Howard Smith Wharves Archives - Fortitude Valley News

Prime Fortitude Valley Development Site Hits Market With 40-Storey Potential Near Olympic Precinct

A prominent development site at 70-82 Wickham Street in Fortitude Valley has launched to market with concept plans for towers up to 40 storeys, positioning developers to meet Brisbane’s growing need for apartments ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Colliers Queensland‘s Brendan Hogan and Troy Linnane have been appointed to sell the site known as Landmark Brisbane, spanning 2,416 square metres across three street frontages. The property sits at the convergence of Brisbane CBD, Fortitude Valley and New Farm, placing it at the heart of the city’s most dynamic lifestyle, employment and growth corridors.

Concept plans prepared by architects Cottee Parker outline development scenarios of 25 and 40 storeys, delivering more than 350 apartments under both build-to-sell and build-to-rent scenarios, subject to approval. The site currently hosts a two-storey retail and commercial complex.

Gateway Location Near Howard Smith Wharves

Hogan said the development site is positioned close to Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane’s premier riverfront dining and entertainment precinct, and only a 15-minute walk to the Victoria Park Olympic precinct. This proximity to Olympic infrastructure adds appeal for developers looking to capitalise on the Games-driven demand for accommodation.

Brisbane's development site — *Photo Credit: Louise Fitzgerald-Baker / Instagram*

Inner-city Brisbane is experiencing acute undersupply of apartments, with vacancy rates below one percent and prestige developments in the inner-city are setting new benchmarks, with some luxury projects now commanding upwards of $20,000 per square metre. Market analysts currently rank Brisbane’s growth fundamentals as the strongest among eastern seaboard capitals, driven by persistent undersupply and interstate migration.

360-Degree Views and Strategic Position

The proposed tower heights unlock potential for 360-degree views, offering future residents uninterrupted outlooks over the CBD, Story Bridge, and Brisbane River. The surrounding Fortitude Valley precinct is undergoing rapid gentrification, underpinned by premium residential developments, lifestyle-driven demand and strong population growth.

Example of the development site — *Photo Credit: Commercial Real Estate*

Linnane said South East Queensland’s population growth is driving unprecedented demand for inner-city apartments, making high-quality development sites in prime locations increasingly scarce. The site’s gateway positioning, river and skyline views, and proximity to the Olympic precinct create a once-in-a-generation opportunity to develop a world-class project.

Strong Market Interest Expected

Colliers has already seen strong market interest from a range of local, interstate and offshore developers, as well as institutional investors and high net worth individuals. The expressions of interest campaign for the Fortitude Valley development site closes March 19, with multiple parties expected to compete for the opportunity.

The site joins other major Fortitude Valley development sites currently on the market, including a Barry Parade property with approval for dual towers of 27 and 37 storeys comprising 490 apartments. The cluster of development opportunities reflects Fortitude Valley’s position as a key growth area for Brisbane’s residential market ahead of the 2032 Games.

Published 16-February-2026.

Michelin-Recommended Taqueria From Mexico to Take Over Howard Smith Wharves

El Vilsito, a Michelin Guide-recommended taqueria from Mexico City, is coming to Howard Smith Wharves, bringing its chefs to cook tacos the way they do at home for a limited-time takeover.

The visiting cooks are coming as part of La Mexicana, a short-run add-on to Margarita Week that expands the precinct’s cocktail calendar into a broader food-and-culture program.

The dates are split over two bursts: La Mexicana runs 5–8 March and 12–15 March, while Margarita Week continues across the full 5–15 March stretch.

For locals, the interesting part isn’t the branding. It’s the idea of a tight, street-food style operation built around one of Mexico’s most recognisable taco formats. It’s landing in a polished waterfront precinct and trying to keep its identity intact.

Two El Vilsito chefs will work alongside local teams to cook the tacos “as they’re served in Mexico City”, with the visiting group including Sandra Blanco, whose father, Juan Carlos Blanc,o owns the taqueria. The family connection matters because these aren’t “inspired-by” tacos; they’re recipes tied to a particular place and routine.

If you’ve seen Taco Chronicles on Netflix, you’ll recognise the al pastor theatre: marinated pork stacked on a vertical spit (the trompo), cooked, shaved, and tucked into tortillas with the kind of speed that looks like muscle memory. The taqueria also appears in the Michelin Guide, which frames it as approachable rather than precious—busy, fast, and built for repeat visits.

