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Brisbane Approves Plans for 15-Storey ‘River House’ in Kangaroo Point

Developers have cleared a major hurdle for constructing a proposed 15-storey apartment tower called ‘River House’ in Kangaroo Point, after receiving approval for the project, bringing the high-rise building one step closer to breaking ground.

Read: Sydney-Based Developer, Fortis, Lodges a Kangaroo Point Riverfront Apartment Tower Proposal

The luxury development from Fortis Property Group, designed by Plus Architecture and featuring interior design by Mim Design, will bring 14 high-end residences to the neighbourhood.

The site at 44 O’Connell Street has sat vacant for years, but construction is now slated to begin in the second quarter of 2024 according to Fortis. The project, estimated to cost around $100 million, will have three levels sitting above a 1,196 sqm site.

river house — Photo credit: Plus Architecture

The group acquired the land from previous owner Joe Adsett earlier this year after plans for a similar 14-unit tower were approved but later revoked in 2021 due to legal proceedings.

River House will consist of 14 three-bedroom apartments, each with a multipurpose room and expansive views of the Brisbane River and city skyline. The penthouse will additionally feature a private rooftop terrace and pool. Wellness facilities like an infinity pool, sauna, steam room and landscaped gardens will provide amenities for residents.

The plans also call for 46 total car parking spaces to be built across three underground levels – 43 resident spots and 3 visitor spaces. Vehicle and pedestrian access to the tower would be provided through the current single-lane crossover and driveway on O’Connell Street to the west side of the site.

Read: Elevated 30-Storey Residential Tower Planned for Brisbane’s Dockside Precinct

While best known for luxury developments in Sydney’s prestigious neighbourhoods, River House signifies Fortis Property Group’s inaugural project in Queensland as the developer expands its footprint.

River House is set to launch to buyers in mid to late November 2023, with estimated completion by late 2025. The new development promises to bring modern luxury living to one of Brisbane’s most desirable neighbourhoods along the river.

Published 21-November-2023

The Prawnster in Kangaroo Point Grapples with an Uncertain Path Forward

Photo Credit: The Prawnster/Facebook

The Prawnster, a popular seafood haven in Kangaroo Point, finds itself at a crossroads with its future hanging in the balance following a recent legal verdict.

Nestled within the picturesque Dockside Marina, this iconic seafood restaurant has faced a protracted legal battle concerning its commercial operations on the river.

Despite the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the termination of its berthing and mooring deed, owner Martin Brennan remains steadfast in his commitment to keep the restaurant’s doors open. He maintains that “closing down isn’t an option” and vows to continue trading, assuring patrons that a solution will be found.

A Unique Dining Experience

Since its inception in August 2020, The Prawnster has offered a distinctive dining experience. Situated on two refurbished trawlers and a covered pontoon, it aimed to provide fresh seafood sourced directly from Queensland’s trawlers while floating on the serene waters of the Brisbane River.

The concept was inspired by successful ventures such as Prawn Star in Cairns and the Fisherman’s Co-Op on the Gold Coast.

The Prawnster Dockside Marina Kangaroo Point — Photo Credit: The Prawnster/Facebook

The restaurant’s popularity soared, earning accolades and adoration from its customers. In 2022, it was voted among the top 10% of restaurants worldwide on TripAdvisor, a testament to its quality and appeal.

The Legal Dispute

The heart of the matter revolves around the restaurant’s right to operate on the Crown lease at Dockside Marina. Whilst The Prawnster’s legal team sought clarification in court, the focus initially centered on the termination of the berthing and mooring deed. The court upheld this decision, thereby putting into question the restaurant’s location.

Whilst the court did not delve into the specifics of the Crown lease, it left the possibility open for further legal action. Brennan’s legal team is contemplating an appeal and is carefully examining their options, considering the complexity of the situation.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding its location, The Prawnster remains committed to its loyal patrons. With his eyes on the upcoming holiday season, Mr Brennan is determined to find a way forward. Whether it be at Dockside Marina or an alternative mooring location closer to the CBD, he is confident that the restaurant’s unique concept and loyal customer base will endure.

Mr Brennan is reaching out to both state and local government authorities, seeking support and collaboration to secure an appropriate mooring location. His resolve to keep the business trading is unwavering, driven by the outpouring of support from the community.

