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Sustainability Grant Supports Community Expo in Fortitude Valley

A community organisation in Fortitude Valley has received funding from Australia Post’s People of Post grants program to deliver a sustainability-focused community expo.

Program Background

Australia Post has expanded its People of Post grants initiative to address declining charity donations amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures. The program, now in its eighth year, allows employees to nominate local community or not-for-profit organisations for grants of up to $2,000. In 2025, more than 200 groups across the country received funding, with over $400,000 distributed nationwide—marking a 47 per cent increase on the previous year.

Queensland accounted for a quarter of this year’s grant recipients, with 55 organisations supported. The program continues to prioritise projects within four focus areas: mental health, disaster support and resilience, Indigenous children’s literacy and learning, and environmental sustainability.

Y-Care Queensland — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pexels*

Y-Care Fortitude Valley Project Overview

Y-Care (South East Queensland), based in Fortitude Valley, was among the Queensland recipients. The organisation will use the grant to host a sustainability expo that includes workshops on composting, recycling, and gardening. The event also features activities suitable for various age groups, supporting practical environmental education and participation.

Broader Trends and Context

Research commissioned by Australia Post in April 2025 indicated that 40 per cent of Australians who regularly donate to charities have reduced their giving over the past year. Cost-of-living pressures, particularly rising prices on groceries and essentials, were cited as key factors. The findings also showed that over half of Australians prefer to support causes that address immediate community needs.

In response to this trend, Australia Post increased its grant allocation for 2025 to provide broader assistance to grassroots groups.

Y-Care expo — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pexels*

Community Impact and Focus

Y-Care’s initiative contributes to environmental education in the local area and aligns with Australia Post’s environmental sustainability priority, which made up 25 per cent of all grant recipients this year. Through its scheduled workshops and accessible programming, the organisation supports community participation in sustainable practices.

Y-Care is a large Queensland-based charity supporting various groups including children, youth, people experiencing homelessness, and culturally diverse communities. Its services span education, housing, food relief, and employment training programs.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 People of Post program continues to support locally led initiatives across the country, including Fortitude Valley’s sustainability expo. With growing pressure on community organisations, grant funding remains a vital mechanism for grassroots engagement and resilience-building.

Published 4-June-2025

Fortitude Valley Showroom Reimagined as Luxury Home Destination

Photo Credit: Winnings

Brisbane homeowners and design professionals in Fortitude Valley can now explore a significantly expanded and renamed retail space offering a full range of luxury home products, a transformation celebrated by over 200 guests.

Winning Group has relaunched its Brisbane retail store, formerly known as Winning Appliances, renaming it Winnings Fortitude Valley Flagship Showroom.

The recent re-launch event drew more than 200 guests from Brisbane’s design, property, and construction sectors, alongside customers and brand partners. The original Winning Appliances Fortitude Valley showroom first opened its doors over seven years ago.

Expanding the Home Experience

luxury home — *Photo Credit:* *Winnings*

The Fortitude Valley showroom has undergone major expansion and is now positioned as a “lifestyle and luxury destination for the home.” It offers a much broader selection of products, moving beyond kitchen and laundry appliances to include items for the bathroom, living areas, and alfresco spaces.

The showroom features 65 world-leading and exclusive brands, including well-known names such as Sub Zero, Wolf, Gaggenau, Miele, Smeg, and Fisher & Paykel.

John Winning, CEO of Winning Group, stated that the newly relaunched showroom “sets the bar for retailing in Brisbane,” providing an immersive and inspiring shopping experience for customers. He noted that as a century-old family business, the company continues to innovate its multi-sensory shopping experiences.

Unrivalled Shopping Destination

According to Ed Brenac, General Manager of Winnings, the store is the “ultimate shopping destination.” He explained that the unique Winnings experience allows customers to renovate their entire home in one place, choosing from a wide array of brands seamlessly integrated throughout the showroom.