So why bring it to Brisbane at all? The idea originated after Katie Moubarak, Howard Smith Wharves’ brand director, visited Mexico City on a research trip, ate there, and stayed in contact with Blanco. It’s the sort of origin story that sounds neat on paper, but it reflects something real in the way venues now “travel” without moving: chefs swap places for a week, menus arrive like pop-up postcards, and locals get a new reference point for what a dish can taste like when it’s cooked by the people who grew up around it.

The other layer is Margarita Week itself. In a city where festival weekends are often tied to sport or school holidays, a precinct-wide drinks programme fills a gap: it gives venues a common reason to collaborate, and it gives residents a clear window to visit without feeling like they’ve missed the moment. This year’s pitch includes a spread of margarita styles—sweet, smoky, spicy, savoury—plus Tommy’s-style riffs and venue-specific twists, in partnership with Patrón.

You don’t have to be a cocktail person to appreciate what that does for a neighbourhood. A concentrated run of events changes the rhythm of a precinct: more early bookings, more groups arriving together, and more “let’s make a night of it” energy. It can also mean queues.

If La Mexicana lands the way the organisers hope, expect peak periods around Friday and Saturday evenings, with the most interest likely in the al pastor service because it’s both the headline and the thing you can’t easily reproduce at home.

The practical advice is simple: treat it like a short-season show. Pick a less hectic time if you want a relaxed visit; go later if you want the buzz. If you’re curious about the difference between a local taco interpretation and a Mexico City original, this is one of the rare chances to compare them without leaving the river.

Published 9-Feb-2028

From Seafood to Spritzes: Melbourne Cup 2025 at Howard Smith Wharves

The Melbourne Cup returns to Brisbane’s riverside precinct, Howard Smith Wharves, on Tuesday, 4 November 2025. This year, the iconic venue offers a variety of experiences to suit every race-day style, from relaxed gatherings to indulgent luncheons, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Brisbane River and the Story Bridge.

Read: Howard Smith Wharves Reduces Carbon Footprint with Solar Energy and Efficiency Upgrades

Mr Percival’s – Luxe Outdoor Party

For those seeking a glamorous Cup Day celebration, Mr Percival’s offers a premium riverside experience. Guests can indulge in fresh seafood, delectable canapés, and a curated assortment of delicious bites, complemented by a 3.5-hour premium beverage package. The event runs from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm, with DJs keeping the energy high well into the evening. VIP tables for up to 12 guests are also available.

Stanley – Elegant Cantonese Banquet

Melbourne Cup — Photo credit: howardsmithwharves.com

Stanley invites guests to a refined four-course Cantonese banquet, thoughtfully crafted by head chef Louise Tikaram. The gastronomic journey is complemented by a 3.5-hour premium drinks package, including Louis Roederer Champagne and select wines. With its riverfront setting, Stanley provides both culinary elegance and race-day excitement — all from 11:30 am.

Ciao Papi – Share-Style Italian Feast

For a more convivial and share-style experience, Ciao Papi delivers a three-course Italian feast paired with Champagne, spritzes, premium wines, and spirits. The event runs from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm, with guests enjoying the race on large screens and participating in charity sweepstakes.

Felons Barrel Hall & Felons Brewing Co. – Casual Beers and Big Screens

For a laid-back celebration, Felons Barrel Hall and Felons Brewing Co. offer a casual atmosphere with bold Thai-inspired shared menus and a three-hour drinks package featuring bubbles, in-house beers, and seltzers. Guests can catch the race live on large screens inside or on the river deck beneath the Story Bridge.

Greca & Yoko Dining – Banquets with Style

Greca and Yoko bring the banquet vibe back, each with their own distinct flavour. Greca offers a Greek-style share banquet with a glass of Taittinger Champagne on arrival, live race screening, sweepstakes, and DJ entertainment. Yoko presents a Tokyo-inspired izakaya banquet, again with Champagne on arrival, optional 3-hour drinks, and a lively race-day atmosphere. Both venues invite guests to dress up, engage in best-dressed competitions, and celebrate in style.

