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Public Feedback Sought for Kangaroo Point Peninsula Neighbourhood Plan

Brisbane City Council is updating the Kangaroo Point Peninsula neighbourhood plan and wants locals to have their say.

The renewal plan is part of the council’s strategy to create a long-term vision for the future of the Kangaroo Point Peninsula. After consulting the public, the updated neighbourhood plan will become part of the Brisbane City Plan 2014.

The plan covers the area bounded by the Brisbane River, Park Avenue, Shafston Avenue and Amesbury Street.

Strategies

The neighbourhood plan is guided by key strategic points:

  • Connecting the Peninsula – The plan aims to create new pedestrian and cycle bridges that will connect Kangaroo Point to CBD. The planners are also looking to address missing RiverWalk links around the peninsula. They also would like to know if there is a need for an additional CityCat stop.
  • Managing Development – The plan intends to make heritage spots and Story Bridge views as the primary considerations for future developments in the area.
  • Enhancing Local Lifestyle – The peninsula’s proximity to the city centre gives it strong potential for growth in terms of lifestyle dining, retail and business activities. The plan includes making Captain Burke Park a city-wide destination and revitalising Main Street to turn it into a lively dining and retail precinct.
  • Improving River Access – Planners are looking to upgrade access to Captain Burke Park beach and revitalise the Frank Nicklin Dock at Dockside. They are also planning for enhanced river access for kayak, canoe and paddleboard enthusiasts.

Watch the video about Kangaroo Point Neighbourhood Plan:

Providing Feedback

There are different ways for locals to let the council know what they think about the neighbourhood plan. They can complete the online survey, which will run until Friday 8 December 2017.

To send feedback about the Kangaroo Point Peninsula neighbourhood plan, contact the planning team by:

A council planner will also hold two sessions where locals can talk with the planner one-on-one regarding the neighbourhood plan. These sessions should be the perfect opportunity to raise concerns or provide comments about the plan.

Session 1: Captain Burke Park, Kangaroo Point, near the Holman Street Ferry Terminal
Date: Saturday 4 November 9am-12 noon

Session 2: C.T. White Park, Kangaroo Point, near the entrance to the Thornton Street Ferry Terminal
Date: Wednesday 29 November 3-6pm

Feedback submission will close on Friday 8 December 2017.

Learn more about the Kangaroo Point Peninsula neighbourhood plan.

Discounted Father’s Day Adventure at Story Bridge in Kangaroo Point

Where else to take in the stunning view of Brisbane River and the city but at the top of Brisbane’s iconic Story Bridge. This Father’s Day, it can be the perfect experience to spend with dad.

Story Bridge is offering everyone to experience the Story Bridge Adventure Climb (SBAC) with dad. From today up to Sunday 3 September 2017, the SBAC Twilight Bridge Climb and Night Climb will be offered at special discounted rates.

Book at the SBAC website and enter promo code: DAD17 to avail of the Father’s Day promo.

A Climb to Remember

The Story Bridge climb is one climb to remember and will surely be a perfect bonding opportunity for Father’s Day. It is also an ideal adventure for all ages. The climb is done at a relaxed pace and climbers need not have a particularly high level of fitness.

Path of the Story Bridge Adventure Climb. (Photo credit: www.sbac.net.au)

The climb takes 2 1/2 hours and participants will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the river city. At the end of the Story Bridge adventure, climbers can purchase photographs of them to keep for lasting memories.

The climb to the bridge can also be a good way of defeating one’s fear of heights. Many people have conquered their fear of heights when they climb the Story Bridge. All supplies are provided and the safety of participants is ensured.

Story Bridge Stories

The SBAC experience is more than a climb. During the journey, participants will get to learn about how the Story Bridge was built. They will hear about the history of Brisbane and know things that not all Brisbane residents know.

Photo credit: www.sbac.net.au

The Story Bridge climb is one must-do adventure and should be a perfect experience for Father’s Day.

Learn more about the Story Bridge Adventure Climb.

SBAC also offers gift vouchers, which are valid for one year. Gift a Story Bridge climb here.

All Set for Brisbane Marathon Festival 2017

Everyone is hyped for 26th Brisbane Marathon Festival happening on Sunday, 6 August 2017.

Photo credit:Brisbane Marathon Festival/Facebook

The event is considered as one of the oldest and friendliest Australian events, drawing thousands of participants from more than 35 countries each year. Brisbane Marathon is often called the “boutique” marathon, mainly because runners are treated like VIPs.