The store also offers unbiased advice from Product Experts who do not work on commissions, demonstrations by Culinary Experts on the latest technologies, free cooking demonstrations, and free delivery.

Kate McGlone, Group Design Manager at the Winning Group, mentioned that the showroom’s design goes beyond simply displaying products. The aim is to inspire customers and designers through the retail environment itself, helping them create meaningful spaces that reflect their lifestyle.

The admired qualities of the previous showroom have been elevated with the addition of premium bathware, lighting, and towelling, creating a unique shopping experience.

A Legacy of Service

The initial grand opening of the Fortitude Valley store several years ago also saw a significant gathering, with over 240 guests attending a ribbon-cutting ceremony. During that event, John Winning, alongside his mother Kerrie, spoke about the importance of the store for his family and the company’s presence in Queensland.

He stated that the Queensland customers appreciate their service as much as the company enjoys serving them. That opening event also included a Welcome To Country from Songwoman Maroochy, acknowledging the past while looking to the future.

David Woollcott, CEO of Winning Appliances, expressed at the time that the showroom was unique in Australia and possibly globally for its ability to showcase cutting-edge technologies with such style.

The original facility included a full working Experience Kitchen. Winning Group, a 111-year-old family business, aims to continue growing its presence in Queensland to become a significant part of kitchen and home design in the state.

Published Date 02-June-2025

Sushi Room Expansion Completed in Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: Sushi Room/Instagram

A Japanese restaurant located in Fortitude Valley has reopened following a major expansion that includes new seating, a redesigned bar, and alfresco dining.

Background and Expansion Details

Sushi Room, situated at The Calile Hotel in Fortitude Valley, has completed a major transformation and reopened on 30 May. Originally a 60-seat venue, it now offers seating for around 100 guests following an expansion that included acquiring the adjacent retail space previously occupied by Artclub x Lucy Folk.

Owner Simon Gloftis had aimed to secure the neighbouring tenancy since the restaurant’s initial planning in 2021, and seized the opportunity when it later became available. The extension adds 20 square metres to the restaurant’s footprint.

New Features and Design Changes

Designed by architects Richards and Spence, who also developed the original restaurant and hotel, the renovation introduces a new outdoor dining area on Doggett Street, a brushed-steel alfresco section, a larger marble bar, mirrored ceiling, and plush booth seating.

The new section offers a distinct atmosphere, slightly warmer and more casual than the original space, while preserving the moody, minimalist interior of the main dining area. Entry to the original dining space is now via a noren curtain, designed to maintain its private ambiance.

Dining Experience and Access

For the first time, Sushi Room now welcomes walk-in guests, allowing patrons to enjoy sushi and drinks without requiring a booking. The updated setup supports casual visits with the option for a quick snack or a full meal. An expanded menu features new sushi rolls, wakame salad, and winter cocktails, while maintaining the omakase-style service that has become the restaurant’s hallmark.

Sushi Room renovation — *Photo Credit: Sushi Room/Instagram*

Chef and Culinary Direction

Head Chef Shimpei Raikuni continues to lead the kitchen, with a focus on precision and traditional technique. He remains stationed at the 9.3-metre Hinoki sushi counter inside the original dining room.

The restaurant is known for its high standards and earlier this year was featured as a premium hospitality partner at the Australian Open, hosting omakase service at Rod Laver Arena. The combined space now accommodates approximately 100 guests between the new and existing dining areas.

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A post shared by Simon James Gloftis (@simongloftis)

Intended Outcome of Redevelopment

The changes are aimed at making the venue more versatile, encouraging guests to drop in without formality while preserving the refined experience for which the restaurant is known. The relaunch reflects an effort to balance exclusivity with accessibility.

Published 31-May-2025

Penelope Bistro Brings ’70s Flair to Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: Penelope/Instagram

A new venue in Fortitude Valley is drawing attention for its retro-inspired menu and standout dish featuring scallops served atop potato scallops.

