Kangaroo Point Archives - Page 6 of 16

Over a Decade of Greenery: How Kangaroo Point Park Reshaped an Educational Site

Photo Credit: Christa Gerard/Kangaroo Point and Districts History/Facebook

Over a decade ago, the site that once housed the Kangaroo Point TAFE was dramatically transformed into the now-beloved Kangaroo Point Park, officially unveiled to the public on 24 January 2010. This retrospective look explores how a prime educational site evolved into a cornerstone of community life in Brisbane.

Historical Overview

The trajectory of the Kangaroo Point site has been marked by significant transitions, beginning with the closure of the Kangaroo Point State School in 1965.

Kangaroo Point State School — *Photo Credit: Kangaroo Point History*

This closure paved the way for the construction of a multi-storey Technical College in 1968, which eventually became part of the Southbank Institute of TAFE. As educational needs and infrastructures evolved, the Kangaroo Point TAFE students relocated to a new campus, leading to the closure of the old site.

Kangaroo Point TAFE — *Photo Credit: Lost Brisbane/Facebook*

Premier Anna Bligh’s significant announcement on Australia Day 2009 sparked the transformation from an educational facility to a public space. Opting against commercial development, Ms Bligh dedicated the land for public use, marking Queensland’s 150th anniversary.

The demolition and redevelopment process involved extensive community consultation, including public notifications, information days, and engaging local contractors for demolition and park construction.

Kangaroo Point Park demolition site — *Photo Credit: Kangaroo Point History*

Park Features and Community Impact

Today, Kangaroo Point Park is proof of an effective urban renewal project, offering expansive green spaces, a café, and art installations like the Venus Rising sculpture. It serves as a scenic venue for relaxation and community events, contrasting sharply with its utilitarian past.

The park’s cliff top promenade and lookouts provide stunning views of the river and city skyline, making it a favored spot for both daytime visits and evening strolls.

The development of Kangaroo Point Park is a prime example of how urban spaces can be repurposed to enhance community well-being. This historical review not only celebrates the park’s past decade but also underscores the ongoing value of such transformations in enriching urban life in Brisbane.

Published 17-Sept-2024

Delays Persist in Completion of Kangaroo Point Riverwalk Amid New Cycling Lane Proposals

Despite commitments made in 2020, the Kangaroo Point Riverwalk remains incomplete, with authorities now proposing alternative transportation solutions, such as a new cycling lane on Shafston Avenue.

In 2020, a $22.5-million project to create an unbroken bike and pedestrian path along the Riverwalk at Kangaroo Point to connect it directly to Mowbray Park was announced. However, this plan has been hindered by a combination of private developments and existing structures, such as pontoons and a mini-marina, that occupy the walkway’s intended path.

In 2023, a proposal was introduced to upgrade the bike route along Shafston Avenue into a separate cycling lane, with promises to fund half of the project in hopes that the state will cover the remaining costs.

Whilst many local cyclists and pedestrians acknowledge the need for safer travel options through the area, there is a division in the community regarding whether this alternative addresses the broader connectivity issues presented by the incomplete Riverwalk.

Kangaroo Point Riverwalk — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Katie Panaretto, a local resident and former president of Bicycle Queensland, highlighted the dangers of the current routes after being severely injured in a road incident last year. Her experience underscores the community’s need for safer, more reliable paths away from traffic.

Whilst a step forward, the proposed Shafston Avenue upgrade does not fully satisfy the demands for comprehensive active transport routes including the Riverwalk. Despite initial commitments, the council still needs to confirm funding to match the state’s pledge, leaving the project in limbo.

A planning study projected that the infrastructure improvements necessary for the Riverwalk could cost up to $93 million, a figure significantly beyond the initial estimates and available funding, leading to further delays.

Ryan Murphy, the civic cabinet chair for transport, mentioned that the design and construction of the Shafston Avenue upgrade are ready to proceed once funding agreements are finalised. He also noted that while the Riverwalk project is still under consideration, its completion would require extensive planning and likely several more years to complete.

Published 28-Aug-2024

Howard Smith Wharves Gears Up for Biggest Riverfire Celebration Yet

Howard Smith Wharves is set to host its largest-ever Riverfire event, offering prime viewing spots for the spectacular fireworks display beneath the Story Bridge.

