Kangaroo Point Archives - Page 4 of 16

Kangaroo Point Artwork Climbs to Top in Artforce Brisbane Awards

A colourful mural featuring a rock-climbing kangaroo at Kangaroo Point has taken out the top prize in Brisbane’s long-running Artforce Awards, which recognise the city’s best street art painted on traffic signal and electrical boxes.

The 2024 winners were announced this week, with Brisbane architect Lucia Laus named Overall Winner for her piece Climbing Kangaroo, located at the River Terrace pedestrian crossing near Paton Street. Painted in February 2024, the artwork captures a kangaroo scaling the Kangaroo Point cliffs with the city skyline glowing in the background.

Lucia Laus, Kangaroo Point, Artforce Brisbane Awards winner — *Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane*

Celebrating Local Life and Culture

Lucia said the inspiration behind the piece was the popular outdoor lifestyle in Kangaroo Point, especially the community of climbers often seen at the cliffs. Her creation, featuring a character named Roo the Kangaroo, reflects the active spirit of the area and the many ways people enjoy the spot—whether it’s climbing, walking, cycling, or gathering with friends and family.

She worked with fellow artist Luz Jennifer Garcia Rodriguez to complete the mural, hoping it would encourage more people to explore the area and take part in local activities. According to the artist, Roo was designed to bring a sense of fun and positivity to the streetscape.

Street Art that Connects with the Community

Now in its 26th year, Artforce Brisbane is a community art program that turns everyday street infrastructure into public art. This year, the competition saw 84 entries across multiple categories, with participants ranging from school students to community organisations and emerging artists.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner praised the winning works, saying the program helped improve the city’s appearance while encouraging community involvement. He said the designs also gave people a chance to tell the story of their neighbourhoods and connect with the culture of different suburbs.

For the first time, the awards included vinyl-wrapped boxes for locations too close to roads to paint safely.

Winners Across the City

Among this year’s major winners, Ibis-zilla by Maddie Field won the Lord Mayor’s Award for its bold depiction of Brisbane’s well-known bird. The artwork is displayed at the corner of Ann and Wharf streets in Brisbane City and features an ibis surrounded by vibrant, swirling colours.

The People’s Choice Award went to Wendy Cumes for her piece New Leaves. Reading the Land, painted at Newmarket State School. The design highlights native flora and the history of the school community.

Other award recipients included:

Belly of Brisbane River by Thomas Hill and Cameron Hill – Best 12 and Under
Flowers by Grace Tupicoff and Jemima Gibbons – Best 18 and Under
Smokey Daze by Ava Hobart and The Gap State High School – Best High School
Zenith Rock by Multicap Centre of Creative Arts, Eight Mile Plains – Best Organisation
Look Up by Princess Enriquez – Best Digital Artwork & Vinyl Wrap
Cockatoos & Native Flora by Tanith Fleming – Best Energex Box

Keeping Creativity Alive on the Streets

All entries were judged not only on creativity and skill, but also how well they captured the identity of the local area. Artforce Brisbane continues to be a way for people of all backgrounds and artistic experience to contribute to the city’s character.

Lucia’s winning artwork at Kangaroo Point now joins a long list of murals across Brisbane that bring colour and creativity to the everyday.

Published 28-March-2025

Kangaroo Point on Alert as Cyclone Alfred Approaches

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is a developing story. | Photo Credit: Zoom Earth

Kangaroo Point residents are urged to prepare for severe weather as Tropical Cyclone Alfred moves towards south-east Queensland. The cyclone will bring heavy rainfall, flash flooding, and damaging winds later this week.

Cyclone Alfred’s Path and Expected Impact

Tropical Cyclone Alfred, currently classified as a Category 2 system, is tracking towards south-east Queensland, with landfall expected late Thursday or early Friday. The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that the system could bring 700mm of daily rainfall. Wind gusts of up to 130km/h could also threaten homes and infrastructure.

LM Adrian Schrinner has activated the city’s disaster management group. Meanwhile, the Queensland authorities emphasised the importance of early preparations.

CityCat and Ferry Services Suspended

Due to rising flood risks and strong winds, all CityCat and ferry services will be suspended from tonight to protect passengers, crew, and vessels. The final CityCat departures from Northshore Hamilton and the University of Queensland will be at 10:15 p.m. The final KittyCat cross-river services will run until 11:40 p.m. All ferry terminals will be closed at midnight.