Background and Concept

A recent addition to Fortitude Valley’s James Street precinct, Penelope Bistro delivers a nostalgic dining experience shaped by the aesthetics and flavours of the 1970s. Operated by the Coats Group—known for Maya Rooftop and Il Molo—the venue marks a stylistic departure with a disco-themed interior and a compact, inventive menu.

Fortitude Valley dining experience — *Photo Credit: Penelope/Instagram*

Signature Dish and Menu Highlights

A highlight of the menu is the “scallop on potato scallop,” which layers diced raw Hokkaido scallops mixed with dill, capers and lemon zest onto mini potato scallops tossed in salt-and-vinegar seasoning. A rice cracker topped with Oscietra caviar completes the dish.

Other items include a soft cheese tart with chilli crisp, duck pâté with kumquat, and reinterpretations of nostalgic favourites. While not listed on the current menu, a previously featured devilled-style quail egg was noted during early reviews of the venue.

Mains feature dishes such as pasta alla vodka, pan-fried fish, and a chicken cotoletta prepared with thigh meat. Each item blends classic elements with refined presentation.

Retro-themed restaurant — *Photo Credit: Penelope/Instagram*

view full menu

Dining Format and Experience

The bistro offers both an à la carte menu and a four-course banquet menu titled “Penelope’s Preferred.” For later diners, a room service-inspired menu becomes available from 9:30 p.m. onwards.

A concise drinks list features spirit-forward cocktails, including martinis and European classics. After-dinner options include cocktails like the Café Noir, while desserts range from citron tart and chocolate crémeux to soft-serve sundaes in flavours such as caramel popcorn and chocolate peanut butter.

Penelope Fortitude Valley — *Photo Credit: Penelope/Instagram*

Group Bookings and Venue Use

Bookings are available for groups of up to 12, with parties of nine or more required to select the set menu. The venue also accommodates private dining, cocktail events and exclusive use bookings. A $40 per person cancellation fee applies for bookings cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice or for no-shows.

Penelope Bistro — *Photo Credit: Penelope/Instagram*

BOOK NOW

Public Reception and Reviews

Visitors frequently mention the refined take on small plates, with positive remarks on the lamb ribs, tuna crudo and signature scallop dish. Patrons also note that the venue strikes a balance between relaxed and elevated, with stylish interiors and a playlist that complements the retro theme.

Several reviews point to the cocktail quality and staff attentiveness, with consistent praise for knowledgeable service and strong dish recommendations. Some diners noted slower service during busy periods but regarded it as reasonable given the popularity of the venue.

Others described the space as ideal for lingering over drinks and share plates, with certain dishes—such as the wagyu tartare—appealing more to diners already familiar with traditional preparations. Parking was flagged as limited, though reviewers focused on the experience inside as the main draw.

Looking Ahead

Penelope Bistro in Fortitude Valley combines a cohesive theme, nostalgic menu and refined service, offering an alternative to more conventional restaurants in the area. With its detail-focused execution, the venue has carved out a distinctive space in Brisbane’s dining landscape.

Published 13-May-2025

Copyright Clash Unfolds at Brooki Bakehouse in Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: Brooki/Instagram

Plagiarism allegations involving a bestselling cookbook have placed Fortitude Valley’s Brooki Bakehouse at the centre of a public copyright dispute.

Background and Context

Brooke Bellamy, founder of Brooki Bakehouse in Fortitude Valley, has denied claims that recipes in her cookbook Bake With Brooki were copied from prominent food content creators. The allegations emerged after RecipeTin Eats’ Nagi Maehashi and US-based baker Sally McKenney raised concerns about similarities between Ms Bellamy’s published recipes and their own.

Ms Maehashi said she became aware of the issue in November 2024 after a reader contacted her about potential overlap. She published a detailed article on her website on 30 April 2025, including side-by-side comparisons of her caramel slice and baklava recipes with those featured in Ms Bellamy’s cookbook. Ms McKenney claimed that a vanilla cake recipe she published in 2019 was used in the book without acknowledgment.

