Brisbane City Archives - Fortitude Valley News

Free Meals in Brisbane City: Thousands of Lasagnes to Be Given Away

Photo Credit: The Dinner Ladies/Facebook

A Sydney-based meal delivery company is set to hand out free lasagnes in Brisbane City, offering locals a taste of its best-selling dish as it grows its presence in Queensland

Brisbane City is set to see thousands of free meals handed out in the CBD, with a Sydney-based meal delivery company bringing its popular lasagne giveaway directly to local streets.

The promotion, run by The Dinner Ladies, will take place across key Brisbane City locations over three afternoons from 25 March to 27 March, with giveaways scheduled at Queen Street Mall and King George Square. The company’s founders, Sophie Gilliatt and Katherine Westwood, are expected to travel from Sydney to personally distribute the meals and meet locals.

A Sydney Business Targets Brisbane City Growth

The Dinner Ladies started as a small home-cooking operation in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs in 2017 and has since expanded into a national business delivering tens of thousands of meals each week. While it remains based in New South Wales, the company has grown its reach into Queensland, where it began deliveries in 2022.

Brisbane City has become a key part of that expansion. Company data indicates Queensland now makes up a growing share of its total orders, positioning the state as one of its fastest-developing markets. The upcoming giveaway in the CBD reflects that shift, as the business looks to strengthen its connection with local customers.

Why Offer Free Meals?

The company is using the giveaway to introduce more people to its ready-made meals, with a focus on its Classic Beef Lasagne, which has been its top-selling product nationally for several years.

*Photo Credit: The Dinner Ladies/Facebook*

It describes the campaign as a way to thank Brisbane customers while also encouraging new households to try its service. The business aims to show how its frozen, ready-to-heat options can help with everyday dinner planning.

The campaign also encourages locals to stay connected with the brand for future offers and updates, supporting its longer-term growth in the region.

From Sydney Base to National Delivery

Despite its expansion, The Dinner Ladies continues to operate from Sydney, with its registered address in Matraville in the city’s southeast. From there, it manages production and delivery across multiple states, including Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and the ACT.

The business produces more than 40,000 meals each week, focusing on snap-frozen dishes designed to maintain quality while offering convenience to busy households.

Published 25-March-2026

Brisbane City and Kangaroo Point Riverwalk Restored After Long Closure

Brisbane City and Kangaroo Point are now reconnected along a major riverfront route, with the upgraded CBD Riverwalk reopening and restoring a direct walking and cycling link near the Kangaroo Point Bridge approaches.

The upgraded strip was fenced off since 2023 during works at the Waterfront Brisbane site. Developers say the reopened section will connect Charlotte Street to Alice Street, restoring a continuous riverside route from the Story Bridge to the City Botanic Gardens.

A wider shared path through Brisbane City

The reopened section runs between the Riparian building and the Stamford Plaza area, giving people a direct riverside connection between the ends of Charlotte and Alice streets. Plans for the rebuilt walkway show it reaching up to 15 metres wide in places, with new concrete paths and steel railings designed for both commuters and recreational users.

Project information released for Waterfront Brisbane describes the rebuilt Riverwalk as a shared zone for pedestrians and cyclists, with multiple access points intended to improve movement between Eagle Street and the river’s edge.

This part of the Riverwalk is near the city-side access to the Kangaroo Point Bridge, which links Scott Street in Kangaroo Point to the corner of Alice Street and Edward Street in the CBD. With the Riverwalk section reopening, walkers and riders should have a more direct route along the waterfront and into the bridge approaches, rather than relying on detours.

The closure has been a sore point for some active transport users, with community cycling groups previously raising concerns about a key public route being blocked for a private development.

Work continues…

While the Riverwalk section is returning soon, work around it will continue. Hoardings are expected to screen construction activity linked to the broader Waterfront Brisbane build as works progress toward an estimated late 2028 completion.

The wider riverfront plan includes new public space and future dining areas set back from the path, along with landscaping described as subtropical or tropical in style. Plans also flag cyclist end-of-trip facilities, including bike storage and e-bike servicing. Developers say the rebuilt public realm is being shaped to keep the walkway usable while the larger site takes shape.

