In a landmark legal ruling, a Fortitude Valley restaurant has been ordered to change its name from Establishment 203 to avoid confusion with Sydney’s iconic Establishment bar owned by Merivale CEO Justin Hemmes.
The Federal Court decision came after Justin Hemmes, owner of the Merivale Group, filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against the Brisbane steak and Italian restaurant. Hemmes argued that the name Establishment 203 was deceptively similar to his Sydney venue, known simply as The Establishment, which has been a major player in the hospitality scene since its launch during the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
Justice Ian Jackman ruled that adding “203” was insufficient to differentiate the Brisbane venue from the established Sydney brand.
Despite arguments from Establishment 203’s owner, Brendan Menegazzo, that his restaurant’s name was derived from his Queensland cattle business’s federal establishment number, the court found in favor of Hemmes, citing potential consumer confusion due to the similarity in names.
Impact and Enforcement
As a result of the ruling, Establishment 203 has been given 30 days to rename its business and will also bear the legal costs of the proceedings. The decision underscores the significant reputation and market presence the Sydney Establishment has built over over two decades, drawing tens of thousands of patrons weekly.
This case sets a significant precedent for trademark disputes within Australia’s competitive hospitality industry, reinforcing the need for businesses to conduct thorough checks on potential trademark issues before establishing new ventures.
A dazzling new landmark is on the horizon for Fortitude Valley. Developers have submitted plans for an illuminated mixed-use tower to light up the inner-city skyline.
The proposed 28-storey development promises to transform a high-profile site on St Pauls Terrace, introducing a dynamic mix of residential, retail, and recreational spaces.
The ambitious project, put forth by a Brisbane-based entity with ties to Centennial Investments, envisions 164 apartments ranging from one to four bedrooms. Residents can access luxurious amenities, including a rooftop pool, gym, and dining areas. The ground floor will feature 415 square metres of retail space, adding vibrancy to the streetscape.
The design firm McFarland Architects, has crafted a striking curved structure enhanced by carefully planned illumination. This lighting scheme aims to highlight the building’s architecture and contribute to Brisbane’s “City of Lights” strategy, which seeks to foster a thriving nighttime economy.
The development’s scale and design have been meticulously considered to create an engaging public realm. Arched forms frame the podium, while a landscaped awning separates it from the tower. The project will also incorporate nearly 500 square metres of publicly accessible open space, contributing to the area’s walkability and vibrancy.
In 2020, the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland acquired the site for $9.35 million. The new tower will replace an existing three-storey office building and car park if approved.
The planning report emphasises that the project’s design and land uses reflect a high-quality subtropical aesthetic appropriate for the site’s location. We anticipate the development establishing itself as a landmark at a crucial intersection between Fortitude Valley and Spring Hill, thereby augmenting the area’s appeal.
The project’s potential impact on the local landscape has drawn attention, but it’s important to note that the political aspects of the development have received less attention.
The tower’s anticipated architectural and economic benefits to Fortitude Valley remain the main focus.
Fortitude Valley will celebrate the legacy of David Bowie with the annual Bowies Down Brunswick event aimed at raising funds for Cancer Council through a dress-up charity walk.
Organised by local event coordinator Kristian Fletcher, Bowies Down Brunswick will take place on Saturday, 19 October 2024, and starts at Netherworld at 5:00 p.m. The event encourages David Bowie fans to don their favourite Bowie-inspired outfits, ranging from iconic lightning bolts to classic Bowie shirts, and participate in a themed walk through the heart of Fortitude Valley.
“This event is not just about dressing up; it’s about paying tribute to Bowie’s artistry and helping a great cause,” Fletcher stated.
The walk will feature stops for photo opportunities in the mall, a mini Bowie party at Marquee Bar from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and will conclude with a celebration at Hellbound Bar, where Bowie’s music will play from 8:00 p.m. onwards.
Participants are asked to donate to the Cancer Council to join the walk.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Community Impact and Participation
This year marks a special continuation of Fletcher’s commitment to both community events and cancer fundraising, a cause close to many hearts. Fletcher, who has been at the forefront of hosting retro and themed events in Brisbane for over two decades, emphasised the dual purpose of the event.
“We’re all coming together to celebrate Bowie’s incredible influence on music and fashion, and at the same time, support those fighting cancer.”
The walk requires a $15 donation per person, which covers entry to all event venues. All proceeds from the event will go directly to Cancer Council, supporting their ongoing efforts in cancer research, support services, and education programs.
