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From Vision to Reality: Kangaroo Point Bridge Nears Grand Opening

The countdown has begun for the grand opening of the Kangaroo Point Bridge. This eagerly anticipated addition to the city’s infrastructure and skyline is set to transform the way residents and visitors experience the river city.

Read: Kangaroo Point Bridge Reaches 90% Completion, Newest Landmark Takes Shape in Brisbane

Scheduled for 15 December 2024, weather permitting, the project has already achieved several significant milestones. All 32 tensioned cables along the bridge deck have been installed, the eight bridge spans now connect the CBD to Kangaroo Point, and concrete pours for the bridge deck are complete.

About the Kangaroo Point Bridge

Stretching approximately 460 metres, the Kangaroo Point Bridge will connect Alice Street and Edward Street in the CBD to Scott Street at Kangaroo Point. The bridge’s elegant single-mast cable stay structure is designed to complement the city skyline while minimising visual impact.

Accessibility and user experience are at the forefront of the design. The bridge features dedicated cycle and pedestrian paths, 6.8 metres wide, with a gentle 1:20 grade. It maintains a navigable clearance height of 12.7 metres, matching the Captain Cook Bridge, and provides a 60-metre wide navigation channel. Visitors and commuters alike will enjoy viewing platforms and rest nodes offering panoramic city and river views.

Dedicated cycle and pedestrian paths (Photo credit: brisbane.qld.gov.au)

The Kangaroo Point Bridge project goes beyond transportation, aiming to create a destination in itself. Two unique dining venues, operated by the Tassis Group, will offer unparalleled experiences: an above-water restaurant and bar on the bridge itself, and a riverside café at the city landing. These venues promise to make the bridge an iconic destination for Brisbane residents and visitors for generations to come.

Sustainability has been integrated into the design, with features including solar panels, cooling vegetation, and shade cover along the length of the bridge. The project also focuses on community connections, with high-quality landing points designed to activate communities on both sides of the Brisbane River.

Final Touches Underway

While the main structure is in place, work continues to ensure everything is perfect for the December opening. The focus has now shifted to completing the bridge landing areas and the testing and commissioning phase of the project.

Over the coming months, the CBD landing area will be completed, with paving and landscaping works currently underway. Following this, work will continue on the above-water restaurant and riverside café.

At Kangaroo Point, landscaping activities are being completed along with the plaza area in CT White Park and the bridge landing in Scott Street. These final touches will transform the areas around the bridge into vibrant public spaces.

Read: Key Construction Milestone Achieved: Kangaroo Point Bridge Nears Completion with Final Span Installation

This new landmark promises not just to connect two sides of the river, but to become a destination in its own right, offering new perspectives on the city and new ways for residents and visitors to engage with Brisbane’s beautiful riverside.

Published 2-October-2024

After Years of Planning, Shovels Hit the Ground for Gaia Project in Kangaroo Point

Kangaroo Point’s skyline is about to change as construction on the contentious Gaia project is poised to commence. After securing approval earlier this year, developers are ready to break ground on this ambitious development, marking the end of a nearly decade-long planning process.

Read: Decade-Long Vision Realised for Riverside Gaia Apartments in Kangaroo Point

Located at 108 Lambert Street, Gaia will soon transform into a bustling construction site, bringing to life two striking 15-storey residential towers.

The project, designed by DKO Architecture, will deliver 215 two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, complemented by what’s billed as the city’s largest private parkland community.

The path to this moment hasn’t been without its challenges. The development application initially faced opposition from local residents concerned about traffic, access, and parking impacts. In response, Pikos Group revised their plans, scaling back from three towers to two and making significant improvements to the ground plane design.

Michelle Wooldridge, Pikos Group’s chief executive, highlighted the project’s unique features. She emphasised that the site’s expansive space allows for extensive amenities, enabling residents to be fully immersed in their natural surroundings rather than merely connected to them.

Ms Wooldridge further elaborated on the development’s parkland, noting that it will incorporate over 20 wellness and leisure zones. She described plans for a riverside pool and pool terrace with hot and cold plunge pools, all set within landscaped gardens.

As construction begins, residents can look forward to a range of world-class amenities, including an indoor/outdoor gymnasium, rooftop entertaining spaces, a garden workshop, yoga lawn, outdoor cinema, private dining room, and work-from-home lounge. These features aim to create a community that’s not just connected to nature, but fully immersed in it.