Caramel slice recipe — *Photo Credt: Nagi & Dozer/Instagram*

Baklava recipe — *Photo Credt: Nagi & Dozer/Instagram*

Penguin Random House Australia, the publisher, denied the claims and maintained that the cookbook’s recipes were created by Ms Bellamy.

Recipe Similarities at the Centre

The claims relate to recipes Ms Bellamy included in her cookbook, which has generated nearly $5 million in sales within six months. Ms Maehashi stated that she made no request for financial compensation, but asked for the allegedly copied recipes to be removed from future reprints and for a charitable donation to be made in lieu.

Ms Bellamy stated via Instagram that she has sold her caramel slice since 2016 and said the 100 recipes in her book reflect years of personal baking experience.She said she offered to remove the recipes in question to avoid further escalation.

Fortitude Valley bakery faces plagiarism claims — *Photo Credit: Brooki/Instagram*

Brooki Bakehouse statement — *Photo Credit: Brooki/Instagram*

Fortitude Valley Store and Business Expansion

The Fortitude Valley flagship remains operational. Ms Bellamy’s husband, Justice Bellamy, was present at the store on the morning of 30 April but declined to speak in detail, saying only that his wife would not be present and thanking the community for their support.

Just days earlier, Ms Bellamy had returned from two successful international Brooki Bakehouse pop-ups in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where wait times for cookies reached two hours. Plans for a third overseas pop-up and a new Australian location are underway, with expansion efforts now led by Justice Bellamy.

Community Sentiment Divided

At Brooki Bakehouse in Fortitude Valley, customer reactions varied. Some were unaware of the situation, while others said the issue raised valid questions. One customer said the overlap in recipes was difficult to ignore, given the scale of the cookbook’s success. Another expressed support for Ms Bellamy, citing her longstanding work in baking and content creation.

Next Steps

The situation remains unresolved, with no indication that Penguin Random House will recall the cookbook. While Ms Maehashi has not dismissed the possibility of legal proceedings, she emphasised her focus is on acknowledgment and responsibility. Brooki Bakehouse remains open in Fortitude Valley as the copyright issue continues to attract broader industry attention.

Published 1-May-2025

Fortitude Valley Honouree Sycco Caps Big Year with National Award

Photo Credit: Sycco/ Facebook

Brisbane musician Sycco, whose songwriting success is already marked by honours in the heart of Fortitude Valley, has earned national recognition by winning the Triple J Australian Album of the Year J Award for her debut album, Zorb.

National Award Success

The J Award win arrived in 2024 for the 23-year-old artist Sasha McLeod. Triple J music director Nick Findlay described her album Zorb as a blissful, psychedelic collection that perfectly captures Sycco’s incredibly unique approach to songwriting and production.

Findlay also stated that Sycco is one of Australia’s best young artists. The J Award recognises outstanding Australian albums each year.

Local Roots and Recognition

Sycco, who is of Torres Strait Islander heritage, began her music career by creating songs in her bedroom. She is now represented by the independent music company Future Classic. Before her national J Award win, Sycco had already achieved significant recognition in her hometown.

She won Song of the Year at the Queensland Music Awards for two consecutive years, first for “Dribble” in 2021 and then for “My Ways” in 2022. These awards are commemorated with plaques in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley entertainment precinct.

Debut Album Origins

According to McLeod, her debut album Zorb grew from experiences she had over the past three years while living in a decaying Brisbane sharehouse. The building, once owned by a former mayor, provided the backdrop for significant personal events, including first love, heartbreak, and the formation of supportive friendships, all of which influenced the album’s creation.

Recent Activity and Future Plans

McLeod described 2024 as an incredible year, marked by the release of Zorb, a move to a new city, and her first live shows in America. Looking ahead, she aims to stand out in the competitive music field by trusting her instincts and creating memorable live performances.

