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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

Boutique Hotel and Overwater Pool Planned for Howard Smith Wharves Transformation

Howard Smith Wharves will undergo a significant redevelopment, with plans to replace Felons Barrel Hall with a nine-storey boutique hotel as part of preparations for the 2032 Olympics.

The Artemus Group, the developers behind the proposal, announced that the precinct will see a host of new additions, including a 77-room hotel, a theatre, retail spaces, and a stunning pool deck overlooking the Brisbane River. The project aims to elevate the already thriving area into a world-class destination in time for the Olympics. The development application (DA) will be lodged and will go through a code-assessable process.

New Vision for a Riverfront Destination

Central to the redevelopment is constructing a nine-storey boutique hotel, which will replace the existing Felons Barrel Hall. The hotel’s ground floor will feature retail outlets and a theatre, preserving the venue’s role as a place for live music and cultural events. Public spaces will also be enhanced, with two new cliff lifts improving access to the site, and additional open areas planned for locals and visitors to enjoy.

In addition to the hotel, the proposal includes creating an overwater pool deck that will offer panoramic views of the river. This deck will also serve as a new bar and dining precinct, adding to the already diverse culinary options at the Wharves.

Howard Smith Wharves — *Photo Credit: The Artemis Group*

Key Features

A 77-room, nine-storey hotel with ground floor retail and a theatre/music hall, replacing the existing Felons Barrel Hall

A stunning pool deck with an overwater pool, bar and dining precinct, offering unparalleled river views

A revitalised Bougainvillea House, featuring a two-storey, landscaped design

Improved public access, with two new cliff lifts and additional open spaces

Twelve beverage storage tanks across three locations, supporting sustainability by reducing packaging waste and traffic movements

Enhanced riverfront public spaces, pathways, parklands and boardwalks, designed to align with Brisbane’s “Buildings That Breathe” guidelines.

Focus on Sustainability

The redevelopment has been designed with sustainability in mind. Twelve new beverage storage tanks will be installed across three precinct locations to reduce packaging waste and traffic congestion. The design also incorporates Brisbane’s “Buildings That Breathe” guidelines, with rooftop gardens, facade greenery, and subtropical landscape elements.

Architect Mark Damant, involved in the project, emphasised the importance of sustainability in the redevelopment. He noted that the design would help position Howard Smith Wharves as one of the most sustainable precincts globally, ensuring it remains a welcoming and accessible space for everyone.

Enhancing Brisbane’s Appeal for the Olympics

Artemus Group Founder and Director Adam Flaskas expressed excitement about Howard Smith Wharves’ potential to showcase Brisbane on the world stage during the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics. He highlighted that the redevelopment will connect locals and tourists to some of Brisbane’s best experiences, including dining, shopping, and access to Queensland’s iconic natural landmarks.

“This project is about celebrating Brisbane’s heritage, landscape, and natural beauty,” said Flaskas, noting that the Brisbane River remains a key feature of the city’s identity. “We’re creating a hospitality and tourism gateway that will bring people closer to the best of what Brisbane has to offer.”

With Bougainvillea House’s planned revitalisation and new public spaces set to be incorporated into the development, the Wharves precinct will become even more of a community hub, enhancing both liveability and Brisbane’s cultural scene.

The project marks the next chapter in Howard Smith Wharves’ growth, which has become one of Brisbane’s premier destinations since its opening in 2018. It continues to offer a unique blend of dining, entertainment, and leisure activities on the Brisbane River’s edge, and the new development is set to take it to the next level in time for the global spotlight of the 2032 Olympics.

Published 24-Sept-2024

Seasonal Fruit Hits Felons Barrel Hall for Spring Edition

Photo Credit: oztix.com.au

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.

get your tickets here!

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.

Published 27-August-2024

Pontoon Delays Cast Shadow Over Howard Smith Wharves

Construction delays have delayed the opening of two new tourist pontoons at Howard Smith Wharves.

*Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map*

Initially slated for completion by March, the pontoons, designed to service North Stradbroke Island and Moreton Bay, are not expected to be operational until at least June next year. This setback means the pontoons will miss the highly anticipated opening of Queen’s Wharf this month.

Adding to the delays, a new $2.2 million pontoon and jetty at Dunwich on North Stradbroke Island is also behind schedule, casting doubt on its readiness for the September school holidays. This marks a five-year wait for replacing the island’s ageing jetty.

Under questioning during last week’s budget estimates, Tourism Innovation and Sport Director-General Andrew Hopper attributed the Brisbane pontoon delays to design changes and bureaucratic hurdles. The project, funded with a $5.5 million tourism grant, will eventually accommodate commercial tour operators and the public.

Commercial operators like River to Bay already use a temporary pontoon at Howard Smith Wharves, but due to high landing fees imposed by Redland City Council, the latter has reduced services. The company’s river-to-bay brewery tours, launched in February, have faced challenges.

The new Dunwich jetty will be a docking point for Brisbane-bound boats and a fishing pier. Its cost has ballooned from an initial estimate of $750,000 to $2.2 million.

Howard Smith Wharves chief executive Luke Fraser envisions the pontoons as a critical component of the precinct’s transformation into a world-class tourism hub. However, local operator John Groom, who launched a similar river-to-bay venture in 2018, expressed concerns about the potential for unfair advantage for larger operators through government funding. Groom highlighted the lack of support for smaller businesses in the sector.

The delays and questions surrounding the pontoon projects have introduced uncertainty to the future of Fortitude Valley’s waterfront ambitions.

Published Date 08-August-2024

Howard Smith Wharves Transforms into Origin Battleground for Livestream Event

Howard Smith Wharves is gearing up to host an unforgettable State of Origin decider livestream event on Wednesday, July 17. The final game of this year’s series is sure to deliver an electrifying atmosphere as Queensland and New South Wales battle for supremacy.

Read: 10 Things You Should Know About the Soon-to-Open Queen’s Wharf Development

Howard Smith Wharves livestream details

The livestream will take place at Felons Barrel Hall, with additional viewing areas available on the Rivergarden Lawn. Doors open well before the 8:05 p.m. kickoff, allowing fans to secure prime viewing spots and soak in the pre-game excitement.

Howard Smith Wharves, nestled beneath the iconic Story Bridge, offers more than just a viewing experience. The precinct boasts:
– 13 restaurants, cafes, and bars
– Multiple event spaces
– The award-winning Felons Brewery

This vibrant location aims to harness Brisbane’s energy, providing an ideal backdrop for the Origin excitement.

The Decider: a close contest expected

This year’s State of Origin series heads into a decider for the fourth time in six years. Queensland holds a formidable record in such situations, having won nine of the last ten deciders. New South Wales, on the other hand, enters the match with momentum from their Game 2 victory.

State of Origin team comparison — Photo Credit: The Analyst

Some key statistics for the game, according to Opta’s analysis:
– Queensland leads in line breaks, tackles, and dominant tackles this series
– New South Wales shows superiority in run metres, post-contact metres, and tackle breaks
– The Blues’ average play-the-ball speed (3.4 seconds) outpaces the Maroons (3.71 seconds)

Among all the stars on the field, Valentine Holmes is heralded as Queensland’s potential game-changer. The North Queensland Cowboys star boasts an impressive Game 3 record, having scored in every decider he’s played in.

The 2024 State of Origin series is on track to be one of the most-watched in history. With a combined attendance of 167,298 for the first two games, the addition of a packed Suncorp Stadium could push the total beyond 200,000—a feat not achieved since 2018.

Read: The Cat Empire to Unleash Symphonic Roar in Fortitude Valley with QSO

For Fortitude Valley residents, this event represents more than just a game. It’s an opportunity to come together, celebrate local culture, and be part of a historic sporting moment. Whether die-hard fans or casual observers, all are welcome to join in the festivities at Howard Smith Wharves.

Book your spot here.

Published 12-July-2024