Kangaroo Point Archives - Page 7 of 16

Stolen Tour Boat Ends Up in Kangaroo Point After Alleged Joyride

A river tour ferry was discovered lodged on the rocks at Kangaroo Point, with police investigating reports the vessel was stolen from South Bank overnight whilst people were partying on board.

Police confirmed they were investigating an overnight break and enter on a commercial vessel at South Bank. The police statement said initial information indicated unknown offenders had forced entry to the vessel and stolen items from onboard. It is believed the engine was started and the vessel left its berth.

The engine then failed, and the vessel drifted towards the ferry terminal near Ferry Street, Kangaroo Point, where it rested in the morning.

Owner’s Account

Lindsay Jones, the owner of River Tours ferry MV Neptune, believed his ferry, operated as a charter boat on the Brisbane River since 1966, had been broken into overnight. He said the other vessel next to theirs was also broken into, but it was harder to get into and was much better locked up than theirs.

Mr Jones said they were waiting on the tide to rise to dislodge the boat from the rocks, as the engines would be burnt out without the water coolant.

The MV Neptune is usually moored at the Cultural Centre public pontoon in South Bank and offers sightseeing, onboard lunch packages and sunset cruises for passengers. The cruise line has won the Travellers Choice award and best of Queensland experience in 2023.

Impact on Operations

River City Cruises posted a statement on its website, saying the boat had been severely damaged and was currently out of operation due to unforeseen circumstances. No cruises would depart until further notice.

The statement said several staff members and crew were at the scene, and the owner, Jones, was uncertain when operations would resume as he awaited assessing the damage. It said the MV Neptune would be towed later that day and transported to a repair shop.

Eyewitness Reports

It was understood three men were seen at the dockside terminal, with one man yelling he would never be caught and that he had been up all night running at a group of people. A River City Cruises worker reported they had thrown books, opened the alcohol cabinet, and helped themselves to snacks.

Debris and a broken railing from the side of the boat were visible on the ship’s top deck after it had smashed into glass windows along the dockside terminal. The anchor was seen dangling from the front of the boat, with the chain coiled outwards.

A local resident said he saw the boat travelling along the river overnight with what seemed to be a party onboard. He said he saw it going downstream, close along the marina’s edge. He wondered what it was doing at the time because the boat and route seemed unusual.

Published 12-June-2024

Dami Im Begins Jazz, Soul, and Blues Tour at Brisbane Jazz Club in Kangaroo Point

Australian singer-songwriter Dami Im has launched her Jazz, Soul, and Blues Tour at the Brisbane Jazz Club in Kangaroo Point, marking a return to her musical roots with exclusive performances alongside her dynamic Jazz Quartet.

Dami Im’s Jazz, Soul, and Blues Tour will commence with an engaging two-night performance on June 14th and 15th, 2024, at the Brisbane Jazz Club, located at 1 Annie Street, Kangaroo Point. This opening act promises to deliver an unforgettable experience in Dami’s hometown, setting the tone for the rest of her nationwide tour.

Following these initial performances, the tour will continue to prominent jazz clubs across Australia, with dates and venues to be announced, offering fans multiple opportunities to witness Dami’s musical evolution in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Starting her tour in her hometown of Brisbane, Dami Im’s latest venture showcases a decade-spanning career filled with diverse musical achievements. Dami has continuously evolved her musical style from her chart-topping participation in Eurovision to her collaborations with notable artists like John Legend and James Morrison.

Now, she’s returning to the genres that ignited her passion for music: Jazz, Soul, and Blues. This tour promises a mix of retro jazz and soul classics, contemporary covers, and her original compositions, performed in an intimate quartet setting.

Audiences can expect a night of deep musical exploration, from heart-wrenching blues to upbeat jazz tracks that showcase Dami’s versatility and command over her art.

Early Life and Career Achievements

Born in Seoul, South Korea, Dami moved to Brisbane at the age of nine, where she began her journey in music. A graduate of the Young Conservatorium of Music program at Griffith University, she gained widespread recognition by winning the fifth season of “The X Factor Australia.”

Her subsequent music releases, including the platinum-certified album “Dami Im,” have seen significant success, culminating in performances at prestigious venues and events worldwide. Dami’s impressive trajectory in the music industry is also highlighted by her significant contributions to music education and her efforts to promote musical diversity.