Aside from testing one’s endurance, the marathon also allows the participants to soak in the beauty of the Brisbane River and experience the buzz of the city streets on early Sunday morning. Runners will be able to appreciate the sunrise as they pass through the Story Bridge.

Event Details

Date:Sunday, 6 August 2017
Time:6:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Start Location:Alice Street, Brisbane City
Finish Location:Gardens Point Road, Brisbane City

The run will start at 6:00 a.m. and marathoners will have until 12:30 p.m. to finish the course. Along the course, there are designated check points, which the runners will have to reach at designated times. If the participant is unable to reach the checkpoints in time, they will be diverted off the roadway. Finish line may not be accessible after 12:30 p.m. and runners may not receive an official result if they do not finish by 12:30 p.m.

  • Main Street, Kangaroo Point (7km): After 8:00 a.m. participants will be diverted off roadway
  • Jane Street (between Buchanan Street and Montague Road) (14.5km): After 8:30 a.m. participants will be diverted off roadway
  • Holman Street, Kangaroo Point (27.5km): After 11:00 a.m. participants will be diverted off roadway
  • Lower River Terrace, South Brisbane (30km): After 11:00 a.m. participants will be diverted off roadway
  • Hill End Terrace, West End (36.5km): After 11:45 a.m. participants will be diverted off roadway
  • Riverside Drive, West End (39km): After 12:00 p.m. participants will be diverted off roadway
  • Finish line, Gardens Point Road (Brisbane CBD) (42.2km): 12:30 p.m. course closure.

Events

Brisbane Marathon features five events designed for different levels of runners.

42.2km Brisbane Marathon – The main marathon will test the limits of the body’s endurance. The course will start from Brisbane City and will take on streets and shared pathways around the river, will cross the river and pass through parts of Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Kangaroo Point, Woolloongabba, South Brisbane and West End.

Photo credit: www.brisbanemarathon.com

21.1km Half Marathon – The half marathon will follow the same route as the 42.2 km run, except that there is no second lap.

Photo credit: www.brisbanemarathon.com

10km Brisbane Run/Walk – The 10-km run/walk is one of the most popular event on Brisbane Marathon. The course will start from Brisbane City, pass by New Farm and cross Story Bridge to Kangaroo Point before crossing Goodwill Bridge on the way back to Brisbane City.

Photo credit: www.brisbanemarathon.com

5km Brisbane Run/Walk – The 5-km run is a fun activity that is suitable for all ages and fitness level. The route will start from Garden Point Road, will cross Goodwill Bridge and go through the streets along the river in Kangaroo Point and South Bank

Photo credit: www.brisbanemarathon.com

1km Kids Mini Marathon – Kids can also join in the fun run with the mini marathon that will go around the City Botanic Gardens in Brisbane City. Children who will finish the course will receive a medal upon crossing the finish line. The course is open to kids below 12 years of age. The run will start at 10:00 a.m.

Photo credit: www.brisbanemarathon.com

Visit the Brisbane Marathon website for more details.

Online entry will close on Thursday, 3 August 2017. Register online here.

Kangaroo Point Neighbourhood Watch Gives Homeless Friends a Hand

They received a complaint about some individuals sleeping rough at a park. But instead of turning them away, Kangaroo Point Neighbourhood Watch (KPNHW) decided to work with Micah Projects to support the homeless.

For their 12 June meeting, KPNHW invited Micah Projects’ Natalie Garth and Dr Saad Farooqui to gain a better understanding of homelessness in Brisbane. The neighbourhood watch decided to conduct a fundraiser to help rough sleepers access housing.

KPNHW is holding its Christmas in July Fundraiser in support of the work of Micah Projects. The fundraising event will be held at a beautiful river setting at Medley Café and Restaurant in Kangaroo Point on Monday, 17 July 2017.

Event Details:

Date: Monday, 17 July 2017
Time: 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Venue:

 

Medley Café and Restaurant
62 Wharf Street, Kangaroo Point
Cost:

 

 

$50 per person
Please pay Direct Deposit to BSB: 084-004
Account Number: 596374475
Account Name: KPNHW
Bank: NAB, New Farm
Reference: KP17July + your surname
Contact kpnhw.sec@gmail.com if unable to pay by direct deposit. 
Photo credit: micahprojects.org.au

“Every child and adult has the right to a home, an income, healthcare, education, safety, dignity and connection with their community of choice.”