The bigger development beside it

The Riverwalk works sit alongside Waterfront Brisbane, a major redevelopment of the former Eagle Street Pier precinct, led by Dexus with builder John Holland. Public project material describes a future mix of two office towers, retail, food venues and public space, with the Riverwalk intended to be a key part of how people move through the area. John Holland previously confirmed its involvement in the project’s stage works on its company update page.

Dexus has previously cited weather and the complexity of building alongside the river as factors behind delays and cost pressures, while stating that the Riverwalk reopening has been prioritized.

Nearby routes are reopening, too

The Riverwalk announcement follows recent changes to other key pedestrian links, including ongoing works associated with the Story Bridge restoration program, which Brisbane City Council says has delivered new footpath decking and accessibility upgrades as part of longer-term works.

For regular CBD walkers, office workers, and riders commuting between Brisbane City and Kangaroo Point, the Riverwalk reopening is set to bring back a familiar waterfront line — now rebuilt to handle heavier daily use.

Published 29-Jan-2026

Story Bridge City-Side Footpath Reopens Early in Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: LMAdrianSchrinner

Pedestrian and cyclist access has resumed on the Story Bridge in Fortitude Valley following the early completion of new decking on the city-side footpath.

Early Milestone for Story Bridge Upgrade

The Story Bridge has reached an important stage in its ongoing restoration, with the western (city-side) footpath reopening earlier than planned. About 300 metres of new composite decking has replaced the old surface, which was closed earlier this year after structural assessments identified safety risks.

The new panels are fixed to a locally sourced steel frame, using the same lightweight material installed at the Cultural Centre boardwalk in 2021. The project, valued at nearly $7 million, is part of a wider $80 million investment in the 85-year-old bridge since 2019.

Modern Decking Strengthens Historic Connection

The Story Bridge remains one of Brisbane’s most recognisable transport links, carrying thousands of vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists each day between Fortitude Valley and Kangaroo Point. Built to last a century, it now forms part of a broader program to extend its life and ensure public safety.

The recently completed footpath section restores pedestrian and cycling access across the Brisbane River, re-establishing an important route for commuters and recreational users alike.

Long-Term Plan to Preserve the 85-Year Landmark

The upgrade contributes to a long-term restoration roadmap aimed at maintaining the bridge through to its 100th anniversary in 2040. A business case supported by $2.25 million in national funding is expected to be completed by 2027 to guide the staged program of future works.

This follows earlier planning initiatives, including a separate $5 million assessment project, focused on structural improvements and maintenance scheduling over the next 15 to 20 years.

Story Bridge footpath — *Photo Credit: BCC*

Community Welcomes Return of River Access

The reopening announcement on 3 October 2025 drew strong public response. Many residents expressed enthusiasm about returning to the bridge for walking, running, and cycling, while some raised concerns about long-term upkeep and the durability of the new surface.

Despite differing views, the completion of the city-side path has been widely acknowledged as a step forward for accessibility and safety.

Eastern Path Works Progress Toward Year-End Target

Attention has now turned to the eastern footpath, where installation of the same composite decking system is underway. Crews are progressing ahead of schedule, with the section expected to reopen before the end of 2025.

Once both sides are complete, the focus will shift to further restoration planning under the 2040 roadmap, ensuring the Story Bridge continues to serve Brisbane safely for generations to come.

Published 3-Oct-2025

Students Question Brisbane City QUT Med School’s Regional Impact

Photo Credit: QUT

A planned Queensland University of Technology (QUT) medical school, expected to be based at a metropolitan campus in or near Brisbane City, is drawing concern from students who argue the initiative may hinder efforts to boost rural healthcare access across Queensland.

Federal Funding Supports New Medical School in Brisbane City

A new School of Medicine is scheduled to open at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in 2027, supported by federal government funding. The school will offer a five-year undergraduate-entry Doctor of Medicine program.

The initiative aims to fast-track medical graduates into the workforce, particularly in understaffed areas such as general practice, nursing, and psychology. It will begin with 48 students in its first year and offer flexible part-time options in later years to allow students to work while completing their degrees.