Personal Insights and Future Endeavours

Residing in Queensland with her husband and son, Dami continues to explore her musicality. She remains committed to her role as a Compassion Australia supporter, frequently engaging in charity events and concerts. As Dami revisits the genres that shaped her early music career, she also celebrates the skill and artistry of her band, expressing her excitement about performing in renowned Jazz venues across Australia. Her personal connection to these genres is deeply rooted in her musical and cultural upbringing, influenced by a mix of Korean and Australian musical traditions.

Dami Im’s Jazz, Soul, and Blues Tour is not just a musical event but a personal homage to the genres that shaped her as an artist. For fans and new listeners alike, this tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Dami’s profound musical talents up close, in the storied environment of the Brisbane Jazz Club at Kangaroo Point.

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Landmark Queenslander Fetches $6.6 Million at Auction

Photo Credit: Place

A historic Queenslander in Kangaroo Point has sold for $6.6 million at auction. The sale of “Rockfield” at 19 Leopard Street was one of 86 auctions scheduled in Brisbane on Saturday, June 8, 2024.

Place Bulimba agents Sarah Hackett and Lauren Marmotta marketed the property, which attracted significant interest during its campaign. Ms. Hackett reported that over 100 families viewed the home, with four registered bidders participating in the auction held on a balcony overlooking the Brisbane River.

“The opening bidder actually ended up with the property,” Ms. Hackett said. “It’s going to be their family home.” The winning bid came from a local buyer, securing what has been described as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

The marketing strategy targeted local schools and three major hospitals due to their proximity. “We had a couple of doctors registered to bid due to the convenience of being around the corner from the hospitals,” Ms. Hackett added.

Rockfield, an immaculately renovated Queenslander, offers panoramic views of the Brisbane River, city skyline, and Botanic Gardens. The property combines historical charm with modern conveniences, making it a highly sought-after residence.

Linda Butler, the seller, has owned Rockfield since 1997. “It’s one of those houses that you drive past and when it came on the market, I just knew it was a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Ms. Butler said, reflecting on her initial purchase.

This sale comes amid a surge in Brisbane’s auction market. PropTrack data indicates that 124 properties were set for auction this week, marking a 20% increase compared to the same period last year. The market also features entry-level homes and properties attractive to developers and investors.

Published 7-June-2024

Key Construction Milestone Achieved: Kangaroo Point Bridge Nears Completion with Final Span Installation

The last 25-metre span weighing 100 tonnes has been securely installed, bringing Brisbane’s new Kangaroo Point Bridge to 85 per cent completion.

Construction crews achieved a major feat by positioning the final span using a crane from a nearby barge. This final installation marks a pivotal moment in the bridge’s construction, which spans a total length of 182.7 metres. The bridge is set to feature unique viewing platforms offering panoramic 360-degree views of the cityscape.

Brisbane City Council and the federal government jointly fund this project, which has entered its final stages. With the structural framework nearing completion, attention is turning to the remaining tasks including concreting the deck and installing balustrades, seating, and lighting.

Kangaroo Point Bridge — *Photo Credit: BrisbaneCityCouncil*

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner highlighted the bridge’s anticipated impact, stating that it could divert 84,000 cars from roads annually, potentially halving pedestrian travel times between Kangaroo Point, The Gabba Stadium, and the CBD. The project has generated over 1,400 construction jobs and once completed, it will be the second major pedestrian and cycle bridge opened in Brisbane this year.

Significant developments adjacent to the bridge include the installation of lifts and stairs at the Kangaroo Point landing and the nearing completion of an above-water restaurant. On the CBD side, efforts are underway to establish a riverside café and a welcoming plaza.

Future Attractions and Dining Destinations

Upon its completion, the Kangaroo Point Bridge will serve as a crucial link between the CBD and Kangaroo Point and a vibrant hub of activity and leisure. The bridge’s design includes two exclusive dining venues offering unique experiences and stunning views of Brisbane’s riverscape.

Stilts Dining – An Elevated Experience: Positioned above the water, Stilts Dining pays tribute to Queensland’s architectural heritage by resembling a Queenslander home on stilts. This restaurant will offer a menu focused on locally sourced steaks and seafood, catering to both casual diners and those seeking a more formal atmosphere. With a private dining room available, Stilts Dining aims to provide a world-class culinary experience, enhanced by panoramic views of the CBD, Brisbane River, Story Bridge, and the Kangaroo Point Cliffs.