Read: Experience the Story Bridge Adventure Climb Like Never Before at Howard Smith Wharves

Whether you’re raising a glass of Champagne, sipping a spritz, or cracking open a cold one under the Story Bridge, the Melbourne Cup at Howard Smith Wharves offers something for everyone. With sweeping river views, a range of dining experiences, and the buzz of race-day all wrapped up in one vibrant precinct, it’s a local take on “the race that stops the nation” that feels distinctly Brisbane.

Published 29-October-2025

Howard Smith Wharves to Host Grand Final Celebrations for Broncos Fans

Howard Smith Wharves will transform into Brisbane’s riverside gathering place this long weekend as footy fans rally behind the Broncos in both the men’s and women’s grand finals. The precinct will broadcast the matches on big screens across multiple venues, giving supporters a central hub to share the finals excitement.

Community coming together

The event will take place on Sunday, 5 October, with an all-day program designed to keep the community entertained. The schedule begins at 12:00 p.m. with a state championship game screened without sound, followed by the NRLW Grand Final at 2:55 p.m. between the Brisbane Broncos and the Sydney Roosters.

From 5:45 p.m., pre-game entertainment will set the tone for the NRL Grand Final at 6:30 p.m., when the men’s Broncos side take on the Melbourne Storm.

What fans can expect

The celebrations will span across Howard Smith Wharves, including Felons Barrel Hall, Felons Beer Garden, Felons Fish & Chipper Lawn and the Rivergarden. Felons Brewery will be offering its signature beers alongside game-day food options, with plenty of walk-in seating available for those without bookings. Once the final sirens sound, the precinct will carry on the celebrations with live music, DJs and bands performing late into the night.

More than football

For those who prefer a different type of energy, the precinct will also feature Mr Percival’s River Disco across the long weekend. Extended trading hours mean Sunday festivities will stretch late, while all venues will also open on Monday in line with the King’s Birthday public holiday.

About the venue

Located under the Story Bridge, Howard Smith Wharves has become known as Brisbane’s cultural and hospitality precinct, home to restaurants, bars, cafes, a hotel and the award-winning Felons Brewery. With its riverside location and variety of spaces, the precinct has positioned itself as a go-to spot for community events that blend sport, music and food.

Published 3-Oct-2025

Brisbane Fans Rally at Howard Smith Wharves for AFL and NRL finals

Photo Credit: Howard Smith Wharves/Facebook

Brisbane is gearing up for one of the city’s biggest sporting weekends, with locals expected to pack into Howard Smith Wharves to cheer on the Brisbane Lions in the AFL Grand Final and the Brisbane Broncos in the NRL double header.

AFL and NRL Grand Final screenings at the Wharves

On Saturday, 27 September, the AFL Grand Final will be shown live from 2:30 p.m. across multiple venues at Howard Smith Wharves, including Felons Barrel Hall, Felons Fish & Chipper Lawn, the Rivergarden, and Felons Beer Garden. The Lions, who secured their spot after a strong season, are chasing back-to-back premiership glory.

The celebrations continue on Sunday, 28 September, with the Brisbane Broncos’ men’s and women’s sides both in contention for NRL Grand Final spots. The women’s match kicks off at 1:15 p.m., followed by the men at 4:05 p.m. on the big screens at the same locations.

For fans without tickets to the matches at Suncorp Stadium, the precinct provides a free and open-air setting to watch the action unfold, with Felons Brewing Co supplying game-day food and drinks.

Community atmosphere along the river

Howard Smith Wharves management noted that the precinct has become a gathering place for Brisbane residents during major sporting events, with walk-ins welcome at the outdoor seating areas. Live bands and DJs will also take to the stage on Saturday night after the AFL Grand Final, ensuring that the party continues regardless of the result.

The riverfront venue, situated beneath the Story Bridge, has established itself as Brisbane’s cultural hub, boasting more than a dozen restaurants, bars, and spaces where fans can come together to celebrate. The precinct is highlighting the area’s growing connection to sport and community life, with organisers expecting large crowds across the weekend.

Sporting pride for Brisbane

The Brisbane Lions’ official club site has confirmed the team’s preparations for the clash, while the NRL and Broncos have detailed match times and ticketing updates for their preliminary finals. Suncorp Stadium’s event listings also reflect the packed schedule, with both codes drawing strong support across the city.

