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Kangaroo Point Peninsula Set for Transformation with Luxury Residences and New Woolworths

Photo Credit: Mosaic Property Group/ Facebook

Kangaroo Point is on the cusp of a major transformation. A large-scale mixed-use development is planned for 25 Ferry Street.

Mosaic Property Group has acquired the prime 3,195 sqm site from Woolworths, marking the first large-scale development on the peninsula in over a decade. The site, which has sat vacant for over 30 years, will be transformed into a vibrant hub featuring a new full-scale Woolworths supermarket alongside 128 luxury apartments.

This project promises to breathe new life into the prestigious Dockside precinct. Residents will enjoy the convenience of a 2,236-square-metre Woolworths supermarket, a café, a BWS liquor store and ample basement parking, addressing a long-felt need for local amenities.

*Photo Credit:* *Mosaic Property Group/ Facebook*

Rising above the retail space, Mosaic will construct a 16-storey residential tower offering spacious 2- and 3-bedroom apartments, including luxurious sky homes. Future residents can anticipate breathtaking city and river views, top-tier amenities, and a sophisticated design that complements contemporary living.

Mosaic’s Founder and Managing Director, Brook Monahan, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the site’s long-awaited potential. He acknowledged the challenges in bringing this development to fruition and emphasised Mosaic’s commitment to creating a space that benefits residents and the wider community.

This development represents more than just reviving an unused site; it’s about generating enduring value for Kangaroo Point. This underscores the company’s dedication to delivering exceptional and sustainable projects.

Monahan also stressed the importance of community engagement. Mosaic plans to work closely with residents, ensuring they are well-informed about the project and its aim to enhance the area.

The development has already generated considerable excitement, with strong interest reported from within Mosaic’s existing client network. The project could become one of the company’s most significant achievements.

The appeal of the Kangaroo Point Peninsula is clear, with its desirability and convenient location. Completing the green bridge and adding a full-scale grocery store will further enhance its walkability.

Colliers, who facilitated the sale, confirmed the rarity of such a development opportunity in Kangaroo Point. The site’s prime location near the Brisbane River, CBD, and the soon-to-be-completed Kangaroo Point Green Bridge generated significant interest from developers.

True to its comprehensive approach, Mosaic will manage all aspects of the development, from design and construction to ongoing asset management. The company has a proven track record, having completed over 65 developments valued at over $2 billion since 2012, with another $2 billion worth of projects in the pipeline.

Despite current market challenges, Mosaic remains committed to delivering high-quality developments. The company acknowledges the industry’s difficulties but maintains its resilience and dedication to its customers.

Reinforcing its commitment to quality, Mosaic’s internal construction arm recently achieved triple ISO certification in Quality, Environmental, and Occupational Health and Safety Management, placing it among the leading builders in Australia.

This certification assures customers that their homes are being built to the highest standards.

Minor changes to Cottee Parker’s existing design will be submitted shortly. BDA, a respected Brisbane architectural firm, will collaborate on the project. Early works are anticipated to commence in 2025, with completion expected in 2027.

Published Date 10-October-2024

WilsonArchitects Marks 140 Years, Highlights Kangaroo Point Project

Photo Credit: Instagram / @home_kangaroopoint

Brisbane’s longest-serving architecture practice, WilsonArchitects, has reached a significant milestone of 140 years in business. Founded in 1884 by AB Wilson, the firm has been instrumental in shaping Brisbane’s architectural landscape including a key project in Kangaroo Point.

Home in Kangaroo Point

Photo Credit: Instagram / @home_kangaroopoint

WilsonArchitects is responsible for Home, formerly known as Lamb House, located in Kangaroo Point. This landmark building stands as a testament to the practice’s long-standing influence on Brisbane’s urban development.

WilsonArchitects at 140 Years

Hamilton Wilson, representing the fourth generation of the Wilson family in the firm, currently leads the practice alongside three directors from outside the family. The firm continues to balance respect for heritage with innovation in design.

Photo Credit: LinkedIn / Hamilton Wilson

To commemorate 140 years in the business, WilsonArchitects has authored a book titled “Genius Loci” (meaning ‘spirit of place’), which documents the people and projects that have shaped the firm over the years. Former Queensland State Government architect Michael Keniger contributed to the book, reflecting on the relationship between the Wilson family, the practice, and Brisbane’s growth.

Photo Credit: Wilson Architects Australia

WilsonArchitects’ portfolio includes other notable projects such as the Translational Research Institute (TRI), Riverbank House, and the Brisbane Grammar School STEAM precinct. The firm plans to launch their commemorative book in early November at the new STEAM precinct.

Throughout its history, WilsonArchitects has played a significant role in developing Brisbane’s subtropical architecture, with Home in Kangaroo Point serving as a prominent example of their enduring impact on the city’s architectural landscape.

Published 8-October-2024

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

Cuban Fire Suite to Ignite Kangaroo Point

Photo Credit: BEMAC

Kangaroo Point will come alive with the vibrant sounds of Cuba as the Brisbane Multicultural Arts Centre (BEMAC) and the Brisbane International Jazz Festival join forces to present a spectacular performance of the complete Cuban Fire Suite.

This ambitious project, showcasing the musical talents of the South East Region Jazz Orchestra (SERJO), will enthral audiences at the Queensland Multicultural Centre Theatre on Sunday, 13 October, at 7:00 p.m.

This highly anticipated concert is the culmination of dedicated work by SERJO, who have meticulously rehearsed the Cuban Fire Suite’s intricate and energetic score. The performance promises to celebrate Latin jazz, highlighting Cuba’s rich musical heritage.

Composed by Johnny Richards in 1956 for the Stan Kenton Orchestra, the Cuban Fire Suite is a seven-movement masterpiece that draws inspiration from Afro-Cuban rhythms and jazz harmonies.

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It evokes Cuban music’s fiery energy and passion, with each movement painting a vivid picture of the island’s culture and spirit. From the explosive opening of “Fuego Cubano” to the melancholic beauty of “Recuerdos” and the playful “Quien Sabe?” the suite takes listeners on a captivating journey through a range of emotions and musical styles.

BEMAC, a champion of multicultural arts in Queensland, has played a pivotal role in bringing this project to fruition. Their commitment to showcasing diverse artistic voices is evident in their support for this unique musical endeavour. The Brisbane International Jazz Festival, renowned for promoting jazz in all forms, has also facilitated this performance.

This is a rare opportunity to experience the full Cuban Fire Suite performed live, and it’s sure to be a highlight of Brisbane’s cultural calendar. The suite’s enduring popularity is a testament to its power and artistry, and SERJO’s rendition promises to be a fitting tribute to this iconic work.

Take advantage of this opportunity to see the talented musicians of SERJO bring the energy and passion of Cuban music to life. It’s an evening that promises to be a feast for the senses.

Published Date 01-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