Kangaroo Point Archives - Page 10 of 17

Story Bridge to Light Up Purple for Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month

On Wednesday, September 6, Kangaroo Point and the rest of Brisbane will see the Story Bridge light up purple to mark Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month.

Read: Will the Story Bridge Fly the Aboriginal Flags Permanently?

The special lighting display on the Story Bridge aims to raise awareness about gynaecological cancers, which affect over 6,700 Australian women and girls each year.

Knowing the signs and symptoms of gynaecological cancers can save lives. That’s why Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to raising awareness and funding research, is urging all women to learn about the most common red flags.

Gynaecological Cancer Awareness — Photo credit: Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation/Facebook

“We need to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of gynaecological cancers so that women can get screened and diagnosed early,” says Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation Founder, Professor Andreas Obermair. “If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, please see your doctor.”

abnormal or persistent vaginal bleeding – for example, bleeding after menopause, bleeding that is not part of menstrual periods, or bleeding after sex
unusual vaginal discharge
pain, pressure or discomfort in the abdomen
weight loss
swelling of the abdomen
change in bowel or bladder habits
pain during sex
itching, burning or soreness in the pelvic region
lumps, sores or wart-like growths

Since its founding in 2012, Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation has raised over $2 million to support critical research into gynaecological cancers.

This September, which marks Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month, the nonprofit will hold its annual Cherish Challenge fundraiser. A team of dedicated individuals will climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa to raise money and awareness around these cancers that impact thousands of Australian women each year.

“We are proud to support the research community in their efforts to find new and improved treatments for gynaecological cancers,” said Professor Obermair. “We believe that by working together, we can make a real difference in the lives of women affected by these cancers.”

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

Published 1-September-2023

Pikos Group Hits Construction Milestone at Skye Residences in Kangaroo Point

Skye Residences, a development on 8 River Terrace by the Pikos Group, is now one step closer to transforming the skyline with its impressive, $300 million clifftop apartment project in Kangaroo Point.

Local South East Queensland builder Tomkins Commercial has successfully completed major excavation works and completed the basement car park that will accommodate up to 165 vehicles.

This milestone required the efforts of three excavators, including a formidable 40-tonne rock breaker, to extract an impressive 24,000 cubic meters of earth and rock and achieving a depth of 12.3 meters.

Pedro Pikos, the Managing Director of Pikos Group, emphasised the significance of this milestone, stating, “It has been a major undertaking and a sure sign that this landmark development is moving forward to redefine residential living in Brisbane.”

Pikos, who founded the company in Darwin in 1989 before relocating operations to Brisbane, highlighted the robust demand for premium residential apartments in the Queensland capital.

“In a climate where many other residential builds have been put on hold, the ones that are progressing are the ones in the best positions with premium offerings and world-class appeal,” Pikos stated confidently, reflecting the success of the Skye Residences project.

Skye Residences, spanning an expansive 2,300 sqm site above Kangaroo Point’s cliffs, will comprise three striking towers meticulously designed by Conrad Gargett.

These towers will house a total of 68 luxury apartments, with future residents gaining exclusive access to a sprawling 1,000 sqm sky deck boasting an infinity pool and a rooftop leisure and restaurant precinct.

Offering uninterrupted panoramic views encompassing the Brisbane City skyline, South Bank, the Botanic Gardens, and the Brisbane River, Skye Residences aims to redefine opulent urban living.

Against the backdrop of a significant decline in new apartment projects in a city where there were only 1,300 apartments finished in 2022 compared to a peak of 11,000 in 2016, Skye Residences stands out.

Construction is expected to finish in 2025.

Published 25-Aug-2023

GCB Constructions Crisis Forces Abandonment of Kangaroo Point Luxury Development, Other Projects

Builder GCB Constructions has gone under administration, bringing to a halt six significant development projects, including a Kangaroo Point luxury apartment and hospitals in Moreton Bay and the Sunshine Coast.

The company’s decision has left multiple projects in limbo and developers scrambling to find solutions.

The Gold Coast builder with a decades-long legacy was contracted for various ventures across the east coast. Notably, the company was involved in the ambitious Canopy House project by Aria Property Group in a sought-after area in Kangaroo Point.