A combination of high tides, flash flooding, dangerous high winds, and intense rainfall is expected to create serious safety hazards, including debris on the Brisbane River. Authorities have emphasised that this decision prioritises passenger and crew safety ahead of Cyclone Alfred’s impact.

Cyclone Alfred under Category 2 — *Photo Credit: Queensland Reconstruction Authority/YouTube*

Public Transport & School Closures Due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred

All bus and train services will cease operation from the last service tonight, Wednesday 5 March, until further notice as Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches.

Due to the severe weather conditions, all schools will also be closed during this period. Authorities advise residents to stay informed through official updates and take necessary safety precautions.

Sandbag Collection Points

*As of 6-March-2025. Please monitor the BCC site for updates.*

Flooding and High Tides a Major Concern

Heavy rainfall and coastal surges are expected to increase the risk of flash flooding in low-lying areas. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued flood watches from Hervey Bay to northern New South Wales. High tides are likely to worsen conditions in coastal regions. Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy has urged residents in areas like Bribie Island, Moreton Bay, and North and South Stradbroke Islands to consider leaving before ferry services are suspended.

Local authorities warn that the severe weather could cause widespread power outages. Residents are encouraged to prepare for blackouts.

Temporary Refuge Shelter at RNA Showgrounds

BCC has announced that a short-term refuge shelter will open at the RNA Showgrounds in Bowen Hills from 7 a.m. on Thursday, 6 March, to provide temporary relief for residents displaced by Cyclone Alfred. Evacuees will be admitted until midday, after which the shelter will be locked down.

The shelter follows a proven model used in North Queensland during cyclone emergencies. The facility will provide only basic amenities and will not include beds or cooking facilities.

Residents planning to seek shelter are advised to bring their own non-perishable food, water, and identification for registration. Authorities emphasize that this refuge should be used as a last resort for those with no other accommodation options.

Stay Informed and Prepared

As Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches, it is crucial for residents in Kangaroo Point and surrounding areas to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The authorities have provided guidelines to help communities prepare effectively.

Know Your Risk and Stay Updated

Understanding the cyclone’s trajectory and severity is the first step in disaster preparedness. Residents are urged to:

Monitor the Bureau of Meteorology’s cyclone tracking map for real-time updates.
Check the local emergency dashboard for area-specific warnings.
Stay informed about school closures and road conditions via the Queensland Traffic website.
Learn about cyclone warning levels to understand potential risks.
Visit Brisbane Severe Weather Alert Service for storm updates.

Make a Plan

Preparedness can significantly reduce risk and improve recovery after a disaster. Residents should:

Establish a cyclone action plan, including evacuation procedures if necessary.
Learn about how to secure homes and protect belongings from strong winds and flooding.
Make arrangements for pets and livestock to ensure their safety.
Pack an Emergency Kit

A well-stocked emergency kit should contain:

Torches and extra batteries
First aid supplies
Three days’ worth of drinking water
Non-perishable food items
A battery-operated radio for emergency broadcast
Important documents in waterproof bags
Essential medications and hygiene products
Extra clothing, blankets, and waterproof gloves
Entertainment items for children (books, colouring supplies, board games)

Mental and Emotional Preparedness

Severe weather events can be stressful, affecting decision-making and emotional well-being. Residents are encouraged to:

Download the Australian Red Cross Rediplan, a psychological preparedness tool.
Access multilingual resources to help non-English speakers navigate emergency situations.

Use children-friendly resources like Birdie Tree, which provides storybooks and videos to help young ones cope with disasters.

For further details on cyclone preparedness, contact:

As Cyclone Alfred approaches, authorities stress the importance of being proactive. Kangaroo Point, along with the wider Brisbane region, is on alert for potential impacts. Safety measures are being put in place ahead of the storm’s arrival.

Published 3-Mar-2025

Legal Challenge Over Approved 17-Storey Development at Pixley Street in Kangaroo Point

A 17-storey apartment tower approved for a narrow site at Pixley Street in Kangaroo Point is facing a legal challenge, with neighbouring residents appealing the decision in court.

Read: Kangaroo Point’s Transformation Accelerates as Construction Industry Rebounds

In December, Brisbane granted approval for the development at 25 Pixley Street, which would replace an existing house with a multi-level apartment building. The approved plan (A006279887) features seven apartments stacked over multiple levels, with amenities including a communal wellness centre, two pools, and 24 car parking spaces.

