Fortitude Valley Archives - Page 8 of 26

Brisbane’s Own Greg Norman Takes on a New Challenge—Shaping the 2032 Olympics

Brisbane’s Olympic preparations are gaining a homegrown boost, with Greg Norman joining the Games’ organising team. The committee, operating out of Brisbane City, is at the centre of the city’s Olympic vision.

Read: Roar vs Wellington Phoenix: Brisbane Look to End Losing Streak, Reignite Title Push

Local Connection Runs Deep for Former World No.1

For Brisbane residents, Norman’s ties to the city run deeper than many realise. Before becoming the “Great White Shark” who dominated world golf for 331 weeks as World No. 1, he honed his skills in Brisbane’s northern suburbs. He worked at the Royal Queensland Golf Club, which fittingly will serve as the venue for the Olympic golf events in 2032.

Reflecting on the appointment, Norman said, “In my youth in the ’70s, I worked in the golf shop at Royal Queensland. Now that course will be the home of golf at Brisbane 2032.”

Greg Norman, a Strategic Appointment for Brisbane’s Global Ambitions

Minister for Sport Anika Wells highlighted Norman’s ability to contribute to Brisbane’s Olympic ambitions, citing his four decades of global sporting experience and business acumen. The appointment comes as Norman transitions from his role as CEO of LIV Golf, bringing fresh strategic insight to the organising committee.

OCOG President Andrew Liveris reinforced the significance of his involvement, stating, “What better Queensland sports brand than Greg Norman? He will help elevate our state and our city on the global stage over the next seven years.”

Business Expertise Meets Sporting Legacy

Beyond his sporting achievements, Norman brings substantial business expertise to the role. As chairman and CEO of the Greg Norman Company, he has overseen successful ventures in apparel, interior design, real estate, and golf course design – experience that could prove invaluable in Brisbane’s Olympic development.

Norman replaces retiring politician Graham Perrett MP on the 24-person organizing board, with his first OCOG meeting scheduled for 5 April. The appointment represents a significant boost for Brisbane’s Olympic preparations, bringing together local knowledge and global expertise.

Read: New Vision for Waterfront Pavilion, A Key Element of Waterfront Brisbane

For Brisbane, Norman’s appointment bridges the city’s sporting heritage with its Olympic future. As preparations for the 2032 Games continue to transform the city, having a local figure of Norman’s calibre on board offers both practical expertise and symbolic significance.

Speaking to the aspirations of his hometown, he affirmed, “We will prove our credentials as world leaders in events, sport, and hospitality at Brisbane 2032 and create an incredible legacy for this state.”

Published 31-January-2025

Experience a Super Bowl Rematch for the Ages at Felons Barrel Hall

Brisbane is set to host a spectacular celebration of American football with a riverside Super Bowl viewing party that promises to be the city’s largest. Felons Barrel Hall, located beneath the iconic Story Bridge, will be the focal point for NFL fans keen to witness the much-anticipated Super Bowl LIX rematch between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs.

Read: QPS Leader Christopher Stream Receives Australian Police Medal for Outstanding Service

Felons Barrel Hall Brings NFL History to Brisbane’s Riverside

On Monday, 10 February, doors to the Howard Smith Wharves venue will open early, welcoming fans from 8:00 a.m. The event will give attendees plenty of time to settle in before the 9:30 a.m. kickoff, which will be broadcast live from New Orleans’ Superdome. With two massive screens in the venue, every moment of the action will be unmissable.

The waterfront location offers a uniquely Brisbane experience for America’s biggest sporting event. Fans can soak in the relaxed riverside atmosphere while enjoying classic American-inspired dishes and locally brewed beverages.

*Photo Credit: Facebook/Felons Barrel Hall*

Howard Smith Wharves has established itself as Brisbane’s premier cultural hub, and this Super Bowl event further cements its reputation. The precinct’s combination of thirteen restaurants, cafes, bars, and the award-winning Felons Brewery creates an atmosphere that matches the magnitude of the occasion.

