Brisbane City Archives - Fortitude Valley News

Multi-Level Dining Precinct to Transform Heritage Site in Brisbane City

The Coal Board building, a heritage-listed building in the Brisbane CBD, is set to be transformed into a multi-level dining precinct and hospitality hub.

The former Coal Board Building, located at 169 Mary Street, has a rich history dating back to 1887-1888 when it was constructed as a warehouse for Queensland pastoralists and city officials William Allan and William Graham.

Brisbane City Heritage Site — *Photo Credit: DA/A006671505*

The land was originally granted to John Balfour in 1852, before being acquired by Allan in 1885, with Graham joining as co-owner in 1887. Both men were involved in several business ventures, including the Royal Bank of Queensland, established in 1885, and their partnership with BD Morehead & Co. Designed by architect Richard Gailey, the building reflects the rapid commercial expansion of Brisbane during the 1880s.

Its location near the wharves of the Brisbane River made it a key part of the warehouse precinct that emerged in the area, alongside other notable buildings such as the Metro Arts Building and Spencer’s Building.

Over the years, the building has housed a variety of tenants, including J & B Sniders, importers of china and glass, and McMurtie & Co., boot manufacturers. In recent years, the site has been home to hospitality venues such as the Buffalo Bar, reflecting the area’s evolving commercial landscape.

Brisbane City dining precinct — *Photo Credit: DA/A006671505*

Breathing New Life Into Historic Spaces

The transformation of the 130-year-old Coal Board Building is being spearheaded by Anyday Group, known for popular venues like Agnes, Honto, Same Same, Bianca, and Agnes Bakery.

Based on the development application (A006671505) submitted to BCC, the building would soon house a multi-level dining precinct featuring multiple distinct restaurants and bars.

The architectural design is being handled by J.AR Office, recognised for their work on Central, Gerard’s Bistro, and the newly opened Norte and Sueno, with interiors curated by Tamsin Johnson, whose signature style can be seen in Rae’s Guesthouse in Byron.

Brisbane City Heritage Site transforms to dining area — *Photo Credit: DA/A006671505*

The proposed development aims to retain and adapt the historic building’s architectural elements while introducing new uses that cater to the dynamic hospitality scene of Brisbane City. The approved plans include:

Preserving the building’s iconic late Victorian façade and original brick archways.
Reversing the previous plan to enclose existing arched openings within the internal party wall on Levels 1 and 2, ensuring open circulation.
Introducing a window-style wall opening on Level 1 to enhance staff visibility and serving efficiency.
Removing a previously approved rectilinear wall opening on Level 2, as it is no longer required for internal circulation.

Level 1 floor plan for new dining area at 169 Mary Street — *Photo Credit: DA/A006671505*

Level 2 floor plan for new dining area at 169 Mary Street — *Photo Credit: DA/A006671505*

Archway inside the heritage building — *Photo Credit: DA/A006671505*

Exploring Alternatives: A Careful Balancing Act

169 Mary Street heritage site proposed building plans — *Photo Credit: DA/A006671505*

Earlier proposals included fully enclosing the internal archways to create separate commercial spaces; however, the current plan prioritises maintaining open circulation to enhance the visitor experience while respecting the building’s historical integrity.

What to Expect Next

With approvals in place, construction work is expected to commence in the coming months, focusing on preserving the site’s architectural significance while ensuring compliance with heritage regulations.

The new multi-level dining precinct is anticipated to open in 2025, offering a unique blend of heritage charm and contemporary hospitality experiences.

Published 21-Jan-2025

Heritage at Risk? Stock Exchange Hotel in Brisbane City Caught in Development Tug-of-War

Photo Credit: DA A006671744

The fate of the 161-year-old Stock Exchange Hotel in Brisbane City hangs in the balance following an unexpected shift in the landowner’s stance on a proposed redevelopment.

The iconic pub, a fixture in the city’s landscape for over a century and a half, is now subject to a new development application that seeks to expand the area slated for demolition.

Developer JGL Projects recently submitted revised plans to the Brisbane City Council, requesting permission to increase the scope of demolition at the rear of the historic structure. This change, supported by the current property owner, the Archdiocese of Brisbane, would remove a two-story section currently used as a bar and storage area.

