia with institutional investors attracted to high-quality residential real estate for its resilient income profile,” Dale Connor, CEO of Lendlease Australia said.

“In the Australian market we believe there’s strong demand for long-term, premium rentals in quality locations. Our partnership with QuadReal will bring the best of our shared global experience and capability to deliver one of the finest examples in Australia.”

QuadReal Asia’s Managing Director, Peter Kim said the residential build-to-rent sector has been of the company’s strongest global convictions because it has shown resilience through economic cycles and that the community benefits from the commitment to increase the places for people to live.

The partnership will see QuadReal bringing its extensive experience in managing and developing a global portfolio of 60,000 residential units to the investment, side by side with Lendlease.

“We are excited to be investing in our first build-to-rent project in Australia with Lendlease, a partner with whom we share, amongst other commitments, a fundamental desire to serve our residents and fiduciary responsibility to all our stakeholders,” Mr Kim said.

Construction is expected to commence in early 2023 and residents can take occupancy in late 2025.

Published 22-February-2023

Starlight Super Swim Participants Enjoy Free Access at the Centenary Aquatic Centre

Photo Credit: entenary Aquatic Centre/Facebook

The Starlight Super Swim Challenge is on at Centenary Aquatic Centre in Spring Hill, where participants may enjoy free access to the pool facilities.

For the whole month of February 2023, anyone who wants to join the swim challenge, regardless of age or fitness level, may use the pool without any cost if they are raising $2 million for 50,000 sick children. The initiative will help provide vital hospital services like Captain Starlight and the Starlight Express Rooms.

The Starlight Children’s Foundation, alongside Speedo, the world’s leading swimwear brand, brings this challenge for a fifth year across 23 pools in the country, including the Centenary Aquatic Centre in Spring Hill.

Throughout the challenge, participants may receive training and fundraising tips, as well as rewards and incentives from the sponsors. They may also track the distance they’ve swam via the fitness app Strava, as well as encourage friends and family to show their support and donate to the cause.

They need to complete the challenge by the 28th of February 2023.

Join the super Swim Challege

“We’re delighted to be able to support Starlight’s Super Swim Challenge. Giving Australians free access to some local swimming pools means even those who don’t live by a beach or have a pool at home can participate and help raise vital funds to bring happiness to sick kids,” James Hickman of Speedo said.

“Starlight has a special place in my heart as it’s supported my family during some extremely tough days in the hospital,” Starlight Ambassador Brook Hanson OAM said.

“Whether it’s just a hand on your shoulder to say, ‘it’s okay’ or having a cup of tea in the Starlight Express Room, it really does make a difference and I’ve witnessed it firsthand.

“So, this February I encourage you to grab your Speedos and join me for this year’s Super Swim. Together we can make a difference for sick kids and their families.”

On the other hand, Starlight Louise Baxter said: “Being seriously ill shouldn’t mean missing out on the joy of childhood. Especially when evidence shows happiness makes a difference to a child’s ability to cope and their long-term health outcomes.”

“Starlight has been there for sick kids when they need it most and there are no fewer sick kids who need the fun, joy and laughter Starlight brings.

“Super Swim participants will join a fundraising community of thousands as they attempt to beat their personal swimming goals and replicate the success of last year’s event, which raised over $2 million for Starlight.”

Donate to Team Speedo

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

A clandestine 1920s dining experience awaits you at the Valley this February 2023. Travel back in time as 209 Brunswick Street gets transformed into an exclusive speakeasy with soft jazz and flickering candlelight filling the room along with lavish cocktails and amazing burlesque and cabaret performances.

The Candlelight Club Bring and Exclusive 1920S Speakeasy Dining Experience to the Valley — Photo credit: supplied

Presented by the Candlelight Club, the best and most exclusive 1920s Speakeasy Dining Experience is coming to Fortitude Valley on the 11th of February 2023 as Brunswick Street transforms into a dimly lit speakeasy, shrouded with secrecy.

Feel like a VIP in an old gangster movie, as you get serenaded by soft jazz music amidst flickering candlelight and a lavish cocktail menu in this 90-minute stylish dining experience. See cabaret and burlesque performers dressed in elegant feathers and sparkles as they fill the room with an exciting, yet intimate atmosphere as you enjoy your two-course meal with a drink.

How’s that for an authentic jazz-era experience?

So, book your seats now and be sure to come in your best attire because they won’t stay for long and you’ll never know when they will be back.

The Candlelight Club will run on select dates only and pre-booking is essential.

MENU: TBC (there will be an option of meat/ fish/ veggie)

The Candlelight Club Bring and Exclusive 1920S-themed Dining Experience to the Valley — Photo credit: supplied

What: Fueled By Candlelight, Soft Jazz And Lavish Cocktails
When: 11 February 2023, 6 PM – 7.30 PM
Where: 209 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley
Price: A$99.00, Includes a two-course meal and a drink on arrival!

book here

Published 6-February-2023

Appeal Over Approved Commercial Building On James Street

A Brisbane firm has lodged an appeal to the Planning and Environment Court to refuse planning permission for a previously approved six-storey commercial building on James Street in Fortitude Valley.

Read: New Year, New Name as Evita Fortitude Valley Becomes ‘Rumba’

Citing various issues, Jezreel Pty Ltd and Matthew Sorbello has filed a notice of appeal against Brisbane City Council’s approval of developer Forme One Pty Ltd’s plans for a six-storey building at 75-85 James St in Fortitude Valley.

Plans for the building include a food and drink outlet, shop, office, and bar. BCC granted approval for the building in November 2022.

