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).
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
Photo credit: QPS Online Crime Map
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
Photo credit: QPS Online Crime Map
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.
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.
“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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
Photo credit: Google Street View
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
Photo credit: G P/Google Maps
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photo credit: Velveteen Rabbit/Facebook
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
Photo credit: Velveteen Rabbit/Facebook
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.
As the holiday season rapidly approaches, the Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) is launching its highly anticipated annual Christmas Catalogue for 2024, offering shoppers in Brisbane and beyond a chance to support the iconic Australian marsupial.
Headquartered in the heart of Brisbane CBD at Level 1, 40 Charlotte Street, the AKF is gearing up for a successful festive sales period, with all proceeds going towards its mission of protecting and preserving the nation’s beloved koala population.
The 2024 AKF Christmas Catalogue features a diverse range of carefully curated items, from children’s toys and homewares to classic stocking fillers. Shoppers can also opt to purchase a koala adoption, plant a tree, or donate to the foundation as a meaningful gift for their loved ones.
The foundation encourages Brisbane residents and Australians nationwide to start their holiday shopping early to ensure their purchases arrive in time. The international shipping cutoff is Friday, November 22, and the domestic cutoff is Friday, December 6.
The 2024 AKF Christmas Catalogue is now available online, offering shoppers a convenient way to support the foundation’s vital work while ticking items off their holiday shopping list.
The iconic Victory Hotel, Brisbane City’s oldest pub, is poised for a multimillion-dollar transformation. A development application has been submitted, outlining plans to breathe new life into this historic venue, which has been a cornerstone of Brisbane’s CBD since 1885.
Architects bureau^proberts and interior designers S.Shyne are at the helm of this redevelopment, working in close collaboration with renowned heritage architect Ruth Woods to ensure the plans honour the site’s rich history.
Liam Proberts, Managing and Creative Director of bureau^proberts, emphasised the importance of preserving the hotel’s legacy while adapting to modern needs. “The Victory has lived through many eras, including the 1980s boom of the beer garden, and has been able to maintain its reputation as one of the most popular places in Brisbane because of its adaptability and prime location in the CBD,” Proberts stated.
The redevelopment plans include innovative features that will showcase the building’s original structure. Dan Liddy, Lead Designer at bureau^proberts, highlighted that patrons will be able to appreciate the hotel’s historic elements while enjoying Brisbane’s outdoor climate from the beer garden or rooftop bar.
Precision Group Leasing Executive Rory O’Brien expressed excitement about the project’s potential to elevate the Victory Hotel into a “world-class destination” that will attract visitors from across Australia and internationally.
The refurbishment is expected to play a crucial role in the ongoing evolution of Brisbane’s CBD, complementing other major developments in the area such as the transformation of Eagle Street Pier, Queen’s Wharf precinct, and Howard Smith Wharves.
Athena Hospitality Group, led by founder Michael Dixon, has secured a long-term lease on the Victory Hotel and is partnering with Precision Group on the redevelopment. Dixon emphasised their commitment to creating an “amazing venue that tells a story over numerous levels” while respecting the hotel’s heritage.
The project also underscores Precision Group’s broader investment in Brisbane’s CBD. The company has recently completed a $45 million refurbishment of the adjacent office tower at 144 Edward Street, which now boasts a 5.5-Star Nabers Rating and has introduced new dining options to the area.
As e-scooter use surges in Brisbane, particularly in the crowded CBD, riders may not realise that misusing these devices could result in severe penalties, including losing their driver’s licence.
With thousands of people now choosing e-scooters for quick transport through the city, authorities are cracking down on unsafe practices. Incidents like speeding, riding under the influence, and neglecting safety rules are being met with increasing legal consequences.
E-scooters have become a fixture of Brisbane’s streets and footpaths, especially in the CBD, where the number of users has rapidly grown. Riders zipping between pedestrians and cyclists are a common sight. However, this rise in popularity has brought with it a range of safety concerns. With many riders unaware that Queensland’s traffic laws apply to e-scooters just as they do to cars and motorbikes, local authorities are issuing stronger penalties for dangerous behaviour.
A Stark Example
One well-known example of the risks associated with e-scooter misuse is the case of Owen Bagi, who lost his driver’s licence for six months after being caught speeding on his e-scooter. Mr Bagi was filmed riding his Dragon Warrior X11 e-scooter—capable of reaching speeds of 100 km/h—without a helmet in September 2022, flying past a cyclist on a bikeway near the Western Freeway.
At the time, Mr Bagi was on his way to work and later admitted in court to reaching speeds over 90 km/h, though he claimed he was travelling at 48 km/h when he passed the cyclist. The court charged him with the dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, resulting in a six-month suspension of his driver’s licence. This significant penalty underscored how seriously authorities take e-scooter violations.
Growing Safety and Congestion Concerns in Brisbane CBD
As the number of e-scooter riders increases in Brisbane’s CBD, public safety concerns are becoming more pronounced. Riders share footpaths and bike lanes with pedestrians and cyclists, leading to occasional collisions and near misses. The situation has created its kind of congestion, as e-scooter riders compete for limited space on busy streets and walkways.
The rapid adoption of e-scooters has forced authorities to rethink how to manage this new form of mobility. Queensland’s laws are clear: riders must not exceed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.15, must adhere to speed limits (generally 25 km/h on bike paths and local roads), and must always wear helmets.
Failure to comply with these rules can result in hefty fines, court appearances, and, as seen in Bagi’s case, the loss of a driver’s licence. Despite these laws, enforcing them across many riders remains challenging, prompting the community and local government to call for tighter regulation.
Photo Credit: BrisbaneCityCouncil/Facebook
Cancellation of Beam’s Licence
In an effort to better regulate the surge in e-scooter use, Brisbane recently cancelled the operating licence of Beam, one of the city’s main e-scooter providers. The decision came after an investigation revealed that Beam had systematically exceeded its daily vehicle cap by 500 scooters, a violation the company disputes. The council, however, chose to terminate Beam’s contract, making Brisbane the first Australian city to take such action against an e-scooter operator.
Transport chair Cr Ryan Murphy confirmed that Beam’s devices would be progressively removed from Brisbane’s streets, and a replacement operator would be sought. Mr Murphy reassured the public that the e-scooter scheme itself was not in danger, and that the focus was on ensuring that operators comply with agreed-upon safety and operational standards.
Brisbane’s move to cancel Beam’s licence is part of a broader national conversation about the role of e-scooters in urban transport. Other councils, such as the Sunshine Coast, have recently voted to end e-scooter trials due to safety concerns, while Melbourne has faced ongoing debates about banning the devices altogether. Townsville in North Queensland also cancelled its agreement with Beam in early September.