She recently completed her headline tour, which featured the “Sycco Extended Family DJs” performing inside a specially built cube structure. She expressed pride in the new music she has recorded and hopes to release it soon. The Sycco Extended Family DJs are scheduled to support fellow Brisbane band The Jungle Giants in April 2025, marking McLeod’s first support shows as a DJ.

Published Date 23-April-2025

Valley Residents Among Four Charged in Stafford Home Invasion

Two Fortitude Valley residents have been charged alongside two Brisbane men following an alleged home invasion and stabbing incident in Stafford over the weekend.

According to police reports, a 37-year-old woman and a 47-year-old woman, both from Fortitude Valley, were part of a group that allegedly broke into a Wayland Street property around 6pm on Saturday, April 12.

The Valley women, along with a 20-year-old man and a 39-year-old man from Brisbane, allegedly confronted the 43-year-old male resident during the break-in. Police allege the victim was stabbed in the shoulder with a pair of small scissors and punched multiple times in the head and stomach before the group stole several personal items from the home.

The four suspects attempted to flee the scene in a white MG HS SUV but were intercepted and arrested by responding officers. All four have been charged with enter dwelling and commit, assault occasioning bodily harm while armed, and common assault.

The 37-year-old Fortitude Valley woman is expected to appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court today, April 14, alongside the 20-year-old Brisbane man. The 47-year-old Valley resident will face court later this month on April 30, along with the 39-year-old Brisbane man.

The victim was transported to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital where he remains in stable condition.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Published 13-April-2025

Fortitude Valley Program Helps Latina Women Build Stronger Businesses

In Fortitude Valley, a business program is giving Latina migrant women in Brisbane the tools and support they need to grow and strengthen their businesses.

Fortitude Valley Program Helps Migrant Women Build Businesses In Queensland

A grassroots program in Fortitude Valley is helping Latina migrant women grow their businesses. Run by LatinOz QLD and backed by the Queensland Government, it has supported over 70 women so far.

The next round of the Queensland Women in Business (QWINBIZ) program starts Saturday, 12 April 2025, at The Precinct and runs until 16 August, offering practical sessions, mentoring, and community events for ABN-registered migrant women in business growth stages.

Building Business Confidence

QWINBIZ aims to equip migrant women with both business skills and confidence to navigate the Australian market. Participants range from beginners to experienced entrepreneurs, with sessions covering legal structures, compliance, marketing, and customer engagement.

Held in person to build connection and support, the program helps combat isolation. This year’s theme, “From Vision to Impact,” highlights turning ideas into lasting results.

A Growing Community in Brisbane

The program goes beyond workshops—it’s a supportive community where Latina women can connect, share experiences, and grow together. Participants from countries like Colombia, Venezuela, Argentina, Mexico, Peru, Brazil, and Chile have already benefited from the initiative.

Many say it has transformed their confidence and outlook. One woman shared how she learned to legally protect her business, while another said the program helped her go from feeling isolated and confused to empowered and supported.

With over 300 people reached through events and outreach, the program is hosted at The Precinct, Queensland’s central hub for startups and innovation, providing a vibrant space for learning and collaboration.

Accessible and Affordable

With support from the Queensland Government, QWINBIZ is offered at a low cost, with scholarships available for those in need.

A free launch event will be held on 12 April at The Precinct, Fortitude Valley, from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, featuring Latina entrepreneurs, refreshments, and networking.

As QWINBIZ grows, migrant women are showing their businesses can thrive with the right support.

Published 4-April-2025

New Illuminated Residential Tower Gets Green Light for Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: DA A006612891

A striking, illuminated 28-storey residential apartment building has received approval to be built in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, placing it near key planned venues for the 2032 Olympic Games.

Project Scope and Features

Luxe Property Investments plans to develop 300 St Pauls Terrace, its first high-rise residential project in Brisbane. Designed by McFarland Architects, the tower will contain 164 apartments on 26 floors, offering a mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom layouts.

These residential levels will sit above two podium and three basement levels, providing parking for 157 cars and 205 bicycles. On the upper ground level and rooftop, residents will have access to over 1150 square metres of shared facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, barbecue facilities, and dining areas with landscaping.