The annual celebration, scheduled for 31 August, marks the beginning of the Brisbane Festival. CEO of Howard Smith Wharves, Luke Fraser, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming event, highlighting the diverse range of experiences available across the precinct’s venues.

Event Details

Visitors can enjoy the festivities from various locations within Howard Smith Wharves. The Main Lawn will open at 12:00 p.m., featuring a pop-up bar serving antipasti, pasta, pizza, and drinks. Walk-in spaces will be available outdoors at Felons Brewing Co and Felons Barrel Hall, as well as on the Main Lawn and Rivergarden.

Riverfire Howard Smith Wharves, Story Bridge in Kangaroo Point — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Venue Offerings

Several venues are offering special packages for the event:

Ciao Papi: A share-style menu including oysters, prosciutto pizzetta, and Wagyu sirloin steak, with a children’s menu available.

Stanley: A three-course banquet curated by Head Chef Louis Tikaram, featuring oysters, lobster and truffle dumplings, and stir-fried black Angus.

Felons Barrel Hall: Live music and DJ sets until late, with walk-ins welcome in outdoor spaces.

Mr Percival’s: Cocktails and music from 4:00 p.m. until 3:00 a.m., with bookings available for the main event.

Felons Brewing Co: An $85 set menu with craft beers on tap and live DJ entertainment.

Greca: Two packages offering Greek feasts with selected beverages and prime fireworks viewing.

Yoko: Japanese cuisine with lunch and dinner options, including prime seats for the fireworks.

Book Your Table

Community Impact

Fraser emphasised the significance of Riverfire in kicking off the Brisbane Festival, praising the event’s role in showcasing talent, art, and culture while engaging the community. The diverse offerings across Howard Smith Wharves aim to cater to families and individuals alike, providing a range of experiences to suit different preferences and budgets.

Visitors are encouraged to book in advance to secure their preferred viewing spots for this popular annual event that brings the Brisbane community together in celebration.

Published 19-Aug-2024

Kangaroo Point Tower Proposal Soars Higher with Upscaled Plans

Photo Credit: DA A006583679

Kangaroo Point is set to see a significant increase in the height of an approved apartment tower project. Revised plans have been submitted, proposing a seven-storey increase to the building earmarked for 51 Darragh Street, raising its height from 15 to 22 storeys.

This substantial addition would significantly boost the tower’s residential capacity, expanding the number of apartments from 49 to 65. The developer emphasises that these additional units will primarily consist of three—and four-bedroom apartments, aiming to address a perceived gap in the local housing market.

The change application, lodged by a Brisbane-based entity associated with urologist Wesley Hii, comes a year after the original plans received approval from the Brisbane City Council. Supporting documents assert that the proposed building height aligns with other structures in the immediate area. Furthermore, the application highlights that aside from the increased height, the overall size and scale of the development will remain largely unchanged from the initial approval.

Designed by Queensland architect Peddle Thorp, the scheme is intended to capitalise on the impressive river and city views. The building’s shape and positioning have been carefully considered to optimise these vistas while preserving existing sightlines for neighbouring buildings. The design also incorporates a substantial open space on the northern side of the site, enhancing the outlook for surrounding properties.

The development is committed to providing ample recreational and landscaped areas, with over 73% of the site dedicated to such spaces. Ground-level amenities include two tennis courts (one covered), offering multi-use event space for residents and occasional community events. A 25-metre lap pool and a shaded lawn area will also be accessible to the building’s residents and those in the broader Dockside Precinct.

Additional facilities encompass a coffee shop with outdoor seating, a covered poolside bar area overlooking the tennis court, a public walkway providing access to the tennis court, and a gym. The tower’s rooftop will feature an expansive 600-square-metre communal recreation area with a large swimming pool, a sunset lounge with city views, a covered barbeque area, and exercise/play lawns.

Regarding the revised plan, parking provisions have increased from 109 to 115 car spaces and 74 to 111 bicycle spaces. The development aims to strike a balance between high-density residential living and providing quality open spaces and amenities, contributing to the ongoing evolution of the Kangaroo Point Peninsula.

Published Date 13-August-2024

Salvation Army Acquires Land for Social Housing in Kangaroo Point

The Salvation Army has taken a significant step towards addressing homelessness in Brisbane, acquiring land at Kangaroo Point for future social housing development.

