Kangaroo Point green bridge Archives

New Kangaroo Point Green Bridge: A Feat of Engineering

The construction of the new Kangaroo Point Green Bridge has reached a significant milestone with the successful installation of a 95-metre-high tower mast.

The operation was carried out by Marr’s heavy-duty tower crane, a 330-tonne Favelle Favco M2480D, which was installed on a platform in the middle of the Brisbane River.

The crane, equipped with a 64-metre jib, can lift its maximum capacity at a 15-metre radius, or take 100 tonnes to a 45-metre radius with a hook height of around 130 metres. This impressive lifting capacity enabled it to hoist the 25-metre-high, 180-tonne prefabricated steel masthead to a height of 95 metres.

The mast is the heaviest lift to be undertaken on the project, where the crane has already completed more than 10 major lifts during the first 12 months of the job.

The contract to build the bridge was awarded in 2021 to Connect Brisbane, a Besix Watpac led consortium. The consortium involved Marr at an early stage in the design phase, to develop a lifting strategy that supported their preferred construction methods for the project.

Project director, Rowan Riggall, praised the in-house engineering team for identifying the M2480D as the most suitable crane in the Australian market capable of lifting the fully assembled masthead.

Managing director, Simon Marr, highlighted the benefits of modularised construction with fewer, heavier lifts, stating it not only helps to deliver a safer, more productive site, but also allows the client to share the economic benefit delivered by the project.

The new bridge, an initiative of Brisbane City Council, will be an iconic landmark destination connecting Brisbane’s Central Business District with the eastern suburbs. At a length of 460 metres, the bridge will be among the longest span cable stay pedestrian and cycle bridges in the world. Construction is due to be completed in 2024.

More than 240 metres of the Bridge’s spans have been installed, passing the halfway mark across the Brisbane River. The cost of the project was initially estimated at $190 million but has been revised a few times and is now $299 million.

This project represents a significant achievement in engineering and construction, and is a testament to the innovation and dedication of all parties involved.

Published 26-January-2024

Iconic Mast Makes Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Brisbane’s Tallest Bridge

The final piece of the 95-metre tall mast that will be the centrepiece of the new Kangaroo Point Green Bridge was finally installed, marking a major milestone in the bridge’s construction.

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

The installation of its iconic mast makes the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge the tallest bridge in Brisbane today.

The mast, which weighs 270 tonnes, was lifted into place by a large heavy lift luffing tower crane positioned on a platform in the middle of the Brisbane River. The crane, called the M2480D, was brought in specifically for this project by contractor Marr due to its ability to safely lift the fully assembled mast head.

The bridge is being built by Connect Brisbane, a consortium led by BESIX Watpac. According to Rowan Riggall, Project Director for BESIX Watpac, extensive analysis went into selecting the right crane for the job, including comparing barge cranes and tower cranes. The M2480D was chosen as the only crane in Australia capable of completing the record-breaking lift.

The installation of the mast is considered a major achievement for the project, which has faced challenges constructing such a tall structure in the middle of a busy waterway without impacting river traffic.

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

About the Project

A new pedestrian and cyclist bridge will soon connect Kangaroo Point to Brisbane’s central business district. The Kangaroo Point Green Bridge, scheduled to open in 2024, will provide a direct link between Kangaroo Point, the city’s eastern suburbs, and the CBD.

The Brisbane City Council awarded the design and construction contract to Connect Brisbane, a consortium led by BESIX Watpac, in June 2021 after a thorough procurement process. Construction on the bridge also began later that year. Upon completion, the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge will make walking and biking between these areas much easier and more convenient.

Published 16-January-2024

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

Kangaroo Point Bridge Project Half Done, But Costs Double Original Budget

Brisbane’s ambitious Kangaroo Point bridge has crossed a major construction milestone but is now saddled with a towering budget far exceeding original estimates.

Read: Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Project Reaches Important Milestone

Over 240 metres of the pedestrian and cyclist bridge’s 460-metre span stretching across the Brisbane River has been installed.

However, costs for the bridge have shot up over $100 million from the initial $190 million price tag to a staggering $299 million according to revised council figures.

Kangaroo Point Bridge — Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

Brisbane City Council transport chair Ryan Murphy attributed the ballooning budget to a ‘perfect storm’ of supply chain struggles, labour shortages and runaway materials costs buffeting major infrastructure projects worldwide.