Mulga Bill’s – Riverside Café: Inspired by Banjo Patterson’s poetry, Mulga Bill’s will integrate the active transport theme of the bridge. This café will serve a variety of dishes including wood-fired pizzas and seafood, alongside quick grab ‘n go options such as pastries and coffee. Mulga Bill’s will also offer picnic boxes, perfect for enjoying in the surrounding parklands. Located at the city entrance to the City Botanic Gardens, this café will capitalize on its scenic location at the nexus of Edward and Alice streets meeting the Brisbane River.

These dining venues are part of Brisbane City Council’s vision to transform the Kangaroo Point Bridge into a must-visit destination.

The project aims to deliver a quintessentially Queensland experience, blending culinary delights with breathtaking views, thereby enhancing Brisbane’s appeal as a city that beautifully merges urban living with riverside charm.

Published 3-June-2024

Plans to Slash Parking Requirements Raised for Kangaroo Point, Inner City Apartments

Outdated minimum carparking requirements for new apartment developments in several high-density, inner city Brisbane suburbs like Kangaroo Point are on the chopping block, a radical move that could potentially slash up to $100,000 off construction costs and shake up the city’s housing market.

Under current regulations, developers are forced to construct one carpark space per one-bedroom dwelling and two spaces for two and three-bedroom units, driving up costs substantially. Industry experts estimate the construction of an underground or podium-level carpark within a new Brisbane high-rise development exceeds $100,000 per space.

Australian Bureau of Statistics data reveals a third of Brisbane homes are single-adult households, and over 60 per cent of those in the four suburbs own one or no cars. Mr Schrinner aims to stimulate liveability near high-employment areas by catering to this demographic shift.

The Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner stated that abolishing the mandatory minimum parking requirements, under the planned Inner-City Affordability Initiative, would not only reduce costs but also stimulate an increase in housing supply across the inner-city suburbs of Fortitude Valley, Kangaroo Point, Milton, and Newstead, which are set to be impacted by this transformation in planning regulations.

Number of registered vehicles per property including motorbikes, scooters and heavy vehicles:

Location	% No Car Ownership	% One Car Ownership
Fortitude Valley	28.7%	55.6%
Kangaroo Point	12.0%	52.8%
Milton	16.1%	53.7%
Newstead	11.9%	63.3%

“By removing mandatory minimum car parking requirements under our Inner-City Affordability Initiative we can put downward pressure on the price of building and buying a new apartment in those areas of Brisbane with great access to high-frequency public transport,” Mr Schrinner said.

“It will mean more people will be able to afford to live in areas close to transport and key employment centres, like the CBD.

“Our approach preserves Brisbane’s low-density suburbs and helps prevent urban sprawl, which contributes to congestion and causes significant transport and environmental costs.

“We want to help create more well-connected communities where multiple cars per household are not necessary to get around.”

Kangaroo Point — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Premier Steven Miles has thrown his support behind the plan, labelling the existing requirements as “ludicrous” for areas with ample public transport options. He expressed openness to extending the policy to more parts of the city.

The maximum car parking limits under the Inner-City Affordability Initiative align with existing regulations in Brisbane’s central business district and the recently expanded South Brisbane area covered by the state government-supported Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct plan.

Property Council of Australia’s Queensland executive director Jess Caire believes the change will attract investment in building new homes, helping to boost supply despite skyrocketing construction costs.

However, urban planner Mark Limb from Queensland University of Technology has cautioned that developers are not guaranteed to pass on savings to homebuyers. Even if the policy resulted in lower prices for some new high-rise apartments, Dr Limb argued it would have little to no real impact on overall housing affordability or supply levels.

Dr Limb explained that there is a mistaken belief that loosening regulations in the private market would result in an oversupply of housing. In reality, developers strategically manage the release of new housing projects to prevent the devaluation of their properties.

Published 18-May-2024

Police Appeal for Information After Serious Assault

Police are urgently seeking information from the public about a man who may have been involved in a serious assault that occurred yesterday afternoon at Kangaroo Point.

According to initial investigations, around 4:45 pm on Tuesday, May 14th, a 60-year-old man from Nundah was stopped at a traffic light on Leopard Street in his silver Holden Commodore sedan when his vehicle’s side mirror was struck by a white moped.

A verbal altercation ensued between the two parties. They both then turned right onto Llewellyn Street, where they came to a stop and a physical confrontation occurred.