Read: Over a Decade of Greenery: How Kangaroo Point Park Reshaped an Educational Site

With completion slated for 2027, the Gaia development is set to redefine luxury living in Brisbane. As the first machines roll onto the site, Kangaroo Point prepares for a transformation that will shape its urban landscape for decades to come.

Published 1-October-2024

Kangaroo Point Marina in Legal Tangle Over Safety and Lease Concerns

Photo Credit: Dockside Marina

In a significant legal challenge at Kangaroo Point, the lessee of Dockside Marina, Brisbane River Pty Ltd, is facing potential lease forfeiture over unresolved safety issues.

The Department of Resources has filed a case in the Land Court against the company operated by Ken Allsop, to potentially end its lease due to persistent safety hazards at the marina.

This legal action underscores a long-standing dispute about the condition of the boardwalk, which serves as a crucial access point for the community and local businesses. The case is based on claims that despite repeated warnings and extended timelines, the necessary repairs and maintenance to ensure public safety have not been conducted.

The safety concerns at Dockside Marina have led to significant disruptions, not just for the Kangaroo Point community but also for over 20 commercial operators previously based there. These operators, including popular cruise boats and water sport rentals, were forced to relocate last year following the safety notice issued by the Department of Resources.

Dockside Marina Kangaroo Point — *Photo Credit: Dockside Marina*

This action has sparked broader concerns about the marina’s operational viability and the future of local businesses reliant on its facilities. The boardwalk closure has also impacted residents and cyclists, who face a lengthy detour around the marina area.

Ken Allsop’s legal representative, Bill Morgan, stated that his client disputes the safety claims, having submitted a maintenance plan outlining progressive works starting from the northern end of the structure. Despite these efforts, the department has pushed forward with legal actions, which have been met with frustration by the lessee. The representative also highlighted the timing of these actions, which coincides with a critical political period, adding to the tensions.

The department has emphasised its commitment to ensuring that the facilities at Dockside Marina meet safety standards as stipulated in the lease agreement. The outcomes of this court case could have significant implications for the community, potentially requiring public funding for any subsequent repairs or maintenance should the lease be forfeited.

Published 30-Sept-2024

Kangaroo Point Teen Caught Speeding at 240km/h, Sentenced to Probation

Police caught a Kangaroo Point teen after posting videos of himself speeding at nearly 240km/h through Brisbane streets and was later sentenced to probation and community service.

In May and June 2024, Adrian Becerra Stoyanova, 19, filmed himself racing a Ducati motorbike across the Pacific Motorway and Captain Cook Bridge, often weaving dangerously between vehicles. Police raided his Kangaroo Point residence in June, seizing GoPro footage showing the offences.

Dangerous Driving Captured on Video

The videos, recorded by Becerra Stoyanova himself, showed him speeding at over three times the legal limit. One video from 24 May showed him driving at 123km/h in a 70km/h zone and later reaching 157km/h as he raced with another motorcyclist. He was seen cutting between cars and speeding down multiple lanes before reaching a peak of 238km/h on the Captain Cook Bridge.

Two days later, another video showed the 19-year-old driving at 225km/h between two vehicles on a Brisbane road. Police say his driving placed others at significant risk and that he regularly exceeded legal speed limits. The court heard Becerra Stoyanova had a history of traffic offences, including 10 speeding convictions over one week in late May.

Captain Cook Bridge Kangaroo Point — *Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons*

Court Sentencing and Response

During his hearing at Brisbane Magistrates Court, Becerra Stoyanova pleaded guilty to three counts of dangerous driving and driving without a licence. The court noted that despite a series of past speeding violations, he had continued to engage in risky behaviour.

Magistrate Linda Bradford-Morgan criticised his actions, stating that his dangerous driving could have resulted in serious injury or death. She questioned whether the young rider was “suicidal or intent on killing someone else.”

Although prison time was considered, she ultimately sentenced him to one year’s probation, 120 hours of community service, and two years of disqualification from driving.

Becerra Stoyanova’s lawyer presented character references and said his client was remorseful for his actions. He had completed part of a Queensland Traffic Offenders Program, and his lawyer stated he had shown a responsible attitude toward work and work safety.