Follow their Facebook page for updates.

Published 21-Nov-2o23

Luxury Residential Project Sorano House Takes Shape in Kangaroo Point

Photo Credit: Fc realestate.com.au

Despite challenging market conditions, Trezetto Developments, in collaboration with Rocking Horse Constructions, has officially begun construction on Sorano House, an eight-storey residential building in Kangaroo Point.

Designed by Ferro Chow, this distinctive project is set to redefine luxury living in this riverside precinct. Construction work commenced even before Sorano House was officially launched to the market in September 2023, showcasing the confidence of the developer and builder in this project.

The collaboration and the remarkable design of the project spurred the team to break ground, proving their commitment to delivering a project of exceptional quality.

Luxury Living at its Finest

Located at 8-12 Hamilton Street, Sorano House is set to be an exclusive collection of seven spacious full-floor apartments, each spanning an impressive 350 square meters. The apartments will offer breathtaking views of the CBD skyline and the meandering Brisbane River, setting a new standard for luxury living in the area.

Each apartment in Sorano House will boast four bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and an array of top-tier amenities. The luxurious features include premium European appliances, a magnificent 5.5-meter marble kitchen island, and a travertine-clad lift lobby. For residents seeking relaxation and wellness, the building will house a gym, a Himalayan salt sauna, a pristine pool, and a private dining room complete with a wine cellar.

A Growing Luxury Market in Brisbane

“Our belief in the design for Sorano House, paired with this incredibly rare address, has given us the confidence to begin construction on site. We know that construction is a huge confidence booster for purchasers looking at residences of this calibre and value,” Sam Sgroi, Managing Director of Trezetto Developments said.

“The luxury market in Brisbane has seen some incredible growth in the past few years, and Sorano House represents Brisbane’s coming of age, bringing design once reserved for the ultra-luxury Sydney market to the most iconic Brisbane location,” YPM Group project sales director, Phillip Rand, emphasized.

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Sorano House’s prime location, with its proximity to Brisbane’s CBD, soon to be connected by the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge, ensures residents the ultimate connectivity and privacy. This development marks the continued evolution of Kangaroo Point into a developer hotspot, with various projects planned and underway in this sought-after precinct.

Sorano House is expected to be completed in early 2025.

Published 27-Oct-2023

Kangaroo Point Construction Worker Accused Thefts Granted Bail With Conditions Amidst Disputed Evidence

Photo Credit: Bermix Studio/Unsplash

Jarred Raymond Scott, a 34-year-old construction worker from Kangaroo Point who is facing multiple charges related to the alleged theft of bikes, e-scooters, and parcels from a Brisbane apartment complex, has been granted bail.

The accused appeared in Brisbane Arrest Court on Saturday, 7 Oct 2023, and was granted bail by Magistrate Julian Noud. He faced nine charges, including four counts of entering premises and committing an indictable offence, one count of entering premises with intent, one count of stealing, one count of unlawful possession of suspected stolen property, and two charges related to registration plate tampering.

These charges stem from alleged offences occurring between late last year until the end of September 2023.

During the hearing, police prosecutor Sergeant Matt Kahler argued that Scott should remain in custody due to his prior history, including a suspended sentence and probation. Sgt Kahler also presented evidence that two stolen bicycles were discovered at Mr Scott’s residence on Connor St in Kangaroo Point.

CCTV footage showed a van stealing the two bikes from a Brisbane address on the night of 18 Sept 2023, though Sgt. Kahler could not definitively link Mr Scott to the van.

Mr Scott, who works part-time as a labourer for a carpenter and subcontracts for a friend’s company, earns approximately $900 a week. Legal Aid Queensland barrister Laura Rouse pointed out that several charges relied on CCTV footage, and it was unclear whether the individual seen in the footage was indeed the accused.

Rouse emphasised that there was “currently no evidence” to suggest that two e-scooters found at Scott’s apartment were stolen. She also argued that in relation to the charge of stealing two bicycles, police may consider downgrading the charge to receiving stolen property as the evidence did not conclusively connect Mr Scott to the van seen on CCTV.

Moreover, Mr Scott disputed some of the evidence presented against him. He claimed that the CCTV footage showing a man wearing a COVID-19 mask was not him and that he was seen with his own e-scooter, not one stolen from an alleged victim. However, police alleged that the masked individual had worn the “same clothing” as Scott in earlier footage where his face was visible.