The Stakes Have Never Been Higher

This year’s Super Bowl holds particular significance as the Kansas City Chiefs pursue an unprecedented third consecutive championship. Led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, whose ability to deliver in clutch moments has defined his career, the Chiefs face an evolved Philadelphia Eagles team two years after a fated brotherly matchup in Super Bowl LVII.

The Eagles, now bolstered by Saquon Barkley’s record-breaking 2,005-yard rushing season, bring formidable competition, setting the stage for a tactical showdown that fans won’t want to miss.

Read: Mr Darcy Passes the Torch to Elvis in Australian Koala Foundation’s Mission

This 18+ event is expected to draw hundreds of attendees, making it the largest Super Bowl gathering in Brisbane. For local NFL enthusiasts, it offers a rare opportunity to share the excitement of the game in a vibrant setting that combines Brisbane’s distinctive riverside charm with the electrifying energy of American football’s grandest spectacle.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable day. Secure your spot here.

Published 28-January-2025

New Country-Themed Bar Set to Launch in Fortitude Valley

Photo Credit: Chattahoochees/Facebook

Chattahoochee Joe’s Honky Tonk is set to bring a country-themed nightlife experience to Fortitude Valley, featuring live music, entertainment, and Southern-style cuisine in the heart of Brisbane’s entertainment precinct.

The new venue will be located at 336 Brunswick Street, in the former Marquee Bar space, and is being developed by the team behind popular Fortitude Valley establishments such as Ric’s Bar and The Royal George Hotel.

The site has undergone significant renovations to accommodate its new concept, focusing on creating an authentic honky tonk experience. Brisbane’s nightlife has seen a growing interest in country music-themed venues, reflecting broader trends in the music and entertainment industry.

Chattahoochee Joe’s Honky Tonk — *Photo Credit: Chattahoochees/Instagram*

Entertainment Offerings

Chattahoochee Joe’s will offer live country music performances from local and touring artists on Friday and Saturday nights. The basement level will feature recreational activities such as shuffleboards, dartboards, a pool table, and arcade games.

Line dancing and ‘Cowboy Karaoke’ nights will take place every Thursday, providing patrons with various entertainment options.

The grand opening on 1 February 2025 will feature the Brothers Hill Band, a rising country duo in the Australian music scene.

Food and Beverage Options

The venue’s kitchen will operate from 5:00 p.m. until late each night, offering a menu of Southern-style share plates.

Signature cocktails like the Whiskey Apple and Yee Haw will highlight American-inspired flavours, combining traditional ingredients with modern twists.

Chattahoochee Joe’s in Fortitude Valley — *Photo Credit: Chattahoochees/Instagram*

Chattahoochee Joe’s grand opening — *Photo Credit: Chattahoochees/Instagram*

Community Sentiment

Local patrons and country music enthusiasts have expressed excitement about the opening, anticipating a fresh addition to Fortitude Valley’s diverse nightlife scene.

Social media discussions indicate strong interest, with many eager to experience the venue’s unique offerings and themed entertainment.

Future Developments

Plans are in place to expand the venue to include a fourth bar across three levels, further enhancing its capacity and variety of experiences.

Regular event updates and promotional activities are expected to maintain interest and attract a steady customer base.

Published 24-Jan-2025

Roar vs Adelaide United: Brisbane Fall Short in Perry Park Thriller

A sea of orange filled Perry Park on Sunday evening, buzzing with anticipation for a crucial top-four clash: Roar vs Adelaide United. The stakes were high, with both teams vying for the title in the Ninja A-League. Despite a spirited late comeback, the Roar fell to a 3-2 defeat against a clinical Adelaide side.

Read: Geoffrey Smith Transforms Fortitude Valley with Groundbreaking Inclusion Efforts

The opening goal arrived in the 42nd minute. Adelaide’s Chelsie Dawber, a constant thorn in the Roar’s side, expertly controlled a cross from Emily Condon before unleashing a clinical volley past Olivia Sekany.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Brisbane Roar FC (@brisbaneroarfc)

Despite the setback, the Roar’s response was swift and emphatic. Just before the halftime whistle, midfielder Alicia Woods etched her name into the history books. The crowd erupted as Woods’ rocket from the edge of the box found the back of the net, a moment of brilliance that ignited Perry Park and marked her first-ever A-League goal.