The court also heard that Becerra Stoyanova was not authorised to ride his 850cc Ducati, as his licence only permitted him to operate bikes under 600cc.

Community Concerns

The Kangaroo Point community expressed concern over the incident, as dangerous driving continues to be a safety issue in the area. While some residents expressed relief that the teen had been caught, others questioned whether the penalties imposed would be enough to prevent further reckless behaviour on Brisbane’s roads.

The case has highlighted the ongoing issue of high-speed driving and social media glorification of such acts, raising discussions about the need for stricter enforcement and harsher consequences for repeat offenders.

Published 27-Sept-2024

Petition Calls for New CityCat Stop in Kangaroo Point

A petition has been launched calling for the addition of a CityCat stop at Holman Street in Kangaroo Point, highlighting the growing demand for improved public transportation in the area.

Read: Delays Persist in Completion of Kangaroo Point Riverwalk Amid New Cycling Lane Proposals

Kangaroo Point, considered as one of Queensland’s most densely populated suburbs with over 11,000 residents, has been facing challenges with its current public transport options. The petition draws attention to the lack of CityCat stops in the area, despite the presence of suitable terminals at Holman Street and Dockside.

According to Greens MP for South Brisbane Amy MacMahon, who started the petition, residents have reported overcrowding on the free CityHopper service, often resulting in waiting for the next ferry. The recent introduction of 50-cent fares on the Holman Street Cross River Ferry has led to similar capacity issues.

The petition also notes the imbalance in CityCat stop distribution, with five stops on the north side of the river between the City/South Brisbane and New Farm/East Brisbane, compared to only one functioning stop on the south side.

Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Facebook

Supporters of the petition argue that an additional CityCat stop in Kangaroo Point would not only benefit local residents but also increase accessibility for northside CityCat users.

The push for improved public transport in Kangaroo Point comes in the wake of the removal of the popular 27 shuttle bus and the absence of high-frequency bus services in the area. These factors have contributed to increased passenger demand for ferry services.

“This change should be made immediately and not delayed until a full network review takes place,” Ms MacMahon stated.

Read: Over a Decade of Greenery: How Kangaroo Point Park Reshaped an Educational Site

The outcome of this petition may have significant implications for Kangaroo Point’s public transportation infrastructure as the suburb continues to grow and develop.

Published 19-September-2024

Over a Decade of Greenery: How Kangaroo Point Park Reshaped an Educational Site

Photo Credit: Christa Gerard/Kangaroo Point and Districts History/Facebook

Over a decade ago, the site that once housed the Kangaroo Point TAFE was dramatically transformed into the now-beloved Kangaroo Point Park, officially unveiled to the public on 24 January 2010. This retrospective look explores how a prime educational site evolved into a cornerstone of community life in Brisbane.

Historical Overview

The trajectory of the Kangaroo Point site has been marked by significant transitions, beginning with the closure of the Kangaroo Point State School in 1965.

Kangaroo Point State School — *Photo Credit: Kangaroo Point History*

This closure paved the way for the construction of a multi-storey Technical College in 1968, which eventually became part of the Southbank Institute of TAFE. As educational needs and infrastructures evolved, the Kangaroo Point TAFE students relocated to a new campus, leading to the closure of the old site.

Kangaroo Point TAFE — *Photo Credit: Lost Brisbane/Facebook*

Premier Anna Bligh’s significant announcement on Australia Day 2009 sparked the transformation from an educational facility to a public space. Opting against commercial development, Ms Bligh dedicated the land for public use, marking Queensland’s 150th anniversary.

The demolition and redevelopment process involved extensive community consultation, including public notifications, information days, and engaging local contractors for demolition and park construction.

Kangaroo Point Park demolition site — *Photo Credit: Kangaroo Point History*

Park Features and Community Impact

Today, Kangaroo Point Park is proof of an effective urban renewal project, offering expansive green spaces, a café, and art installations like the Venus Rising sculpture. It serves as a scenic venue for relaxation and community events, contrasting sharply with its utilitarian past.

The park’s cliff top promenade and lookouts provide stunning views of the river and city skyline, making it a favored spot for both daytime visits and evening strolls.