According to urban planning firm Urbis, the proposed demolition would affect an area approximately 6 metres deep and 15 metres long, extending into the roof space. However, a heritage assessment conducted by architect Luke Pendergast contends that the modifications would not diminish the building’s heritage value.

Pendergast argues that the area has undergone significant alterations, obscuring original architectural features. He believes that while remnants of the original structure may exist, they are no longer visible or historically significant in their current state.

Intriguingly, this latest development departs from the Archdiocese’s previous position. In 2016, when the building was under different ownership, the Archdiocese objected to a proposal to demolish nearly 80 percent of the structure. At that time, concerns about the impact on neighbouring buildings and the lack of clarity regarding the final development plans were raised.

However, since acquiring the property in 2019, the Archdiocese has made multiple applications to extend the demolition approval period.

The current application documents do not specify what will replace the demolished sections of the hotel, leaving the future of this Brisbane City landmark uncertain.

Published Date 28-December-2024

Cross River Rail Debate Intensifies Amid Cost and Timeline Dispute

Initially promised to open in 2026 with a $5.4 billion budget, the Cross River Rail project now faces allegations of cost blowouts to $17 billion and a delayed operational date (2029), causing heated debates and conflicting explanations.

Conflicting Timelines and Costs

Current officials have stated that the Cross River Rail will not be ready for passengers until 2029 due to delays in construction, equipment installation, and an extensive certification process by the National Rail Safety Regulator. However, the regulator disputed this claim, clarifying that project managers are responsible for certification timelines and are limited to assessing submitted safety evidence.

Officials further attributed part of the delay to construction issues, including stalled work on fire and signalling systems and delays in building new trains. However, the previous administration has countered these claims, maintaining that the project remains on track for a 2026 opening.

Opposition spokesman Bart Mellish stated that assertions of a 2029 completion date are misleading and that the government should provide evidence for its revised timeline.

Breakdown of Costs

According to the LNP, the tunnel is expected to cost $10.5 billion, including 25 years of maintenance. An additional $5 billion has been attributed to integration works, signalling upgrades, stabling yards, and replacement bus services, while $1.5 billion is linked to contractor claims and cost overruns. This brings the total to $17 billion, a figure far exceeding the original budget of $5.4 billion set by the previous administration.

Labor has condemned this accounting approach, claiming that factoring in long-term maintenance costs and irrelevant expenditures, like buses for South East Queensland, exaggerates the project’s overall cost. Mr Mellish suggested that no government or business includes the full lifecycle costs of an asset in its construction budget.

The discussion around the project has centred on differing interpretations of the costs and timeline. Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg indicated that $5 billion in additional costs, including integration works, maintenance equipment, and buses, were identified after the change in government. The opposition has questioned the inclusion of these expenses in the project’s total cost and has expressed concern over the revised 2029 timeline, asserting that a 2026 opening is still feasible.

Impact on Infrastructure and Public Services

Cross River Rail project delays have broader implications for Brisbane’s transport network. Experts have warned that pushing back the opening could exacerbate congestion, particularly at choke points such as the Inner City Bypass. Plans to improve the Beenleigh and Cleveland rail lines may also be delayed.

Despite the controversies, once operational, the project is expected to provide significant benefits, including faster travel times for commuters and university students.

The Cross River Rail Authority, tasked with managing the project, referred all queries about costs and timelines to the Transport Minister’s office.

Published 12-Dec-2024

QUT Sees Mixed Results in Global Rankings for 2024

Photo Credit: Picture Perfect/Google Maps

Queensland University of Technology (QUT), located in Brisbane City, experienced mixed performance in two major global rankings. It fell between 201 and 250 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings while improving to 213th in the QS World University Rankings.

These 2024 rankings show a slight decline in the Times Higher Education ranking, where QUT dropped from 199th in 2023, but a marginal improvement in the QS ranking, which rose from 222nd last year.

Sources indicate that QUT’s performance aligns with a broader downward trend among Australian universities, with factors like reduced funding and diminishing international research partnerships cited as major concerns. Despite these challenges, QUT remains well-regarded for its strong programs, particularly in communication and media studies, which ranked 19th globally in the QS subject rankings for 2023.