Read: High Vacancy Rate in Kangaroo Point Amid Queensland’s Housing Crisis

The property, located at 619-633 Main Street, marks the organisation’s first investment in inner-Brisbane social housing since the sale of its “Pindari” property in Spring Hill in 2022.

Aaron Pimlott, State Manager for Homelessness at The Salvation Army, emphasised the importance of this acquisition. “People who are experiencing homelessness or who are at risk of becoming homeless need sustainable housing that is affordable, inclusive of support to sustain their tenancies. That’s how we end homelessness,” Mr Pimlott stated.

The purchase aligns with The Salvation Army’s post-pandemic shift towards a “Housing First” approach. This strategy focuses on long-term and permanent social housing solutions with tailored support, moving away from crisis and short-term accommodation options.

Housing First is an approach aimed at individuals with a history of chronic or repeated homelessness who haven’t succeeded in traditional supported housing programs. It offers tailored assistance to those requiring more specialized interventions.

While the land has been secured, the project still requires additional funding. “Further capital funding still needs to be sought to construct at least 60 social dwellings,” Mr Pimlott explained, expressing confidence in securing the necessary resources to begin construction in the near future.

This development is part of a larger initiative by The Salvation Army to increase social housing across Queensland. The organisation has ambitious plans to build hundreds of new social housing units statewide, with projects underway or in planning stages in Cairns, Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Toowoomba, and the Gold Coast.

Read: Landmark Queenslander Fetches $6.6 Million at Auction

The Kangaroo Point project represents a crucial step in The Salvation Army’s mission to provide sustainable housing solutions for vulnerable individuals and families in Brisbane’s inner city, addressing the ongoing challenge of homelessness in the region.

Published 25-July-2024

Kangaroo Point Joins Brisbane’s Top 10 Parking Fine Hotspots

Did you know that recent data indicates that Kangaroo Point is among the Brisbane’s suburbs with the most number of parking infringements based on the number of parking fines issued?

In the 2023-24 financial year, Kangaroo Point ranked 10th among Brisbane suburbs for the number of parking fines issued. This places it alongside more central areas like the CBD, Fortitude Valley, and South Brisbane in terms of parking enforcement activity.

The council’s report revealed that 170,677 parking fines were issued across Brisbane during this period, amounting to $34.35 million in penalties. While specific numbers for Kangaroo Point were not provided, its presence in the top 10 list indicates a substantial number of infractions in the area.

Street Parking Challenges

Kangaroo Point’s popularity among visitors and its proximity to the CBD contribute to its parking challenges. The suburb’s narrow streets and high demand for parking spaces create a situation where residents and visitors alike may need help finding legal parking options.

Common offences across Brisbane included failing to comply with fixed-hour parking zones, stopping contrary to no-stopping signs, and parking on roads with yellow edge lines. These infractions likely account for many of the fines in Kangaroo Point.

Kangaroo Point parking issues — *Photo Credit: BCC*

Impact on Residents and Visitors

The high number of fines suggests that both residents and visitors to Kangaroo Point need help navigating the area’s parking regulations. With limited off-street parking in many parts of the suburb, competition for street parking can be fierce, especially during peak times or events.

Sarah Hutton, the civic cabinet chair for city standards, emphasised that parking rules are in place to ensure safe and efficient traffic flow. She noted that the council received approximately 40,000 reports of illegal parking during the financial year, indicating ongoing issues across the city.

Kangaroo Point’s parking challenges reflect a citywide trend. Brisbane now has the highest parking rates in Australia, with CBD casual rates reaching $79.83 per day. While Kangaroo Point’s street parking doesn’t incur such high fees, the scarcity of spaces and strict enforcement contribute to the parking difficulties. The council has implemented measures to address parking issues, including a 15-minute free parking offer in some areas.

Published 20-July-2024

Patients of St Vincent Private Hospital Network in Kangaroo Point Could Pay More as Funding Talks with NIB Collapse

Photo Credit: St Vincent’s Private Hospital/ Facebook

Patients at the Kangaroo Point campus of St Vincent’s Private Hospital, along with thousands across Australia may soon face increased out-of-pocket expenses for their healthcare.

This comes after a breakdown in negotiations between St Vincent’s Health Australia, the nation’s largest not-for-profit healthcare provider, and private health insurer NIB.