The development of Kangaroo Point Park is a prime example of how urban spaces can be repurposed to enhance community well-being. This historical review not only celebrates the park’s past decade but also underscores the ongoing value of such transformations in enriching urban life in Brisbane.

Published 17-Sept-2024

Delays Persist in Completion of Kangaroo Point Riverwalk Amid New Cycling Lane Proposals

Despite commitments made in 2020, the Kangaroo Point Riverwalk remains incomplete, with authorities now proposing alternative transportation solutions, such as a new cycling lane on Shafston Avenue.

In 2020, a $22.5-million project to create an unbroken bike and pedestrian path along the Riverwalk at Kangaroo Point to connect it directly to Mowbray Park was announced. However, this plan has been hindered by a combination of private developments and existing structures, such as pontoons and a mini-marina, that occupy the walkway’s intended path.

In 2023, a proposal was introduced to upgrade the bike route along Shafston Avenue into a separate cycling lane, with promises to fund half of the project in hopes that the state will cover the remaining costs.

Whilst many local cyclists and pedestrians acknowledge the need for safer travel options through the area, there is a division in the community regarding whether this alternative addresses the broader connectivity issues presented by the incomplete Riverwalk.

Kangaroo Point Riverwalk — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Katie Panaretto, a local resident and former president of Bicycle Queensland, highlighted the dangers of the current routes after being severely injured in a road incident last year. Her experience underscores the community’s need for safer, more reliable paths away from traffic.

Whilst a step forward, the proposed Shafston Avenue upgrade does not fully satisfy the demands for comprehensive active transport routes including the Riverwalk. Despite initial commitments, the council still needs to confirm funding to match the state’s pledge, leaving the project in limbo.

A planning study projected that the infrastructure improvements necessary for the Riverwalk could cost up to $93 million, a figure significantly beyond the initial estimates and available funding, leading to further delays.

Ryan Murphy, the civic cabinet chair for transport, mentioned that the design and construction of the Shafston Avenue upgrade are ready to proceed once funding agreements are finalised. He also noted that while the Riverwalk project is still under consideration, its completion would require extensive planning and likely several more years to complete.

Published 28-Aug-2024

Story Bridge Restoration: City Hall Savior Takes on New Challenge

Nigel Chamier, the project manager who successfully led the massive three-year restoration of Brisbane City Hall, has been tapped to spearhead efforts to extend the life of the Story Bridge.

Read: Calls for the Restoration of Story Bridge Faces as Centenary Approaches

This appointment comes as the landmark structure nears the end of its design lifespan, prompting concerns about its future viability.

City hall — Photo credit: Peter Bowring/Google Maps

The Story Bridge, built from 1935 to 1940, was engineered to last a century – a standard approach for Australian bridges built during that period. With just 16 years left until it reaches its centennial, city leaders now face the complex task of prolonging its functionality beyond its initial design specifications.

Cr Adrian Schrinner announced Mr Chamier’s appointment last week, revealing that he had reached out to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to seek federal financial backing for the initiative. Cr Schrinner emphasised that the scope of the project necessitates cooperation from all levels of government, as it exceeds the city’s current resources.

Mr Chamier, a recipient of the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2008 for his contributions to the property industry, brings extensive experience to the role.

His portfolio includes overseeing the $215 million restoration of Brisbane City Hall from 2010 to 2013 and managing the refurbishment of Anzac Square in the CBD in 2019. He has also held prominent positions such as Chair of the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games Corporation and the Games Infrastructure Authority.

The Lord Mayor stressed the significance of the Story Bridge to the city’s infrastructure, noting that its restoration would not only preserve a nationally recognised landmark but also ensure continued smooth traffic flow. He expressed hope that the project would extend the bridge’s service life by another century.

Mr Chamier conveyed his enthusiasm for the project, indicating his intention to explore all possible avenues for preserving the longevity of this national icon.

Read: Kangaroo Point Bridge Reaches 90% Completion, Newest Landmark Takes Shape in Brisbane

The restoration is expected to be a substantial undertaking, comparable in scale to the City Hall project. As the Story Bridge has been a defining feature of the city’s skyline for over seven decades, this initiative aims to secure its place for future generations.