Despite the escalating price, Cr Murphy reaffirmed the council’s commitment to pushing through and completing the project he called the city’s most important active transit initiative.

The setbacks follow the fanfare last year when the first spans were lifted into place. Once open, expected by 2024, the bridge will provide a direct crossing for cyclists and walkers between Kangaroo Point and Brisbane’s CBD.

Cr Murphy highlighted that the green bridge will become a vital connection for residents and visitors as the city hosts more major events like the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Cr Murphy stated that the pedestrian and cyclist bridge will be a go-to destination for tourists whilst also linking Kangaroo Point to the Brisbane CBD and Gabba stadium. With Brisbane being Australia’s fastest growing capital, Cr Murphy emphasised the need to deliver transportation infrastructure that keeps pace with population growth and expands mobility options.

The bridge landings will also include two new dining destinations, Bombora and Mulga Bill’s from the Tassis Group.

Read: Get A Sneak Peek Of The Restaurant And Cafe Set To Open On the Green Bridge at Kangaroo Point

Estimates for the Kangaroo Point bridge project indicate that by 2036 over 6,000 pedestrians, cyclists, and e-scooter and e-bike riders will cross the bridge each day.

Published 12-September-2023

Sunsets Rooftop: Kangaroo Point’s Stylish New Rooftop Escape

Photo Credit: Sunsets Rooftop/Instagram

Enjoy city views and sunset cocktails at the Sunsets Rooftop, a stylish Mediterranean escape perched atop the Linton Apartments in Kangaroo Point.

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

The bar’s crowning location features a landscaped cacti garden installation on one and an open-air terrace where patrons can enjoy the panoramic vista with their drink of choice from the carefully curated selections on offer.

Inside, the aesthetic embraces breezy Mediterranean vibes with olive trees, terracotta pots overflowing with foliage, sandy tones, and natural wood accents.

One end of the bar gives patrons a unique view right into the Gabba, perfect for sports fans. A skyline view dominates the other end, from Queen’s Wharf all the way to Fortitude Valley and perfectly positioned to catch Brisbane’s stunning sunsets.

Sunset Rooftops — *Photo Credit: Sunsets Rooftop Instagram*

Besides the decor, guests can also expect Mediterranean influences on the menu. Some of the snack selections include crispy baby calamari seasoned with fennel salt, roasted garlic mayo and lime; fresh stracciatella with caramelised balsamic and babt figs on sourdough; marinated chicken taco with grilled corn salsa, and fried pork belly in orange glaze.

Photo credit: Sunsets Rooftop/Google Maps

The menu also includes a selection of plant-based dishes. Lamb, chicken, prawns and octopus round out the Mediterranean flavours on the menu. The Potuguese custard tarts are a must-try for dessert.

SEE THE MENU

The space, which will be able to accommodate up to 100 guests, will be separated into three sections to host parties of various sizes. From intimate gatherings to large soirees, the flexible setup allows for a variety of experiences.

Sunsets Rooftop is the newest venture from the same group behind the popular Merci Event Space in nearby Hawthorne.

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

Book A TABLE

The venue is located at 95 Linton St, Kangaroo Point. Sunsets Rooftop opens August 24. Follow their website for updates or check out their Instagram.

Published 16-August-2023

New Pedestrian & Cycle Underpass to be Built in Kangaroo Point

Plans have been announced to build a new pedestrian and cycling underpass passing through openings cut into both sidewalls of the Story Bridge, to link Main Street and Deakin Street in Kangaroo Point.

The underpass will form part of the larger Kangaroo Point Green Bridge project that aims to enhance active transportation options in the area.

The underpass will feature separate paths for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as an accessible viewing area. The walls of the underpass will showcase illustrative panels depicting the rich history of the Story Bridge, adding an educational element to the project.

“To deliver this new connection we have cut openings into both sidewalls of the Story Bridge, with the walls delicately removed piece by piece. We now have daylight streaming through both sides of the underpass, lighting up a space that has never previously been accessible to the public,” LM Adrian Schrinner shared.

To make way for the underpass, certain modifications will also be carried out, including the relocation of utility services, floor drainage, surface levelling, and the installation of a partition wall to separate the existing council depot. It is crucial to note that the underpass will be created without compromising the integrity of the Story Bridge structure.