~ Micah Projects

What to Expect

Photo credit: www.medleykp.com.au

There will be welcome drink on arrival and a selection of hot and cold canapés. Additional drinks will be available for purchase. Live music will be supplied by Out of Abingdon.

The Attendees can donate Welcome Packs at the Wishing Well. These welcome packs will be given to rough sleepers to help them start in their new housing.

Prizes will be raffled off during the event. KPNHW has received donations from local businesses to raffle the following gift vouchers.

Dinner at Deery’s Restaurant, valued at $100
2 x 2  Double Passes to Brisbane Jazz Club, worth $120
One-hour standard massage at Siam Blend Health Spa, valued at $89
Food and drink at Medley Café, worth $50

Visit the Micah Projects website to find other ways to help.

Kangaroo Point Premium Location Expects to Host More Food Trucks

Kangaroo Point locals should see more of the best food trucks in Brisbane as one of its premium locations ranked among the most favoured sites in Brisbane City Council’s recent food truck trial.

The city council launched the Brisbane Food Trucks website in July last year, allowing residents to find out where their favourite food trucks are scheduled to serve. The website includes a function for food truck businesses to book premium food truck locations.

(Photo credit: Mr Burger Brisbane / Facebook)

Based on bookings on the website, River Terrace at Kangaroo Point Cliffs is a favourite spot among food-on-wheels owners. River Tce took 4th place with 9 bookings.

City Botanic Gardens topped the list with 57 bookings, followed by Albert St shared zone, city with 25 bookings and Orleigh Park in West End with 11 bookings.

The other favourite locations of food truck vendors include Hidden World Playground, Jane Street, Davies Park in West End, EE McCormick Place in City West and New Farm Park.

The River Terrace located atop Kangaroo Point Cliffs provides gorgeous views of the river and the city. Locals and visitors can get a commanding view of boats and yachts cruising through the river, high-rise buildings from atop the cliff and the beautiful city sunset, enough reason for food truck vendors and food lovers to be attracted to this place.

The food truck program will continue with basically the same format. There are 41 vendors participating in the program. They include The Bone Lorry, Rolling Stone Pizza, King of the Wings, The Bun Mobile, Kraut N’ About and Rolls Pho Mi.

The Brisbane Food Truck program was created to satisfy the craving of locals for top quality meals on wheels. At the same time, the program adds life to different public spaces around Brisbane. Food trucks are allowed to do business at premium locations as long as they do not impact permanent food businesses there. Another condition is that they do not block access to facilities.

 

(Photo credit: Brisbane Food Trucks / Facebook)

Kangaroo Point Tennis Court Tests Online Booking System

Tennis enthusiasts in Kangaroo Point find a safer and more convenient way of reserving a court through online booking.

The Kangaroo Point Sports and Tennis Club has started using the smart new booking system launched by Tennis Queensland. With the high-tech system, people can access the tennis facility through keyless entry. The booking system can allow entry to tennis courts 24 hours a day, but players can only use the Kangaroo Point tennis courts from 6am to 9pm.

Head coach Mark Toohey said that the new keyless entry system is going well for the club. People have been asking about the system since it was activated.

To book under the new Book a Court system, go to the bookacourt.tennis.com.au website, select the time and number of hours, then reserve. Once reservation is done, the system connects with a security keypad at the court. The person will receive a unique booking pin, which will have to be entered at the gate located at 51 Darragh Street. The system will automatically turn on the lights on the reserved court.

Twenty other clubs across Queensland have registered and are pilot testing the program. Only clubs affiliated with Tennis Queensland can use the online booking system.

Heritage Home Owner Justifies Plan for High-Rise Complex on Kangaroo Point Property

The proposal to build a 15-storey complex on the site of a heritage home in Kangaroo Point is getting a host of criticisms, but the owner is fully defending the planned development.

Chris Snape, owner of heritage home Thornclyffe, wants to construct a 42-unit structure around the 1880s home. He explained that the development will protect the heritage home because it will become a focal point of the proposed complex.

Based on the submitted plans, the heritage house will serve as a common area for the residents of the residential building. The body corporate would be in charge to keep it intact and protected.

The Victorian-style heritage house was listed on the local heritage register for representing the appeal of the area for upper and middle class residents during the 1880s.

Mr Snape said that it became difficult to sell the property as nobody wanted to purchase a heritage residence with high-rise building around it. He thinks that the area is suitable for a high-density development and pursuing that plan would enhance the area and protected home as well.

In the plans sent to Brisbane City Council, original portions of the house will be kept intact, but the perimeter wall will be removed to open it up to the streets.

