Holly, a rodent detection dog, has marked 10 years of service in Brisbane CBD as part of a program that continues to manage rat and mouse activity across homes and businesses in the city.
Brisbane’s rodent detection program has operated for more than a century, originally formed in response to a plague outbreak. In the 1950s, BCC teams routinely eliminated thousands of rats each month using dogs and baiting techniques. BCC records show that in October 1951, more than 6,000 rats were destroyed, with a further 1,600 captured the previous month.
Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only Photo Credit: Pexels
Modern Detection and Training Approach
Today, the focus has shifted from eradication to detection and prevention. Dogs such as Holly, a fox terrier, recently recognised for 10 years of service on 3 June, are deployed to detect rodent presence in Brisbane CBD and surrounding areas. These dogs are trained over the course of a year to identify rodent scents and locate potential nests.
Fox terriers are selected for their strong scenting ability and calm temperament. They work alongside handlers and respond to several dozen call-outs per week, inspecting over 500 properties annually. When rodents are detected, BCC officers may advise property owners on prevention methods, such as sealing cracks and improving waste management.
Rodents in Urban Areas
Rodents found in Brisbane CBD typically include large sewer rats, which burrow under buildings, and smaller climbing rats that inhabit ceilings and wall cavities. They are known to damage doors, skirtings, food containers, machinery, and wiring. BCC warns that both types pose serious health risks as carriers of disease.
Rodents are classified as invasive species, contributing to biodiversity loss and public health concerns. BCC encourages residents to report suspected infestations through its 24-hour contact centre on 07 3403 8888 or website. Prompt investigation enables early intervention before infestations grow.
Public Reflection and Community Engagement
Brisbane residents have recalled past visits from BCC rat catchers and their dogs. One resident reflected on her experience in the 1980s when a dog team visited her Balmoral property, describing the encounter as memorable.
Despite changes in method and scale, rodent control remains active across Brisbane, including the CBD. Holly and fellow detection dogs such as Rosie and Molly have supported the program, with ongoing deployment across both commercial and residential areas. Upon retirement, the dogs remain with their handlers as companion animals.
A 24-storey commercial tower in Brisbane’s CBD is undergoing an upgrade worth $300 million to improve sustainability, expand floor space, and retain its original structure.
A 1974-built office tower at 450 Queen Street, Brisbane CBD, formerly occupied by the Queensland Public Trustee, is undergoing a major transformation. PGIM Real Estate, on behalf of the Asia Pacific Value Partners IV Fund, acquired the building in 2021 and has since initiated an adaptive reuse plan to reposition it as an A-grade commercial property.
The redevelopment (DA A005905778) retains the existing concrete structure, avoiding demolition and significantly reducing the building’s environmental footprint. Buildcorp has been appointed as the lead contractor, with architecture by Fender Katsalidis.
The project includes one of Queensland’s tallest vertical mass timber extensions, adding three new levels and 1,500 square metres of cross-laminated timber. The total net lettable area is projected to reach 17,500 square metres, with typical floor plates ranging from 700 to 1,240 square metres.
Sustainability credentials include a 6 Star Green Star rating, a 5.5 Star NABERS Energy rating, a 4 Star NABERS Water rating, and Net Zero certification. Retaining the original building will reportedly reduce embodied energy by over 70 per cent and carbon emissions by 66 per cent compared to a full demolition and rebuild.
Design Features and Facilities
The refurbishment includes 600 square metres of landscaped outdoor space designed as a flexible work area with Wi-Fi. Additional facilities feature 130 bicycle spaces, 270 lockers, and 20 showers, enhancing end-of-trip amenities. The ground level will include concierge and security services, a public business lounge, and activated retail frontages.
A minor development application amendment proposes the removal of six structural columns and a modest increase in the building’s height from 79.13 metres to 83.5 metres.
