Fortitude Valley Archives - Fortitude Valley News

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

In a major move that underscores Brisbane’s growing appeal as a luxury hospitality destination, Brookfield Asset Management has announced plans to acquire Hotel X in Fortitude Valley for approximately $90 million. This acquisition reflects the city’s ambitious growth trajectory ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

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Strategic acquisition amid Brisbane’s growing demand

The deal comes at a pivotal time, with Brisbane facing a projected 4,000-room shortfall in the luxury segment within the next decade. Brookfield’s Co-Head of Australia Real Estate, Ruban Kaneshamoorthy, cites strong market fundamentals driving the decision. “With the highest tourism expenditure nationally and its population forecast to grow 40 per cent during the next 25 years, there is a long runway for growth,” he said.

Fortitude Valley’s Hotel X

The 146-key hotel, completed in 2021 by Pointcorp Development Group, is a distinctive white tower with a geometric facade at 458 Brunswick Street. The property features premium amenities, including a rooftop bar and pool, ground-floor restaurant, fitness centre, and conferencing facilities. Additionally, the building includes 1,438 square metres of leased office space, positioning it as a mixed-use asset in the vibrant Fortitude Valley precinct.

CBRE Hotels National Director Wayne Bunz, who brokered the off-market sale with Hayley Manvell, describes the transaction as a milestone for Brisbane’s hotel market. “This transaction is not only a testament to the quality of the asset but also to the strength of Brisbane’s hospitality sector, which is underpinned by rising tourism numbers and a strong economic trajectory,” Bunz explained.

Read: Fortitude Valley Hotel Makes a Splash with World’s Largest Ice Bath

This acquisition aligns with Brookfield’s broader strategy in the Asia-Pacific region, where hospitality has become a growing focus due to reduced supply stemming from increased borrowing and construction costs. The Canadian-based multinational, which manages approximately $31 billion in assets globally, worked with Ark Capital Partners to facilitate the transaction.

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Hotel X has already established itself as a community hub, recently hosting the world’s largest hotel ice bath event on its rooftop. The wellness activation, which transformed the rooftop pool using four tonnes of ice, demonstrated the property’s commitment to innovative guest experiences while raising funds for mental health organisation LIVIN.

Published 11-December-2024

Fortitude Valley Hotel Makes a Splash with World’s Largest Ice Bath

Photo Credit: IHG Hotels and Resorts

Could Fortitude Valley be the last place you’d expect to find the world’s largest hotel ice bath? Think again! Hotel X is turning up the chill with a unique wellness initiative.

To champion physical and mental wellbeing, the hotel is partnering with Bells Pure Ice to transform its 15-metre rooftop pool into a giant icy plunge pool on Thursday, 5 December.

Braving the Freeze for a Cause

Fortitude Valley ice bath — *Photo Credit:* *IHG Hotels and Resorts*

From 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., locals and hotel guests alike are invited to take the plunge and experience the stimulating effects of an icy dip. But this is no ordinary cold water challenge. This ambitious undertaking will pour four tonnes of ice into the pool, creating a truly chilling experience. Pastries from Iris, beverages from Tea Tonic, and Allpress coffee will be offered to help participants warm up afterwards.

The event is also charitable, with all funds donated to Livin, a non-profit mental health organisation. Livin Founder Casey Lyons expressed gratitude for the hotel’s support, emphasising the importance of raising funds for mental health education in schools. He also noted the numerous health benefits of ice baths, including immune system boosts, stress reduction, improved circulation, and enhanced exercise recovery.

A Hub of Community Collaboration

This ice bath initiative is just the latest in a series of community-focused collaborations by Hotel X. The hotel has actively engaged with local businesses and organisations throughout the year, showcasing everything from pop-up activations and in-room offerings with breweries and wellness brands to partnerships with yoga studios, tattoo parlours, sustainability leaders, music studios, and promoters.

Hotel X General Manager Jeremy Colahan underscored the hotel’s commitment to embracing the vibrant Fortitude Valley community. He highlighted the diverse range of partnerships forged this year, reflecting the hotel’s dedication to celebrating the area’s unique character.