*Photo Credit:* *St Vincent’s Private Hospital/ Facebook*

On Thursday, 4 July 2024, St Vincent’s served notice to NIB, indicating their intention to terminate their existing contract within 65 business days unless a revised funding agreement can be reached. The potential fallout of this stalemate would see NIB-insured patients shouldering a larger portion of their medical bills when seeking treatment at any of St Vincent’s ten private hospitals across NSW, Victoria, and Queensland.

St Vincent’s CEO, Chris Blake, stressed the gravity of the decision, stating it was a first in the institution’s 167-year history. Despite their best efforts, Blake asserted that NIB had not presented a fair offer that adequately addressed the escalating costs associated with providing private hospital care.

Inflationary pressures on wages, food, energy, personal protective equipment, IT services, and even basic maintenance have significantly increased the financial burden on hospitals. Blake cited St Vincent’s electricity costs as a prime example, expected to nearly double from $6.5 million in 2023 to $12 million this year.

While St Vincent’s successfully negotiated new agreements with other major health funds like Medibank, HCF, and the Alliance group in recent months, talks with NIB have stalled. NIB’s CEO, Mark Fitzgibbon, expressed disappointment with St Vincent’s public stance, maintaining that their offer was fair and reasonable. He assured continued discussions, highlighting the remaining months of their partnership.

The stalemate has drawn concern from the Australian Medical Association (AMA), with President Prof Steve Robson urging both parties to resume negotiations to protect patients’ interests. Robson warned that the dispute could erode public trust in private health insurance, especially amidst rising premiums and cost-of-living pressures.

Dr Katharine Bassett, representing Catholic Health Australia, echoed these concerns, accusing insurers of prioritising profits over patient welfare and hospital sustainability. She pointed to NIB’s substantial premium increase and relatively low return to policyholders as evidence of this trend.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) recent report on private health insurance revealed a significant surge in industry profits. This, coupled with the closure of 71 private hospital services due to financial strain in the past year, underscores the escalating crisis in private healthcare, as Blake emphasised.

Both St Vincent’s and the CHA are advocating for reforms to address these systemic issues. They propose changes to the annual premium round process and a new funding model to better reflect the actual costs incurred by hospitals. The AMA is also calling for the establishment of an independent regulatory body to ensure the sector’s proper governance and patient value.

As the October 3rd deadline looms, the fate of thousands of patients’ healthcare costs hangs in the balance. Whether a resolution can be reached that satisfies both St Vincent’s and NIB, while safeguarding patient interests, remains to be seen.

Published Date 11-July-2024

Skyhomes Fetch Nearly $30 Million, Luxury Market Booms

Photo Credit: Fortis

Kangaroo Point is cementing its status as a luxury property hotspot with the latest sales at River House development totalling close to $30 million for just four skyhomes.

Development managers Fortis confirmed the sale of four whole-floor luxury residences in River House, a project that is transforming the Kangaroo Point skyline. The sales reflect the suburb’s growing appeal to high-end buyers, with prices showing a marked upward trend. Two residences sold for $6.8m and $6.5m before site demolition, while two more recently commanded even higher prices of $7.9m and $8.2m.

River House, currently in early construction on the Kangaroo Point riverfront, will feature 14 whole-floor luxury apartments upon completion. The development is strategically located just 1 km from Brisbane City Council’s forthcoming $190m green bridge, which will provide a direct link between Kangaroo Point and the CBD, further boosting the suburb’s desirability.

Place Kangaroo Point agent Simon Caulfield highlighted the area’s transformation, stating, “Kangaroo Point’s luxury real estate market is undergoing a significant shift. Local buyers are now competing with interstate investors, willing to pay premium rates for luxury full-floor residences in this prime location.”

The suburb’s appeal lies in its proximity to the city centre, coupled with its quieter, more exclusive atmosphere. River House capitalises on this, offering residents unparalleled views of the Brisbane River and city skyline, along with the convenience of inner-city living.

“River House is designed to set a new standard for luxurious living in Kangaroo Point. The strong sales demonstrate the high demand for premium properties in this unique suburb,” Fortis associate director Dan Boman said.

