Experience a Perfect Blend of Tradition and Excellence at La Cache a Vin

Despite the change in ownership, La Cache a Vin, a popular French restaurant in Spring Hill, continues to impress with its brilliant service and traditional food. Loyal patrons can breathe a sigh of relief as the new owners, Romain Maunier and Dan Arnold, maintain the restaurant’s well-established path.



Formerly owned by Thierry and Carol Galichet, who are well-known in Brisbane’s culinary community, La Cache a Vin was poised for a big change once the restaurant was sold.

Frequent guests, however, will be happy to know that La Cache a Vin remains true to its roots, with Mr Maunier overseeing operations and ensuring attentive service from an experienced team, and Mr Arnold creating his signature dishes.

La Cache A Vin
Photo Credit: LaCacheAVin/Facebook

The menu proudly showcases robust bistro offerings. Starters tantalize with options like roquefort brulee or foie gras. The entrees range from deep-fried lamb’s brains to snails in a delicious puff pastry duvet. Mains include venison, eye fillet with house-made French fries and salad, or roasted lamb. For a satisfying finale, the creme brulee remains an enticing option.

La Cache a Vin
Photo Credit: LaCacheAVin/Facebook

La Cache a Vin’s extensive drinks list is an opus, offering a variety, whilst complimentary still and sparkling water set the tone, followed by a selection of aperitifs and cocktails.

The wine selection, once curated by Galichet, is a treat, spanning from kir, Ricard, and Pastis to a page dedicated to Champagnes.

La Cache A Vine
Photo Credit: LaCacheAVin/Facebook

Whites take centre stage, particularly chardonnay, followed by an extensive exploration of reds, including pinot noir. The selection concludes with an array of sweet wines, such as the legendary Chateau d’Yquem.



Lovers of traditional French fare can rest assured that La Cache a Vin continues to deliver exceptional culinary experiences. The restaurant’s commitment to hospitality is unwavering, even maintaining its phone-only booking system. This French gem in Spring Hill is well worth a visit.

Follow La Cache a Vin on Facebook for opening hours, reservations and updates. 

Published 21-May-2023

Indulge in Culinary Delights as Festa Italiana Shines at Howard Smith Wharves

Prepare yourself for FESTA ITALIANA, happening over two weekends in May and June! This eagerly anticipated Italian food market is taking place at the Howard Smith Wharves.


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


From 26 to 28 May and 2 to 4 June, Howard Smith Wharves will be transformed into a bustling Italian food market.

Experience the excitement of FESTA ITALIANA with the presence of esteemed guest Chef Orazio D’Elia from the popular Italian hotspot “Da Orazio,” a Bondi Beach favourite.

Hailing from Naples, Chef Orazio infuses his expertise and passion into the event to showcase his exceptional interpretation of traditional Italian cuisine.

 Indulge in Culinary Delights as Festa Italiana Shines at Howard Smith Wharves
Photo Credit: Howard Smith Wharves  / howardsmithwharves.com

Chef Orazio’s culinary journey has taken him from prestigious establishments like Icebergs Dining Room and Bar in Sydney to the opening of Da Orazio Pizza + Porchetta in Bondi Beach.

 Indulge in Culinary Delights as Festa Italiana Shines at Howard Smith Wharves
Photo Credit: Howard Smith Wharves  / howardsmithwharves.com

Chef Orazio will be serving up his famous ‘Vodka Rigatoni,’ a mouth-watering pasta dish featuring a creamy tomato and vodka sauce, generously topped with parmesan cheese.

Another must-try is the ‘Focaccia con Porchetta,’ a fan favourite made with succulent rotisserie porchetta, marinated grilled eggplant, crisp cos lettuce, and creamy mayonnaise, all sandwiched between slices of Schiacciatina bread.

FESTA ITALIANA also offers a plethora of other authentic Italian delights. Indulge in freshly made pasta from a live pasta station, savour the rich flavours of local Casa Motta Buffalo Mozzarella, delight in wood-fired bread, and satisfy your sweet tooth with creamy gelato.

 Indulge in Culinary Delights as Festa Italiana Shines at Howard Smith Wharves
Photo Credit: Howard Smith Wharves  / howardsmithwharves.com

All these, as you sip on classic Italian beverages or your beloved Aperol Spritz.

 Indulge in Culinary Delights as Festa Italiana Shines at Howard Smith Wharves
Photo Credit: Howard Smith Wharves  / howardsmithwharves.com

Beyond the food, FESTA ITALIANA promises a lively and immersive atmosphere. Take a seat on the lawn, sip on a refreshing Spritz, and let the live music transport you to the bustling streets of Naples. The entertainment lineup will captivate you, showcasing the vibrant spirit and energy of Italian culture.


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


So mark your calendars and make your way to Howard Smith Wharves for FESTA ITALIANA and celebrate the magnificence of Italian culture, cuisine, and hospitality in a truly unforgettable experience.

Published 19-May-2023

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. 

Photo credit: The Gardens Apartments Brisbane/Facebook

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.

Photo credit: The Gardens Apartments Brisbane/Facebook

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.

Queens Wharf Brisbane
Photo credit: Queen’s Wharf Brisbane/Facebook

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.

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

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

Centaur (Photo credit: centaur.org.au)

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!

WhatCommemorating the sinking of Australian Hospital Ship (AHS) Centaur
WhereAnzac Square Memorial Galleries, 285 Ann Street, Brisbane
WhenMon 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.

Oasis
Photo Credit: Supplied

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

Oasis
Photo Credit: Supplied

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

Oasis
Photo Credit: Supplied

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.”

Oasis
Photo Credit: Supplied


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.

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

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

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
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

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