Photo credit: Feather & Lawry Design/Brisbane PD Online

The project originally proposed a 23-storey tower with 11 apartments but was revised before receiving council approval. The amended design includes a rooftop terrace and pool exclusively for the penthouse occupants, along with communal facilities on the lower levels.

Pixley Street — Photo credit: Feather & Lawry Design/Brisbane PD Online

However, the development has met opposition from neighbouring property owners and residents. Opposing locals have lodged an appeal with the Planning and Environment Court.

Opponents argue that the project exceeds the site’s height and site cover limits and constitutes an overdevelopment of the land. Concerns have also been raised regarding the building’s proximity to neighbouring structures, with claims that it would provide less than 14 metres of separation from Watermark Residences, less than three metres from Olims’ riverfront building, and less than eight metres from Olims’ tower building.

“We continue to object to the proposed development, as it substantially and materially conflicts with the relevant Planning Scheme for Brisbane City, resulting in a significant and unacceptable overdevelopment of the site in terms of scale, bulk, and form,” the Watermark Residences body corporate stated.

Concerns have also been raised about potential impacts on the heritage significance of Olims Apartments, formerly known as Travelodge Brisbane. Part of the site is listed on the heritage register, and objectors argue that the new development would negatively affect its historical and cultural value.

Read: Kangaroo Point’s Skye by Pikos Nears Completion for 2025

Other grounds for appeal include concerns over height, bulk, and scale, as well as potential impacts on privacy, overshadowing, and river views. Opponents believe the development could affect the future residential amenity of the area and limit further development potential.

The case will now be reviewed by the Planning and Environment Court, where both sides will present their arguments regarding the appropriateness of the development.

Published 5-February-2025

Street Spotlight: Cairns St, Kangaroo Point

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Cairns Street in Kangaroo Point stands as a testament to Brisbane’s evolving riverside landscape, with historical records from 1936 showing the street’s existence before the now-familiar Dockside Ferry Terminal carved its path through the area.

This tightly-knit community boasts an impressive 80% owner-occupier rate, with residents choosing to call this street home for an average of nearly 13 years. The street’s enduring appeal is evident in its sales history, with notable transactions like 37 Cairns Street changing hands for $35,000 in October 1980 – a figure that underscores the remarkable growth in Brisbane’s property market over the decades. Today, with 111 properties and 39% of residents having lived there for over a decade, Cairns Street continues to embody the strong sense of community that defines Kangaroo Point’s residential character.

Cairns St, Kangaroo Point Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 111
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 80%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 12 years and 9 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 39%

Cairns St, Kangaroo Point – As It Looked in 1936

Cairns St, Kangaroo Point in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON CAIRNS ST, KANGAROO POINT

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
17/78 Cairns, Kangaroo Point	$1,550,000	Nov 2024
43/78 Cairns, Kangaroo Point	$1,800,000	Oct 2024
29 Cairns, Kangaroo Point	$1,850,000	Oct 2024
10/39 Cairns, Kangaroo Point	$1,585,000	Oct 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON CAIRNS ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
37 Cairns, Kangaroo Point	$35,000	Oct 1980
9/77 Cairns, Kangaroo Point	$190,000	Feb 1985
10/77 Cairns, Kangaroo Point	$197,500	Mar 1987

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kangaroo Point in 2024 was $1,469,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kangaroo Point in 2020 was $921,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KANGAROO POINT SINCE 2020 : $548,000

The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Kangaroo Point in 2024 was $475,000
The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Kangaroo Point in 2020 was $332,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 1 BEDROOM UNIT IN KANGAROO POINT SINCE 2020 : $143,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kangaroo Point in 2024 was $730,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kangaroo Point in 2020 was $496,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN KANGAROO POINT SINCE 2020 : $234,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Kangaroo Point in 2024 was $1,650,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Kangaroo Point in 2020 was $880,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN KANGAROO POINT SINCE 2020 : $770,000

If you know Cairns St, Kangaroo Point well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Why Running is the New Sport of Choice for Young Australians

A Kangaroo Point running coach says a running boom is sweeping across Australia. Marathons are selling out in record time as more people, especially young people, embrace the challenge of endurance events.