Photo Credit: River House – Kangaroo Point

The development features bespoke architecture by Plus Architecture and interiors by Mim Design, aiming to complement Kangaroo Point’s existing mix of heritage homes and modern apartments.

As Kangaroo Point continues to attract luxury developments like River House, it’s rapidly becoming one of Brisbane’s most prestigious suburbs. The area’s transformation is driven by both local and interstate buyers seeking high-end properties that offer both lifestyle benefits and strong investment potential.

Published 5-July-2024

Kangaroo Point Cliff Repairs Cause Temporary Detours for Pedestrians

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council

Pedestrian access at Kangaroo Point is undergoing temporary changes due to essential cliff remediation works.

The Brisbane City Council has announced that the stairs adjacent to Joey’s, leading down to the cliff base, will be closed on weekdays between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. from 3rd to 17th July.

Alternative Routes and Assistance Available

To accommodate these necessary repairs, a detour has been established via the southern stairs located opposite Llewellyn Street. The council has assured the public that clear signage and traffic control will be in place to guide pedestrians and minimise disruption during this period.

Project Timeline Subject to Change

While the council aims to complete the remediation works within the specified timeframe, it is important to note that this is contingent upon weather conditions and any unforeseen circumstances that may arise on-site.

Council Urges Patience and Cooperation

As these works are crucial for the safety and preservation of the Kangaroo Point cliffs, the Brisbane City Council requests the understanding and cooperation of residents and visitors during this temporary inconvenience.

Published Date 03-July-2024

$22.5 Million Boost for Riverwalk at Kangaroo Point Enhances Brisbane’s Active Transport Network

A $22.5-million investment is set to complete the Riverwalk at Kangaroo Point, creating a continuous bike and pedestrian pathway to Mowbray Park.

The $22.5 million investment is part of a larger $315-million commitment over the next four years to enhance cycling and walking paths throughout the state.

This initiative falls under the expansive $37.4-billion Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program (QTRIP) for 2024-2028, which is set to bolster active transport facilities across Queensland significantly.

Economic and Health Benefits

The investment in active transport infrastructure is expected to deliver considerable economic returns. Studies show that every dollar spent on bike infrastructure brings nearly five dollars in economic benefits, including improved health, reduced congestion, and lower transportation costs. Walking infrastructure is even more lucrative, returning $13 for every dollar invested.

Key Projects Under QTRIP

Several projects have been highlighted under this initiative:

– The construction of a $36.1 million velobridge over Birdwood Road on the Veloway 1 in Greenslopes.

– A $41.5 million allocation for the Cairns Southern Access Cycleway, with joint funding from the Australian Government.

– $20 million for a cycleway accompanying the Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3.

– Enhancements to the active transport facilities on Moggill Road, with an investment of $10.4 million.

– The development of a network of bike-friendly streets in South Brisbane, West End, and Highgate Hill, receiving $9.6 million.

– An allocation of $9.4 million towards stage 2 of the New England Highway Bikeway.

These infrastructure improvements are complemented by initiatives aimed at promoting cycling and walking, including education, safety improvements, and economic stimulation through active transport. The broader strategy also involves using research and data to guide decision-making and improve the effectiveness of these initiatives.

Ongoing Developments

Meanwhile, the first stage of Kangaroo Point bridge works is now complete, with more than 200 meters of new pathways constructed underneath the Story Bridge between Main St and Deakin St. This development provides a seamless link improving accessibility for those who walk, ride, or scoot from the Gabba and eastern suburbs into the CBD.

In addition to the Riverwalk project, Brisbane City Council is actively improving other parts of the Kangaroo Point Bikeway, especially between Captain Cook Bridge and Thornton Street. This includes enhancing connectivity, safety, and accessibility along this vital corridor. A recent community consultation has provided valuable insights, which will help shape future improvements in the area.

Captain Cook Bridge and Thornton Street — *Photo Credit: BCC*

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, further enhancements are planned for Kangaroo Point’s active travel infrastructure. This includes the detailed design and upcoming construction of the Shafston Avenue Bikeway, which aims to connect existing routes to the new Kangaroo Point Green Bridge, creating an important link for Brisbane’s active travelers. This project is contingent upon a funding agreement between the local and state governments.

The extensive investments and ongoing projects underscore a robust commitment to enhancing Brisbane’s active transport network, fostering a healthier, more connected city.

Published 24-June-2024