Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 10 of 36

Street Spotlight: Leopard St, Kangaroo Point

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Leopard Street in Kangaroo Point stands as a testament to Brisbane’s historical development, with established properties dating back to 1942.

With 60% owner-occupiers staying an average of 8 years and 11 months, the street maintains a stable residential character. A notable property transaction at 51 Leopard Street in March 1994 for $120,000 illustrates the area’s remarkable value growth over the decades, predating major infrastructure developments like the Pacific Highway that would later transform the surrounding landscape.

Leopard St, Kangaroo Point Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 87
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 60%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 8 years and 11 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 29%

Leopard St, Kangaroo Point – As It Looked in 1942

Leopard St, Kangaroo Point in 1942

SOME RECENT SALES ON LEOPARD ST, KANGAROO POINT

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
37/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$403,000	Sep 2024
43/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$435,000	Aug 2024
41/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$400,000	Aug 2024
34/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$410,000	Jul 2024
10/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$385,000	Jun 2024
19 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$6,600,000	Jun 2024
44/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$350,000	Mar 2024
2/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$335,000	Jan 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON LEOPARD ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$120,000	Mar 1994
1/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$131,000	Sep 1996

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kangaroo Point in 2024 was $1,469,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kangaroo Point in 2020 was $921,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KANGAROO POINT SINCE 2020 : $548,000

The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Kangaroo Point in 2024 was $475,000
The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Kangaroo Point in 2020 was $332,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 1 BEDROOM UNIT IN KANGAROO POINT SINCE 2020 : $143,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kangaroo Point in 2024 was $730,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kangaroo Point in 2020 was $496,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN KANGAROO POINT SINCE 2020 : $234,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Kangaroo Point in 2024 was $1,650,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Kangaroo Point in 2020 was $880,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN KANGAROO POINT SINCE 2020 : $770,000

If you know Leopard St, Kangaroo Point well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Mowbray Park CityCat Terminal Set to Reopen with Major Upgrades

The Mowbray Park CityCat terminal in Kangaroo Point is set to reopen on December 9 following an extensive eight-month upgrade. The revamped terminal will enhance commuter convenience with new features and service changes, offering improved connectivity across the city.

Read: Kangaroo Point to Anchor Major CityLink Cycleway Expansion

Key Upgrades and Features

Photos credit: Esther Kavanamur/Google Maps

The redevelopment of the Mowbray Park terminal introduces cutting-edge features aimed at improving passenger convenience, safety, and accessibility:

Revamped Waiting Area: The waiting area has been repurposed and refurbished to create an open and transparent space for passengers.
New Walkway and Dual Berth Pontoon:
- A fixed walkway now connects the upgraded waiting area to a new flood-resilient gangway.
- The dual berth pontoon accommodates all vessels in Brisbane’s ferry fleet, enhancing service efficiency.
Structural Enhancements:
- Installation of new piles to support the fixed walkway, pontoon restraint, and ferry movement.
Improved Aesthetic and Identification: A refreshed design includes updated terminal identification signage for easier navigation.
Enhanced Safety: Features include improved lighting and expanded CCTV coverage, ensuring a secure environment for commuters.
Removal and Reconstruction: The existing pontoon, gangway, and associated piles were removed to make way for modern infrastructure.

Service Changes and Expansions

From January 28, three faster cross-river services will commence, complementing the improved Mowbray Park terminal. Transport Chair Ryan Murphy announced that these changes aim to create a more seamless travel experience by integrating the KittyCat and CityCat services.

Cr Murphy explained that the change will double the KittyCat services and ensure they align with the CityCat timetable, providing a smoother travel experience for passengers using the network.

Passengers boarding from Mowbray Park will also have direct access to the Howard Smith Wharves for the first time since the stop was added to the CityCat network in May.

Adjustments to Apollo Road and Milton Terminals

The reopening of Mowbray Park comes with timetable adjustments. Starting December 9, CityCats will alternate stops at Apollo Road in Bulimba and Milton, halving the frequency of service to these terminals. Morning and afternoon express CityCats between West End and QUT Gardens Point will make an additional stop at Milton.