The upgrade comes amid tightening commercial vacancy rates in the Brisbane CBD, now at their lowest since 2013. PGIM Real Estate has steadily expanded its Brisbane portfolio with assets at 130 and 307 Queen Street, 215 Adelaide Street, and the Howard Smith Wharves precinct.
The firm views Brisbane as a growth area, citing long-term demand drivers including infrastructure constraints and the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The project is scheduled for completion in early 2027. Once finished, 450 Queen Street is expected to serve as a model for low-carbon commercial redevelopment and workplace design in post-pandemic Brisbane.
The Tassis Group is hosting a charity dinner and auction in Brisbane CBD to raise support for their head chef recently diagnosed with motor neurone disease.
A charity dinner and silent auction will be held in Brisbane CBD to assist Jean-Luc Morcellet, the head chef at Pompette, who has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease. The Tassis Group, which operates Pompette, announced the initiative to support their colleague as he faces a terminal prognosis.
Charity Event at Pompette
The event will be hosted at Pompette, located within The Star Brisbane on William Street. Scheduled for 12 May at 6:30 p.m., the night will feature a four-course French banquet, a drinks package, and a silent auction. Tickets are priced at $250, with all funds raised going directly to Mr Morcellet’s ongoing care and treatment.
The auction will feature experiences and items donated by Tangalooma, Brisbane Broncos, Brisbane Lions, Brisbane Reds, and The Emporium Hotel. The Tassis Group will also contribute to the auction, including an exclusive yacht cruise titled “Bugs on the Bay” with founder Michael Tassis.
Role of Allo Creative
The event was organised with the support of Allo Creative, the agency managing the Tassis Group’s marketing efforts. The agency said the group had consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to community and family, values that shaped the decision to support Mr Morcellet in this way.
Photo Credit: Pompette Brisbane/Instagram
Living with MND
Mr Morcellet, who has worked in kitchens for over 40 years, has led the culinary team at Pompette since joining the group nearly two years ago. He now requires access to equipment such as a bi-pap machine and electric wheelchair. His wife will become his full-time carer as the disease progresses.
Mr Morcellet plans to return to France to be with his family in his final stage of life. Funds raised will assist with medical equipment, therapy, palliative care, and travel-related needs. Organisers described the fundraiser as an opportunity to honour his contribution to Brisbane’s hospitality industry.
Queen’s Wharf Brisbane is now home to a new mid-week market, offering fresh produce, street food and artisan goods for city workers and locals. The market launches on Thursday, 8 May 2025, and will run every Thursday from 8 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 100 George Street.
The Queen’s Wharf Brisbane market gives busy workers a place to relax, grab lunch and browse local goods close to the office. It builds on the success of other Brisbane City Markets known for their variety and support of local suppliers.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
Organisers say the Queen’s Wharf location brings new energy to Thursdays in the CBD, with seasonal street food, handmade goods and fresh produce. It offers workers a lively way to support small businesses on their lunch break.
What’s on Offer
Visitors to the Queen’s Wharf market can expect a changing mix of food vendors from across Brisbane, selling everything from German sausages to freshly baked cookies. Alongside the food stalls, there are handmade gifts, artisan homewares and bunches of seasonal flowers.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
The market also aims to support small producers and local makers, helping them reach a wider city audience. From a quick takeaway lunch to a last-minute birthday present, the market is designed to be practical, enjoyable and close to home.
Part of a Growing Market Network
Goodwill Projects, the team behind Brisbane City Markets, manages a number of popular markets across Queensland. The Queen’s Wharf addition marks the group’s third inner-city location, aimed at making markets a part of everyday city life.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
Set in the heart of one of Brisbane’s newest developments, the market is expected to attract workers, residents and passersby. Organisers hope it becomes a weekly habit for city-goers seeking more than a standard food court lunch.
Opening Day and Beyond
The grand opening on 8 May will feature the usual range of stalls, with some giveaways to mark the occasion. A market hamper worth $200 will be up for grabs, filled with products from participating stallholders. Entries close the day before, on Wednesday, 7 May 2025.