Artist’s impression for proposed development at 75-85 James St, Fortitude Valley (Photo credit: Richards & Spence/Brisbane City Council)

Mr Sorbello filed the appeal on 13 December, citing grounds that include the alleged;y inappropriate height and scale for its locality, and the loss of existing on-street car parking spaces in Harcourt Street.

“The proposed development, by the provision of a bar, seven retail tenancies and seven office tenancis is inconsistent with New Farm Plan overall outcome, which seeks to ensure that the James and Arthur streets sub-precinct remains a secondary neihgbourhood centre,” the appeal reads.

Mr Sorbello’s family is known for running businesses throughout Brisbane, including the Merthyr Village Shopping Centre in New Farm.

Photo credit: Richards & Spence/Brisbane City Council

Among their claims is that the bar, which would operate between 12:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m. is inconsistent with community expectations for the locality.

During the public notification period, the DA received a total of 19 submissions from residents, most of which are objecting to the proposed development.

Aside from the demolition of blocks of units along James St, the development would also entail knocking down three pre-1911 character buildings, a decision that locals believe would have an impact on the existing local character of the area.

Read: $7-Million Revamp of GPO Hotel to Introduce New Fine Dining Venue in Early 2023

Further updates regarding the notice of appeal for 75-85 James Street, Fortitude Valley can be checked via Council’s website, with the application number A005834091.

New Year, New Name as Evita Fortitude Valley Becomes ‘Rumba’

Fortitude Valley’s Evita is welcoming the new year with a new name, but promises to continue to deliver the same great experience with the anticipated launch of Rumba, a restaurant and bar with a distinct Cuban and Latin American vibe.

Read: BrewDog Fortitude Valley Opens: Craft Beer, Farm To Table Food, And More!

Potentia Solutions, the same hospitality group behind venues such as Soko Brisbane, Azteca, Miss Sunshine, and Soul Green, will replace their Argentinian restaurant and bar Evita with Rumba, which is set to open its doors for the first time by early February 2023.

At Rumba, expect large share-style platters, with meat, fish and root veggies, which can be enjoyed with housemade cheese bread and cocktails.

Photo credit: Evita Restaurant & Bar/Google Maps

Like how it’s done in many Cuban restaurants, expect lively performances from bands and DJs or listen to Latin jazz soundtrack whilst enjoying your food and drinks.

Meanwhile, Evita has been closed since 1 January 2023 for refurbishments, which is part of its preparation for the restaurant’s major overhaul at the heritage-listed venue.

Photo credit: Isabelle Lineham/Google Maps

Back in 2021, Evita opened at the former heritage building on St Pauls Terrace which was previously occupied by a bakery, which provided them with their 110-year old wood-fired oven. Some of their popular menu items included the butterfly prawns, octopus, and lamb cutlet.

Part of the rebranding is the transformation of the place. Interior work involves replacing Evita’s black and white theme with something more colourful and lively. Aside from pops of colour, there will be geometric patterns and feature elements of coche, which translates to car in Spanish.

Read: You Can Get These Brookies From This Marshall St Bakery

Rumba will be located at 365 St Paul’s Terrace, Fortitude Valley. Follow Evita’s website for updates on their rebranding.

Fortitude Valley Celebrates the Lunar New Year 2023

Photo credit: Caseman, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The Lunar New Year is just around the corner, and there’s no better place to experience the culture and food than the Valley. Be sure not to miss this free event happening on the 21st of January 2023.

Get into the festive mood and welcome the Year of the Rabbit as a traditional lion, and dragon dance liven up the Brunswick Street Mall, Chinatown Mall, Bakery Lane, and other venues beginning at 4 pm.

Then roving street performers will keep the crowd entertained with traditional dance, drumming performances, comedy, martial arts and much more.

Fortitude Valley Chinatown | Fortitude Valley Celebrates the Lunar New Year 2023 — Fortitude Valley Chinatown | Photo credit: User:Orderinchaos, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Don’t forget to drop by Chinatown Mall and browse through the market stalls and score for yourself some great finds or discover your artistic side through the Vietnamese clay figures workshop.

And of course, the festivities won’t be complete without you enjoying palate-satisfying eats and the Valley surely has got plenty to offer. So be sure to book a table ASAP!

The complete line-up of activities for the Lunar New Year 2023 is as follows:

Brunswick Street Mall

4 pm – Welcome and opening followed by lion eye dotting ceremony
4.15 pm – Roving lion dance
4.30 pm – Korean traditional dance ‘Pangoot’
5 pm – ‘The story of Nian’ theatrical performance
5.30 pm – Toko Ton Japanese drumming performance
6 pm – Filipino Australian Cultural dance
6.30 pm – Martial arts performance
7 pm – Chinese Grandma Yen comedy performance
7.30 pm – LED lion dance

Bakery Lane

6 pm – Roving ‘Story of Nian’ character performers
6.30 pm – Roving lion
7.30 pm – Roving Chinese Grandma Yen

Chinatown Mall

4-8 pm – Market stalls
4.30 pm – Vietnamese clay figures workshop
4.30 pm – Lion dance on high jong poles
5.30 pm – Firecrackers
6.30 pm – LED Dragon dance
7.30 pm – Lion dance
8 pm – Firecrackers

Roving Lions

5.45 pm – Roving lion dance in Wickham Street commencing at Cathedral Village
8 pm – Roving lion dance in Brunswick Street commencing at Chicken of Rock

Lunar New Year 2023 at Fortitude Valley happens this 21 January 2023 from 4 pm. Entry to the event is free.

Published 17-January-2023