He believes running’s accessibility, the rise of social run clubs, and the desire for personal achievement drive this popularity surge.

Running is Taking Over

Jamie Hunter, a long-time endurance runner and coach based in Kangaroo Point, believes running’s simplicity is key to its appeal. He says that running is something humans were born to do, so it’s natural for people to enjoy it. The recent rise in running’s popularity began during the pandemic when jogging became a primary way to exercise during lockdowns.

Since then, run clubs have sprung up all over Australia, offering a social and supportive environment for runners of all levels. For many, a weekly 5km run with friends, followed by coffee and a croissant, has become a gateway to longer distances and greater challenges.

Young Runners Embrace the Marathon

*Photo Credit:* *Bridge to Brisbane/ Instagram*

Caitlin Dorrough, a 22-year-old from Brisbane, started running with a group and quickly fell in love with the sport’s community aspect. She found training for her first half-marathon an incredible experience, supported by her running group.

Similarly, Shelby Tillett, a 25-year-old pilot, only began running 18 months ago but has already completed a marathon and an Ironman 70.3 triathlon. She credits the running community with motivating her to achieve these extraordinary feats. Ms. Tillett is now training for a full Ironman, which includes a 3.8km swim, a 180km cycle, and a full marathon.

Marathons See Record Participation

*Photo Credit:* *Gold Coast Marathon/ Facebook*

The growing interest in running is evident in the record entries for events nationwide. The 2025 Gold Coast Marathon sold out in record time, with 15,000 people signing up within days. Naomi McCarthy, Director of Sports Engagement at Griffith University, notes an increase in young people participating in marathons previously dominated by older, seasoned athletes.

She believes the social aspect of running has attracted a younger demographic to the sport. Mr Hunter, who owns a running supply store in Brisbane, has observed a similar trend, with a surge in beginner runners seeking advice and equipment. He has had to adjust his stock to cater to the influx of new runners, a development he sees as a positive sign for the sport.

The Psychology of Running

Sport and exercise psychologist Vanessa Wergin says running’s beginner-friendly nature and the quick sense of improvement contribute to its popularity. She believes endurance events attract people who want to set big personal goals because they are challenging yet not overly competitive. Dr Wergin emphasises that participation is the ultimate goal in marathon running, and everyone who completes such distances is already a winner.

Published Date 03-January-2025

Residents Voice Concerns Over Proposal to Restore and Reuse Shafston House

Plans to restore and adaptively reuse Brisbane’s historic Shafston House alongside the development of a high-rise residential apartment building have sparked a range of community reactions.

Read: Development Plans Envision 28-Storey Tower Beside Shafston House

The proposal includes significant changes to the site, such as increasing the height of the previously approved 15-storey building to 28 storeys (25 residential levels) and creating 48 exclusive residences.

Concerns About Height and Heritage

Some residents have expressed concerns about the substantial increase in height, arguing that the new building would overshadow the site and impact the riverfront aesthetic. One resident noted, “The view of the precinct from the river will be overshadowed by the proposed development and detract significantly from the extant aesthetics attributed to the open space; one of the few remaining along the river.”

Photo credit: CC0/Shiftchange/Wikimedia Commons

Others fear that the project could undermine the heritage value of Shafston House, which is listed on the Queensland Heritage Register. Constructed in 1851 and associated with several prominent Queensland figures, Shafston House holds significant historical and cultural value.

Critics argue that the ancillary buildings and surrounding precinct, although not individually protected, contribute to the overall historical importance of the site.

“There should be a proper Brisbane-wide consultation process,” another resident suggested, calling for broader community engagement to determine the future of the site.

Developers Emphasize Preservation

Photo credit: KHA/ Brisbane PD Online/ A006656931

The developers have defended their proposal, emphasising their commitment to preserving and restoring Shafston House. They argue that the adaptive reuse of the house for communal facilities, such as a resident lounge, library, and office spaces, will ensure its long-term conservation.

“The revised proposal will preserve, enrich, and reactivate one of the oldest riverine estates in Brisbane, allowing for it to be enjoyed for many generations to come,” the developers stated in their planning documents. They further noted that distributing the upkeep costs across all future property owners would alleviate the financial burden of maintaining the heritage-listed property.

The accompanying heritage report claims that the proposed changes to Shafston House itself are minimal and aim to maintain its original floor plan and external appearance.