Despite these disputes, Magistrate Noud granted Scott bail with conditions. Scott is required to report to the police at Dutton Park three times a week and must continue to reside at his Kangaroo Point home. Additionally, he is prohibited from contacting his ex-partner, Sarah Von Senden.

The case is scheduled to return to Brisbane Magistrates Court on 1 Nov 2023, where further developments are expected.

Published 9-Oct-2023

Startup Company Develops Innovative Pathogen Test That Can Help Treat Sepsis

Photo Credit: Microbio / au.linkedin.com

A Brisbane startup has developed a game-changing pathogen test that could help clinicians treat sepsis by identifying the pathogen that causes the disease.

Sepsis has been identified as a life-threatening disease that occurs once the body attacks its own body tissues and organs as a response to the infection. Sepsis Australia said that the condition kills more than 8,000 Australians each year.

Dubbed “a silent killer”, a pathogen that causes a condition that is very hard to predict, diagnose and treat. This makes the signs and symptoms difficult to detect, hence making the disease potentially deadly for those who contract it.

Now, a pathogen test has been developed by Microbio. ‘InfectID-BSI’, according to Dr Huygens, can quickly identify and inform clinicians about the specific pathogen to target within approximately three hours.

He said that research findings indicate that each hour of delay in administering effective microbial treatment could escalate the risk of mortality by 7.6 per cent. This makes the test a significant breakthrough in the fight against the disease as it accelerates the identification of 26 sepsis-causing pathogens by roughly 13 hours compared to the typical duration it takes for the current identification method.

Microbio, which currently employs 19 staff and contractors, got a boost from the Brisbane Economic Development Agency’s (BEDA) inaugural MedTech Accelerator program. The initiative provided the company with valuable coaching to help it enter the global market and access strategic investors, particularly in the USA.

Dr Huygens said that MedTech Accelerator gave the company’s participants the motivation to step outside their day-to-day operations and concentrate on the strategic drivers that could propel the business forward.

Microbio used this momentum to develop its regulatory approach, refine its clinical trials strategy, hone its commercialization plan, and strengthen its supply chain and manufacturing capabilities. These efforts were undertaken with the aim of ensuring the company’s ability to scale sustainably.

According to Anthony Ryan, CEO of the Brisbane Economic Development Agency, the MedTech Accelerator collaborates with early-stage commercial ventures such as Microbio to assist in initiating global fundraising efforts. The campaigns, he said, provide startup businesses with material and valuable insights to help them present their innovation to potential investors and partners, which results in the expedited attraction of capital and establishment of distribution partnerships.

Microbio has already secured a clearance to sell the test in Europe, the UK and India. They have also sought partners to help them with diagnostic tests across the globe. Dr Huygens added that they will seek additional investments to help further the trials for Australian and USA regulatory clearance.

Published 8-October-2023

See Stunning Time-Lapse Video as Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Construction Reaches New Heights

Photo Credit: CrRyanMurphy/Facebook

The Kangaroo Point Green Bridge has reached a significant construction milestone, with the successful installation of the first four lower legs of the towering 95-metre, 270-tonne mast.

The landmark infrastructure project is scheduled to open in 2024 and promises to become one of the most iconic images in the city’s skyline.

Originally budgeted at $190 million, the cost of the pedestrian bridge connecting Alice Street to Kangaroo Point has faced challenges due to global supply pressures, resulting in a recent revised estimate of $299 million.

Despite the cost increases, the project has made significant progress, with over 240 metres of the bridge’s spans already in place, surpassing the halfway mark of its eventual 460-metre stretch across the Brisbane River. Brisbane City Council’s Transport Committee Head, Ryan Murphy, attributed the cost escalation to the prevailing market conditions.

A timelapse video showcases the rapid progress of Brisbane’s newest green bridge project.

“It will finally deliver a direct link between the CBD and Kangaroo Point, which has been talked about since the 1800s, taking 84,000 cars off our roads each year,” LM Adrian Schrinner said.

“It will create a critical connection to the Gabba Stadium for AFL and cricket fans, concert-goers, and the tens of thousands of people from across the world who will visit our city during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” he added.