This weekend at Howard Smith Wharves offers the chance to share in the finals experience, no matter the scorelines on the field.

AFL Grand Final
Date: 27th September 2025
Time: 2:30PM
Location: Felons Barrel Hall, Felons Fish & Chipper Lawn, Rivergarden, Felons Beer Garden, Howard Smith Wharves, 5 Boundary St, Brisbane City, QLD 4000

NRL Grand Final
Date: 28th September 2025
Time: 1:15PM (NRLW) and 4:05PM (NRL)
Location: Felons Barrel Hall, Felons Fish & Chipper Lawn, Rivergarden, Felons Beer Garden, Howard Smith Wharves, 5 Boundary St, Brisbane City, QLD 4000

Published 26-Sept-2025

Chef’s Dream Realised as New Italian Trattoria Fellini’s Arrives in Fortitude Valley

A Neapolitan chef’s career-long dream has become a reality at the edge of Fortitude Valley, with Carmine Guarino welcoming the public to Trattoria Fellini’s, his new Italian street food kitchen bringing the lively flavours of coastal Italy to the Howard Smith Wharves.

The new trattoria officially began service today, Wednesday, 10 September, offering Brisbane a casual and vibrant taste of the Mediterranean. It joins its more refined neighbour, Ciao Papi, creating a precinct with two distinct Italian dining experiences side by side along the river.

A Taste of Home

Trattoria Fellini's — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

With over 26 years of experience, Head Chef Carmine Guarino has shaped Fellini’s from his own personal history. He explained that his vision was to bring his Neapolitan roots to Brisbane, creating an authentic and high-energy street food atmosphere that the whole family could enjoy.

Inspired by the bustling trattorias of Naples and the Amalfi Coast, he wanted to make Italian food more accessible, faster, and fun for the community. The restaurant’s name pays respect to the famous Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini, aiming to capture the same romance and vibrancy in its food and hospitality.

Street Food Meets Riverside Dining

Fellini’s is designed for both dine-in and takeaway customers, blending traditional Italian flavours with a modern, street-food feel. The menu features a wide selection of handmade pastas, pizzas, and classic mains. Diners can start with entrées like Bruschetta al Pomodoro or Cuoppo Fritto, a crispy mix of calamari and mussels. Pasta dishes include fresh crab Paccheri al Granchio and Roman favourite Rigatoni Amatriciana.

For main courses, the menu offers dishes like the golden Cotoletta di Vitello (veal cutlet) and Parmigiana di Melanzane. The pizza oven produces classics including Margherita and Salamina. To complete the experience, the bar serves a curated selection of Italian-inspired wines, beers, and cocktails.

A New Chapter for the Wharves

The addition of Fellini’s is seen as an exciting new chapter for the popular riverside precinct. Howard Smith Wharves CEO Luke Fraser stated he was proud to help deliver a unique offering for Brisbane, inspired by the trattorias of Italy. He believes the eatery will become a go-to spot for friends and families looking to enjoy good food and sunshine along the Brisbane River.

Published Date 10-September-2025

Experience the Story Bridge Adventure Climb Like Never Before at Howard Smith Wharves

The Story Bridge Adventure Climb is entering an exciting new chapter, relocating its starting point from Kangaroo Point to the bustling Howard Smith Wharves.

Read: Cruise Into the City’s Buzziest Spot With the New CityCat Service at Howard Smith Wharves

This move, supported by a $200,000 grant from the Tourism Experience Development Fund, is set to enhance Brisbane’s reputation as a leading tourism destination and integrate the climb into a world-first multi-dimensional tourism precinct.

Taking pride of place at the northern base of the Story Bridge, the Adventure Climb’s new location promises an unparalleled blend of adrenaline and leisure. Climbers will now embark on their journey surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of Howard Smith Wharves, a thriving entertainment hub known for its dining, bars, and picturesque riverside views.

The change is expected to attract more visitors to the area, creating a seamless experience that combines adventure with the best of Brisbane’s hospitality scene.

Luke Fraser, CEO of Howard Smith Wharves by Artemus Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the relocation:

“The Adventure Climb is a must-do Brisbane tourist activity, and we’re excited that for the first time, we can offer a new experience and perspective from the north side of the river. The addition of the adventure swing adds a whole new level of adrenaline for the thrill seekers out there too,” Mr Fraser said.