David Bowie, who passed away from liver cancer in January 2016, remains a towering figure in the world of music. He is known for his eclectic style and pioneering sounds across multiple genres. From glam rock anthems like “Ziggy Stardust” to pop hits such as “Let’s Dance,” his influence continues to resonate. The Bowies Down Brunswick event not only serves as a platform for fans to express their admiration but also helps carry forward his legacy of creativity and charity.
The Calile Hotel in Fortitude Valley has been crowned the Best Hotel in Oceania and secured the 25th spot in The World’s 50 Best Hotels for 2024. This prestigious recognition puts Brisbane on the global luxury travel map, outshining traditional hospitality powerhouses Sydney and Melbourne.
The $100 million Calile Hotel, which opened its doors in October 2018, has quickly become a magnet for socialites and celebrities.
Located in the heart of Fortitude Valley’s James Street, the hotel is a cornerstone of the area’s transformation into a ‘lifestyle resort’ destination, a vision realised by the local Malouf family.
With room rates starting at $379 per night, The Calile offers nine room types, ranging from essential hideaways to luxurious poolside and high-end suite options.
The hotel’s success is not just in its accommodations but also in its dining offerings. The Lobby Bar serves as a popular spot for lunch and dinner, while nearby restaurants on Ada Lane, including Same Same and Bianca, have become local favourites.
The iconic Treasury Casino in Fortitude Valley is poised for a dramatic transformation. Griffith University is expected to formally announce its acquisition of the historic building in the coming weeks.
The move hinted at earlier this year, would see the casino converted into a bustling campus that, upon its opening in 2027, would accommodate up to 7,000 students and 400 staff members.
LM Adrian Schrinner has expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the Treasury Casino’s significance as a cherished landmark in Brisbane’s landscape. He emphasised the importance of preventing the building from remaining vacant and expressed his desire for it to maintain an active role within the city, particularly in the Queen Street Mall precinct.
Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map
Star Entertainment, the current owner of the Treasury Casino, put the property on the market for $200 million in October of last year. However, they have declined to comment on whether a deal has been finalised with Griffith University.
A Star Entertainment spokeswoman confirmed that Treasury Brisbane is currently being sold and stated that an official announcement regarding the outcome would be made at the appropriate time.
Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map
Griffith University, which already boasts campuses across South East Queensland, including Mount Gravatt, Logan, South Bank, Nathan, and the Gold Coast, has declined to comment on the matter. If the acquisition is confirmed, this new campus would mark the university’s sixth location.
The potential transformation of the Treasury Casino into a vibrant educational hub signals a new chapter for the historic building and the Fortitude Valley area.
It promises to inject a fresh wave of energy into the precinct, contributing to its continued growth and evolution. As the formal announcement draws near, the community eagerly awaits further details about this exciting development.
Fortitude Valley welcomed a unique addition to its nightlife scene with the opening of Pawn & Co, a Melbourne-born concept that seamlessly blended a bar, a pawn shop, and a perfumery.
The venue was more than just a place to grab a drink; it was an immersive experience where everything, from the furniture to the fragrances, was displayed.
Occupying the former Laruche site on Ann Street, the 500-square-metre space underwent a $4-million transformation. Co-founders Josh Lefers, Stephen Wools, and collaborators Steve Thomas and Alex Docherty envisioned it as a luxurious, art deco-inspired piano bar with a twist. It was where martinis and Rolexes coexisted, and every visit was an adventure.
Lefers wanted to create a space where each drink, curiosity, and perfume told a story. The integration of a perfumery, where patrons could even craft their signature scents, further distinguished Pawn & Co from traditional bars.
Docherty highlighted Fortitude Valley’s strategic choice for their first Queensland venture. He saw the precinct as the rising star of Australia’s late-night scene, with post-pandemic energy and the upcoming Olympics contributing to its growth.
Thomas assured that while the venue had undergone extensive renovations, key elements of its predecessors, Laruche and Beehive, were retained. The recognisable vaulted beehive ceiling and the iconic back bar design remained, paying homage to the good times shared within those walls.
This establishment was a captivating addition to the city’s vibrant nightlife. It was a testament to the evolving hospitality landscape, where creativity and commerce intertwine to offer patrons an unforgettable experience.