Second Half Surge from the Reds

Adelaide United emerged from the break with renewed vigour, capitalising on a momentary lapse in the Roar’s defence. Erin Healy, showcasing some fancy footwork, weaved through the Roar’s backline before slotting the ball past Sekany at the near post.

Dawber then extended Adelaide’s lead, heading home from a corner to secure her brace and seemingly put the game beyond reach for the home side.

A Captain’s Fight

However, captain Tameka Yallop rallied her troops, refusing to let the Roar surrender. In the dying minutes, Yallop rose above the Adelaide defence to head home a pinpoint cross from Mariel Hecher, igniting hopes of a dramatic equaliser. The atmosphere at Perry Park was electric as the Roar pressed forward in search of a third goal, but despite their best efforts, Adelaide’s defence held firm.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Brisbane Roar FC (@brisbaneroarfc)

After a blistering end to 2024, scoring 16 goals in two games, the Roar have now stumbled into a difficult patch with three losses in four matches to start the calendar year.

Read: Plans for Howard Smith Wharves Raise Concerns Over Heritage and Flooding

Brisbane now face a challenging trip to Perth Glory next weekend, where they will be looking to bounce back and secure vital points in their quest for a top-four finish. This upcoming match presents its own set of hurdles, with Perth’s home ground advantage and the Roar’s need to recover quickly from Sunday’s intense encounter.

Published 20-January-2025

Match preview published 15-January-2025

Roar vs Adelaide United: Top-Four Clash with Huge Implications

Brisbane Roar return home on Sunday, 19 January, eager to strengthen their hold on second place as they face a rising Adelaide United in a crucial top-four battle. Roar vs Adelaide United kicks off 4:00 p.m. at Perry Park.

Read: Tribunal Rules in Favour of Woman Banned from Treasury Brisbane

Tale of Two Matches

The past week has been a rollercoaster for Brisbane Roar, showcasing both the heights and challenges of their campaign. Last Wednesday’s home fixture against Melbourne Victory demonstrated the Roar’s clinical attacking play, while Saturday’s clash with Melbourne City exposed the difficulties of a congested schedule.

The midweek victory over Melbourne Victory showcased the Roar’s clinical attacking play and defensive solidity. Grace Kuilamu, back from an ankle injury, marked her return with a well-timed header in the 23rd minute, capitalising on Emily Pringle’s shot off the crossbar.

The dynamic duo continued to terrorise Victory’s defence, with Pringle rattling the woodwork again in the 35th minute. Kuilamu’s predatory instincts were on full display just three minutes later, as she pounced on a deflected Sharn Freier shot to secure her brace and a crucial 2-0 win.

Saturday’s top-of-the-table clash at AAMI Park proved challenging with the quick turnaround, with Leticia McKenna’s quickfire double in the opening nine minutes leaving Brisbane with little chance of recovery. Fatigue from Wednesday’s match may have contributed to the 2-0 defeat.

Read: Queensland Brides to Host Boutique Wedding Expo at Brisbane City Hall

Roar vs Adelaide United

These contrasting results have tightened the league standings, with Brisbane now level on points with Melbourne Victory and under pressure from Adelaide United, who sit just two points behind after winning three and drawing one of their last four matches.

Sunday’s clash at Perry Park offers Brisbane a chance to regain momentum and solidify their title credentials. With twelve games to go and the league table tightening, this first encounter with Adelaide could play a decisive role in the final standings.

The Roar will be eager to channel the attacking flair shown against Melbourne Victory while demonstrating the resilience needed to bounce back from the City setback.

Geoffrey Smith Transforms Fortitude Valley with Groundbreaking Inclusion Efforts

Photo Credit: Australia Day Queensland/Facebook

Australian of the Year, Geoffrey Smith, is transforming the professional landscape for over 150 neurodivergent Australians through his groundbreaking work in Fortitude Valley.

