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IHG Hotels & Resorts Takes Over Key Brisbane CBD Hotel for InterContinental Rebranding

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.

New Management and Phased Reopening

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.

Major Conversion Project Planned

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.

Brand Strategy and Market Growth

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.

Focus on South East Queensland

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.

Published Date 21-April-2025

Dawn Service and Parade Lead ANZAC Day Events in Brisbane CBD

Photo Credit: Anzac Square

ANZAC Day 2025 will be marked with a full program of commemorative events in Brisbane CBD, including a dawn service, parade, and memorial exhibitions.

Centenary Traditions Observed Across Brisbane CBD

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.

Morning Parade Through Adelaide Street

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.

ANZAC Day — *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.

Community Participation Encouraged

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.

Published 15-Apr-2025

Brisbane CBD Hosts the Great Artist Market: Art, Food, and Family Fun

Photo Credit: The Great Artist Market/Instagram

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.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE MARKET

Getting There and Accessibility

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.

Brisbane local art — *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.

Final Thoughts

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.

Published 3-Apr-2025

Hilton Hotel located in Brisbane CBD to Shut Its Doors, New Luxury Operator to Take Over

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.

Closure and Transition

Hilton Hotel located in Brisbane CBD to Shut Its Doors, New Luxury Operator to Take Over — *Photo Credit:* *Hilton Brisbane*

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.

Ongoing Development in the Area

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).

Published Date 14-March-2025

E-Scooter Storage Mishap Leaves Brisbane Driver Stranded Before Cyclone Alfred

Photo Credit: Will Lawson/Facebook

A Brisbane driver found himself trapped in a bizarre parking predicament ahead of Cyclone Alfred after returning to find his car completely surrounded by hundreds of e-scooters. In an effort to protect the scooters from the incoming storm, companies had densely packed them in an alleyway, inadvertently blocking the driver’s vehicle.

Trapped in an E-Scooter Maze

As Brisbane braced for the arrival of Cyclone Alfred, preparations took an unexpected turn when one driver discovered his car wholly wedged in Lime and Neuron e-scooters in an alleyway. Viral footage captured the driver painstakingly moving each scooter to create a path of escape.

The mass relocation of e-scooters was part of an emergency effort to shelter them from the impending extreme weather. However, this led to an unforeseen consequence for one unfortunate motorist, whose vehicle became trapped amid rows of tightly packed scooters. After a laborious effort and assistance from a Neuron staff member, the driver eventually freed his car.

E-Scooter Storage Mishap — *Photo Credit: iyamdavey via Brisbane*

Why Were the Scooters Moved?

Both Lime and Neuron confirmed they had temporarily suspended their Brisbane services and removed thousands of e-scooters from the streets to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles during the cyclone. Neuron relocated 2,500 scooters to various storage locations, while Lime took similar precautions.

According to Neuron, the overflow storage site was a car park space rented from a management company, which had ordered all vehicles to be removed. With only one car left behind, staff assumed it was abandoned—until the driver returned to the chaotic scene.

Public Reactions and Concerns

Footage of the incident quickly gained traction online, with many social media users applauding the driver’s patience and determination. The viral post humorously likened the situation to a video game challenge, comparing the driver’s struggle to “playing real-life Frogger.”

While the relocation of scooters was intended to enhance public safety, some residents raised concerns that, if not properly secured, the e-scooters could still become hazardous debris in the event of severe winds.

Brisbane Driver Stranded — *Photo Credit: iyamdavey via Brisbane*

Looking Ahead

With the worst of Cyclone Alfred now past, Brisbane is in recovery mode. While transport services are gradually resuming, authorities urge patience as cleanup efforts continue. Residents are reminded to monitor official updates for further disruptions and safety warnings.

Latest Updates on Cyclone Alfred’s Impact

Updated: 10 March 2025, 04:02 p.m.

Major Flood Warnings Still in Place

Queensland authorities have issued flood warnings for major waterways, including the Bremer River, Logan and Albert Rivers, and Lockyer Creek. Residents in flood-prone areas are urged to remain cautious.

Record-Breaking Rainfall and Flooding

Brisbane recorded its highest daily rainfall ever, with 275mm falling in just 24 hours. Other affected areas included Carole Park (331mm), Karalee (296mm), and Mt Gravatt (272mm). Flash flooding submerged roads, cut off suburbs, and left vehicles stranded.

Supermarket Shortages and Panic Buying

Most Coles and Woolworths stores in Brisbane have reopened, but essentials such as bottled water, long-life milk, and meat remain in short supply. More than 300 truckloads of stock have been dispatched to restock shelves.