Jon Stevens and Kate Ceberano are set to reunite for the “Superstars Live” tour at Fortitude Valley Music Hall, offering fans a rare chance to relive their legendary performances from the 1992 production of “Jesus Christ Superstar.”
This tour, marking the golden jubilee of the “Jesus Christ Superstar” musical, will see Stevens and Ceberano perform hits that have resonated with audiences for decades, such as “Everything’s Alright” and “I Don’t Know How To Love Him.”
The duo’s musical journey began over thirty years ago, which set them on the path to becoming revered figures in the Australian music scene.
Stevens, known for his raw vocal power, rose to fame as the lead singer of the rock band Noiseworks, belting out hits like “Take Me Back” and “Touch.” His solo career further cemented his status as a rock icon in Australia.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Ceberano, with her versatile voice that effortlessly spans jazz, pop, and soul, has been a prominent figure in the industry since her days fronting the band I’m Talking. Her solo tracks – including the likes of “Pash” and “Brave” – have earned her numerous accolades and a devoted following.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Common
Tribute and Innovation
A poignant part of their performances will be a tribute to John Farnham, whose portrayal of Jesus in the same 1992 production remains one of the most iconic in Australian theatre history. The shows will blend nostalgia with innovation, with both artists bringing fresh interpretations to their acclaimed hits, backed by a dynamic rock band.
Reflecting on their enduring partnership and mutual artistic respect, Ceberano shared that their decision to perform together again felt both natural and necessary, spurred by fan reactions and personal milestones. The live performances aim to create a bridge between generations of music lovers, celebrating both the past and the present of Australian music.
A Celebration of Live Music
The “Superstars Live” tour is not just a concert series but a celebration of the rich tapestry of live music that Stevens and Ceberano have participated in. Their performances are expected to be more than just musical sets; they promise to be immersive experiences where stories are shared, and memories are made, ensuring that everyone in the audience feels part of something truly special.
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.
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.
Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley nightlife scene has a dazzling new addition: Enigma, a nightclub that transports patrons to a world of glamour and excitement before they enter.
The club, which opened in early August 2024, features a mesmerising LED walkway that illuminates the entrance and stairs, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.
Enigma’s creators drew inspiration from iconic party destinations like Ibiza, Miami, and Las Vegas, aiming to provide an escape for those seeking a break from the ordinary. Cade Hopman of Hallmark Hospitality Group, the company behind Enigma, emphasised the club’s focus on creating a unique experience.
The $9.3-million fit-out at the Brunswick Street venue is a testament to this commitment, offering a visually stunning environment that complements the pulsating beats. It joins Hallmark Hospitality Group’s impressive roster of venues in Brisbane, including Maggie May, Lefty’s Music Hall, The Lord Alfred, and Hey Chica!
The club’s resident DJs, including Tasha Lee, Curdin, SF Fudge, Sophie Bridges, Nestor Vargas, and Apolloco, curate an eclectic mix of music to keep the energy high on the dance floor and in the VIP booths surrounding the DJ.
Enigma’s drink menu features a blend of classic cocktails and signature creations. Alongside favourites like margaritas, Long Island iced teas, Aperol spritzes, and espresso martinis, the club offers its namesake cocktail, The Enigma, a vibrant mix of vodka, white rum, gin, blue curacao, raspberry, and Red Bull.
With its captivating atmosphere, world-class DJs, and enticing drinks, this place is poised to become a destination for Brisbane’s nightlife enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary experience.
Fortitude Valley will once again become the epicentre of Australia’s music scene as it prepares to host BIGSOUND 2024, the southern hemisphere’s largest celebration of new music and industry conference.
The annual event, now in its third year, will run from 3 to 6 September 2024. BIGSOUND 2024 will showcase over 150 emerging artists across 18 venues in the city’s vibrant live music precinct.