As the co-founder of Australian Spatial Analytics, Mr Smith is driving a workplace diversity revolution, setting a new standard for inclusion and empowerment in the technology industry.

Geoffrey Smith Fortitude Valley — *Photo Credit: Australian Spatial Analytics/LinkedIn*

From Data to Diversity: Mr Smith’s Early Career

Mr Smith began his career as a data analyst at Shell Queensland Gas Company (QGC), where he worked in Central Business Services and later in the Health, Safety, Security, and Environment departments. During this time, he developed a deep understanding of operational challenges, setting the stage for his future focus on inclusion and social impact.

His transition into social entrepreneurship gained momentum at BUSY At Work, where he managed disability employment and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) programs, laying the groundwork for his later achievements.

Building Australian Spatial Analytics in Fortitude Valley

Australian Spatial Analytics office in Fortitude Valley. — *Photo Credit: Australian Spatial Analytics*

In 2020, Mr Smith co-founded Australian Spatial Analytics (ASA), headquartered in Fortitude Valley. ASA’s mission is to create professional roles for neurodivergent individuals, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Under Mr Smith’s leadership, the organisation employs a workforce that is more than 80% neurodivergent and has provided over 150 career opportunities since its inception.

ASA has expanded its reach beyond Fortitude Valley, opening additional offices in Melbourne and Cairns. The organisation also contributes over $7 million annually to the Australian economy, showcasing its dual focus on social impact and economic growth.

Recognising a Leader in Inclusion

Mr Smith’s dedication to fostering inclusivity has earned him numerous accolades, including the Social Impact Leadership Australia (SILA) award, Westpac Social Change Fellowship, Snow Foundation Social Entrepreneur Fellow, and the 2022 AMP Tomorrow Maker recognition.

These awards underline his ongoing efforts to redefine diversity in the tech industry.

Geoffrey Smith for Australian of the Year featured video. — *Photo Credit: Australian Spatial Analytics/Facebook*

Empowerment Through Tailored Support

At ASA, the focus extends beyond employment to empowerment. The organisation provides tailored workplace supports for executive functioning, social interactions, and sensory sensitivities, addressing the unique needs of its neurodivergent staff.

This approach has set a benchmark for inclusive practices in professional environments.

The Community’s Response to Smith’s Achievements

The announcement of Mr Smith as Australian of the Year 2025 has been met with widespread support in Fortitude Valley. Local leaders and industry peers have praised his efforts, noting how ASA’s model promotes both innovation and diversity within the tech sector.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Mr Smith hopes to grow the ASA’s impact by hiring 1,000 neurodivergent people by 2030. This ambitious goal addresses the tech industry’s skills gap while also advocating for a more inclusive and diverse workforce.

The recognition of Mr Smith as Australian of the Year highlights the importance of his work and Fortitude Valley’s role as a hub for innovation and social progress. His efforts promise continued advancements in workplace diversity, with far-reaching implications for communities across Australia.

Published 10-Jan-2025

Roar vs Melbourne Victory: Brisbane’s Golden Boot Leader Leads Title Charge

Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory clash in a pivotal midweek encounter on Wednesday, 8 January with both teams locked on 18 points in their A-League Women campaign. Roar vs Melbourne Victory kicks off 4:00 p.m. at Perry Park.

Read: Fourteen Goals in Two Matches: Brisbane Roar Women Signal Premiership Intent

Roar stumbles against Canberra

The match takes on heightened significance following Brisbane’s dramatic 2-1 defeat to Canberra United, where late goals from Emma Robers and Michelle Heyman denied the Queensland side a chance to claim top spot on the ladder.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by A-Leagues (@aleagues)

Laini Freier’s scoring touch remains a bright spot for the Roar, with her goal against Canberra vaulting her to the top of the Golden Boot standings. Her seventh goal in three games underlines the attacking prowess that has made Brisbane the league’s most feared offensive unit.