In June 2023, Aria submitted a new development application (DA A006305026) for Canopy House’s expansion. The proposal is still under assessment with Council.

GCB Constructions’ financial woes escalated and on 27 July 2023, it went into administration after the suspension of its Queensland builder license due to outstanding debts. The company’s financial struggles had already caused work to slow down or halt altogether on several sites since early May.

Trent Clark, the sole director of GCB Constructions, had initially expressed determination and confidence in overcoming these challenges. However, the company’s financial woes proved insurmountable, leading to the appointment of administrators from SV Partners.

David Stimpson, the appointed administrator, revealed that Mr Clark is planning to propose a deed of company arrangement (DOCA) to avoid liquidation. The DOCA aims to transfer ongoing projects to a new builder, secure third-party funds, liquidate company assets, and collect outstanding payments owed to GCB.

A second meeting with creditors is scheduled for 30 Aug 2023.

Also affected are the Si apartment tower in Bilinga, Rayjon’s Vantage View at Benowa and Vantage Burleigh near Varsity Lakes. The fallout also extends to the medical sector, with contracts for the expansion of Ramsay Health’s Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital and Caboolture Private Hospital being terminated, leaving these vital projects without a builder.

Published 10-Aug-2023

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

To owners Steve and Jane Wilson, as the restoration of Lamb House in Kangaroo Point nears completion, the project has been a worthwhile one, with its share of pleasant surprises, such as the discovery of fairly intact, 100-year-old tiles under the bathroom floor; and challenging ones, such as managing ballooning costs that have gone past initial estimates.

Read: Lamb House Set to Return To Its Former Glory

The Wilsons acquired the heritage-listed property for $12.75 million in 2021 and have since invested significant time and money into faithfully restoring the century-old home.

The restoration is “progressing rapidly,” according to the couple, with just months to go before completion and their projected November 2023 move-in.

Lamb House — Photo credit: JDA Co/Facebook

A key focus of the renovation has been the preservation and replacement of the home’s original red cedar woodwork, an important architectural feature noted in the building’s heritage documentation.

Although the Wilsons have not revealed the total cost of the project, Mr Wilson acknowledged it has exceeded their initial budget, as construction costs have risen substantially in recent years.

Among other surprises, when old bathroom tiles were removed, the couple discovered 100-year-old originals underneath, now replaced with new matching tiles.

In one update to the home, the Wilsons added an attic space by opening up the existing roof. They plan to install a leadlight window in the attic, covered by a hardened glass skywalk.

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The driving philosophy behind the renovations has been to be pure to the soul of the house and the intent of the house. The couple enlisted the help of Chapman Builders and designers from James Davidson Architects (JDA Co) and Conrad Gargett to carry out the restoration.

After two years of waiting, the Wilson family is eager to finally move into the renewed Lamb House later this year.

History of Lamb House

Lamb House, circa 1904 (Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)

Lamb House, a heritage-listed villa located at 9 Leopard Street in Kangaroo Point, has fallen into disrepair after sitting vacant for several years.

The grand home was originally designed by noted architect Alexander Brown Wilson and constructed in 1902 for John Lamb, co-owner of the successful Queen Street drapery business Edwards & Lamb.

After John Lamb’s death in 1920, he left the business to his sons John and Frank, whilst the Lamb House property was passed on to his widow Sarah. Sarah continued living in the grand home with the Lamb children who never married.

Despite its rich history, Lamb House had become rundown from lack of use and maintenance and was unfortunately subjected to squatting at times.

In December 2020, the Brisbane City Council announced plans to sell the property in order to recover unpaid rates that had accumulated over multiple years, going against the wishes of the original owners. By May 2021, Lamb House was officially listed for sale.

Read: Exploring the Former Kangaroo Point Residence of the Queensland Water Police

When Steve Wilson and his wife Jane purchased Lamb House in June 2021, they pledged to restore the historic home to its original grand condition as a way of honouring its heritage.

Published 8-August-2023

Kangaroo Point Homes Spared From Demolition for Olympics Development

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Kangaroo Point homeowners can breathe a sigh of relief following the confirmation that their properties will be spared from demolition, which would have paved the way for the construction of the athletics warm-up track for the highly anticipated 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The updated plans for the Raymond Park transformation were released Monday, 31 July 2023, putting an end to weeks of uncertainty and vocal protests from residents who were vehemently opposing the potential loss of their homes and public green space.

