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Revamped and Ready: Riverland Receives $3.5 Million Makeover

Photo Credit: Facebook | Riverland Brisbane

Riverland has reopened on Eagle Street in Brisbane, after undergoing a $3.5 million transformation to offer an enhanced drinking and dining experience.

Riverland’s revamp includes a remarkable 800-sqm deck extension, which has become its most impressive feature. The riverfront venue now offers a sprawling three-tiered deck, capable of accommodating up to 1,000 guests.

The venue’s transformation shines with its impressive 800-square-metre deck extension, the centrepiece of the makeover. This riverfront haven now showcases a three-tiered deck, catering to a capacity of up to 1,000 guests.

The top-tier sky deck treats visitors to breathtaking views of the renowned Story Bridge, complete with a brand-new container bar. On the promenade deck, guests can enjoy live music performances on a dedicated stage and catch sporting events on a large screen.

Revamped and Ready: Riverland Elevates Drinking and Dining Experience With Its $3.5 Million Makeover — *Photo Credit: Facebook |* Riverland Brisbane

The revitalised Riverland also introduces two new kitchen concepts. The Queenslander offers pub favourites including chicken wings in pineapple rum barbecue glaze, Mooloolaba prawn san choy bow, and cure tin can bay cuttlefish.

Check out The Traveller which takes inspiration from international street food, featuring Mexican delights like fried tortillas with guacamole, tomato salsa, and sour cream; cured red emperor tostadas with avocado, chilli jam and sesame; and roasted tortilla soup made with poached chicken, avocado, sour cream and crunch tortilla.

The beverage menu has also been updated, bringing fresh and innovative alternatives that will please visitors. Think Burst My Bubble, a specialty cocktail, and hot watermelon margaritas.

There is something for everyone with an extended menu of cocktails heavy on spirits, 16 beers and ciders on tap, and a carefully chosen wine list.

With its extended deck areas and many menu options, the riverfront venue is the ideal location for all kinds of events. Riverland has the ideal function space to meet your demands, from small gatherings to a complete venue lease for up to 1,000 guests, whether it’s a corporate meeting or a social event.

Head to Riverland at 167 Eagle Street and experience the new waterfront oasis that awaits you.

Published 24-May-2023

Milestone for 251 Wickham Street: Court Challenges Resolved, Office Tower Project Advancing

The approval of a 28-storey office tower in Fortitude Valley, also known as ‘251 Wickham Street’ has faced opposition from various parties. However, opponents have recently withdrawn their appeals after reaching an agreement with the developer, leading to a significant breakthrough for the project.

Read: Proposed Redevelopment of BMW Fortitude Valley to Feature Innovative Business Bar

PJP Properties, who own the nearby former McWhirters Bulk Store, initially appealed Brisbane City Council’s approval in May 2022 but they decided to withdraw their appeal several months later following negotiations with Pidson Investments, the developer behind the tower.

McWhirters Bulk Store is a heritage-listed building built in 1919 to serve as a bulk store, a time in which the company was undergoing expansion.

McWhirters, 2020 (Photo credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/Kgbo/Wikimedia Commons)

During the approval process in 2022, the Council emphasised the importance of protecting the adjacent heritage site. Specific measures were outlined to ensure the preservation and protection of the neighbouring heritage place. These measures include, but are not limited to, safeguarding the footings, wall cladding, and roof sheeting of the heritage property.

251 Wickham Street — Photo credit: Bureau Proberts

The development application received a few submissions, with some locals expressing concerns about the scale of the project. They argued that constructing a 28-storey building on a 1,357 sqm site is disproportionate to the existing character and amenity of the locality.

Despite these objections, the withdrawal of court challenges by opponents and the subsequent agreement between PJP Properties and Pidson Investments signify a significant turning point for the project.

Once completed, it will stand as one of the tallest towers in Fortitude Valley, making its mark on Brisbane’s skyline.

The majority of the building will be allocated for commercial purposes, with an emphasis on providing space for various businesses. Additionally, the ground floor will be specifically designed to accommodate dining establishments and retail stores.

The development also includes provisions for 58 parking spaces and 108 bicycle spaces, acknowledging the need for sustainable transportation options.

Unlike traditional rectangular structures, this tower designed by Bureau Proberts adopts a tapered form, sloping down towards Warner Street whilst offering expansive views of Brisbane’s city centre.

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

Architects at Bureau Proberts explained that the 251 Wickham Street form and architectural expression provides a striking alternative to the commercial offerings of the Brisbane CBD and the northern valley fringe, strengthening the Valley’s long held, independent and culturally diverse character.

Published 24-May-2023

Proposed Redevelopment of BMW Fortitude Valley to Feature Innovative Business Bar

Imagine unwinding in a luxurious business bar whilst your vehicle is being serviced. This extraordinary concept is one of the exciting plans being introduced at BMW Fortitude Valley.

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

Located at 800 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, the BMW showroom could undergo a transformative refurbishment and minor extension, if its development application gets approved.

Designed by ERA Architects, the application aims to revitalise and upgrade the existing dealership and service centre, which will require minor internal and external demolitions.

Artist’s impression of the seating areas (Photo credit: ERA Architects)

In addition to the business bar and customer lounges, the ground floor of the establishment will showcase an array of impressive features.

Among the highlights of the ground level will be an elegant arrival area with a dedicated concierge service solely focused on vehicle servicing. The space will also accommodate ample service and customer car parking spaces, ensuring convenience for patrons.

Furthermore, there will be designated areas for staff bicycle storage and parking, a vehicle display section to showcase BMW’s finest models, as well as office rooms for administrative tasks and customer meetings.

To enhance versatility, multi-function bays will be available for both vehicle displays and meetings. Additionally, the establishment will house a well-equipped workshop, detailing area, and programming space.

Site plan ( Photo credit: ERA Architects)

Level 1 will offer a dedicated recreation area for employees, whilst Level 2 will feature a lunchroom, training facilities, and a comprehensive technical library.

The proposed refurbishment and redevelopment plan also seeks to address crucial aspects of the facility. One notable improvement is the increase in on-site car parking spaces from 164 to 203, representing a significant boost of 39 spaces compared to the current capacity.

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

The proposal also aims to consolidate vehicular access to the service centre from Bridge Street, streamlining the customer experience.

Published 23-May-2023

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

Photo Credit: La Cache a Vin/Facebook

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.

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’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

Photo Credit: Howard Smith Wharves / howardsmithwharves.com

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.

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.

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

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.

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