Widespread Power and Internet Outages

Over 192,000 homes in Queensland and northern NSW remain without internet due to power failures. The NBN has deployed Wi-Fi satellite kits to affected towns, with major outages still reported in southeast Queensland.

BCC Service Disruptions

Several council services and public facilities remain impacted due to Cyclone Alfred.

Business & Government Facilities: The Brisbane Business Hub, City Hall, and community halls remain closed. City Hall tours, Museum of Brisbane exhibitions, and scheduled performances have been postponed indefinitely.
Libraries: Some libraries, including Ashgrove, Brisbane Square, Carindale, Chermside, Garden City, Indooroopilly, Sunnybank Hills, and West End, are open. Others, such as Annerley, Carina, Kenmore, Toowong, and Wynnum, remain closed. Operating hours may vary.
Transport: CityCat and KittyCat ferry services are still suspended, and most bus routes are not operational. Footpaths on the Story Bridge are also closed for safety reasons.
Waste & Recovery Services: Routine bin collection has resumed, but repair services are on hold. Resource recovery centres at Chandler and Ferny Grove are open, while Nudgee and Willawong centres remain closed.
Parks & Recreation: All mountain bike tracks at Mt Coot-tha and Gap Creek remain shut. Water play areas in playgrounds have been disabled, and most public pools remain closed, except for a few such as Carole Park Pool and select indoor facilities.
Emergency & Community Support: Immunisation clinics, Brisbane Greeter tours, and active and healthy classes are suspended until at least March 11. Outdoor community cinema events and Riverstage events are under review pending weather conditions.

Contact Information for Further Updates

For official updates and emergency information, residents are advised to use the following resources:

EMERGENCY DASHBOARD

BCC: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or contact 07 3403 8888
Queensland Traffic Updates: www.QLDtraffic.qld.gov.au or contact 13 19 40
Public Transport Updates: www.translink.com.au or contact 13 12 30
Bureau of Meteorology (Weather & Flood Warnings): www.bom.gov.au
SES Queensland (Flood & Storm Emergency Help): Contact 132 500
Energex (Power Outages & Restoration Updates): Contact 13 62 62

Published 10-Mar-2025

Brisbane CBD Records Highest Crime Rate in the City– What’s Behind the Numbers?

Brisbane’s Central Business District (CBD) has recorded the highest crime rate among all suburbs in the city, highlighting ongoing concerns about safety and security in one of the city’s busiest areas.

Read: Reviving Queen Street Mall: Will Proposed Upgrades Ever Happen?

According to the Queensland Police Service’s Online Crime Map, Brisbane City recorded a total of 2,322 offences between 7 December 2024 and 6 March 2025. However, data indicates a downward trend in offences, with the majority occurring last December.

While it’s commonly believed that crime surges during the holiday season, there is no conclusive evidence proving December is inherently the most crime-prone month. Factors such as increased shopping activity, travel, and crowded public spaces may contribute to this perception. Additionally, statistics show that Fridays saw the highest number of reported crimes, with most incidents taking place between 2:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m.

Breaking Down the Numbers

Photo credit: Queensland Police Service/Facebook

The high crime figures in the CBD are largely influenced by its bustling nature, with thousands of commuters, tourists, and residents passing through daily. The key contributors to crime in the area include:

Theft: Pickpocketing and shoplifting are prevalent due to the large crowds and busy shopping areas.
Assaults: Alcohol-fueled violence, especially on weekends, is a major concern in nightlife precincts.
Property Crimes: High-density living and a transient population contribute to break-ins, fraud, and other property-related offences.

Fortitude Valley Follows Closely Behind

In the same three-month period (7 December 2024 and 6 March 2025), Fortitude Valley recorded approximately 1,501 offences. The Valley is well known for its entertainment scene, but it also faces challenges related to crime, particularly:

Theft & Assaults: Alcohol-related fights, muggings, and street crime are common.
Anti-Social Behaviour: Drug use, vandalism, and public disturbances contribute to an unpredictable environment.

Unlike the CBD, where most offences occurred in December, Fortitude Valley saw its highest number of cases in January, with drug-related crimes appearing more prevalent in the area. Additionally, statistics show that Saturday had the highest number of reported crimes, with many incidents taking place between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

Perception vs. Reality

While Brisbane CBD has the highest crime rate, it does not necessarily make it the most dangerous suburb, according to O’Brien Criminal and Civil Solicitors. The high figures reflect the sheer volume of people in the area rather than an extreme risk to individuals. Most crimes involve theft and property offences rather than violent crimes against random individuals.

Read: Fortitude Valley Faces Major Parking Cuts Under New Housing Rules

Authorities continue to implement safety measures, including increased police patrols and CCTV monitoring, to ensure public safety in both the CBD and Fortitude Valley.