The planned development garnered 44 oppositions from the community. Jonathan Sri, Councillor for The Gabba, voiced out his concerns about the proposal, stating that it breaches the 10-storey limit set for the neighbourhood. He believes approval of such a proposal is not in line with the neighbourhood plan and does not meet the community’s expectations.

Cr Sri shared the letter he wrote to the Development Assessment team on this Facebook post.

Kangaroo Point Jumpstarts Green Building Trend

Demonstrating the growing trend towards green architecture and sustainability in building design, Kangaroo Point’s Walan Apartments will be the first development in Brisbane’s fiercely competitive apartment-style high-rise market to utilise a large-scale “green wall”. Featuring a vertical forest that was designed to become an architectural landmark in Kangaroo Point, which is widely considered as Brisbane’s Little Manhattan, Walan’s address on #2 Scott Street is certainly going to give the precinct’s cityscape a picturesque and memorable addition to its riverfront skyline.

Inspired by the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, the building’s design incorporates six-metre high semi-mature trees which are braced and entwined, 14-storeys high, and growing up the spine of the main street elevation. “We’ve taken the green wall to new heights … This has never been achieved in apartment living in Australia before,” Cam Ginardi of developer GBW Group, proudly says.

Liam Proberts, architect and director of Bureau Proberts, is the creative genius behind the “vertical landscaping”, which draws inspiration from nature and the site’s relationship with its environment. “The main idea for this project was to create a home with a connection to the landscape … like having a mini-backyard running up the building,” Mr. Proberts explains.

“I’ve not worked on anything quite like this, but there is definitely a growing theme in Queensland of melding the indoor with the outdoor, and so this seemed like a logical thing to do … I’m sure it will be a model for future developments.” Mr. Proberts adds.

Such is the designer’s concern for preserving the site’s relationship to its natural environment that a heritage house which has originally been on-site, has been retained and carefully restored, to house a gym, lap pool, and kitchen in its new incarnation.

Other Green Buildings

Artist’s Impression of Jardino. From Brisbane Development.

Kangaroo Point is certainly getting its share of green buildings. In recent news, another project by Bureau Proberts, a 19-storey “breathing building” will soon rise on Hamilton Street. Aptly named Jardino, the building will have flowering plants on stainless steel screening wrapped around the structure, with a rainwater tank on the rooftop feeding a centralised watering system for the plants.

443 Queen Street, Brisbane. Photo from Brisbane Development.

Meanwhile, in Brisbane, a controversial 47-level tower will soon rise on 443 Queen Street, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Customs House. Expected for completion in early 2018, this $375 million tower will have multiple gardens composed of stacked ledges at the building’s base. The top ledges will have trees, with shrubbery strategically positioned up the building’s side.

In Sydney, One Central Park has scored a world’s first, with its 116-metre vertical green walls. Designed by noted French botanist Patrick Blanc, it contains 35,000 plants. The building has thus far won at least 28 awards for its architecture, interior design and green credentials, including the International Green Infrastructure Award from the World Green Infrastructure Congress, and the Council for Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat’s award for Best Tall Building Worldwide.

Professor Sue Holliday, an authority on Urban Policy and Strategy from the University of NSW, made an excellent observation in her statement about Sydney’s One Central Park. “They made a lot of positive moves in that direction, which is where inner-city regeneration needs to go,” Prof. Holliday said, referring to incorporating sustainability in design.

Given Kangaroo Point’s vertical forest at Walan and the “breathing building” of Jardino, plus Brisbane’s Queen Street green development, Queensland’s architectural cityscape certainly seems to be branching out and growing in the right direction.

Breathing Building Set to Rise in Kangaroo Point

Amidst the increasing number of concrete buildings in Brisbane will rise a residential building that espouses the idea of a breathing building.

The proposed project called Jardino will rise on Hamilton Street in Kangaroo Point and promises to be an iconic green tower in the city. The building is in line with Brisbane government’s “Building’s That Breathe” design guideline, which calls for provision of lush landscaping, shade and comfort in new buildings that will be built in the city.

Jardino is a project proposed by Hamilton Street Enterprises and designed by Bureau Proberts. The architects described the towering garden as a new take of the backyard garden as residents will have a sort of green space just outside their homes.

According to the submitted proposal, the building will have 19 storeys and will offer views of the central business district, the Brisbane River and other notable landmarks such as the Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point Cliffs.

Around the building will be flowering plants along stainless steel screening. A rainwater tank on the rooftop will be the source for the centralised watering system for the plants.