From then on, the market will be a weekly fixture each Thursday at Queen’s Wharf, offering a regular dose of food, creativity and connection in the middle of the city.
QUT health and medical researchers based in Brisbane CBD have secured more than $3.2 million in funding to advance clinical trials addressing rare diseases and improving healthcare interventions.
Addressing Rare Diseases and Improving Health Interventions
Researchers from Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in Brisbane CBD have received over $3.2 million through the 2023 MRFF Clinical Trials Activity scheme. The funding focuses on two main areas: rare cancers and diseases with unmet needs, and the development of effective health interventions.
The grants have been awarded to two major projects aiming to improve spinal care for rural children with scoliosis and to trial a low-cost medication for treating bronchiectasis in children.
The Team Behind: Scoliosis Remote Care Technology (ScoliDoc Project)
QUT Team (Across Schools of Engineering, Design, Nursing, Medicine, Education):
Associate Professor Paige Little (Lead)
Professor Marianella Chamorro-Koc (School of Design)
Professor Evonne Miller (School of Design, Queensland Health)
Professor Deborah Long (School of Nursing)
Professor Jed Duff (School of Nursing)
Dr Sarah Whitehouse (School of Medicine)
Dr Bridget Hughes (School of Education)
Adjunct Professor Geoffrey Askin (Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service)
Dr Sinduja Suresh (School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering)
Maree Izatt (School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering)
Adjunct Professor Robert Labrom – Associate Investigator
Other Institutions and Researchers:
Dr Kristopher Lundine (The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne) – Associate Investigator
Partner Organisations:
Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service
The 2023 Clinical Trials Activity grant opportunity, administered by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), supports projects that enhance access to effective, evidence-based healthcare. Grants were awarded across four research streams, with a maximum available funding of up to $5 million for clinical trials targeting rare diseases or comparative effectiveness of health interventions.
The initiative focuses on minimising ineffective treatments and expanding healthcare access, particularly for Australians affected by rare or neglected conditions.
Scoliosis Project Targeting Rural and Remote Areas
Associate Professor Paige Little from QUT’s School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering received $551,461.68 for the project “Geographically Equitable Spinal Care for Remote, Rural and Regional Children with Scoliosis: Smart Digital Strategies Linking Patients and Specialists.”
The project addresses challenges faced by children in remote areas, where around 30 per cent of Australians reside, in accessing early scoliosis care. QUT’s scoliosis research team, the only one dedicated to the condition in the southern hemisphere, has developed an AI-driven platform, ScoliDoc, enabling virtual consultations and early interventions without requiring patients to travel to metropolitan centres.
The Team Behind: Bronchiectasis Treatment Study (Colchicine Trial)
QUT (School of Medicine and AusHSI) Team:
Associate Professor Julie Marchant (Lead)
Professor Anne Chang AM
Professor Stephanie Yerkovich
Dr Vikas Goyal
Dr Hannah O’Farrell
Other Institutions and Researchers:
Professor Steven McPhail (School of Public Health and Social Work and AusHSI, QUT) – Associate Investigator
Professor Keith Grimwood (Griffith University)
Professor Hiran Selvadurai (Children’s Hospital at Westmead)
Professor Andre Schultz (University of Western Australia)
Mrs Lesley Versteegh (Menzies School of Health Research)
Associate Professor Katherine Baines (The University of Newcastle)
Associate Professor Anna Nathan (University of Malaya)
Professor Peter Morris (Menzies School of Health Research)
Dr Pamela Laird (University of Western Australia) – Associate Investigator
Partner Organisations:
Children’s Hospital at Westmead
Royal Darwin Hospital
Queensland Children’s Hospital
Perth Children’s Hospital
Pharmacor
Photo Credit: QUT
Trialling an Old Medication for Bronchiectasis
Associate Professor Julie Marchant, from QUT’s School of Medicine and the Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation (AusHSI), received $2,682,874.84 for a multicentre randomised controlled trial investigating colchicine’s efficacy for children with bronchiectasis.
Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition often neglected in clinical research. Current treatments rely heavily on antibiotics. This study will evaluate colchicine, a well-established, low-cost anti-inflammatory drug, as a potential adjunct therapy.
The research team includes academics from QUT, Griffith University, Children’s Hospital at Westmead, University of Western Australia, Menzies School of Health Research, The University of Newcastle, and University of Malaya, partnering with several leading Australian hospitals and health organisations.
Future Implications for Health Care Delivery
Both projects aim to validate innovative approaches that can transform healthcare delivery for children, particularly those living outside metropolitan areas. Outcomes from these trials could inform national clinical practice guidelines, improve patient access, and reduce long-term healthcare burdens.
The MRFF Clinical Trials Activity Initiative continues to play a critical role in strengthening Australia’s medical research capacity and healthcare system through targeted funding for clinical trials.
Brisbane-based indie band Ball Park Music, made up of five graduates from the Queensland University of Technology, has been selected to open for Oasis on their Australian tour.
The band was established in 2008 by a group of students studying at the Queensland University of Technology, located in Brisbane’s CBD. The line-up includes Sam Cromack, Jennifer Boyce, Paul Furness, Dean Hanson, and Daniel Hanson. Since their formation, the band has built a strong national profile, releasing eight studio albums and earning multiple award nominations.
Their early works were championed by national radio, with the band gaining traction through Triple J support. Over the years, they produced platinum-certified singles and critically acclaimed albums. Notably, their self-titled 2020 album reached number two on the ARIA charts, and their latest release, Like Love, debuted at number one.
Oasis Support Slot Announcement
The band announced via Instagram that they will support Oasis on five Australian stadium shows in Sydney and Melbourne. This follows confirmation from Oasis that their reunion tour will exclude Brisbane, despite fan interest. Being chosen to support Oasis offers a rare platform for an Australian band, in contrast to the usual trend of international acts bypassing local talent.
It was revealed during a television appearance that Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher personally selected Ball Park Music after hearing one of their songs. The band described the process of keeping the news under wraps as difficult, only recently able to speak publicly about the selection.
Local Music Industry and Public Reaction
Industry bodies such as the Association of Artist Managers have long called for more opportunities for Australian artists on international tours. Ball Park Music’s inclusion has been viewed as a win for this campaign. However, some Brisbane fans have expressed frustration that the city was left off the Oasis tour schedule, reigniting discussions about the city’s capacity to attract global acts.
Oasis will perform three shows at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne and two shows at Accor Stadium in Sydney later this year. There are no additional tour dates planned in other Australian cities due to scheduling constraints, according to promoters. Meanwhile, Ball Park Music’s role as support could signal future international exposure beyond the local stage.
A significant transformation is underway for a landmark Elizabeth Street property in the Brisbane CBD, with IHG Hotels & Resorts taking over management to establish the city’s first luxury InterContinental hotel.
The hotel, previously operated as a Hilton for nearly four decades and owned by ISPT, closed its doors recently. Under a new long-term management agreement with IHG, the property is scheduled for an initial reopening under the new management in early June. This marks the beginning of a substantial conversion project expected to last two years.
The extensive refurbishment programme will see the hotel upgraded to align with the luxurious standards associated with the InterContinental brand. Importantly, the project plans to honour the building’s heritage by retaining the original Modernist design features of renowned architect Harry Seidler.
Upon completion of the conversion, the hotel will offer 321 guest rooms, along with four restaurants and bars, and large conference and event facilities.
Integrating a New Precinct
A key part of the plan involves integrating the hotel with ISPT’s neighbouring Wintergarden shopping centre and the historic Regent Theatre. ISPT’s Head of Development, Tom Waters, indicated that this integration aims to create a vibrant new precinct for the Brisbane CBD, combining retail, dining, entertainment, and world-class accommodation.