BIGSOUND has announced over 80 performers, with more acts to be revealed in the coming months:
1. Keli Holiday 2. Y.O.G.A. 3. Alex the Astronaut 4. Gretta Ray 5. dust 6. Dear Seattle 7. Sly Withers 8. Stand Atlantic 9. Miiesha 10. Alayna 11. Dear Sunday 12. Tiffi 13. Armlock 14. Bean Magazine 15. Georgia Lines 16. Hannah Brewer 17. Same Blood (J-MILLA x Yung Milla) 18. Stella Bridie 19. Towns 20. AKA Lui 21. Alienist 22. Austin Mackay 23. Belle Haven 24. breathe 25. Cap Carter 26. Charlie Pittman 27. Charlotte Le Lievre 28. Cooper Smith 29. DARTZ 30. Dick Move
31. DoloRRes 32. Erik Sanders 33. Flow Kobra 34. Fool Nelson 35. FRIDAY 36. Front Row 37. Garage Sale 38. Georgia Mooney 39. Hellcat Speedracer 40. Homegrown Trio 41. Hudson Rose 42. ISHAN 43. Jerome Blazé 44. Juice Webster 45. Julian Munyard 46. JUNO 47. Kiwat Kennell 48. Lotte Gallagher 49. LUPO.THEBOY 50. Maanyung 51. Mac The Knife 52. MARVELL 53. Matahara 54. Matt Joe Gow & Kerryn Fields 55. Mau Power 56. Medhanit 57. MUDRAT 58. NO CIGAR 59. Noah Dillon 60. Paige
61. Park RD 62. PEPTALK 63. Playlunch 64. Prink 65. R.em.edy 66. Ray Dimakarri Dixon 67. Reiki Ruawai 68. Rowena Wise 69. SAME PAINS 70. Sesame Girl 71. Sex Mask 72. Sonic Reducer 73. Squid the Kid 74. Stocker 75. sunbleached 76. The Belair Lip Bombs 77. The Velvet Club 78. This New Light 79. total tommy 80. Vetta Borne 81. Vinnie Brigante 82. Wade Forster
Conference Highlights
This year’s conference will feature over 25 industry leaders sharing their expertise on pressing issues facing the music sector. Notable speakers include Lutz Leichsenring from VibeLab, Lyndsey Havens from Billboard, and Josh Simons from Vinyl Group and Vampr.
Panel discussions will cover topics such as youth engagement with Australian music, creating sustainable music ecosystems, and the global perception of Australian music. The conference aims to foster innovative conversations and creative breakthroughs in response to ongoing industry disruptions.
One particularly intriguing panel, titled “Aged out: what does Australian music mean to youth?”, will explore how young people discover and engage with music in an increasingly digital world. Another panel, “Who gives a fuck about Australian music?”, promises to critically examine the growing positive global perception of Australian music while also exploring the veracity of local engagement.
Artist Showcase
BIGSOUND’s music festival component will feature a diverse range of up-and-coming talent. The second wave of artists includes Miiesha, an Anangu/Torres Strait Islander performer known for her powerful voice, and Alayna, an Aotearoa singer-songwriter who has collaborated with Finneas Eilish.
Other notable additions to the lineup include Dear Sunday, Tiffi, Armlock, and Bean Magazine. These artists represent a mix of genres and styles from across Australia and New Zealand. The festival provides a platform for these emerging artists to showcase their talents to industry professionals and music fans alike.
BIGSOUND’s Music Programmers, Casey O’Shaughnessy and Katie Rynne, have carefully selected the performing artists from over 1,200 applications, ensuring a high-quality and diverse lineup. This meticulous curation process means that attendees have the opportunity to discover their next favourite band among the showcasing acts.
Bigsound 2023 Photo Credit: Bigsound/Facebook
Ticket Information
BIGSOUND 2024 offers various ticket options to cater to different attendees. Single-night music festival tickets are available, with discounts for those under 25. Three-night wristbands are also on offer, providing access to all performances across the weekend.
For industry professionals, all-access delegate passes are available through the BIGSOUND website. These passes grant entry to both the conference sessions and the music festival showcases, allowing for a comprehensive BIGSOUND experience.
Since its launch in 2002 by industry development organisation QMusic, BIGSOUND has played a crucial role in launching the careers of many successful Australian artists. Past performers who have gone on to achieve significant success include Flume, Rufus du Sol, Gang of Youths, and Tones and I.
The event continues to attract over 1,700 conference delegates and an aggregate showcase attendance of over 16,000, cementing its position as a key player in the Australian music industry calendar.
Bigsound 2023 Photo Credit: Bigsound/Facebook
Community Impact
BIGSOUND’s presence in Fortitude Valley has a significant impact on the local community. The influx of visitors during the event provides a boost to local businesses, particularly in the hospitality and accommodation sectors. Moreover, the festival shines a spotlight on Brisbane’s thriving music scene, further solidifying the city’s reputation as a cultural hub.
The event also plays a crucial role in fostering connections within the music industry. It provides a unique opportunity for emerging artists to network with industry professionals, potentially leading to career-changing opportunities.