Concerns Over Rural Representation and Placement Access

The Australian Medical Students’ Association has raised concerns over the program’s urban location and its potential to overlook the needs of rural communities. While the new school is being positioned as a response to workforce shortages, there are questions about its ability to deliver real outcomes in remote regions.

Student leaders argue that funding may be better directed toward expanding rural clinical schools and support programs such as the Commonwealth Prac Payment. These would assist students from low socioeconomic backgrounds, who are more likely to return to their communities to practise medicine.

There are also concerns that the Brisbane City location may place extra pressure on already limited placement opportunities in the area, making it harder for students from existing medical schools to secure critical hands-on training.

QUT medical school — *Photo Credit: QUT*

Program Design and Broader Aims

According to QUT, the program’s structure is intended to reduce training time by coordinating with Queensland Health and specialist training colleges. A lateral entry point will also be available for graduate students entering in the third year.

The university plans to allocate clinical placements in outer metropolitan areas initially, before expanding to key regional centres. The course design prioritises community-based care, early clinical exposure, and a streamlined admissions process.

QUT leadership stated that the medical school will form part of the university’s broader health faculty, which already includes disciplines such as nursing, psychology, and biomedical science.

Equity and Access Focus

QUT intends to provide dedicated entry pathways for students from rural and remote areas, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The goal is to build a more diverse health workforce aligned with the needs of underrepresented regions.

University officials stated that increasing the number of locally trained medical professionals is vital, particularly in light of figures showing that 50 per cent of doctors registered in Australia in 2022–23 were trained overseas.

Sector Response and Future Outlook

Queensland medical bodies have generally welcomed the creation of a new school, with peak groups supporting the goal of expanding the general practice workforce. However, the question remains whether an urban-focused facility in Brisbane City will deliver outcomes for rural Queensland.

The program still awaits final accreditation from the Australian Medical Council. Meanwhile, workforce planning efforts continue across the state, including AMA Queensland’s ongoing review into staffing challenges, expected before the next budget.

Published 15-Apr-2025

Rooftop Luxury: Inside Brisbane’s Isoletto Pool Club

Photo Credit: The Star Brisbane/Facebook

Brisbane’s skyline just got a little brighter with the arrival of Isoletto Pool Club, a new rooftop escape giving hotel guests access to luxury pools and local views.

Isoletto Pool Club Brings Resort-Style Luxury to Brisbane City’s Skyline

A new pool club has surfaced in the heart of Brisbane City, and it’s one of the most impressive in Queensland. Isoletto Pool Club now offers hotel guests three sparkling infinity pools and sweeping river views from Level 7 of The Star Brisbane.

*Photo Credit: The Star Brisbane/Facebook*

The Isoletto Pool Club quietly opened to guests over the weekend on Saturday, 12 April, and is already making waves for its elegant design, panoramic views and peaceful atmosphere atop the Queen’s Wharf precinct.

A Queensland Escape Above the City

Isoletto Pool Club sits on one of Brisbane’s largest leisure decks, with 530 square metres of pool space across three zones, outdoor, semi-covered and sheltered. Two pools are heated to 28 degrees in winter, while the spa-style swim-up pool stays at 32 degrees year-round.

Guests can relax with panoramic views from the club, stretching across the Brisbane River to South Bank and Mount Coot-tha. The space also hosts select private and corporate events.

Designed for Comfort and Connection

It also includes a gym, sauna and steam room, with spaces designed for Brisbane’s outdoor lifestyle and inspired by the Amalfi Coast, blending relaxation and social connection near the CBD.

The poolside menu blends fresh local ingredients with summer-inspired flavours, offering dishes like prawns, burrata, Roman-style pizzas and club sandwiches.

Drinks include classic and creative cocktails such as a Toblerone-style mix and a vibrant Fruit Tingle, alongside mocktails, wine, beer and non-alcoholic options. Guests can enjoy food and drinks delivered directly to their lounge chairs.

A New Chapter at Queen’s Wharf

Isoletto Pool Club is part of the Queen’s Wharf project, which includes residences and the Sky Deck, now topping one million visitors. The Star Brisbane CEO Daniel Finch said the club supports efforts to boost tourism. Despite recent setbacks, the venue remains fully operational, with Isoletto enhancing its premium offerings.