He stated ISPT sought a brand like InterContinental that would represent luxury and become a cornerstone of this revitalised urban experience. Mr Waters added that ISPT and IHG share a vision to see the hotel completely revitalised.
For IHG, securing this property represents a significant step in expanding the InterContinental brand. IHG Hotels and Resorts Director of Development for Australasia and Pacific, Cameron Burke, noted the brand’s strong global and local reputation. He stated this is crucial for a market like Brisbane, which shows strong domestic visitor numbers and growing international interest, particularly looking ahead towards the 2032 Olympic Games.
Mr Burke mentioned the brand’s recent momentum, citing the transformation of InterContinental Sydney and openings or announcements for properties in Auckland and the Barossa Valley. He expressed pride in partnering with ISPT to rejuvenate the Brisbane asset.
Mr Burke also highlighted South East Queensland as a key strategic market for IHG, calling it one of Australia’s most dynamic hospitality hotspots. He pointed to the region’s strong population growth and major public infrastructure projects as drivers creating new hotel development opportunities.
He suggested that land values in the region, compared to Sydney and Melbourne, make South East Queensland particularly attractive for developers and investors over the coming decade. The Brisbane hotel will become the third InterContinental property in Queensland, joining resorts on Hayman Island and at Sanctuary Cove. IHG operates 69 hotels across Australasia under various brands, with another 26 planned.
Brisbane CBD will again host major ANZAC Day commemorations this year, continuing a tradition that began in the city in 1916. Events include the dawn service at the Shrine of Remembrance, a gunfire breakfast, and a veterans’ parade through the central business district.
Early Morning Service at the Shrine
The Dawn Service will commence at 4:28 a.m. at the Shrine of Remembrance in Anzac Square. Attendees are encouraged to arrive from 3:30 a.m. due to early road closures starting at 3 a.m. No nearby parking will be available.
This solemn observance will be followed by the long-held tradition of a gunfire breakfast, typically hosted at local RSL clubs. The breakfast reflects a wartime ritual where soldiers drank tea or coffee with rum before heading into battle.
The ANZAC Day Parade will run from 9:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. through Brisbane CBD. Spectators are advised that the best viewing point is along Adelaide Street, between George Street and Creek Street.
Vehicle movement in the area will be restricted from 3 a.m. to 3 p.m., with King George Square designated as the main parade venue. Participants will include current and former ADF members and support organisations.
Public Access to Memorial Spaces
Anzac Square Memorial Galleries will open from 5:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the day, offering visitors a chance to explore interactive displays and historical exhibitions spanning Queensland’s military involvement from World War I to recent peacekeeping missions.
The galleries, located below the Shrine, feature dedicated plaques, digital installations, and opportunities for the public to leave written tributes.
Photo Credit: Anzac Square
Additional Exhibits at Queensland Museum
From 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., the Queensland Museum will present the Anzac Legacy Gallery. Key exhibits include stories of Queenslanders in World War I and the Mephisto tank—captured by the 26th Battalion in France and transported to Brisbane as a war trophy.
No bookings are required to attend any of the events. The commemorations are free and open to all ages, with organisers encouraging public participation across the various locations in Brisbane CBD.
The Great Artist Market is set to return to Brisbane CBD this April, bringing together local artists, makers, and the community at Felons Barrel Hall. The popular riverside market will feature over 70 stalls, workshops, entertainment, and a range of food and drink options for attendees.
Great Artist Market Returns to Brisbane CBD: A Celebration of Creativity
The much-anticipated Great Artist Market is making a comeback to Brisbane CBD this April, promising a day filled with art, creativity, and community spirit. Set against the backdrop of the iconic Story Bridge at Felons Barrel Hall, the market will take place on Saturday, 5th April, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Bringing Local Art to the Heart of Brisbane
Hosted by Felons Barrel Hall, the Great Artist Market has established itself as a recurring community highlight, connecting local artists and makers with the people of Brisbane. This year, the event will be bigger than ever, featuring over 70 local artists offering a diverse range of handcrafted items, including sculptural jewellery, paper art, pottery, and clothing.