QUT — *Photo Credit: Alex Kung/Google Maps*

Academic Strengths and International Outlook

QUT continues to perform well in various disciplines, such as engineering and nursing, but the drop in global rankings signals growing issues that extend beyond individual program success.

Like many Australian universities, QUT has faced difficulties maintaining its international presence, which is particularly concerning given its focus on attracting international students and fostering global research collaborations. Recent reports suggest that the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and financial constraints have impacted its ability to remain competitive on the world stage.

QUT’s decline in rankings reflects larger concerns across Australia’s higher education sector. A global higher education expert, Phil Baty, has pointed out that many Australian universities are losing ground internationally due to reduced funding and weaker international collaborations. Additionally, proposed caps on international student enrolments from 2025 may further affect QUT’s income and global standing. Baty suggests that such caps could diminish Australia’s reputation as a destination for higher education.

QUT — *Photo Credit: Phạm Đình Quang/Google Maps*

Community and Industry Engagement

QUT has built its reputation on practical, hands-on education, connecting students with industry through internships and real-world projects. This approach remains a key part of QUT’s strategy, and the university continues to nurture strong ties with the business community.

However, broader sector-wide issues are affecting its global reputation, which could undermine its ability to maintain these important industry links. Whilst QUT remains a significant player in Australian education, its recent performance in global rankings highlights the challenges it faces in an increasingly competitive and financially constrained higher education environment.

Published 13-Oct-2024

Oldest Brisbane Pub Victory Hotel Set for Major Transformation

Photo Credit: Development.i / Application Number: A006435805

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.

The ambitious project, spearheaded by Precision Group, aims to reimagine the Victory Hotel as four distinct venues:

A sports bar and beer garden
A rooftop garden bar
A steak house restaurant
A basement ‘speakeasy’ style bar with a gaming room

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.

Subject to approvals, work on the Victory Hotel redevelopment is expected to commence in early 2025.

Published 2-October-2024

Seasonal Fruit Hits Felons Barrel Hall for Spring Edition

Photo Credit: oztix.com.au

Seasonal Fruit gears up for its Spring Edition on Friday, August 30, 2024 at Felons Barrel Hall, Howard Smith Wharves, promising an evening of vibrant Australian indie music to usher in the new season.

Organized by Felons Brewing Co. and Jet Black Cat Music, the festival will showcase a diverse lineup of up-and-coming and established Australian acts. The Spring Edition features performances by Gut Health, Clamm, Parsnip, Radium Dolls, and Gimmy, representing a mix of indie, rock, punk, and psychedelic genres.

Gates open at 6 PM, with live music kicking off at 7:20 PM. The carefully curated schedule will see each act take the stage for hour-long sets, culminating in a headline performance by Gut Health at 11:20 PM.

First-release tickets are sold out, with general admission currently available at $36.50. Organizers advise that the event is strictly for those 18 years and over.

get your tickets here!

In a nod to the festival’s name, Seasonal Fruit, organizers promise to deliver the “freshest produce” in Australian music, showcasing emerging talent alongside more established acts right in Felons Barrel Hall.

Published 27-August-2024

Treasury Casino in Brisbane City Closes After Three Decades

The Treasury Casino in Brisbane City closed for the final time, marking the end of a 30-year era as the city’s sole 24-hour gambling venue.

The closure occurred on 25 August 2024, just days before the planned opening of The Star Brisbane casino at the new Queen’s Wharf precinct. About 70 staff members had been with the Treasury Casino since its opening in April 1995, witnessing the venue’s evolution within its iconic heritage buildings.

Long-Serving Staff Reflect

Simone Gulliver, who rose from guest services attendant to Gaming Events marketing manager for Queensland, expressed mixed emotions about the closure. She highlighted the casino’s significant role in her life, including hosting her wedding, which was the first to be held at the venue.

Gulliver praised the graceful heritage building, noting that while the interior had changed over the years, the exterior remained largely untouched. She will continue her career at the new The Star Brisbane casino.