Colahan emphasised that Hotel X aims to provide guests with an immersive experience that captures the essence of the Fortitude Valley neighbourhood.

Published Date 09-December-2024

Fortitude Valley Flavours: Lunar Pies Serves Up a Slice of Filipino History

Photo Credit: Lunar Pies/ Facebook

Fortitude Valley’s vibrant culinary scene has a delicious new addition: Lunar Pies. This isn’t your average bakery; it’s a window into Filipino culture, serving up mouth-watering empanadas that tell a story of history, family, and flavour.

Owner Ginger Mendoza is on a mission to share her love for this iconic dish and bring a taste of the Philippines to Brisbane.

Empanadas are special in Filipino cuisine, representing a fusion of Spanish colonial influence and local ingenuity. For Ms Mendoza, they’re much more than just a tasty treat. They evoke a sense of connection to her heritage and family traditions. She believes many people are surprised to discover the significant role of empanadas in Filipino food culture. Adopted from the Spanish, the empanada has been embraced and adapted, becoming a beloved staple that reflects the diverse flavours of the archipelago.

A Culinary Journey Through Time

The Philippines’ 300-year Spanish colonial period left an indelible mark on the nation, influencing its language, culture, and food. The empanada is a prime example of this culinary legacy. While sharing similarities with its Spanish ancestor, the Filipino empanada has evolved into something unique, boasting distinct flavours and preparation methods.

Ms Mendoza explains that Filipino empanadas are incredibly diverse, with each region adding its distinctive twist. The classic filling features minced pork, aromatic vegetables like onion and garlic, and a surprising sweetness with raisins.

In the northern province of Ilocos, empanadas are typically made with rice flour and deep-fried, filled with grated papaya and garlicky sausages. Ms Mendoza’s empanada heritage comes from Bulacan, her grandmother’s province. These “Kaliskis” empanadas are made with a laminated dough, folded repeatedly to achieve a flaky, almost puff pastry-like consistency.

For Ms Mendoza, empanadas are a powerful trigger for childhood memories. She fondly recalls sharing warm, flaky empanadas with her grandmother outside their home; these cherished moments continue to resonate with her today.

From Craving to Culinary Creation

Ms Mendoza’s love for empanadas led to her relocation to Brisbane in 2016 to work as a private chef. A craving during her first pregnancy sparked the idea for Lunar Pies. Unable to find the flavours she longed for in Brisbane, she decided to take matters into her own hands. With her culinary background and entrepreneurial spirit, she recognised a gap in the market and launched Lunar Pies in 2022.

A Global Empanada Experience

Lunar Pies offers more than just Filipino flavours; it celebrates the empanada’s global appeal. Each represented by a distinct colour, six different flavours grace the menu. Naturally, Ms Mendoza’s signature Filipino pork empanada takes pride, featuring a traditional blend of pork, carrots, potatoes, and raisins. But the menu also ventures further afield, with two chicken variations, classic beef, a vegetarian option, and even a spicy Jamaican beef empanada.

Ms Mendoza, a self-proclaimed empanada aficionado, draws inspiration from Argentina, Ecuador, and Colombia, recognising the incredible versatility of this dish across different cultures, particularly those with Spanish colonial histories. Lunar Pies, nestled in the heart of Fortitude Valley, invites you to experience a world of flavour, one empanada at a time.

Published Date 03-December-2024

Fortitude Valley Redevelopment: A New Era for the Iconic Precinct

Photo Credit: DEV2024/1507

With the approval of a major development application, Fortitude Valley is set to undergo a significant transformation. Two residential towers, rising to 30 and 31 storeys, will soon dominate the skyline, reshaping the urban landscape of this vibrant precinct.

Fortitude Valley precinct — *Photo Credit:* *DEV2024/1507*

The development, designed by renowned architecture firm Woods Bagot, will introduce 477 new dwellings comprising apartments and short-term accommodation. The ground floor will feature a public plaza, retail outlets, dining options, and office spaces, further activating the area.

The project will also include extensive communal open space, including a rooftop area, offering residents a serene retreat amidst the bustling city. Additionally, the development will provide ample parking for residents and visitors, accommodating 407 vehicles and 199 bicycles.