Kangaroo Point underpass — Photo Credit: BCC

“This underpass is a critical project that will connect the Kangaroo Pointt Green Bridge landing at Scott Street to the wider active transport network in Kangaroo Point and the eastern suburbs,” LM Schrinner said. “It also represents a connection between Brisbane’s most iconic landmark of the last century and the future world-class landmark linking the city centre and Kangaroo Point Peninsula.”

The underpass is expected to significantly improve pedestrian, cycling, and e-mobility movements in the area. The council’s planners and engineers have identified the gap in the bridge as an ideal location for the new link, ensuring a convenient and accessible connection for residents and visitors alike.

The importance of sustainable construction practices was further highlighted in the proposed project, with approximately 95% of the concrete sections removed from the bridge to be recycled and repurposed within other areas of the city, reducing waste and promoting environmental stewardship.

“With the Olympics and Paralympic Games on the horizon, there is a need for a convenient ongoing connection that would be able to link walkers and riders heading from The Gabba to the CBD,” he added.

The underpass is projected to become a popular route, with an estimated 2,800 daily trips expected to pass through it by 2041. This will provide a much-needed alternative to the existing underpass at Thornton Street, which is not accessible due to the presence of stairs.

The underpass project is currently in the planning phase, with detailed information and images available on the Brisbane City Council website for interested individuals to review and provide feedback.

Published 13-June-2023

Get A Sneak Peek Of The Restaurant And Cafe Set To Open On the Green Bridge at Kangaroo Point

The green bridge at Kangaroo Point, set to open its doors in 2024, is expected to provide a seamless pedestrian and bicycle connection, as well as an unforgettable dining experience at its strategically located restaurant and cafe.

Read: Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Project Commences, Receives Additional Funding Support

Tassis, the renowned hospitality group behind restaurants like Yamas, Massimo, and Fatcow has won the tender and will introduce Bombora, an overwater restaurant and bar, along with Mulga Bill’s cafe on the city landing.

Bombora

Green Bridge at Kangaroo Point — Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

Perched above the majestic Brisbane River, Bombora promises an elegant and modern celebration of Australia’s land and sea.

The eatery derives its name from the Indigenous phrase that describes immense oceanic waves crashing upon hidden reefs or sandy banks, a fitting appellation for an establishment that presents a culinary journey as splendid as its surroundings.

As guests enjoy the delicious food, they will be amazed by the stunning views of the Brisbane River, CBD, Story Bridge, and Kangaroo Point cliffs. The menu is yet to be revealed, but it will be inspired by the surrounding flowing waters.

Mulga Bill’s

Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

Situated in the vibrant new urban plaza at the corner of Edward and Alice streets, Mulga Bill’s is the perfect stopover spot for bridge users seeking a respite from their journey.

Inspired by Banjo Patterson’s famous poem Mulga Bill’s Bicycle, this casual all-day dining cafe will feature a bicycle-themed decor, paying homage to the many cyclists who will pass by the bridge.

With an enticing array of wood-fired pizzas, succulent steaks, and fresh seafood, Mulga Bill’s ensures that every palate is satisfied. In addition, the cafe will offer delectable pastries and convenient picnic boxes for those looking for a quick and delicious bite on the go.

A Green Bridge for the Future

The Kangaroo Point green bridge will be exclusively accessible to pedestrians and cyclists, fostering a sustainable and environmentally friendly mode of transport.

With an estimated 6,000 pedestrians, cyclists, and e-mobility riders projected to use the bridge daily by 2036, this landmark infrastructure promises to transform commuting into an enjoyable experience.

Read: Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Project Reaches Important Milestone

Whether it’s a leisurely stroll, an invigorating bike ride, or a picturesque picnic by the riverside, the green bridge would offer a gateway to explore the beauty of Brisbane whilst minimising the carbon footprint.

Published 1-May-2023

Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Project Reaches Important Milestone

The first steel bridge deck span has been installed for the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge project, marking a crucial milestone for one of the city’s new green bridges.

Read: Two Dining Destinations Planned for Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Site

The recently installed bridge deck span will help connect the CBD landing site at Alice and Edward Streets to the first bridge pier.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner anticipates that the Kangaroo Point Green Bridgeproject will be an icon for Brisbane when complete, with images of the bridge and its striking 83-metre mast certain to become synonymous with the city in the years to come.