The Kangaroo Point Green Bridge, part of a $550 million green bridge program, was initiated in 2019 and was crucial in addressing congestion and promoting public and active transport. However, challenges such as the 2022 floods and community opposition have led to the cancellation of some proposed bridges, leaving only two in progress. Last year’s floods also caused a delay in the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge’s opening date.

Once completed, the bridge is expected to accommodate over 6,000 pedestrians, cyclists, and e-mobility riders daily by 2036, leading to a significant reduction in cross-river car trips, aligning with the council’s vision for a more sustainable and accessible Brisbane.

Published 7-Oct-2023

Brisbane Says Goodbye to Pig ‘N’ Whistle Pub on Queen Street

The Pig ‘N’ Whistle on Queen Street shut its doors permanently after almost two decades of operation, marking the end of an era for the Brisbane CBD pub.

Read: Kangaroo Point Homes Spared From Demolition for Olympics Development

“After 24 years of trade, it is farewell from the team at Pig ‘N’ Whistle Queen Street. You can still enjoy the Pig experience for which we are renowned at our other Pig ‘N’ Whistle venues,” the pub announced through its website a couple of weeks ago.

The British-inspired pub was known for its large selection of beers, wines and cocktails, as well as customer favourites like nachos and steak. Pig ‘N’ Whistle operates several other locations around Brisbane, including Brunswick Street, Indooroopilly, West End, King George Square, and Riverside.

The Indooroopilly location first opened in 1999 under the Mantle Group, the longstanding hospitality group also behind Brisbane mainstays Jimmy’s on the Mall and The Charming Squire.

The closure is part of the City to South Bank Revitalisation Plans by Brisbane City Council to improve accessibility and livability between the CBD and South Bank. Removing venues like Pig ‘N’ Whistle will allow for more pedestrian-friendly spaces with shade, seating, and room for vendors, food trucks and street performers.

Read: New Pedestrian & Cycle Underpass to be Built in Kangaroo Point

Further plans include installing shade over the Victoria Bridge footpath to encourage more pedestrian traffic between the CBD and South Bank.

The city council has also announced plans to acquire Reddacliff Place, currently privately owned, in order to designate it as public space. This will allow the area to be used for open-air markets, events, and arts.

The project will complement the city council’s major upgrade of the Cultural Centre Bus Station, which is being undertaken as part of the broader Brisbane Metro project.

Published 5-October-2023

Brisbane Oktoberfest 2023: Grab Your Steins and Prepare to Raise the Roof

Photo Credit: Oktoberfest2023/EventBrite

Brace yourselves as Brisbane’s Original Oktoberfest roars back to life in 2023! Brisbane German Club of Kangaroo Point is all set to host a month-long celebration that promises to be nothing short of sensational.

In true Oktoberfest fashion, every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday throughout October, starting Friday, the 6th October 2023 will be a day of heart-pounding live music performances, a gourmet menu loaded with authentic German delights that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance, and a beer selection that’s the stuff of legend, boasting Brisbane’s most extensive range of imported German brews.

Oktoberfest Brisbane German Club — *Photo Credit: Brisbane German Club*

This celebration will also feature Oktoberfest competitions to test your mettle, market stalls offering treasures galore, a best-dressed showdown that’s sure to turn heads, and challenges that’ll push your eating and drinking prowess to the limit.

Feeling the adrenaline yet? You should be! And don’t miss the crowning glory – the ceremonial keg tapping that kicks off the festivities with a bang! Cheers!

LIVE MUSIC LINE-UP

Here’s the scoop: There are no table reservations, so it’s first-come, first-served. For this electrifying weekend, drinks, function packages, and bar tabs are off the menu.

But that’s not all, folks! For esteemed Current Full Members of the club, here’s a treat just for you – enjoy FREE entry to Oktoberfest 2023 on any of the festival days. Simply flash your Current Full Membership card at the Express Queue, and you’re in! Just remember, this fabulous perk isn’t transferable.

And here’s the kicker – tickets to this unmissable event start at a tantalizingly $15! Snag your tickets right away to secure your spot in the wildest October party in Brisbane.

Get Tickets | Multiple Dates

For more details follow Brisbane German Club on Facebook.

Embark on the Adventure of a Lifetime: Join the STS Young Endeavour Voyage

Photo Credit: Young Endeavour Youth Scheme / /youngendeavour.gov.au

Are you ready to set sail on an adventure like no other? The STS Young Endeavour, currently docked at Kangaroo Point, invites young Australians to embark on an 11-day journey to learn not only about the ropes of sailing but discover their leadership potential. No sailing experience is required.