The victim sustained multiple injuries, including to his head, face, and hand, during the assault.

The moped driveris described as a tall, slim-built man wearing a hi-visibility shirt and a black open-faced helmet at the time of the incident.

Detectives are urging any nearby residents to review any CCTV footage they may have from the area. They are also appealing to any motorists who may have captured the incident on their dashcams to come forward with that footage.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Quote this reference number: QP2400821061

Published 15-May-2024

Kangaroo Point Apartment Building Makes a Splash in National Design Awards

High atop the cliffs at Kangaroo Point, the Riviere apartments are turning heads and redefining Brisbane’s luxury living scene. Shortlisted for the prestigious 2024 Australian Interior Design Awards, Riviere offers a unique blend of urban resort and timeless elegance.

Designed by Bates Smart, the project seamlessly integrates architecture and interior design, ensuring every element—from the glazed brick exterior mimicking the cliffs to the open floor plan bathed in natural light—contributes to a cohesive vision.

“We wanted to create a relaxed, casual, and liveable space,” says Bates Smart interior design director Brenton Smith. “The focus was on using high-quality materials thoughtfully, not excessively, ensuring the design will endure for decades.”

This philosophy extends beyond aesthetics. Smith emphasises Riviere as an ecosystem fostering a sense of community. “Modern residential buildings are becoming hubs where people connect and build lasting friendships,” he explains.

Riviere isn’t the only Brisbane project vying for national recognition. The residential design category has also shortlisted Louise Walsh Interior Design’s Birdwood House, a contemporary interpretation of the Queensland family home.

Nestled within a state forest canopy, Birdwood House reflects not just the architect’s vision but also the refined tastes of its owners, one of whom is a former stylist and art collector. Polished concrete floors with embedded rocks and a “crazy paving” arrangement of natural stone exemplify the home’s unique character.

“The focus was on using locally sourced materials and creating a home that blends seamlessly with the environment,” says Louise Walsh. A standout feature is a massive granite island bench crafted from a single block of stone shipped from South Australia and meticulously sculpted by a local artisan.

With a record-breaking 222 projects shortlisted, the 2024 Australian Interior Design Awards promise fierce competition.

Brisbane stands out with several strong contenders, including Wilson Architects’ Brisbane Grammar School STEAM Precinct, J.AR Office’s Gerard’s, Melissa Collinson Design’s The Wolf Dining & Bar, and BVN’s UQ Brisbane City. The city is clearly a hotbed for innovative and inspiring design.

Published Date 02-May-2024

Canopy House in Kangaroo Point Grows Bigger with Land Acquisition

Photo Credit: Facebook/ Rothelowman

Kangaroo Point’s skyline is about to get a significant boost. Aria Property Group, a developer known for its focus on sustainability, has upped the ante on its upcoming Canopy House project.

By acquiring the land next door to the original site, Aria has expanded its footprint to a sizeable 2,300 sq m across 50–62 Leopard Street. This land grab allows them to breathe new life into the project with a revised design that boasts a bigger building, more apartments, and enhanced resident amenities.

The addition of four floors to the previously approved 29-level tower by Rothelowman Architects is the most notable change. This tweak eliminates the building’s original staggered design, resulting in a more streamlined structure. Additionally, the floorplate expands from level 14 upwards, allowing for more spacious three-bedroom apartments.

The number of apartments will jump significantly, from the original 136 to a whopping 196. A 75% increase in two-bedroom units, from 64 to a much more substantial 112 will be the main factor driving this increase. Three-bedroom apartments will also see a healthy increase, rising by 27% from 66 to 84.

Naturally, with a larger building comes a need for more parking. The revised design increases the parking allocation from 226 to 295 spots, ensuring residents have ample space for their vehicles.

But the benefits extend beyond just apartments and parking. The expanded footprint allows for a more generous podium area. This translates to a dedicated resident’s park complete with a barbeque kitchen and alfresco dining, a playground for the young ones, and comfortable seating areas for socialising.

The documents submitted to Brisbane City Council suggest the revised design offers several advantages. Town planner Saunders Havill Group highlights an “improved facade” that provides a more aesthetically pleasing silhouette and a significant boost to the project’s “Green Factor,” likely referring to Aria’s commitment to sustainable practices.