The Star Brisbane, part of the $3.6 billion Queen’s Wharf development, opens 29 August 2024. The riverside complex will include a main gaming floor, Star Grand Hotel, event centre, Sky Deck public viewing platform, bars and restaurants, and a pedestrian bridge and bikeway. The new casino aims to offer a more integrated and modern experience, with high-tech facilities and views of the Brisbane River.

The Star Queen's Wharf — *Photo Credit: Queen’s Wharf*

Regulatory Matters

The Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation approved the closure of Treasury Brisbane Casino under the Casino Control Act 1982. This move is part of the final preparations for the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane opening.

The Queen’s Wharf project is a joint venture, with Star Entertainment Group owning 50%, and Hong Kong-based Chow Tai Fook Enterprises and Far East Consortium each holding 25% stakes.

While Chow Tai Fook recently received clearance to retain its interest in the project, Star Entertainment Group continues to face regulatory scrutiny in New South Wales regarding its Sydney casino operations.

Community Impact and Future Prospects

The closure of the Treasury Casino signifies a major change in Brisbane’s entertainment scene. For locals, the venue was more than just a gambling establishment; it was a landmark that contributed to the city’s nightlife and tourism appeal. The transition to The Star Brisbane promises increased job opportunities and economic growth.

Local businesses in the CBD anticipate changes in foot traffic and customer patterns with the casino’s relocation. While some express concern about the potential loss of business, others see opportunities in redeveloping the Treasury building and surrounding areas.

City planners and tourism officials are optimistic about the Queen’s Wharf development’s potential to attract more visitors to Brisbane. The new integrated resort will enhance the city’s reputation as a premier destination for both domestic and international tourists, potentially boosting the local economy and creating a ripple effect of development across the city centre.

Prestigious Inner-City Brisbane School All Hallows’ Locked Down Following Disturbance

The usually tranquil atmosphere at All Hallows’ School in Brisbane City was shattered when an agitated man, reportedly under the influence of some substance, unleashed a bout of destructive behaviour by kicking and punching doors within the school precinct, leading to a lockdown at the school.

Police received a flurry of alarmed reports concerning the man’s erratic actions, which included assaulting doors in Dodge Lane, an area adjacent to the school grounds.

A police spokesperson stated that the man, believed to be 19 years old, exhibited signs of intoxication and heightened agitation. After a thorough assessment and engagement with law enforcement personnel, he was taken into custody.

Additionally, he was issued a public nuisance infringement notice, indicating the legal consequences of his actions.

The incident, which unfolded around 11:50 a.m. on Thursday, 17 Aug 2023, prompted a swift response from local law enforcement authorities.

Authorities were on the scene in a matter of minutes, securing the area and swiftly instating a lockdown protocol to ensure the safety of the school’s staff, students, and personnel. During the lockdown, all movement within the premises was restricted, and communication with the outside world was limited.

In a bid to prevent any further disturbances or potential threats, the individual was also subjected to a banning order, effectively prohibiting him from entering Fortitude Valley. This measure was enacted with the intention of maintaining the safety and security of both All Hallows’ School and the broader community.

Published 21-Aug-2023

Celebrate Korean Culture and Tradition at 2017 Korean Festival in Brisbane

Brisbane is proudly a diverse mix of cultures and each community gets to showcase their colourful cuisine and culture. This 2nd Saturday of August, it will be the South Korean’s turn to celebrate everything Korean at the 2017 Korean Cultural Festival.

The festive event will feature traditional and contemporary culture at the heart of Brisbane. Attendees will get a fill of delicious Korean food and witness traditional Korean performances, Taekwondo demonstration, modern K-pop music and dance, children’s activities, workshops and so much more.

Everyone is invited to join in this fun event that is free of charge and suitable for all members of the family.

Event Details:

What:	Korean Cultural Festival 2017
When:	Saturday, 12 August 2017 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where:	King George Square Adelaide St, Brisbane City
Cost:	FREE

Last year’s Korean Festival attracted more than 50,000 people, and this year promises to be just as exciting. The venue will be lined with a top selection of Korean food stalls to give everyone a taste of authentic and unique Korean cuisine.

Throughout the day, there will be entertainment, including performances from K-pop acts AO Crew and P4pero.

Korean Cultural Festival is presented by the Korean Society of Queensland.