The planners at Property Projects Australia have emphasised the development’s alignment of the precinct with the neighbourhood plan and mixed-use zone requirements. The proposed building height is considered appropriate for the local context, while careful design considerations have been implemented to mitigate potential amenity impacts.

The architectural design pays homage to Fortitude Valley’s industrial heritage, blending contemporary aesthetics with traditional elements. The project aims to create a unique and visually striking landmark that complements the area’s character.

As construction commences, Fortitude Valley is poised to enter a new era of growth and development, solidifying its position as a thriving and dynamic urban destination.

Published Date 01-December-2024

Brisbane CBD Welcomes Third McDonald’s

Did you know that McDonald’s is set to open its third CBD location at the revitalised Post Office Square?

The Golden Arches will soon grace the entrance of the revitalised square, marking a significant milestone in the area’s transformation. McDonald’s has signed a 10-year lease for a 191 square metre space facing Queen Street, solidifying its position as the anchor tenant for the food and retail hub.

McDonald’s Operations Manager for Queensland, Steve Jamieson, expressed enthusiasm for the new venture, stating that the company would invest $3 million to fit out the restaurant and create 100 new jobs. Jamieson also emphasised McDonald’s commitment to being an active part of the local community and anticipation for serving customers later this year.

The new McDonald’s will join the existing outlets at Central Station and Queen Street Mall, catering to the growing demand for fast food in the bustling CBD.

Simon Juniper, Managing Director of Development Australia at LaSalle Investment Management, highlighted the strategic importance of the lease, noting that Post Office Square’s high foot traffic and proximity to over 100,000 CBD workers make it an ideal location for a new McDonald’s.

Juniper further explained that LaSalle’s investment in the square aims to create a more inviting and accessible space featuring wider walkways, increased greenery, and a carefully curated mix of tenants.

Taylor Macri of Vente Property emphasised the role of revitalisation in attracting tenants like McDonald’s. Macri stated that their research indicates a growing demand among workers for diverse culinary options and appealing spaces for meal breaks.

He added that Post Office Square is responding to these trends by offering a vibrant dining precinct with ample seating, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Published Date 05-November-2024

Howard Smith Wharves Announces Melbourne Cup Day Events

Howard Smith Wharves has unveiled its Melbourne Cup celebration plans for Tuesday, November 5, 2024, with multiple venues participating in the racing day festivities.

Cup Day events will be hosted from 11 AM to 3 PM across five distinct venues.

Mr Percival’s will host an outdoor party utilising its overwater decks, while Stanley Restaurant’s four-course Cantonese banquet has already reached capacity and is fully booked.

Felons Barrel Hall will feature live music paired with Thai flavours, and Felons Brewing Co. will provide DJ entertainment on the brew deck. For those seeking Italian cuisine, Ciao Papi is offering a three-course Italian feast.

The events will coincide with the traditional Melbourne Cup race timing, with Howard Smith Wharves providing multiple options for race day dining and entertainment.

Interested patrons can find Howard Smith Wharves at 5 Boundary Street, Brisbane City, QLD 4000.

Published 30-October-2024

Christmas Spirit Blooms in Fortitude Valley: Heritage Lanes Hosts Festive Pop-Up Market

Photo Credit: The Market Folk/ Facebook

Are you stressed about finding the perfect Christmas gifts? Don’t worry—Fortitude Valley has the answer! Heritage Lanes is hosting a festive pop-up market with a difference.

This unique venue, a captivating blend of contemporary design and historic preservation, will showcase the works of local Brisbane artisans in its foyer and downstairs event space on Tuesday, 10 December.

This isn’t the first time Heritage Lanes has opened its doors to the community. Known for its commitment to showcasing local talent and fostering community, Heritage Lanes has hosted similar events, including a spring market that drew crowds eager to support local businesses and enjoy the building’s unique atmosphere. Building on this success, the Christmas market promises an even more festive experience, focusing on handcrafted gifts and seasonal cheer.