Published 19-August-2024

Howard Smith Wharves Gears Up for Biggest Riverfire Celebration Yet

Howard Smith Wharves is set to host its largest-ever Riverfire event, offering prime viewing spots for the spectacular fireworks display beneath the Story Bridge.

The annual celebration, scheduled for 31 August, marks the beginning of the Brisbane Festival. CEO of Howard Smith Wharves, Luke Fraser, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming event, highlighting the diverse range of experiences available across the precinct’s venues.

Event Details

Visitors can enjoy the festivities from various locations within Howard Smith Wharves. The Main Lawn will open at 12:00 p.m., featuring a pop-up bar serving antipasti, pasta, pizza, and drinks. Walk-in spaces will be available outdoors at Felons Brewing Co and Felons Barrel Hall, as well as on the Main Lawn and Rivergarden.

Riverfire Howard Smith Wharves, Story Bridge in Kangaroo Point — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Venue Offerings

Several venues are offering special packages for the event:

Ciao Papi: A share-style menu including oysters, prosciutto pizzetta, and Wagyu sirloin steak, with a children’s menu available.

Stanley: A three-course banquet curated by Head Chef Louis Tikaram, featuring oysters, lobster and truffle dumplings, and stir-fried black Angus.

Felons Barrel Hall: Live music and DJ sets until late, with walk-ins welcome in outdoor spaces.

Mr Percival’s: Cocktails and music from 4:00 p.m. until 3:00 a.m., with bookings available for the main event.

Felons Brewing Co: An $85 set menu with craft beers on tap and live DJ entertainment.

Greca: Two packages offering Greek feasts with selected beverages and prime fireworks viewing.

Yoko: Japanese cuisine with lunch and dinner options, including prime seats for the fireworks.

Book Your Table

Community Impact

Fraser emphasised the significance of Riverfire in kicking off the Brisbane Festival, praising the event’s role in showcasing talent, art, and culture while engaging the community. The diverse offerings across Howard Smith Wharves aim to cater to families and individuals alike, providing a range of experiences to suit different preferences and budgets.

Visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure their preferred viewing spots for this popular annual event that brings the Brisbane community together in celebration.

Published 19-Aug-2024

Kangaroo Point Tower Proposal Soars Higher with Upscaled Plans

Photo Credit: DA A006583679

Kangaroo Point is set to see a significant increase in the height of an approved apartment tower project. Revised plans have been submitted, proposing a seven-storey increase to the building earmarked for 51 Darragh Street, raising its height from 15 to 22 storeys.

This substantial addition would significantly boost the tower’s residential capacity, expanding the number of apartments from 49 to 65. The developer emphasises that these additional units will primarily consist of three—and four-bedroom apartments, aiming to address a perceived gap in the local housing market.

The change application, lodged by a Brisbane-based entity associated with urologist Wesley Hii, comes a year after the original plans received approval from the Brisbane City Council. Supporting documents assert that the proposed building height aligns with other structures in the immediate area. Furthermore, the application highlights that aside from the increased height, the overall size and scale of the development will remain largely unchanged from the initial approval.

Designed by Queensland architect Peddle Thorp, the scheme is intended to capitalise on the impressive river and city views. The building’s shape and positioning have been carefully considered to optimise these vistas while preserving existing sightlines for neighbouring buildings. The design also incorporates a substantial open space on the northern side of the site, enhancing the outlook for surrounding properties.

The development is committed to providing ample recreational and landscaped areas, with over 73% of the site dedicated to such spaces. Ground-level amenities include two tennis courts (one covered), offering multi-use event space for residents and occasional community events. A 25-metre lap pool and a shaded lawn area will also be accessible to the building’s residents and those in the broader Dockside Precinct.

Additional facilities encompass a coffee shop with outdoor seating, a covered poolside bar area overlooking the tennis court, a public walkway providing access to the tennis court, and a gym. The tower’s rooftop will feature an expansive 600-square-metre communal recreation area with a large swimming pool, a sunset lounge with city views, a covered barbeque area, and exercise/play lawns.

Regarding the revised plan, parking provisions have increased from 109 to 115 car spaces and 74 to 111 bicycle spaces. The development aims to strike a balance between high-density residential living and providing quality open spaces and amenities, contributing to the ongoing evolution of the Kangaroo Point Peninsula.

Published Date 13-August-2024