Roar vs Melbourne Victory

The Roar enters this contest as the league’s most potent attacking force, having netted an impressive 28 goals in just nine matches. While these attacking statistics highlight Brisbane’s explosive potential, their recent form reveals both promise and vulnerability. Their last three matches tell contrasting tales—after demolishing opponents with score lines of 6-1 and 8-2 to close out 2024, they stumbled against Canberra in a narrow defeat.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Brisbane Roar FC (@brisbaneroarfc)

While Brisbane’s campaign has been characterised by high-scoring affairs and no draws in their 6-0-3 record, Victory poses a more measured challenge. The Melbourne side’s 5-3-1 record reflects a team that has found consistency, with their sole defeat coming against city rivals and table-toppers Melbourne City FC.

Read: Plans for Howard Smith Wharves Raise Concerns Over Heritage and Flooding

The mid-week fixture presents an immediate opportunity for redemption, with coach Alex Smith’s side looking to convert their league-leading goal difference of +17 into three valuable points.

Published 06-January-2025

Fourteen Goals in Two Matches: Brisbane Roar Women Signal Premiership Intent

The attacking arsenal of Brisbane Roar Women has exploded into life, thundering 14 goals in two away fixtures as they cement their position as genuine title contenders in the 2024/25 A-League Women’s season.

Read: Fortitude Valley Shop Firebombed in Suspected Arson Attack

Road warriors demolish opposition

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Brisbane Roar FC (@brisbaneroarfc)

The Queensland outfit has transformed their road trips into goal-scoring exhibitions, demolishing Newcastle Jets 6-1 before matching their club-record winning margin in an 8-2 triumph over Western United. These commanding performances have lifted the Roar to an impressive 6-2-0 record, highlighting their championship credentials.

Freier sisters orchestrate attack

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Brisbane Roar FC (@brisbaneroarfc)

At the heart of Brisbane’s offensive renaissance stands the dynamic Freier duo. Laini Freier has etched her name into A-League Women’s history by becoming the first player to net hat-tricks in consecutive matches. The younger Freier’s clinical finishing has been masterfully complemented by sister Sharn’s playmaking prowess, with the siblings combining to orchestrate several of the team’s devastating attacks.

Set-piece excellence

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Brisbane Roar FC (@brisbaneroarfc)

Brisbane’s tactical evolution shines brightest in their set-piece execution. Japanese midfielder Momo Hayashi has emerged as a free-kick specialist, thundering home spectacular goals in both away victories. Chelsea Blissett’s precise corner deliveries have proven equally decisive, creating multiple scoring opportunities, including skipper Tameka Yallop’s powerful header against Western United.

Youth movement in Brisbane Roar Women

The emergence of young talent has added another dimension to Brisbane’s ruthless attack. Seventeen-year-old Grace Kuilamu announced herself with an electric strike against Newcastle, while Young Matildas striker Tanaye Morris made an immediate impact on debut, providing a crucial assist off the bench.

Read: Queensland Country Bank Secures Prime Location in Brisbane CBD’s ‘Golden Triangle’

The Roar’s return to Perry Park for their upcoming clash against Canberra United on Saturday, 4 January, presents an opportunity to extend their remarkable run. With six wins from eight matches and a newfound attacking confidence, Brisbane has established themselves as serious championship contenders approaching the season’s middle third.

The blend of experienced leadership, emerging talent, and tactical diversity suggests that Brisbane Roar’s recent goal-scoring explosion marks the beginning of a potentially historic campaign.

Published 30-December-2024

Fortitude Valley Shop Firebombed in Suspected Arson Attack

Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

A tobacconist shop in Fortitude Valley was set on fire causing serious damage to the new business.

The firebombing happened around 3:30 am of 26 December 2024. CCTV footage showed a masked man entering the business on Wickham Street – next to Prohibition nightclub – with a jerry can and assaulted the owner. After a brief scuffle with the shop owner, the attacker lit the shop on fire and ran off, possibly with burns from the blaze.

Fortitude Valley Shop Firebombed — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

Brisbane Regional Duty Officer (RDO), Inspector Jane Healy said the owner, who was in the store at the time, ran out, and then the male person as they believe has set the place on fire.

Police are searching for a male suspect in connection with the incident, who is believed to have been wearing a disguise or covering his face. However, there is no evidence that the suspect was armed. A piece of burnt shoe has been seized from the scene as evidence.