Key Development Details

The proposed development includes 2,986 square meters of communal open space and plans for 113 residential car parking spaces, 13 visitor spaces, and 70 bicycle spaces (56 for residents and 14 for visitors). A new private marina with six berths is also part of the proposal.

The project aims to restore and adaptively reuse Shafston House by converting it into communal facilities, including a resident lounge, library, kitchenette, bar, office spaces, and accessible bathrooms.

The project is planned in two stages: the creation of the residential dwellings followed by the demolition of the existing pontoon and construction of the new marina.

About the Shafston House

*Front of the residence, Shafston, built on the site of the original Shafston House, 1930 (Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland, Negative number: 65163)*

In 1851, Reverend Robert Creyke built Shafston House as a modest single-storey cottage. Over the years, the building evolved, with new owners modifying the original structure.

It served as a private home, an Anzac Hostel (1919–1969), RAAF accommodation (1969–1987), and finally Shafston International College from the mid-1990s. In 2005, Shafston House was added to the Queensland Heritage Register.

Community Feedback and Next Steps

The proposal is now under review, with feedback from residents, heritage groups, and other stakeholders shaping the decision-making process. Many residents have called for a more inclusive consultation process involving the Council or the State Government to ensure the project aligns with community expectations and preserves the heritage of Shafston House.

Read: Approved: 15-Storey Apartment Tower Next to Heritage-Listed Shafston House

The outcome of the proposal remains uncertain, as it seeks to balance the restoration of one of Brisbane’s most iconic heritage sites with modern urban development.

Published 6-January-2025

Achieve 10,000 Steps with the Best Kangaroo Point Walking Routes

Photo Credit: Queensland

Kangaroo Point has become a local favourite for those looking to get their daily 10,000 steps in, thanks to its collection of scenic walking routes that highlight some of the suburb’s most loved landmarks.

Kangaroo Point walking routes — *Photo Credit: Queensland*

In the 1960s in Japan, in response to the “manpo-kei” pedometer, the global trend of attempting to accomplish 10,000 steps a day started which has now gained popularity due to numerous reported benefits including improved cardiac health, energy boost and helpful for weight gain.

As if social media platforms, such as TikTok or Instagram, had not already popularised the challenge enough, these added features have motivated all sorts of walkers to post their results online and in turn get others to take up the challenge as well.

Kangaroo Point is an ideal location for locals to achieve their daily 10,000 steps, offering Kangaroo Point walking routes with beautiful paths, scenic views, and convenient tracking devices like pedometers, Fitbits, Garmin watches, and Apple Watches to make the process even easier.

From quiet walks along the rivers to climbing the cliffs, Kangaroo Point has so much to do and sights to see whilst keeping active.

Exploring the Kangaroo Point Walking Routes: River Walk

Kangaroo Points Scenic Areas — *Photo Credit: Wikipedia*

The Kangaroo Point River Walk stands out as one of the suburb’s most popular walking routes. This 7-kilometre pathway runs alongside the Brisbane River, providing walkers with spectacular views of landmarks such as the Story Bridge and the Howard Smith Wharves. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of this route:

Start at the Queensland Maritime Museum: The journey begins with a 500-step stroll along Lower River Terrace, leading to the Pelicans sculpture—a well-known landmark that signals the start of the River Walk.
Take in the Man over Matter Sculptures: After another 800 steps, walkers encounter the unique Man over Matter sculptures, located near picnic areas that offer a perfect place to pause and enjoy the surroundings.
Riverlife Adventure Centre: As they make their way along, walkers come across the Riverlife Adventure Centre, nestled within the heritage-listed Naval Stores under the iconic Kangaroo Point Cliffs. A vintage caravan serves up refreshments at this spot every weekend.
End at Captain Burke Park: The final stretch of 1,000 steps leads to Captain Burke Park, positioned under the iconic Story Bridge. This marks the end of a scenic 3-kilometre segment, which is already a significant step toward reaching the 10,000-step target.