Strategic Location and Olympic Link

The site sits strategically between the Story Bridge and the newly announced Victoria Park Olympics precinct, which will host major events. It is also near the RNA Showgrounds, the athletes’ village location. Luxe Property Investments director Tony Jo noted that Fortitude Valley has changed considerably over the years, becoming a more sought-after destination.

He expressed that the proximity to the Olympic sites was a welcome development and stated the company is focused on ensuring the building enhances the area and contributes positively to Brisbane’s image on the world stage. Mr Jo mentioned that the company initially expected the main Olympic focus to be The Gabba, but the Victoria Park precinct is now just two blocks from their site.

Architectural Design and Lighting

A key feature of the approved design is lighting integrated into the building’s curved exterior. According to planning documents, this element is intended to highlight the architecture at night and support Brisbane’s ‘City of Lights’ strategy, aiming to create a more vibrant night-time atmosphere.

Blair McFarland, director of McFarland Architects, indicated that the Brisbane City Council well-received the tower’s design and integrated lighting concept. He suggested that the upcoming Olympics provide a fantastic opportunity for inner-city areas like Fortitude Valley and believes this building could be the start of further quality developments with improved designs appearing in the neighbourhood, a trend likely accelerated by the Games.

Development Timeline and Site History

The project will proceed to the detailed design stage with council approval now secured. Construction is anticipated to begin within the next two years. The 2,270-square-metre site was purchased for $9.35 million in December 2020.

Property records show it was previously owned by the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ). The new tower will replace a three-storey office building and its associated car park currently occupying the land.

Published Date 02-April-2025

Warisan Brings a Bold New Take on Indonesian Cuisine to the Valley

Warisan is bringing a fresh and modern take on Indonesian cuisine to Fortitude Valley. With a menu that blends tradition and innovation, this vibrant eatery invites diners to rediscover the bold and diverse flavours of Indonesia.

Read: The Beaumont Beer Garden: Brisbane’s New Rooftop Destination for Australian Flavours

From rich curries to expertly grilled seafood and creative plant-based dishes, Warisan offers an exciting dining experience that stays true to its roots while embracing contemporary twists.

Indonesian cuisine — Photo credit: Warisan/Facebook

Behind this culinary gem are Alfan Musthafa and Nick Wigley, who also co-owns Luckies Kitchen in Bulimba. Alfie’s Indonesian heritage and deep knowledge of the cuisine serve as the foundation of Warisan’s menu, while Nick brings his own expertise to help shape the restaurant’s welcoming and engaging atmosphere.

The menu features standout dishes like Indonesian grilled mixed rice—a flavourful combination of steamed rice, mie goreng, and tempe orek, wrapped in a banana leaf with a choice of shredded sambal chicken or beef semur.

Other highlights include the Opor Bebek Salatiga, a rich duck curry; Ikan Kakap Bakar, Jimbaran-style grilled snapper fillet with sambal matah; and Tahu Isi, crispy fried tofu stuffed with mixed vegetables and sambal asam. Warisan also caters generously to plant-based diners, offering 11 vegan-friendly dishes.

Drinks play a starring role at Warisan, with a carefully curated menu of nine cocktails, including a refreshing highball featuring lemongrass gin, triple sec, lemon, cucumber, and black pepper. Local wines are also on offer, providing the perfect complement to the bold and vibrant flavours of the menu.

Read: Goros Opens in Fortitude Valley, Bringing Japanese Nightlife Experience

Since opening in late 2024, Warisan has already made an impact, drawing in diners eager to experience its unique take on Indonesian cuisine. Whether you’re a long-time lover of Indonesian food or a newcomer looking to explore, this Fortitude Valley gem is sure to impress.

Find Warisan at 4 Hynes Street, Fortitude Valley. They are open Tuesday to Saturday for both lunch and dinner, ready to welcome you into their world of reimagined Indonesian delights.

Published 2-April-2025