Wickham Street, between Gipps and Brunswick Streets, was closed until about 7:30 am as emergency services worked to secure the area. The fire was reported under control by 3:55 am and fully extinguished by about 4:40 am. The crime scene remained under the management of the Queensland Fire Department as of 11:30 am.

The shop, which had only been open a few weeks, was gutted by the fire. This attack is the latest in a string of similar incidents across the region, sparking fears of organised crime involvement and links to the illegal tobacco trade.

Police Investigation and Community Concerns

Queensland Police Service (QPS) are investigating the Fortitude Valley incident, looking into potential connections to organised crime. Officers are analysing CCTV and urging anyone with information to come forward.

Authorities believe organised crime groups are behind these attacks, driven by profits from untaxed, unregulated tobacco sales. Violent disputes over territory are becoming a troubling trend.

Similar incidents have been reported in Victoria and South Australia, where specialised units have been established to combat the issue. City authorities are considering a focused response to address the rising threat.

Fortitude Valley tobacconist shop set on fire. — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

What Happens Next

Police are continuing their investigation and are urging anyone with information or video footage of the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Local businesses are being encouraged to ramp up security and stay alert for any suspicious activity.

Published 27-Dec-2024

Fortitude Valley Welcomes Dark Blue Wine Bar by Popular Cocktail Bar Owner Hannah Wagner

Photo Credits: Hannah Wagner/Instagram

Hannah Wagner, the mastermind behind the popular Dark Red and 2.0 Cocktail Bar, is set to open Dark Blue, a Mediterranean and Portuguese wine bar in Fortitude Valley’s vibrant Winn Lane, bringing a polished new destination for wine aficionados and cocktail lovers to explore.

Following the success of Dark Red, which has quickly become a local favorite since opening in 2022, Wagner’s latest venture promises a more polished and sophisticated atmosphere.

With Dark Blue, she aims to expand her presence in one of Brisbane’s most dynamic cultural hubs, providing a refined yet welcoming space for patrons to enjoy quality wines and inventive cocktails.

Fortitude Valley Wine Bar — *Photo Credits: Dark Red Wine Bar/Instagram*

A Refined Concept with a Welcoming Atmosphere

Dark Blue will offer a carefully curated selection of Mediterranean and Portuguese wines, complemented by an inventive cocktail menu. Drawing from her success at Dark Red, Wagner aims to create a space that balances sophistication with warmth, offering a relaxed environment for both casual visits and special occasions.

The venue will also continue the dog-friendly vibe that made Dark Red so popular, with Wagner’s own dog Daisy expected to have a prominent presence at Dark Blue.

A New Space in the Creative Heart of Fortitude Valley

Located in the space previously occupied by Outpost and Gemini Brow Studio, Dark Blue will merge these two buildings into one expansive venue. The design will feature a minimalist aesthetic, creating an elegant yet casual atmosphere perfect for sipping wines and enjoying crafted cocktails.

Wine and Dine in Fortitude Valley — *Photo Credits: Winn Lane/Instagram*

In addition to its drink offerings, the bar will offer a small, focused food menu, likely featuring a signature main dish to pair with the wines. A mezzanine kitchen will be dedicated to cocktail preparation, providing guests with an elevated drinking experience.

Dark Blue to Bring a Sophisticated Wine and Cocktail Experience

Winn Lane has long been a vibrant hub for local artisans, food vendors, and independent businesses, earning a reputation as a cultural hotspot in Brisbane. Building on this eclectic mix of creative entrepreneurs, Dark Blue is set to enhance the area’s atmosphere with a stylish new venue catering to wine enthusiasts and cocktail lovers.

*Photo Credits: Dark Red Wine Bar/Instagram*

With an opening scheduled for March 2025, Dark Blue aims to become a key addition to the flourishing hospitality scene in the laneway.

Published 17-Dec-2024

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.

Read: Triffid Takes Legal Action vs Newstead Development Over Noise Concerns

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.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by HOTEL X (@hotelxfortitudevalley)

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