The Kangaroo Point River Walk is ideal for walkers of all fitness levels, offering a combination of exercise and picturesque views that make the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

view map

A More Challenging Route: The Kangaroo Point Cliffs

Kangaroo Points Challenging Walk Routes — *Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons*

For those looking for something a bit more challenging, the steep stairs at the Kangaroo Point Cliffs provide a solid cardio workout, with the added bonus of breathtaking views over the city. Here’s how the cliffs can be worked into a daily routine to help hit the step count:

Start at the River Walk: From where the Kangaroo Point River Walk ends, near the base of the cliffs, it’s a brisk 200 steps to reach the top.
Enjoy the View: Once at the top, the surrounding views are well worth the climb. A walk around the top adds another 300 steps to the tally.
Return to the Base: Coming back down the 200 steps, the walk along the boardwalk adds a further 400 steps, bringing the total climb and descent to about 1,100 steps.

By incorporating a couple of climbs, it’s easy to rack up 2,000 steps before long.

The Natural History Trail: A Relaxing Walk with a Historic Twist

National History Trail — *Photo Credit: Google Street View*

The Natural History Trail at Kangaroo Point offers a leisurely walk through scenic parklands, providing an engaging way to explore the area’s rich history. Along the trail, educational plaques recount the stories of Kangaroo Point’s past, making it a walk that’s both peaceful and informative.

The journey begins with a 600-step stroll along the History Trail, where walkers encounter a series of interpretive signs that delve into the suburb’s fascinating heritage.

Continuing for another 800 steps, the route passes by the remnants of the Evans and Deakins Shipyard, a significant site that played a pivotal role in Brisbane’s maritime history.

The final stretch of the trail adds a kilometre, taking walkers past plaques honouring local pioneers and showcasing botanical features unique to the region.

Covering approximately 2,000 steps in total, the trail is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of Kangaroo Point.

Shorter Walks for the 10,000-Step Goal

For those who prefer to break up their steps, Kangaroo Point has plenty of shorter routes to help with the daily step target. Here are some favourites:

Riverside Park Walk: A stroll from the base of the cliffs to the nearby pavilions adds 400 steps. After a rest at one of the pavilions, another 600 steps will bring walkers to the next point.

Kangaroo Point Riverside Walks — *Photo Credit: Google Sreet View*

Captain Burke Park to the Story Bridge: A quick 500-step walk from Captain Burke Park through the Holman Street, will bring locals under the Story Bridge, where the views along the river make for a nice halfway break.

These shorter walks, combined with the longer ones, make it easy to reach 10,000 steps without too much effort.

VIEW MAP

Convenient, Accessible Paths for All Fitness Levels

What’s great about Kangaroo Point walking routes is the variation. Whether it’s an easy morning stroll or an intense afternoon hike, something’s going to tickle everybody’s fitness level. Mixing up river views, landmarks, and green park space really makes it a pretty pleasant place to get fit and exercise in. Locals will be able to easily meet their step target while immersing themselves in all the best the suburb has to offer.

Whether it is a brisk walk along the river, stopping to enjoy one of the cafes, or taking on the invigorating climb up the cliffs at Kangaroo Point, staying on track with 10,000 steps each day becomes easy.

Published 22-Dec-2024

Story Bridge Climb Operators Want to Get Clearance to Serve Alcohol

Photo Credit: Story Bridge Adventure Climb

Residents of Kangaroo Point are raising concerns over a proposal to allow alcohol consumption on the Story Bridge Adventure Climb, which overlooks their homes.

The climb operator, Artemus Group, wants to expand the experience to include the bridge’s northern end and allow climbers to enjoy alcoholic beverages at the summit.

Expansion and Alcohol Service

*Photo Credit:* *Story Bridge Adventure Climb/ Facebook*

Artemus Group, which also owns the Howard Smith Wharves precinct, plans to build stairs, safety lines, and other structures on the bridge’s northern end, doubling the climb’s route. The company intends to offer drinks like Felons lager and champagne to climbers who reach the top. This would require approval from the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation.

Artemus CEO Luke Fraser stated the company is committed to showcasing the best of Brisbane and believes this addition will enhance the iconic Story Bridge climb experience.

Residents Concerns

This proposal has sparked anger among residents of the nearby Petrie Point Apartments, who have voiced concerns about noise, privacy, and safety. They worry that climbers will be able to see directly into their homes and that the combination of alcohol and heights could lead to dangerous situations.

John Parker, a resident of Petrie Point Apartments, expressed concerns about the safety of mixing alcohol with the climb and questioned the necessity of extending the climb to the northern end. Another resident, Monica Dawkins, shared her anxiety about climbers potentially looking into her family home while under the influence of alcohol.