For residents and visitors, being aware of surroundings, avoiding risky areas at night, and taking precautions with valuables can go a long way in staying safe.

Published 7-March-2025

Pumpkin’s Patch: Transforming Grief into Green Space in Brisbane CBD

Photo Credit: Book An Artist/Duncan

“Pumpkin’s Patch,” a dog park dedicated to service dogs in Brisbane CBD, was born from the grief of Peter Withey, who wanted to honour his beloved dog, Pumpkin.

What started as a heartfelt tribute has grown into a community hub for dogs and their owners in need of a safe space in the city.

A Tribute to Pumpkin

For Peter Withey, the loss of his three-year-old Shar Pei, Pumpkin, was deeply felt. She wasn’t just a pet; she was his constant companion and a source of comfort during difficult times. When Pumpkin was tragically killed by a car in 2022, Withey wanted to do something meaningful to remember her.

*Image for Illustration Purposes only*
Photo Credit: *Chewy*

Looking out his office window, he realised this underused space could become much more. It was the perfect place for a dog park—a tribute to Pumpkin that could also benefit the wider community.

From Wasteland to Dog Park

The change was nothing short of incredible. The fully enclosed dog park, featuring a mural of Pumpkin, a lush botanical garden, picnic tables, and plenty of room for service dogs to run and play. Withey’s vision transformed an overlooked area into a vital space for dogs and their owners in a city that sorely lacked such facilities.

Whitey, the managing director of an independent NDIS plan management company, is always committed to creating an inclusive workplace. His company is unique in its policy to ensure that 15 percent of the workforce is made up of people with disabilities.

However, Peter noticed a problem. His employees who used guide dogs had to navigate busy streets just to find a place for their dogs to relieve themselves. Realising this wasn’t good enough, he felt compelled to act. “We can do better than that.”

Pumpkin’s Patch: A Legacy for the Disability Community

The park’s impact extends far beyond Peter’s personal grief. His daughter, Celeste Rosewood, who is gradually losing her vision due to Stargardt disease, sees the park as an important initiative for people with disabilities.

Rosewood was proud of her dad for doing the initiative. She believes more parks like this across Australia would benefit both the disability community and the wider public. As this offers safe spaces for service dogs and much-needed green areas for everyone to enjoy.

The Need for More Green Spaces

Urban planner Tony Matthews from Griffith University points out that many smaller, pocket-sized parks are being replaced by new developments.

He emphasises that green spaces are essential for any city, ranking among its most critical needs. He believes councils should actively explore every possible opportunity to expand these areas, especially in locations that currently lack greenery, such as alleyways. Even as little as 50 square metres, can be repurposed to create valuable public spaces.

Whether for people with disabilities, service dogs, or anyone in need of a peaceful space, this little corner offers a place to unwind. A powerful reminder that we can all contribute to making our cities more inclusive and welcoming for everyone.

Published 19-Feb-2025

Brisbane’s Own Greg Norman Takes on a New Challenge—Shaping the 2032 Olympics

Brisbane’s Olympic preparations are gaining a homegrown boost, with Greg Norman joining the Games’ organising team. The committee, operating out of Brisbane City, is at the centre of the city’s Olympic vision.

Read: Roar vs Wellington Phoenix: Brisbane Look to End Losing Streak, Reignite Title Push

Local Connection Runs Deep for Former World No.1

For Brisbane residents, Norman’s ties to the city run deeper than many realise. Before becoming the “Great White Shark” who dominated world golf for 331 weeks as World No. 1, he honed his skills in Brisbane’s northern suburbs. He worked at the Royal Queensland Golf Club, which fittingly will serve as the venue for the Olympic golf events in 2032.

Reflecting on the appointment, Norman said, “In my youth in the ’70s, I worked in the golf shop at Royal Queensland. Now that course will be the home of golf at Brisbane 2032.”

Greg Norman, a Strategic Appointment for Brisbane’s Global Ambitions

Minister for Sport Anika Wells highlighted Norman’s ability to contribute to Brisbane’s Olympic ambitions, citing his four decades of global sporting experience and business acumen. The appointment comes as Norman transitions from his role as CEO of LIV Golf, bringing fresh strategic insight to the organising committee.

OCOG President Andrew Liveris reinforced the significance of his involvement, stating, “What better Queensland sports brand than Greg Norman? He will help elevate our state and our city on the global stage over the next seven years.”

Business Expertise Meets Sporting Legacy

Beyond his sporting achievements, Norman brings substantial business expertise to the role. As chairman and CEO of the Greg Norman Company, he has overseen successful ventures in apparel, interior design, real estate, and golf course design – experience that could prove invaluable in Brisbane’s Olympic development.