Initially, there were fears among Kangaroo Point homeowners that their homes would be among those resumed to accommodate the temporary warm-up facilities. The decision to utilise Raymond Park as the warm-up venue was necessitated by the lack of available space around the nearby Gabba Stadium, which is set to undergo a substantial reconstruction at an estimated cost of $2.7 billion.

However, Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee president Andrew Liveris reassured the residents, stating that no home resumptions would be required.

“Heritage structures within the park will remain in place, and the Queensland Government will work with the local football club to build a new clubhouse within Raymond Park,” Liveris said.

“Importantly, there are no expected impacts for Raymond Park until much closer to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“We are committed to being good neighbours to the residents of Raymond Park and will work closely with the Queensland Government to ensure the community is kept informed of planning and progress over the coming years.”

Deputy Premier Steven Miles also confirmed that the revised plans for the Olympics refurbishments “will fit in Raymond Park without resuming houses.” The updated plans would include a thinner track to fit within the current dimensions of the park, thus minimizing impacts on residents and preserving larger, older fig trees. Any impacted trees will be relocated, replanted, or replaced to ensure no net loss.

Despite the relief of no home resumptions, Kangaroo Point homeowners were still vocal about their concerns regarding the scale of the proposed development.

Local Greens MP Amy MacMahon, who has been actively championing their cause, expressed her disappointment with the complete overhaul of Raymond Park. She supported a petition to save the park that garnered over 3,000 signatures.

“This design doesn’t address what the community has been calling for – the scrapping of the $2.7 billion Gabb redevelopment, saving Raymond Park, saving East Brisbane State School, and saving billions in public money,” MacMahon said.

“Hopefully it’s fact and cannot wait for the official notification from the state government,” Kangaroo Point resident Marcia Pavlos said on the Friends of Raymond Park, Kangaroo Point group. “This is a massive breakthrough and is life changing for those who have endured much stress, sleep deprivation and adverse health issues just knowing that we could be displaced just like that for a temporary facility.

“Some sanity seems to have prevailed and consideration and some respect have finally been shown to affected local residents. The fight continues though with saving the school and park. We will keep the community spirit going until the crazy plan for the Gabba is abolished and athletics is moved to another venue.”

Published 1-Aug-2023

Woolworths Unveils Bold Housing Solution Anchored by Kangaroo Point Development

Woolworths is set to construct apartment buildings above its supermarkets in key metropolitan areas, and one standout location, in particular, is captivating public attention: Kangaroo Point in Brisbane.

In a groundbreaking move that could redefine urban living, Woolworths, the prominent supermarket giant, has discreetly unveiled an ambitious strategy to address Australia’s housing crisis and the picturesque suburb situated along the scenic Brisbane River has become the focal point of Woolworths’ grand vision.

The company is moving full steam ahead with demolishing disused buildings on the site, securing the necessary approvals to bring this transformative project to life. In October 2022, Woolworths lodged DA A006119261 to build a high-density residential and mixed-use facility along 23-31 Ferry Street and 16-30 Prospect Street in Kangaroo Point.

Kangaroo Point Woolworths — Photo Credit: DA A006119261

“The site is in a well-positioned location that boasts strong connections to the river, CBD, Howard Smith Wharves dining precinct, the Story Bridge and a variety of walking and cycling paths,” the town planner Urbis noted in the DA.

The proposal included a 17-storey residential building with a rooftop garden, offices spaces, food, beverage and retail tenancies, and the supermarket.

As of press time, the DA is under assessment with Council following the submission of its amended plans in June 2023.

Whilst the plan has the potential to provide a solution to the housing crisis, it has been met with mixed feelings from the residents.

“I support the Woolworths mixed use project as Brisbane needs an ongoing pipeline of housing supply. This is a great project for the community,” a local wrote in the public submission for the DA.

“Keep it to the supermarket and a few residental floors and we will support,” one resident who opposed the 17-storey plan said. “Increase residential floors [means] increased traffic chaos and smaller supermarket without independent cafe and there is no longer a net overall benefit to the local community.”