It’s open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. for pool and gym access, with the bar and café operating from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Access is through the George Street entrance or lifts inside The Star Grand Hotel.

Published 14-April-2025

Brisbane City Residents Push Back on Pavilion Overhaul

Photo Credit: DA A006697510

Brisbane City’s proposed riverfront redevelopment has raised alarms among traffic experts and nearby residents, who warn the project could create congestion, impact privacy, and disrupt the character of the area with oversized towers built too close to homes.

A Development Under Scrutiny

Led by Dexus Funds Management, the project (DA A006697510) seeks to modify an already-approved development near Mary and Felix streets. Key changes include increasing the gross floor area by 580 square metres, boosting car parking to 226 spaces, and reworking access and landscaping around Naldham House and Waterfront Place.

The design introduces new dining and retail areas while expanding outdoor seating and walkways. However, residents and professionals say the proposed form may outweigh the benefits, especially given the site’s location alongside Riparian Plaza and Brisbane Riverwalk.

Traffic and Safety Questions

Traffic consultant Bryce Trevilyan reviewed the project’s traffic modelling and found it didn’t reflect real-world conditions at key intersections. He said the SIDRA modelling used by Dexus underestimated congestion, especially during peak times, and failed to account for how traffic currently exits Riparian Plaza.

He also noted that large service vehicles would need to cross multiple lanes to enter the site, posing safety risks for cyclists and pedestrians. Trevilyan called for access redesigns and more accurate traffic data to avoid future gridlock.

Community Concerns Over Privacy and Scale

Residents from Riparian Plaza voiced concern over tower spacing, claiming the Northern Tower sits too close to their building compared to other Dexus-owned towers. One submission criticised the use of leased riverfront land to meet site coverage rules, saying it went against the intent of city planning standards.

Privacy was another concern. Residents called for frosted glazing to start from Level 39 to protect their homes from views into new function rooms. Others flagged safety risks with proposed rooftop landscaping, warning that strong winds could turn debris into hazards.

A Call for Balanced Growth

While the community supports the idea of updating Eagle Street Pier and the surrounding area, they’ve urged Brisbane City Council to ensure the final project fits well within the existing neighbourhood. The development remains under review, with traffic and residential concerns now part of the planning conversation.

Published 2-April-2025

Squash Representatives Engage Brisbane 2032 Team in Olympic Talks

Photo Credit: World Squash/X

Squash representatives met with Brisbane 2032 organisers in Brisbane City to discuss the sport’s potential inclusion in the Olympic Games. They highlighted its growing global profile and contribution to Australia’s sporting heritage.

Squash Leaders Meet Brisbane 2032 Team

On 13 March, key figures, including World Squash President Zena Wooldridge, Squash Australia President Matt Schmidt, CEO Rob Donaghue, five-time World Open champion Sarah Fitz-Gerald and Professional Squash Association COO Lee Beachill, met with Brisbane 2032 CEO Cindy Hook and Sports Director Brendan Keane. They discussed the sport’s potential contribution to Brisbane 2032.

Squash’s Olympic Ascent and Australian Legacy

Including squash in LA28 has already spurred innovation and investment in the sport. Australia, a dominant force in squash history, holds the record for the most World Team Championship titles and has produced numerous legends in the game. Squash Australia’s recent funding boost for its high-performance strategy covers the next two Olympic cycles leading up to Brisbane 2032. This further underlines the sport’s growing significance.

The meeting coincided with the Australian Open, which has been elevated to a Gold-level PSA Squash Tour event. This year’s tournament is held at Squash Australia’s glass court in South Bank Piazza.

Squash’s Potential Contribution to Brisbane 2032

During the discussions, Ms Wooldridge emphasised squash’s dynamic nature, accessibility, and relatively low cost of integrating it into the Brisbane Games. She expressed gratitude for the open dialogue with Brisbane 2032 organisers and stated that the conversation helped build a mutual understanding of opportunities and challenges.

Squash in Olympics games — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Looking Ahead: Squash’s Road to Brisbane 2032

While no formal commitments were made, the meeting marked progress in positioning squash for inclusion in Brisbane 2032. With its sporting heritage in Australia and increasing international recognition, squash is positioning itself as an exciting addition to the Olympic program.