Norman replaces retiring politician Graham Perrett MP on the 24-person organizing board, with his first OCOG meeting scheduled for 5 April. The appointment represents a significant boost for Brisbane’s Olympic preparations, bringing together local knowledge and global expertise.

Read: New Vision for Waterfront Pavilion, A Key Element of Waterfront Brisbane

For Brisbane, Norman’s appointment bridges the city’s sporting heritage with its Olympic future. As preparations for the 2032 Games continue to transform the city, having a local figure of Norman’s calibre on board offers both practical expertise and symbolic significance.

Speaking to the aspirations of his hometown, he affirmed, “We will prove our credentials as world leaders in events, sport, and hospitality at Brisbane 2032 and create an incredible legacy for this state.”

Published 31-January-2025

Queensland Country Bank Secures Prime Location in Brisbane CBD’s ‘Golden Triangle’

Queensland Country Bank is set to strengthen its presence in Southeast Queensland by acquiring a $19 million commercial building at 247 Adelaide Street in Brisbane.

Read: Fortitude Valley’s Hotel X Joins Brookfield’s Asia-Pacific Real Estate Holdings

The 3,044 sqm property is located in the heart of Brisbane’s vibrant “Golden Triangle” commercial precinct, adjacent to the Post Office Square.

Photo credit: Queensland Country Bank/Google Maps

The newly acquired building will serve as the future home of the bank’s Brisbane-based administrative teams and a planned CBD branch. Colliers Queensland, which negotiated the sale, confirmed that the property will complement Queensland Country Bank’s Townsville head office. The building’s remaining space will be leased to existing tenants, generating a steady income stream for the bank.

CEO Aaron Newman expressed the strategic importance of this acquisition:
“The building acquisition was necessary to support the Bank’s strong growth across Queensland, particularly in the South East corner, as it pursues its vision to be Queensland’s best regional bank.”

About the Queensland Country Bank

Queensland Country Bank, originally established in 1971 as Isa Mine Employee’s Credit Union Limited in Mount Isa, has a rich history of supporting Queenslanders. By the late 1970s, its member-owned model had gained traction, expanding to serve employees of Pioneer Sugar in North Queensland. Over the decades, the bank broadened its membership eligibility, services, and branch locations, transforming into a state-wide member-owned bank.

Read: Valley Entrepreneurs Shine at Brisbane’s Multicultural Business Awards

This latest expansion marks another milestone in Queensland Country Bank’s mission to serve communities across the state. With the new Adelaide Street location, the bank is well-positioned to continue its legacy of growth while offering convenient and accessible services to its members in Brisbane’s CBD.

Published 27-December-2024

Step Back in Time at Caxton Street’s Velveteen Rabbit

If you’re on the hunt for a venue that blends vintage charm with creative flair, Velveteen Rabbit on Caxton Street might just be your new favourite spot. This modern take on a 1920s bar and bottle shop is more than meets the eye, featuring a whimsical hidden cocktail bar and spaces designed for every kind of gathering.

Read: Riverbar and Kitchen Serves Up ‘Gin-gle Bar,’ A Cocktail Lover’s Christmas Playground

Step Inside the Magic

Velveteen Rabbit offers a range of enchanting spaces to explore. The Mad Hatter Lounge is a cozy retreat perfect for intimate gatherings, from sip-and-paint parties to smaller celebrations. For a more relaxed experience, head to The Meadow, where you can dine in air-conditioned comfort before venturing further.

But the real hidden gem is The Rabbit Hole, a speakeasy cocktail bar tucked beneath the venue. With its cave-like ambiance, this subterranean escape opens to the public at 4:30 PM daily, unless booked for private events.

A Culinary Wonderland

The menu at Velveteen Rabbit is a testament to local and seasonal produce, with Head Chef Kyle McNamara crafting dishes that are as inventive as they are delicious. Collaborating with local farmers like Tommerup’s Dairy Farm and Harry’s Paddock, the offerings rotate with the seasons.

Highlights include the steak sandwich and the intriguingly named pork and cheddar donut—a sourdough creation with slow-cooked pork. For a playful twist, try the KFC carrots, which come with fermented chili and house-made sour cream.

A New Addition to Caxton Street

Since opening in October, the restaurant has quickly established itself as a go-to destination for lovers of retro aesthetics and exceptional food. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast or winding down with a cocktail, the venue is a versatile choice for any occasion.

Read: Valley Entrepreneurs Shine at Brisbane’s Multicultural Business Awards

With its seamless blend of nostalgia, creativity, and community spirit, Velveteen Rabbit isn’t just a bar—it’s an experience worth diving into.

Published 4-December-2024