These changes, according to Translink, are necessary to accommodate the extra travel time for the Mowbray Park stop. Both Apollo Road and Milton were chosen for reduced services due to lower patronage and alternative transport options nearby.

Read: Community Feedback Sought on Kangaroo Point Ferry Improvements

Expanding Brisbane’s Ferry Network

With the reopening of Mowbray Park, the number of operational CityCat terminals across Brisbane will reach a record high of 19. The improvements mark another step forward in enhancing Brisbane’s public transport infrastructure.

For more information, passengers can visit the Translink website to review updated schedules and plan their journeys accordingly.

Published 7-December-2024

Bridge in Distress: $4.5M Needed to Rescue Ageing Story Bridge in Kangaroo Point

The almost-90-year-old Story Bridge has become increasingly vulnerable to structural deterioration, requiring approximately $4.5 million in critical repairs and updates.

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

Recent inspections have revealed significant rust and corrosion across the bridge’s structure, prompting urgent restoration plans. The bridge, originally designed with a 100-year lifespan, is now entering a critical preservation phase to extend its operational integrity.

Built between 1935 and 1940, the Story Bridge is a testament to early 20th-century infrastructure design, currently carrying approximately 100,000 vehicles daily across the Brisbane River. The bridge connects Fortitude Valley to Kangaroo Point and has been a defining element of Brisbane’s urban landscape for decades.

Restoration efforts have been ongoing since 2020, with current work focusing on the southern approach and below-deck steel sections between Wharf Street and Holman Street. The next phase will involve the most challenging and expensive component: the river-spanning sections.

Experienced project manager Nigel Chamier has been selected to oversee the bridge’s preservation. His expertise will be crucial in navigating the complex engineering challenges of maintaining this historic infrastructure.

Brisbane’s proactive approach aims to ensure the Story Bridge remains a safe, functional, and iconic part of Brisbane’s transportation network for generations to come. By investing in comprehensive restoration now, the city hopes to prevent more costly repairs and potential disruptions in the future.

Read: Progress Continues on Kangaroo Point Underpass Beneath Story Bridge

Before 1947, the bridge, named after prominent public servant John Douglas Story, was originally a toll bridge. Its ongoing preservation reflects Brisbane’s commitment to maintaining its historical infrastructure while meeting modern transportation needs.

Published 26-November-2024

Development Plans Envision 28-Storey Tower Beside Shafston House

A proposed residential tower could transform the Kangaroo Point skyline, potentially overshadowing the historic Shafston House on Castlebar Street.

Read: Approved: 15-Storey Apartment Tower Next to Heritage-Listed Shafston House

The new proposal represents a substantial increase from a previously approved 15-storey development, pushing the potential building height from 73.6 metres to 117.6 metres—an additional 44 metres that would fundamentally reshape the site’s architectural profile.

Originally, the site’s landowner, Burgundy Group, had received approval in March 2023 for a 15-storey tower. Now, a Hendra-based development group has submitted plans for an even more substantial 28-storey residential tower.

Architectural firm Kerry Hill Architects has designed the new proposed tower, which would include 48 residential units, two river homes, a guesthouse, a private marina, and a new section of public riverwalk.

The development team argues the project represents an opportunity to preserve and maintain the heritage site, with plans to share maintenance costs across property owners and protect existing historical structures.

The Story of Shafston House

Photo credit: CC0/Shiftchange/Wikimedia Commons

In 1851, Reverend Robert Creyke built a simple, single-storey cottage that would become one of Brisbane’s most important historic buildings. What started as a humble home has grown to represent the city’s early colonial history.

The building underwent multiple transformations over the decades, with successive owners adding to and modifying the original structure. Following its time as a private home, it became an Anzac Hostel from 1919 to 1969, then served as Royal Australian Air Force accommodation from 1969 to 1987, before ultimately being redeveloped as Shafston International College in the mid-1990s.

Photo credit: National Library of Australia

In 2005, Shafston House achieved a milestone when it was formally placed on the Queensland Heritage Register. Today, Shafston House stands as a quiet reminder of Brisbane’s early days, its walls holding memories of a time when the city was just beginning to take shape.