As Australia faces an estimated shortage of 106,000 homes by 2027, Woolworths sees an opportunity to leverage its resources and become a significant player in the property development landscape.

The concept of “shop-top housing” or mixed-use developments, where residential spaces coexist with retail outlets, could potentially become a trend as the population grows and demands easier access to amenities and services. Communities, however, have shown aversion toward the idea, expressing concerns about increased traffic congestion and the transformation of residential areas into commercial zones.

Despite the challenges, Woolworths remains undeterred and already has multiple projects in the pipeline, aside from Kangaroo Point. In Sydney, the company plans to build apartments in Waterloo, Rose Bay, and Neutral Bay. Melbourne’s Elsternwick is also part of their development plans.

Published 18-July-2023

Exploring the Former Kangaroo Point Residence of the Queensland Water Police

Police presence in Kangaroo Point began in the late 19th century. In the early 20th century, the Queensland Water Police became responsible for investigating smuggling, maritime lawbreaking, and seamen desertion. Its Kangaroo Point home, constructed in 1901 at a location that was formerly home to a public bath, remained in use until 1988 and is now a heritage-listed building.

Read: Lamb House Restoration Nears Completion

Originally, the Kangaroo Point structure was assembled using building materials sourced from the Marine Department Messenger’s house. With four rooms, two verandahs, and a kitchen, the 1901 build was a modest dwelling that provided shelter for the Water Police officers tasked with maintaining peace and order on the waterways.

By 1939, the heritage-listed building had evolved into what was then referred to as the Senior Sergeant’s quarters. An inspection report from that time described it as a wooden structure with an iron roof, boasting four main rooms, three verandah rooms, a bathroom, and a breakfast room.

In addition to the main residence, a galvanised iron laundry was constructed underneath the house, featuring conveniently placed cement tubs. These practical additions made the daily routines of the Water Police officers more efficient and streamlined.

For almost nine decades, the Queensland Water Police residence stood as a steadfast home for the dedicated police officers who patrolled the rivers and coastline. However, in June 1988, the residence’s chapter as a police dwelling came to a close.

With the passing of time, the needs and priorities of the Water Police had evolved, prompting a relocation to a more modern facility better suited to their operations.

In October 1993, both the property and the adjacent lockup were put up for sale, inviting potential buyers to seize the opportunity to own a piece of Queensland’s maritime heritage.

History of Water Police

Water Police rowing down the Brisbane River toward the sea, 1906 (Photo credit: Queensland Water Police)

The Queensland Water Police has been serving the community since 1859. Its origins can be traced back to the transportation of convicts to Brisbane, which necessitated a permanent police presence in Queensland.

Initially, from 1824 to 1842, law and order in the areas surrounding Brisbane were maintained by military commandants. In the 19th century, the Queensland Water Police were responsible for investigating smuggling, maritime lawbreaking, and seamen desertion.

In 1842, Captain J.C. Wickham, a Royal Navy officer, was appointed as the Police Magistrate for Moreton Bay. With a salary of £300 per annum, he oversaw a team consisting of a chief constable and five constables from the New South Wales Force.

Read: Aria’s Canopy House in Kangaroo Point Soars Higher in Planned Expansion

Fast forward to December 1859, when Queensland officially separated from New South Wales. Despite the separation, the police force of the newly established state was not considered an independent entity until the implementation of ‘The Police Act of 1863’. It was only after this legislation that the term ‘Police Force’ encompassed the Water Police Force as well.

Published 5-July-2023

Aria’s Canopy House in Kangaroo Point Soars Higher in Planned Expansion

Photo Credit: Aria Property Group

The Canopy House apartment tower, currently under construction in Kangaroo Point, could have an additional nine levels, creating a taller, 29-level structure and increasing the previously approved residential density at a high-visibility corner of Leopard Street.

Leopard Street has been identified as a key artery connecting the city to the 2032 Olympic Games precinct. Because of this, the project will receive high visibility from the masses of people and media during the Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as regular sporting events.

Aria Property Group is seeking approval for an expansion of its development at 58-62 Leopard Street. This expansion, via DA A006305026, would result in the creation of 36 additional apartments, increasing the residential density from the approved 105 apartments to 136.

The new apartments would be distributed across seven additional floors, accompanied by the provision of more car parking spaces, which would require an additional podium level.