“Since fully acquiring the Adventure Climb last year, we’ve been looking at ways to maximise the fun for climbers. We believe this new start and end point for the climb, right in the heart of Howard Smith Wharves, will add a new exciting dimension – imagine doing a twilight climb and then heading into one of the many dining options right on the river.

“As tourism continues to grow ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, we can’t wait to do our small part in showcasing the best of Brisbane. Any way we can encourage visitors to stay longer, explore our city and beyond to greater Queensland will only benefit the city and state.”

The northern base will also feature an all-abilities access trail, set to be unveiled later this year. This inclusive initiative will make the iconic climb accessible to even more people, further cementing its place as one of Brisbane’s top attractions.

A World-Class Experience

The Story Bridge Adventure Climb is one of only three bridge climbs in the world, offering a unique perspective of Brisbane and its surroundings. From the breathtaking Glass House Mountains in the north to the sparkling waters of Moreton Bay in the east and the Scenic Rim Mountains in the south, climbers are treated to panoramic views that capture the essence of Queensland’s beauty.

With the relocation, climbers can now book their North Arm climbs, starting from the new office on Boundary Street, under the Crystalbrook Vincent Hotel. The new starting point officially opened on 22 January and is already welcoming adventurers eager to experience the climb from a fresh vantage point.

A Gateway to Brisbane’s Best

This new chapter for the Story Bridge Adventure Climb aligns perfectly with Brisbane’s evolving identity as a tourism powerhouse. As the city gears up for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Adventure Climb’s relocation to Howard Smith Wharves reflects a broader commitment to showcasing Brisbane’s best attractions.

Read: Boutique Hotel and Overwater Pool Planned for Howard Smith Wharves Transformation

For those searching for things to do in Brisbane, the Story Bridge Adventure Climb offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker chasing an adrenaline rush or a traveller eager to soak in the stunning cityscape, this adventure is a must. And now, with its prime location amidst Howard Smith Wharves’ vibrant offerings, the climb is the perfect starting point for a day or night out in Brisbane.

Published 29-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

Howard Smith Wharves Reduces Carbon Footprint with Solar Energy and Efficiency Upgrades

Howard Smith Wharves has installed a large-scale solar array and implemented a power factor correction system to reduce its carbon footprint.

Read: Boutique Hotel and Overwater Pool Planned for Howard Smith Wharves Transformation

These initiatives, stemming from an energy audit, have resulted in a 7.2 percent decrease in supply-side carbon emissions.

“These two quick and simple solutions drastically reduce our emissions, so of course we jumped at the opportunity,” said Luke Fraser, CEO of Artemus Group, which owns Howard Smith Wharves.

Photo credit: Howard Smith Wharves/Facebook

With a goal of becoming the most sustainable precinct globally, the precinct has partnered with Origin Zero to implement solutions aimed at redefining industry standards. The rooftop solar system, designed to meet heritage requirements, now provides a significant portion of the site’s daytime energy needs.

“We’ve worked closely with Howard Smith Wharves to understand their business needs and identify the right solutions to help achieve their ambitious sustainability goals,” said Liam McWhirter, general manager of enterprise and strategic partners at Origin Zero.

“The first step in the process was conducting a full energy audit and carbon assessment. We’ve since been able to implement a range of initiatives together, including the installation of a rooftop solar system that meets heritage requirements and will generate a considerable portion of Howard Smith Wharves’ daytime energy usage.”

carbon footprint — Photo credit: Howard Smith Wharves/Facebook

In addition to reducing energy consumption, Howard Smith Wharves has made significant progress in waste management, cutting waste to landfill by 97 percent. These efforts align with Artemus Group’s target of reducing emissions across the precinct by 44 percent by June 2026, compared to 2022 levels.

“Alongside achieving meaningful carbon emissions reductions, our work with Howard Smith Wharves will also deliver significant energy savings,” McWhirter added.

Read: Fortitude Valley Redevelopment: A New Era for the Iconic Precinct

With the decarbonisation of Queensland’s energy grid expected to reduce emissions further by 25 per cent, Howard Smith Wharves is well-positioned to lead by example.

Published 3-December-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