The proposal is currently under review by BCC, with community feedback likely to play a crucial role in the decision-making process. Previous submissions regarding earlier development plans suggest potential local opposition to significant changes at the site.

While the development application for Shafston House does not require formal public notification due to being code assessable, local residents and heritage enthusiasts—including members of the Kangaroo Point and Districts Historical Society—submitted comments and feedback about the first proposed project.

Read: Shafston House Could Be Restored To Its Former Glory As Residential Dwelling

“While I understand there is a severe lack of housing options available, I would hope that the BCC would consider the historic value of the Shaftston House grounds when eventually granting Approval,” one resident wrote.

“There has already been so much colonial history lost in Brisbane. A smaller residential tower and maintenance of the green space of the grounds – as opposed to the riverside homes construction – would surely be appreciated by the city’s constituency.”

As the city continues to evolve, the proposal highlights ongoing tensions between urban development and heritage preservation in Brisbane’s rapidly changing landscape.

Published 21-November-2024

Jacaranda Beauty Masks a Darker Side in Kangaroo Point

Photo Credit: BCC

Kangaroo Point is a picturesque suburb renowned for its stunning river views and vibrant community. During springtime, the abundant jacaranda trees that line its streets transform the suburb into a purple paradise.

While the jacaranda’s striking blooms are undeniably beautiful, they pose a significant threat to Australia’s native ecosystems. These South American imports, though iconic, are classified as invasive weeds in some regions, including Queensland and New South Wales.

Their rapid growth rate and prolific seed production enable them to outcompete native species, disrupting delicate ecological balances. Moreover, their invasive root systems can damage infrastructure, including foundations, retaining walls, and drainage systems.

Despite their beauty, experts urge caution when considering planting jacarandas.

Homeowners are advised to choose native plant species that support local biodiversity and avoid the potential long-term consequences of invasive plants.

As spring unfolds, it’s essential to appreciate the natural beauty of Australia’s native flora while recognising the potential harm caused by introduced species like the jacaranda.

Published Date 19-November-2024

$620M Gaia Riverfront Development Starts in Kangaroo Point

Brisbane’s urban landscape has reached a significant milestone as Pikos Group officially commenced construction on its $620 million Gaia Riverfront project.

This ambitious development, set to reshape Kangaroo Point, will comprise two residential towers and an expansive private parkland.

The project will also deliver the inner city’s largest private parkland, featuring more than 20 wellness and leisure zones, marking a new standard for urban living in Brisbane.

With Gaia, Pikos Group solidifies its commitment to Brisbane’s property market, adding to its growing portfolio of riverfront projects. The development’s two-and-a-half-year construction phase will create 695 jobs and inject $110 million into the local economy.

Pikos Group Founder and Executive Director Pedro Pikos, highlighted the strategic vision behind Gaia, which has been in the making for over a decade. The carefully curated 5,300sqm riverfront site will offer a luxurious living experience, seamlessly blending urban convenience with natural beauty.

“Since 2014, we have amalgamated eight individual lots to open up over 5,300sqm of pure river frontage and deliver an unrepeatable opportunity to create high-end apartments and sprawling green spaces that connect with their natural and urban settings,” Mr Pikos stated.

The project’s namesake, Gaia, emphasises sustainability and wellness. The extensive private parkland will feature over 20 recreational areas, providing residents with a serene oasis within the bustling city.

Designed by acclaimed DKO Architecture, Gaia’s two residential towers have been thoughtfully oriented to capture sweeping views of the city and Brisbane River. The high-quality finishes include natural stone, timber flooring, and premium appliances, enhancing the luxury appeal.

Michelle Wooldridge, CEO of Pikos Group, expressed confidence in the company’s ability to deliver large-scale projects, even amidst challenging market conditions. The partnership with the Mastrocostas family, resulting in the formation of M2M Constructions, underscores the collaborative approach required to bring such ambitious developments to life.

“Gaia is the second project we have commenced construction in as many years, and it takes our projects under construction to circa $1 billion,” Ms Wooldridge said. “To break ground on a project of this scale in today’s construction market is a testament to Pikos Group’s experience and trusted partnerships built over 35 years.”