Council Debate and Political Backlash

Brisbane City Council is set to debate the proposal, which includes amending the current contract to allow for the expansion and alcohol service. Labor Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the proposal, claiming it distracts from the urgent need to repair the Story Bridge.

He accused the council of neglecting the bridge’s maintenance while prioritising the expansion of a tourist attraction. Cassidy pointed out the council’s request for federal funding to restore the bridge, highlighting the significant cost of repairs.

A History of Additions

The Story Bridge climb has been operating since 2005. Over the years, it has added various attractions, such as New Year’s Eve fireworks displays and full moon climbs. The operator previously sought approval for a “swing out” experience and currently offers a “plank walk.” The climb generates revenue for the city council, which receives a percentage of ticket sales.

Updated 17-December-2024

Kangaroo Point Bridge Opens Without Riverside Path to Mowbray Park

The Kangaroo Point Bridge will connect Brisbane’s CBD to Kangaroo Point for pedestrians and cyclists but has no direct riverside path to Mowbray Park, forcing users onto alternative routes.

A Missed Opportunity for Riverside Connectivity

The bridge that many have been eagerly awaiting, set to open on 15 December, was designed to improve active transportation in the inner-east, while still leaving a gap in connectivity towards the east. Cyclists and walkers seeking a seamless route from Kangaroo Point to Mowbray Park must navigate Shafston Avenue’s narrow footpaths or detour through Kangaroo Point’s side streets to reach established trails.

A once-promised Riverwalk connecting the two points was cancelled in mid-2023 due to spiralling costs, leaving community members frustrated with the lack of a complete network.

Kangaroo Point Bridge — *Photo Credit: BCC/Facebook*

The Cost of Shelving the Riverwalk

Originally estimated at $22.5 million, the Riverwalk project faced budget blowouts that pushed the price tag to $93 million. Challenges included land acquisition, environmental constraints, and the need for complex construction along the Brisbane River.

Council confirmed it has no plans to revive the Riverwalk, citing the prohibitive costs and the logistical hurdles posed by private pontoons and residential developments along the riverbank.

The scrapped Riverwalk plan would have required the Dockside ferry terminal to be demolished and rebuilt, with much of the walkway built on piles or micropiles over the river. Despite strong community support during consultation, local authorities shifted focus to a more cost-effective alternative.

Shafston Avenue Bikeway: The Chosen Alternative

Council and the Department of Transport and Main Roads have committed to a joint project: a $35-million bikeway along Shafston Avenue. This route will connect the new bridge’s Deakin Road landing to the Lytton Road bikeway, bypassing the need for a costly riverside path. Council transport officials argued this solution would deliver faster and more direct benefits for residents and cyclists in East Brisbane.

The Shafston Avenue bikeway is expected to be completed by 2027–28. However, some locals worry that the alternative plan means the Riverwalk may never be revisited.

Previous studies showed strong public preference for a riverside route, with over 600 submissions to the council’s active transport study between 2021 and 2022 supporting the Riverwalk project.

Published 10-Dec-2024

Street Spotlight: Leopard St, Kangaroo Point

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Leopard Street in Kangaroo Point stands as a testament to Brisbane’s historical development, with established properties dating back to 1942.

With 60% owner-occupiers staying an average of 8 years and 11 months, the street maintains a stable residential character. A notable property transaction at 51 Leopard Street in March 1994 for $120,000 illustrates the area’s remarkable value growth over the decades, predating major infrastructure developments like the Pacific Highway that would later transform the surrounding landscape.

Leopard St, Kangaroo Point Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 87
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 60%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 8 years and 11 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 29%

Leopard St, Kangaroo Point – As It Looked in 1942

Leopard St, Kangaroo Point in 1942

SOME RECENT SALES ON LEOPARD ST, KANGAROO POINT

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
37/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$403,000	Sep 2024
43/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$435,000	Aug 2024
41/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$400,000	Aug 2024
34/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$410,000	Jul 2024
10/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$385,000	Jun 2024
19 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$6,600,000	Jun 2024
44/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$350,000	Mar 2024
2/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$335,000	Jan 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON LEOPARD ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$120,000	Mar 1994
1/51 Leopard, Kangaroo Point	$131,000	Sep 1996

SUBURB PROFILE

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