In addition to the increased capacity, Aria also aims to expand the communal recreational amenity across two levels. The rooftop would feature an infinity pool, daybeds, a residents’ dining room and lounge, picnic lawns, and barbecue terraces.

Below the rooftop, a health and wellness centre is proposed to include a gym, treatment room, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, work-from-home offices, a boardroom, and a private cinema.

Kangaroo Point Aria Canopy House — Photo Credit: Aria Property

Aria’s upsized tower scheme is designed to reflect the recent significant changes in the future planning of the locality and the site’s importance as a key gateway to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games precinct.

The site falls within the mapped expansion of the Woolloongabba Priority Development Area (PDA), which is expected to be officially declared later this year.

Town planners have acknowledged that recent events, such as housing supply and affordability issues; new inner-city housing strategies; sustainable growth precincts; priority development areas; and Olympic-related investments have significantly altered the area’s desired development form and scale.

Aria’s revised proposal aligns with the shifting strategic planning framework for the Kangaroo Point South Neighbourhood Plan. The outdated Kangaroo Point South Neighbourhood Plan no longer reflects the community’s expectations for the locality.

The report prepared by Saunders Havill Group, Aria’s town planners, emphasises that the changing circumstances call for a departure from the previous planning documents and a focus on development outcomes that support the future vision of the city.

Brisbane’s inner city is set to undergo significant changes, with new planning strategies and the replacement of outdated frameworks expected to result in increased building heights, density, walkability, and liveability.

The Woolloongabba Sustainable Growth Precinct planning, currently being assisted by the Brisbane City Council, will likely replace the Kangaroo Point South Neighbourhood Plan.

With Aria’s upscaled plans for the Canopy House apartment tower, Brisbane’s Olympic precinct takes another step towards its transformation into a modern and vibrant hub, poised to leave an exceptional legacy for the area and its residents.

Published 5-July-2023

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

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Fortis, a Sydney-based development company, is pushing forward with its Queensland expansion by revealing plans for a riverfront apartment tower in Kangaroo Point.

The proposed $100 million tower comprises three levels above a 1,197 sqm site at 44 O’Connell Street, which Fortis acquired from Joe Adsett earlier this year. The site has been at the centre of a controversy as Adsett’s plans for a 15-storey, 14-apartment tower were initially approved in October 2021 but were later revoked due to legal proceedings questioning the council’s decision.

Sydney-Based Developer, Fortis, Lodges a Kangaroo Point Riverfront Apartment Tower Proposal — Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

In late May 2023, Fortis lodged its application seeking approval for a similar-sized residential tower. The proposed tower would consist of four basement levels, a ground-floor lobby and a tiered communal recreation area.

There will be 14 three-bedroom apartments, including a penthouse that will feature a private rooftop terrace and pool. The base would feature indoor and outdoor resort-style amenities such as a lap pool, leisure deck, wellness retreat, and landscaped areas.

According to the submitted planning report, the proposed building height and site cover meet the required standards. The report also highlighted that setbacks and building separation would exceed the dimensions of the previous approval.

The Plus Architect-designed tower pays tribute to the natural beauty and earthy tones of the Kangaroo Point cliffs while adding a dynamic element to the skyline. The design statement emphasised the connection to the river and the surrounding environment.

Moreover, the O’Connell Tower aims to provide panoramic views of the New Farm area and the Brisbane River, creating a strong connection to nature and a luxurious riverside lifestyle.

“The building’s design is heavily influenced by the site configuration and surrounding context. It is orientated to address the Brisbane River which offers significant amenity and views, provides for future connection to the riverwalk and the existing jetty and is suitably separated from adjoining development to ensure that light and air penetration as well as privacy is maintained,” the Ethos Urban planning report states.

“The design also draws on its surrounding environment with the tower’s strength and form replicating the terrestrial makeup of its context as Kangaroo Point including paying homage to the natural beauty and earthy tones of the Kangaroo Point cliffs.”

A total of 46 car parking spaces across three basement levels are proposed as well. The car parking space comprises 43 resident car parking and 3 visitor spaces. Additionally, the plans propose vehicle and pedestrian access to the site through the existing single lane cross over and driveway situated along O’Connell Street to the west.

Published 17-June-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