The STS Young Endeavour is a remarkable vessel. It is a two-masted, square-rigged sailing vessel built for the purpose of offering development programs for the youth at sea.

The STS Young Endeavour is not your average vacation; it’s a journey into a world of adventure and self-discovery. Everything goes down to the basics, even for entertainment–that means, no phones or social media. Instead, you’ll learn how to sail a square-rigged ship and work with your fellow crew members as a cohesive team.

Each day on the ship is a new experience. There is always something new to learn such as how to set and furl sails, navigate the ship and even take command. Then there are games, team-building activities, opportunities to assist the chef, work with the engineers, chart a course with the navigator, and more.

Still, not everything about the journey is all hard work. You will also have plenty of time to relax, swim, play sports, explore islands and National Parks, spot marine life like whales and dolphins, and most of all – connect with people from all over the country.

Each year, the STS Young Endeavour takes on around 20 voyages, exploring the picturesque coasts of Australia. Often, these voyages depart from ports in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia. The ship then circumnavigates Australia, visiting the Northern Territory and Western Australia, at least once every few years.

The Young Endeavour Youth Scheme is made possible in collaboration with the Royal Australian Navy. The program offers young Australians a one-of-a-kind, demanding, and inspiring sea experience aboard the national sail training ship Young Endeavour.

They have successfully provided over 600 youth development trips, sailed approximately 400,000 nautical miles, welcomed over 12,000-day sail guests onboard, and sent over 14,000 young Australians on a life-changing journey at sea since 1988.

STS Young Endeavour is set to set sail on the 26th of September, heading from Kangaroo Point to Newcastle and bringing along a mixed crew of 24 young Australians.

To apply for the next voyage, check their website here.

Published 21-September-2023

Kangaroo Point’s Iconic Silverwells South Changes Hands Again

The heritage-listed Silverwells South house in Kangaroo Point has been sold at auction after being listed on the market last month.

Read: Kangaroo Point’s Lamb House Close to Being Fully Restored to its Former Glory

The iconic duplex, dubbed as possibly the oldest residential building remaining at Kangaroo Point, was purchased for an undisclosed price after previously being listed in 2020 for $5.5 million.

With around 170 years of history behind it, Silverwells South is considered a prized real estate gem. The property, located at 267 Main Street, was handled by Place Estate Agents and described in the listing as “a true icon in the heart of the city.”

Renovations have honoured the home’s heritage whilst upgrading amenities. Kauri pine floors, 4-metre high ceilings, and crystal chandeliers reflect the grace of a bygone era. A wine cellar, glass-enclosed atrium, and spacious open-plan interior represent contemporary style and function.

The new owners acquire both a piece of Brisbane history and a luxurious inner-city residence. Place Estate Agents said buyer interest was strong for the rare opportunity to own “the perfect house alternative” at Silverwells South. Its alluring blend of old and new is sure to capture the imagination of future residents.

About Silverwells South

Photo credit: Queensland Heritage Register

Although the precise construction date is unknown, records indicate Silverwells South was likely built sometime between the 1860s and 1870s for Joseph Thompson, a prominent Sydney merchant who acquired multiple properties in Kangaroo Point. It is one of just two Georgian-style homes believed to be commissioned by Thompson in the area during this period.

As a rare Brisbane example of semi-detached brick housing in Georgian fashion, Silverwells South stands out from Queensland’s architectural norms of that era, when such duplexes were more prevalent in Sydney. The home is prominently featured in a photograph of Kangaroo Point from the mid-1870s, narrowing down its completion to sometime prior.

Ownership stayed in the Thompson family until 1902, when it passed to William Mann Thompson. He later subdivided the land, with the southern Silverwells house converted to a rental property from the 1930s to 1950s. The home was officially heritage listed in 1992 as an exemplar of Queensland’s historical development.

Read: 40 Years of Patience Pays Off as Brisbane Woman Puts Kangaroo Point Apartment Block Up For Sale

Major renovations were undertaken in 2008 to incorporate modern amenities whilst retaining the original 19th century structure. This synthesis of old and new continues the property’s enduring legacy.

Published 19-September-2023