Shoppers can discover unique Christmas presents while immersing themselves in the building’s impressive public art collection. Heritage Lanes features a range of installations and murals that honour the city’s rich cultural history, providing a stimulating backdrop for this festive shopping experience.

Want to know more? Head to the Heritage Lanes Facebook event for all the details.

This is your chance to ditch the last-minute shopping panic and discover sparkle gifts.

Published Date 28-October-2024

The Doors Alive Return to Tivoli in Fortitude Valley with Rock Legends’ Classics

Get ready to “Break on Through,” as The Doors Alive returns to the Tivoli Theatre in Fortitude Valley, ready to “light your fire” with a night that brings The Doors’ magic back to life. The Doors’ most popular, UK-based tribute band will have fans swaying to “Riders on the Storm” and igniting that unmistakable spark of poetic rebellion that Jim Morrison and his crew unleashed on the world.

The Doors Alive have performed at The Tivoli before. This upcoming concert marks another opportunity for Brisbane audiences to enjoy their well-received tribute to the 1960s rock legends.

Known for their authenticity in sound and style, The Doors Alive continue to draw crowds worldwide. In previous performances in Brisbane, they have transported fans back to the 1960s with their re-creations of The Doors’ legendary live experience.

Formed in London in 2004, The Doors Alive is led by vocalist William Scott, with Norbert Varga on organ and piano bass, Buzz Allan on drums, and Baz Meyer on guitar. The group has performed widely, from Europe to the Americas, and their global reputation is anchored by their skill in authentically recreating The Doors’ distinct sound and electric stage presence.

Authentic Sound and Setlist

Show time will be on Thursday, 31 October 2024 at 7:30 p.m. and the performance will start at 8:30 p.m. at the Tivoli.

The Doors Alive have earned high praise for their ability to revive The Doors’ essence. They offer fans a genuine concert experience with faithful renditions of classics like “Light My Fire,” “Break on Through,” “Riders on the Storm,” and “People Are Strange.”

Promoters describe the concert as a chance to step back into the psychedelic 1960s, with each performance capturing the energy and unique spirit of Jim Morrison and The Doors.

Known as one of the world’s busiest Doors tribute bands, The Doors Alive stand out for their precision, look, and use of vintage instruments, delivering a sound often compared to the original band.

Legacy of The Doors

The Doors, originally formed in Los Angeles in 1965, were known for their distinctive fusion of rock, jazz, and blues and Jim Morrison’s lyrical style, which addressed themes of rebellion, freedom, and introspection. Their music reflected the counterculture of the 1960s and earned them a lasting place in rock history.

Although Morrison’s death in 1971 ended the band’s live performances early, their legacy has endured, with tribute acts like The Doors Alive bringing their music to life for new generations.

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Published 26-Oct-2024

Aston Martin Revs Up Fortitude Valley with New Luxury Showroom

Fortitude Valley is gearing up to welcome a new luxury automotive resident. Aston Martin Queensland, part of the Peter Warren Group, is developing a state-of-the-art showroom at 632 Wickham Street, bringing the prestigious British marque to the heart of Brisbane.

*Photo Credit:* *Aston Martin/ Facebook*

The move signals a growing demand for high-end vehicles in Queensland and a commitment to providing an unparalleled customer experience.

The new facility, slated to open in 2025, will showcase Aston Martin’s dedication to exquisite design and craftsmanship. The two-storey, 455 square metre space will feature a striking full-height glass facade, imported European interior finishes, and dedicated customer parking.

Robert Bradbury, Dealer Principal at Aston Martin Queensland, expressed confidence in the Queensland market, citing the brand’s strong position in the ultra-luxury SUV segment and the high concentration of existing Aston Martin owners in Brisbane. The new location aims to enhance convenience for current customers and attract new clientele.

While construction is underway, Aston Martin Queensland will maintain operations at its Gold Coast location and a temporary sales centre at the new Wickham Street address. Visitors can explore and test drive Aston Martin’s latest models, including the high-performance DBX707 SUV, the elegant DB12 coupe, and the agile Vantage sports car.