Claire Ritchie, the event’s curator, has carefully selected the participating artists to ensure high-quality, unique creations that showcase the talent within Brisbane’s creative community. The market will also include hands-on activities such as a beading workshop led by DIY Daisy, where participants can craft their own necklaces from second-hand beads.
Family-Friendly Fun and Entertainment
The Great Artist Market is designed to be family-friendly, offering entertainment and activities for all ages. Families can enjoy face painting, balloon twisting, and live acoustic music throughout the day. Pets are not allowed inside the market space, but the nearby Felons Rivergarden lawn will have stalls and dog-friendly activities, including Bad Pet Portraits for those wanting a unique keepsake of their furry companions.
Inside the Barrel Hall, Jet Black Cat Music will keep the atmosphere lively with feel-good vinyl sets. Visitors can also enjoy freshly brewed coffee from Allpress and baked goods from the TGAM baker. For those looking to enjoy a drink, mimosas and Felons’ signature Barrel Aged Beers will be available.
Felons Barrel Hall is located at 5 Boundary Street, within the Howard Smith Wharves precinct. The venue is accessible by foot from Brisbane CBD, by taxi or rideshare with a designated drop-off zone, and by bus or ferry, with the nearest terminal just metres away. There is also ample parking available, including spaces for those with disabilities.
The event is wheelchair accessible, with space for prams and mobility aids. Seating is provided in outdoor areas, and the full Felons Barrel Hall menu is available from 11 a.m.
Photo Credit: The Great Artist Market/Instagram
A Creative Hub for Brisbane
Felons Barrel Hall, known for its experimental space celebrating live music, art, and barrel-aged beer, is the perfect setting for this vibrant community event. The Great Artist Market not only supports local creatives but also encourages community involvement, drawing visitors from across Brisbane and beyond.
As Brisbane’s creative community continues to grow, the Great Artist Market offers a unique opportunity to support local artists while enjoying a family-friendly day out. Whether looking for one-of-a-kind artworks or a day of fun by the river, the event promises something for everyone.
The iconic Hilton Hotel, a landmark in the city’s centre above the Wintergarden complex, will close its doors on 31 March, 2025, after nearly four decades of operation, to make way for a new, unnamed, global luxury hotel operator.
The closure comes as the lease agreement between Hilton and the property’s owner, ISPT, ends. Hilton has confirmed that it will cease operations under its brand at the end of March. The company has expressed gratitude to its past and present staff for their contributions to the hotel and the wider Hilton brand in Australia.
They have also stated that they are working to support their team members through this transition, including collaborating with ISPT to explore potential employment opportunities at the hotel. ISPT has confirmed that the property will be retained and refurbished, with a new luxury hotel operator taking over the site.
Future Plans
ISPT has indicated that the hotel will close shortly before reopening under the new operator’s brand. A complete refurbishment of the hotel is scheduled for 2026, as part of a wider redevelopment of the Wintergarden complex. ISPT’s head of development, Tom Waters, stated that they are working through a transition process with Hilton and the new operator.
He added that they look forward to announcing the name of the new luxury hotel brand soon. The site also includes the Wintergarden shopping centre and Brisbane’s historic Regent Theatre.
The location is a part of a larger area of development. Construction of a 42-storey office block at 150 Elizabeth Street on a portion of the ISPT site is also underway. This new office tower will be partially elevated above the Wintergarden car park and integrated with the Hilton hotel’s existing rooftop space.
Hilton’s Continued Presence
Hilton has emphasised its continued commitment to Brisbane, despite the closure. The company is developing the 129-room Hilton Garden Inn Brisbane City Centre North in Spring Hill. Furthermore, Hilton Honours guests can access benefits at Ovolo the Valley in Brisbane through their partnership with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH).