Published 18-Mar-2025

Brisbane City Concert Sparks Public Discontent Amid Flood Recovery

Photo Credit: New Order/ Facebook

Despite ongoing recovery efforts following ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, people have strongly disapproved of the decision to proceed with a New Order concert at Riverstage, an outdoor venue within Brisbane City.

Brisbane City Concert Sparks Public Discontent Amid Flood Recovery — *Photo Credit: Google Map*

The British band, New Order, planned to perform at the 9,500-capacity Riverstage. Promoters TEG Live confirmed the show would proceed, which prompted a wave of criticism from ticket holders. Many expressed concerns about the safety and practicality of attending the event given the extensive flood damage within the city.

Social media platforms became a hub for discontent, with numerous individuals highlighting the roads’ continued closure, public transport disruption, and ongoing clean-up operations within Brisbane City. Citizens questioned the appropriateness of holding a large-scale event while the city was still reeling from the effects of the severe weather. One person stated that the timing was insensitive, while another demanded that refunds be available to those unable to attend.

Even as rainfall eased, Brisbane City faced significant logistical hurdles. Over 100,000 homes and businesses remained without power, and public transport services experienced ongoing restrictions. Multiple roads in and around the city were still closed due to flooding. The public expressed frustration at the difficulty of reaching the venue, with many car parks inaccessible and public transport unreliable.

A TEG Live spokesperson affirmed that the concert would go ahead, attributing the decision to Brisbane City Council’s assessment that the Riverstage grounds were suitable. The council, however, redirected inquiries to TEG Live and Ticketek, the ticket provider. They did confirm that certain city car parks remained operational and directed the public to Translink for transport updates. The Translink website acknowledged ongoing disruptions and advised that real-time information may not be accurate. Ticketek provided a refund request portal.

Conversely, US pop-punk band Green Day cancelled their Gold Coast show before the cyclone and provided refunds. Canadian group Alexisonfire rescheduled their Riverstage performance to two indoor shows at Fortitude Music Hall.

The clean-up continued across south-east Queensland, with many properties still lacking power. Many displaced residents began returning to assess damage. Intermittent showers were forecast for Brisbane.

Published Date 12-March-2025

Super Bowl LIX: The Ultimate Watch Party at the Port Office Hotel

Are you ready for some American footy? Super Bowl LIX is almost here, and the Port Office Hotel is the place to be. Get ready for the biggest Monday of the year as the Chiefs and Eagles clash in New Orleans!

You can catch every touchdown, every tackle, every heart-stopping moment on the Port Office Hotel’s massive screens, ensuring there’s not a bad seat in the house. Will the Chiefs’ high-flying offence prevail, or will the Eagles’ gritty defence shut them down?

Read: Plans Submitted for Country Road Store in Queen Street Heritage Building

Catch the Action Live and Loud at the Port Office Hotel

The Port Office Hotel is rolling out the red carpet for Super Bowl LIX, promising a live and loud experience that captures the electrifying atmosphere of the big game. Doors swing open at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, 10 February, giving you plenty of time to settle in before the kickoff.

The atmosphere? Think buzzing excitement, the roar of the crowd, and the thrill of every play. For the ultimate game-day experience, the Port Office Hotel is offering special Super Bowl packages. A $50 package includes a selection of American-inspired food—all the classic game-day grub. For the die-hard fan, a $100 package combines the delicious food with a 4-hour beverage package featuring Budweiser, local favourites on tap, and house wines.

Port Office Hotel Bar — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Entry is free for those who prefer to pay as they go, but securing a spot is highly recommended as this is expected to be a popular event. And yes, the halftime show featuring Kendrick Lamar will be shown on the big screens too, so you won’t miss a beat.

A Clash of Titans: Chiefs vs. Eagles

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This year’s Super Bowl pits the Kansas City Chiefs against the Philadelphia Eagles in what promises to be a nail-biting contest. Experts predict a close game, potentially decided in the crucial final minutes. These two teams have a history, with the Chiefs having bested the Eagles in Super Bowl LVII two years prior. Philadelphia have significantly strengthened their defence and run game since then, making this rematch a truly unpredictable showdown.