Gregory Adams, President of Aston Martin in the Asia Pacific region, emphasised the importance of the Brisbane showroom in the brand’s expansion strategy. He highlighted the long-standing partnership with the Peter Warren Group and praised their dedication to providing a premium customer experience. Adams believes the new facility will embody Aston Martin’s sophistication and heritage, showcasing its impressive vehicle portfolio.

The Peter Warren Group, with a 60-year history in the Australian automotive industry, boasts a diverse portfolio of over 80 franchises and represents more than 30 original equipment manufacturers across various market segments.

The group operates across the eastern seaboard under several banners, including Peter Warren Automotive, Frizelle Sunshine Automotive, and Penfold Motor Group.

Published Date 23-October-2024

The Eucalyptus Room in Fortitude Valley: A Dessert Degustation Unlike Any Other

Photo Credit: The Eucalyptus Room/ Instagram

Are you ready to rediscover the magic of dessert? The Eucalyptus Room has arrived in Fortitude Valley and is about to redefine your sweetest cravings. Hidden amongst the buzzing bars and restaurants, this culinary adventure promises a nostalgic journey.

This intimate ten-seater venue, helmed by former Queensland Parliament House executive chef Andrew McCrea, offers a seven-course degustation that reimagines classic sweet treats with a playful and emotional twist.

A Feast for the Senses

*Photo Credit:* *The Eucalyptus Room/ Instagram*

When guests sit, an unexpectedly large grey rock greets them. Soon, it reveals itself as the unconventional serving dish for the first course—a delicate bread sphere encasing sorbet butter, nashi pear, and pickled walnut. This sets the tone for an evening of surprises and culinary innovation.

McCrea, the mastermind behind The Eucalyptus Room, aims to challenge expectations and evoke a sense of childlike wonder in his guests. He believes that desserts uniquely unlock emotions, transporting diners back to the carefree days of childhood.

Childhood Memories Reimagined

McCrea’s childhood memories form the heart and soul of The Eucalyptus Room’s menu. His grandmother’s sweet shop in New Zealand, with its legendary coconut lamingtons and coconut rough, inspired the “sandwich” course. This bite-sized Lamington ice cream sandwich is both familiar and refreshingly new.

Even the final course, simply named “Chocolate,” is infused with nostalgia. It evokes the feeling of early spring at McCrea’s childhood home, where melting snow created a unique textural landscape. The dish features a medley of textures and temperatures, with melt-in-the-mouth white chocolate pumice, fizzy honeycomb, chocolate soil, “chocolate air,” and spearmint bubbles.

A Visceral Experience

As a legally blind chef with only six per cent vision, McCrea brings a unique perspective to his creations. While visually appealing, his desserts are designed to be experienced on a deeper level, engaging all the senses and creating a truly immersive dining experience.

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One particularly heartwarming dish is the doughnut, inspired by cherished memories with his mother. On rainy days, McCrea shares chocolate-dipped, peanut-encrusted doughnuts with his mum in their yellow Ford Corolla. This translates into a pumpkin and mandarin doughnut filled with yuzu curd, dipped in chocolate butter, and topped with toasted macadamias—a burst of flavours and textures in every bite.

A Shared Passion

The Eucalyptus Room shares its space and team with Perspective Dining, McCrea’s acclaimed nine-course tasting menu restaurant just steps away. Both venues showcase McCrea’s meticulous attention to detail and his team’s dedication to culinary excellence.

From hand-crafting celeriac truffles to smoking potatoes in their native soil, McCrea and his team employ innovative techniques and source the finest ingredients to create unforgettable dining experiences.

A Sweet Escape

The Eucalyptus Room offers a unique escape from the ordinary, inviting guests to indulge their sweet tooth and rediscover the joy of dessert. With its intimate setting, innovative menu, and heartfelt inspiration, it’s sure to become a favourite destination for those seeking an extraordinary culinary adventure in the heart of Fortitude Valley.

The Eucalyptus Room is open Wednesday through Saturday for two evening sittings and Friday and Saturday for lunch. Perspective Dining is open Thursday through Saturday for two lunch sittings and Tuesday for a single dinner sitting.

Published Date 17-October-2024