Kangaroo Point’s prime location, offering picturesque river views and easy access to the CBD, is a key drawcard for the project. The upcoming Kangaroo Point Green Bridge will further enhance connectivity, enabling effortless walking access to Brisbane’s city centre while preserving the site’s peaceful atmosphere.

Designed by renowned DKO Architecture, Gaia’s two towers will feature striking designs that maximise natural light and river views. Each apartment will boast high-quality finishes, including natural stone, timber flooring, and premium appliances.

Residents can also access world-class amenities like a state-of-the-art gym, rooftop entertainment areas, and serene outdoor spaces. Additional facilities include a yoga lawn, outdoor cinema, garden workshop, and work-from-home lounge, offering an unmatched level of comfort and convenience for residents.

As construction progresses, Gaia is poised to become a landmark development, shaping the future of Kangaroo Point and setting a new benchmark for luxury living in Brisbane.

Published Date 18-November-2024

Kangaroo Point Bridge Opening to Boost Brisbane Connectivity

The new Kangaroo Point Bridge, a major infrastructure project aiming to boost local connectivity and reduce traffic congestion, will officially open with a community celebration.

Community Celebration with Local Involvement

To mark the occasion, residents are invited to join a public event on Sunday, 15 December 2024, from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m., offering a chance to be among the first to walk, cycle, or scooter across the bridge.

The opening festivities will include a Welcome to Country ceremony, live music, and performances suitable for all ages, reinforcing the bridge’s focus on community spirit.

Organisers encourage attendees to use active and public transport to access the event, and Translink provides journey planning assistance to ensure a smooth experience. Additionally, several local businesses will offer exclusive discounts and deals for those joining the celebration.

Innovative Construction and Sustainability

The Kangaroo Point Bridge has earned an “excellent” rating from the Infrastructure Sustainability Council, recognising its environmentally friendly approach and innovative techniques.

This rating, a first for any Brisbane City Council project, highlights the bridge’s use of renewable energy, local supplier engagement, and advanced construction methods. The bridge features 75 solar panels to promote sustainable energy use, which will power its lighting and lifts. The project has also introduced unique technology, including drones for water sampling and infrared cameras to monitor river levels, helping safeguard against flood risks during heavy rain.

A river-based tower crane, a first in Queensland, was employed to allow above-water construction, reducing the impact on the Brisbane River and nearby communities.

Part of a Broader Vision for Brisbane’s Future

The Kangaroo Point Bridge forms part of Brisbane’s Bridges for Brisbane program. It is supported through the South East Queensland City Deal, a collaborative infrastructure initiative between the Australian Government and Brisbane City Council.

Officials view the bridge as essential in accommodating Brisbane’s growing population and encouraging active, sustainable transportation. The project is anticipated to divert around 84,000 cars from Brisbane roads each year, reducing congestion and promoting a healthier lifestyle for residents.

Published 15-Nov-2024

Kangaroo Point to Gain Clifftop Apartments Under New Proposal

Photo Credit: DA A006638536

A new eight-storey boutique apartment building proposal has been submitted for the development planned for 14 and 24 Paton Street. The proposal would build 18 units on a 963-square-metre site overlooking the Brisbane River.

Rodrigues Property Group is behind the project, which acquired the two adjoining lots in 2022 and 2023 for $4.5 million. Designs by HAL Architects show a mix of two- and three-bedroom apartments, with parking for 37 cars and 21 bicycles in the basement.

This new proposal replaces a previous plan for two smaller, five-storey buildings comprising only four apartments each. The developers have stated that the previous design was no longer financially viable due to rising construction costs.

While exceeding the current height limit for the area, the new design is being presented as a performance-based outcome that improves construction efficiency and site planning.

The developers argue that the project aligns with the Kangaroo Point Neighbourhood Plan and the Brisbane Housing Supply Action Plan, encouraging inner-city development to address housing shortages.

If approved, the development will replace two existing houses on the site.