Furthermore, acquiring the neighbouring land unlocks over 130 metres of additional street frontage along Mark Lane, Leopard Street, and Vulture Street. This opens doors for improved pedestrian access and even paves the way for Mark Lane to potentially transform into a vibrant destination laneway, similar to the popular Fish Lane in Brisbane’s inner-city.

The previously isolated dwellings that occupied the acquired land, according to Saunders Havill Group, had limited development potential. By incorporating them into the Canopy House project, Aria unlocks a more cohesive and impactful development for Kangaroo Point.

Construction is slated to begin in August of this year, with the iconic crane gracing the Kangaroo Point skyline by March 2025. Residents can expect to move into their brand new Canopy House apartments by the end of 2027.

Published Date 28-April-2024

Kangaroo Point Penthouse Achieves Record $14 Million Sale, Sets New Benchmark in Brisbane’s Luxury Market

Photo Credit: Ferroarch.com

The penthouse at Sorano House in Kangaroo Point has secured a record-breaking $14 million off-the-plan sale, underscoring the soaring demand in Brisbane’s luxury residential market.

This sale price translates to an unprecedented $45,000 per square metre, surpassing the previous record of $35,000 per square metre set by Spyre Group’s Moray House project last year.

The luxurious two-storey penthouse at 12 Hamilton Street boasts 180-degree views of the Brisbane River and city skyline. It includes four bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and exclusive amenities such as a private rooftop with a pool, spa, sauna, outdoor dining area, and firepit.

SoranoHouse — *Photo Credit: Ferroarch.com*

Sam Sgroi, Managing Director of Trezetto Developments, described the sale as indicative of a “new age” for Brisbane’s luxury residential market, highlighting the Sorano House penthouse’s unique appeal and irreplaceable location.

Phillip Rand, Project Sales Director at YPM Group, noted that the buyer, a Brisbane local, had been searching for a distinctive riverfront property for over two years. The sale sets a new internal sales rate record for Brisbane and aligns the city’s property values with those in Sydney’s most prestigious waterfront suburbs.

Sorano House was launched to the market in October 2023. Four of the six single-storey apartments have already sold for an average price of $8.6 million. Construction is currently underway and is anticipated to be completed in early 2025.

Published 13-April-2024

Decade-Long Vision Realised for Riverside Gaia Apartments in Kangaroo Point

After more than a decade of planning, the developers behind the Gaia apartments project in Kangaroo Point can finally realise their vision, having secured approval from Brisbane’s local officials.

Read: Riverside Elegance: Unveiling Arden’s Eighteen Park Above Mowbray Park

It was not an easy path to approval for the Gaia development, as the development application received hundreds of submissions from residents who opposed the project due to several reasons, including potential traffic, access and parking impacts.

The developers eventually amended their plans, with two rather than three, 15-storey towers (aligning with surrounding approvals and the maximum height intent of the Neighbourhood Plan), and significant improvements to the ground plane.

Artist’s impression of Gaia (Photo credit: DKO Architecture)

The development by Pikos Group will see two 15-storey residential towers constructed at 108 Lambert Street, comprising 215 luxury apartments oriented to capture sweeping views of the Brisbane city skyline and river.

Gaia, meaning “connected to earth,” aims to provide a holistic wellness precinct grounded in nature, according to Pikos Group CEO Michelle Wooldridge. The riverfront site will feature the city’s largest private parklands along the Brisbane River.

The DKO Architecture-designed towers will offer luxury interiors with natural stone, timber flooring and premium appliances. Exclusive resident amenities will include a riverside pool and terrace with plunge pools, an indoor/outdoor gym, BBQ and dining areas, rooftop gardens, yoga lawn, outdoor cinema, private dining room and work lounge.

The developers are also currently in discussions with the Brisbane City Council about extending the riverwalk at the Gaia development site, with the goal of providing a pedestrian promenade along the river that would connect to the city and the Docklands City Cat Ferry Terminal.

Pikos Group founder and Executive Director Pedro Pikos said the vision for the 5,284 sqm riverfront site has been over 10 years in the making, gradually amalgamating eight separate lots.

Mr Pikos stated that Gaia would transform the rare waterfront location into an inner-city sanctuary that embraces its incredible connectivity to the river and city. He also said it would deliver Brisbane’s premier residential address and set a new standard for riverfront living.

Read: Kangaroo Point Wellness Campus Gets the Green Light

Construction on Gaia is expected to commence later this year, with completion slated for 2027.

Published 4-April-2024