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. 


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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. 

Photo credit: howardsmithwharves.com

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.

Photo credit: howardsmithwharves.com

“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

Photo credit: howardsmithwharves.com

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.


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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

Stage 2 Story Bridge Adventure Climb Approved Despite Privacy Concerns

Plans for a new climb at the city end of the Story Bridge Adventure Climb have been given the go-ahead despite concerns about privacy.


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XBrisbane Pty Ltd successfully lodged an application (A005619901) for the project in December 2020 and was granted approval in April 2021.

The proposed development is for a new north peak bridge climb route, viewing platform, and swing out on the Story Bridge. Planning documents also indicate that the climb will consist of 550 steps and will be approximately 60 minutes in duration. Climbs will be undertaken in groups of a maximum of 14 climbers and will be suitable for both daytime and nighttime adventure.

Aerial Photograph Showing General Location of Proposed Activity (Photo credit: developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Whilst this is good news for adventure seekers and tourists, residents are worried about losing their privacy once it’s operating. In addition to privacy concerns, other issues raised include road safety and noise.

Ami, a resident of Petrie Point Apartments said the proximity to their building which is located at 100 Bowen Terrace, Fortitude Valley, would mean severe privacy implications especially with the hours proposed and additional noise impacts which are extremely concerning. 

“The Howard Smith Wharves precinct has already create issues for our complex with additional noise, people doing inappropriate things around our building and take up all available street parks. If the north end of the bridge is available to the public, our homes will also be invaded by people being able to look at us in our homes directly,” Ami wrote in her submission.


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In another submission sent to Council, one resident pointed out that application is incorrectly made and should be rejected as an “outdoor sport and recreation” of code assessment as it falls into the activity of “tourism” which requires a thorough impact assessment process.

Proposed North Peak Climb route (Photo credit: developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

A town planning report states that the “development is sited and designed to enable existing and future buildings to be well separated from each other to allow for light penetration, air circulation, views, vistas and privacy, particularly for residential towers.”

Once complete, The Northern Peak Climb will operate year-round in all weather conditions other than extreme winds, electrical storms or severe rainstorms. It will open from early-morning to 10:00 pm seven days a week.