Published Date 29-October-2024

Kangaroo Point to Anchor Major CityLink Cycleway Expansion

Photo Credit: Bicycle Queensland

Kangaroo Point will be a central link in a major expansion of Brisbane’s CityLink Cycleway, with a new four-kilometre route connecting East Brisbane to West End.

The Schrinner Council announced today that the project will significantly boost the city’s active transport network, allowing cyclists and scooter riders to traverse the inner city easily.

The expansion will be achieved through two key projects. Firstly, a 1.2-kilometre shared path will be constructed along Shafston Avenue, connecting Kangaroo Point to East Brisbane. This new section will link to the soon-to-be-opened Kangaroo Point Bridge, providing a seamless connection across the Brisbane River.

Secondly, the existing cycleway along Melbourne Street in the West End will be extended by 800 metres, running from Victoria Bridge to Boundary Street. This will create a continuous off-road path from the southern end of the Victoria Bridge through the West End, enhancing connectivity for residents and visitors alike.

This latest stage of the CityLink Cycleway builds upon existing infrastructure, including the Kangaroo Point Bridge and the Main and Deakin Street Story Bridge underpass. The cycleway will span four kilometres when complete, connecting five suburbs and two major river crossings.

Councillor Ryan Murphy emphasised the importance of the CityLink Cycleway in establishing a central cycling and scooting route through Brisbane, encouraging the use of active transport. He highlighted the benefits for residents in the eastern suburbs and West End, who will gain a safe and convenient connection to the CBD and beyond.

Bicycle Queensland has welcomed the expansion. CEO Alton Twine praised the project’s improved access, in particular the connections made possible by the Kangaroo Point Bridge and the new link down Melbourne Street. He noted the significance of these developments in achieving safe and efficient cycling routes to the eastern suburbs.

The Kangaroo Point Bridge, scheduled to open on 15 December, is expected to reduce commute times for cyclists and pedestrians significantly. Travel time between Brisbane’s eastern suburbs and the CBD is anticipated to be cut by up to 15 minutes for cyclists and 30 minutes for pedestrians. This, combined with the expanded CityLink Cycleway, will significantly boost active transport options in Brisbane.

Published Date 24-October-2024

Community Feedback Sought on Kangaroo Point Ferry Improvements

Kangaroo Point residents are invited to share their views on plans to double KittyCat ferry frequency across the river, as part of a major proposed upgrade to Brisbane’s river transport.

Read: Petition Calls for New CityCat Stop in Kangaroo Point

The KittyCat announcement coincided with Brisbane Metro’s debut earlier this week, which saw over 140 commuters joining the inaugural journey from Eight Mile Plains Busway station.

ferry — Photo credit: CC-BY-SA-4.0/Kgbo/Wikimedia Commons

The proposed changes would see services running every 15 minutes, a significant improvement from the current 30-to-36-minute intervals.

The timing couldn’t be better for local residents, with the new Kangaroo Point Bridge scheduled to open on December 15. This combination of improved ferry services and the new bridge represents a substantial enhancement to the area’s connectivity and transport options.

The reconfiguration would establish three cross-river routes, including services from Holman Street to Riverside and connections to key destinations like the Maritime Museum, QUT Gardens Point, and Dockside to Sydney Street.

Instead of maintaining the eight-stop journey between North Quay and Sydney Street, BCC Transport Chair Ryan Murphy announced that the new plan prioritises coordinated timing between KittyCats and CityCats at the three major terminals.

“By doubling KittyCat services and ensuring they connect into the CityCat timetable, we are making it even easier for people to leave the car at home and travel by the river instead,” Murphy said.

The changes are designed to address overcrowding issues and create better connections with the broader CityCat network. Last year alone, more than 830,000 trips were taken on these inner-city ferry services, highlighting their importance to Brisbane’s river transport system.

Read: From Vision to Reality: Kangaroo Point Bridge Nears Grand Opening

Local residents can have their say on these proposed improvements through an online survey running from October 21 to November 3. To ensure maximum community engagement, letters have been distributed to Kangaroo Point households, and QR codes leading to the survey have been placed at ferry terminals.

Published 23-October-2024