The bridge is also expected to provide a critical link between the Gabba Stadium and the CBD, especially during the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“Wherever I go in Brisbane, people are keen to know more about this fantastic project, so it’s great we can start the year by announcing the bridge has reached this key milestone,” Cr Schrinner said.

Brisbane City Council has added two waterfront food and beverage opportunities to the project. The restaurant, which will feature both indoor and alfresco seating, will be set above water and promises stunning views of the river, the CBD, Story Bridge, and Kangaroo Point Cliffs.

It will also have its own cafe, measuring 90sqm and will be located near the new urban plaza that will be constructed where Edward and Alice Streets meet the Brisbane River.

Construction areas map (Photo credit: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au)

Based on the Council’s timeline, the final fit out of the bridge and landing points, including paving and landscaping will take place in 2023. Later this year, they will work on the construction of the Main Street and Deakin Street connection.

Works for the green bridge are expected to be complete by 2024. Because of the works being done, Council is advising pedestrians, motorists, and cyclists to go on detour routes during the temporary fully road and footpath closure at the corner of Edward and Alice Streets.

Read: Story Bridge Restoration Project in Kangaroo Point to take More than 10 Years

Further construction updates about the project can be viewed via Council’s website. You may also sign up for email/SMS updates about the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge project.

Two Dining Destinations Planned for Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Site

Two dining destinations have been planned and major opportunities have opened up for entrepreneurs and restaurateurs to provide a novel experience that local foodies can look forward to, at a unique location in the heart of the CBD: the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge.

Colliers, on behalf of the Brisbane City Council, announced that there are two leases for waterfront dining opportunities, pegged to become dining destinations, at the upcoming Kangaroo Point Bridge.

The restaurant is set above water with a gorgeous viewing area of the river, the CBD, Story Bridge, and Kangaroo Point Cliffs. It’s estimated to be 380 square metres with both indoor and alfresco seating.

On the other hand, the cafe will be by the CBD landing of the green bridge, close to a new urban plaza that will be built where Edward and Alice streets meet the Brisbane River. It’s approximately 90 square metres.

Per the Council, “The two waterfront food and beverage opportunities will deliver something truly unique to Brisbane and a dining destination that becomes a quintessential part of Queensland.”

“The plaza will be located at the entrance to the City Botanic Gardens and the start of the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge, providing a gateway for residents and tourists to the CBD and riverside boardwalks.”

Interested parties may phone Colliers for queries via 0431 772 510 or 0421 170 033 (during business hours).

Restaurant Operator Sought For Kangaroo Point Green Bridge’s Unique Dining Destination

The search is on for a hospitality operator who will take charge of the bar and restaurant perched above the $190 million Kangaroo Point Green Bridge.

Read: Kangaroo Point Green Bridge Project Commences, Receives Additional Funding Support

Brisbane City Council is now progressing plans to secure one of Australia’s best hospitality operators for a landmark dining destination in the middle of the bridge, with real estate firm Colliers already in talks with some of the country’s best known restaurateurs.

The final design of Kangaroo Point Green Bridge features an above-water restaurant and dining space above the viewing area on the approach to the city landing and a café at the city landing plaza.

Kangaroo Point Green Bridge design — Kangaroo Point Green Bridge commercial opportunity view of main mast and CBD (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr)

Other smaller food and beverage outlets are also proposed at viewing platforms along the length of the bridge, providing opportunities to pause and enjoy stunning river views.

Kangaroo Point Green Bridge dining — Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

With viewing platforms along the 460-metre span, the green bridge will also have a 100sq m cafe site, with panoramic views of the city, Story Bridge and Kangaroo Point cliffs.

Kangaroo Point Green Bridge restaurant — Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

“The Kangaroo Point Green Bridge won’t just be a bridge. It will be a destination,” said Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.

“When this bridge is complete, it will be one of the best vantage points to take in Brisbane with panoramic views of our city and the campaign to secure an operator is expected to attract significant interest,” he said.

Construction Update

As of April 2022, construction activities at the Kangaroo Point site will continue in preparation for major works starting in May 2022.

Works include construction of a new shared path in C.T. White Park and site office sewerage connection works in C.T. White Park and Hamilton Street.

Based on the projected timeline, construction of the green bridge is expected to be complete by late 2023.