The Chiefs’ dynamic offence, led by Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, will face a stern test against the Eagles’ formidable defensive line. Meanwhile, the Eagles’ potent run game, spearheaded by Jalen Hurts and MVP finalist Saquon Barkley, will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Chiefs’ defence. The tactical battle between the two coaching masterminds, Andy Reid and Nick Sirianni, adds another layer of intrigue to this highly anticipated matchup.

Halftime Heat: Kendrick Lamar Takes the Stage

Beyond the gridiron drama, the Super Bowl halftime show is an event in itself. This year, hip-hop superstar Kendrick Lamar will command the stage at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. Fresh off his Grammy Award sweep, Lamar’s performance is expected to be a spectacular display of music and artistry.

Read: Supporting Local Businesses: COSBOA Roadshow Heads to Fortitude Valley

So, Valley residents, mark your calendars for Monday, 10 February, and get ready for a day of thrilling footy, delicious food, and unforgettable entertainment at the Port Office Hotel. Don’t miss out—book your Super Bowl LIX package at the Port Office today!

Published 04-February-2025

Fortitude Valley Faces Major Parking Cuts Under New Housing Rules

Photo Credit: John Robert McPherson/CC-BY-SA-4.0

High-density developments in Fortitude Valley and Spring Hill will soon require significantly fewer car parks, following changes to mandatory parking requirements across key inner-city suburbs.

New Rules Aim to Cut Costs and Boost Housing

Starting in 2025, developers in 11 inner-city suburbs, including Fortitude Valley, will be required to provide only half the number of car spaces previously mandated for new apartment buildings. City officials have also flagged plans to extend similar changes to 15 additional suburbs.

The decision, set to be finalised following state approval, is part of a broader strategy aimed at lowering construction costs to make housing more affordable.

Under the new rules, core areas like Fortitude Valley will require just one car space for every two one-bedroom units, a significant reduction from the current standard of one space per unit. Visitor parking requirements will also decrease, with only one visitor space needed per 20 dwellings, down from one per four dwellings.

In surrounding “city frame” suburbs, parking minimums will be slightly reduced to 0.9 spaces for one-bedroom apartments, 1.1 spaces for two-bedroom units, and 1.3 spaces for larger dwellings.

Suburbs Affected by the New Parking Rules

Core Suburbs (Major Reductions)	City Frame Suburbs (Slight Reductions)
Bowen Hills	Albion
Fortitude Valley	Auchenflower
Highgate Hill	Bowen Hills
Kangaroo Point	Dutton Park
Milton	East Brisbane
Newstead	Hamilton
Spring Hill	Herston
South Brisbane	Highgate Hill
Teneriffe	Kangaroo Point
West End	Milton
Woolloongabba	New Farm
	Teneriffe
	Toowong
	West End
	Woolloongabba

Fortitude Valley parking — *Photo Credit: BCC*

Community Concerns and Limited Consultation

While Council claims the changes will help cut housing costs, community feedback has been limited. Only 87 submissions were received during the public consultation phase, raising concerns about whether residents had sufficient opportunity to voice their opinions.

Street parking scarcity in suburbs like Fortitude Valley and West End has already been a long-standing issue, with the reduced parking requirements expected to intensify the challenge.

Opposition figures have expressed cautious support, agreeing with efforts to reduce housing costs but questioning who will truly benefit from the savings. There are concerns that without clear mechanisms in place, cost reductions may not be passed on to homebuyers and renters but instead absorbed by developers.

Impact on Public Transport and Urban Living

The decision reflects a shift in urban planning priorities, with an assumption that car ownership in inner-city Brisbane is declining.

According to census data, more than half of residents in affected suburbs own only one car, and many rely heavily on public transport. Urban planning experts argue that while reducing parking requirements can lower development costs, it also demands robust public transport and active transport infrastructure to accommodate changing mobility needs.

Critics highlight that the city must invest in improved public transport options to support the policy shift effectively. Without these enhancements, residents may face increased competition for already limited street parking, potentially affecting the livability of high-density areas.

Published 3-February-2025