Kangaroo Point Archives - Page 9 of 16

Kangaroo Point Construction Worker Accused Thefts Granted Bail With Conditions Amidst Disputed Evidence

Jarred Raymond Scott, a 34-year-old construction worker from Kangaroo Point who is facing multiple charges related to the alleged theft of bikes, e-scooters, and parcels from a Brisbane apartment complex, has been granted bail.

The accused appeared in Brisbane Arrest Court on Saturday, 7 Oct 2023, and was granted bail by Magistrate Julian Noud. He faced nine charges, including four counts of entering premises and committing an indictable offence, one count of entering premises with intent, one count of stealing, one count of unlawful possession of suspected stolen property, and two charges related to registration plate tampering.

These charges stem from alleged offences occurring between late last year until the end of September 2023.

During the hearing, police prosecutor Sergeant Matt Kahler argued that Scott should remain in custody due to his prior history, including a suspended sentence and probation. Sgt Kahler also presented evidence that two stolen bicycles were discovered at Mr Scott’s residence on Connor St in Kangaroo Point.

CCTV footage showed a van stealing the two bikes from a Brisbane address on the night of 18 Sept 2023, though Sgt. Kahler could not definitively link Mr Scott to the van.

Mr Scott, who works part-time as a labourer for a carpenter and subcontracts for a friend’s company, earns approximately $900 a week. Legal Aid Queensland barrister Laura Rouse pointed out that several charges relied on CCTV footage, and it was unclear whether the individual seen in the footage was indeed the accused.

Rouse emphasised that there was “currently no evidence” to suggest that two e-scooters found at Scott’s apartment were stolen. She also argued that in relation to the charge of stealing two bicycles, police may consider downgrading the charge to receiving stolen property as the evidence did not conclusively connect Mr Scott to the van seen on CCTV.

Moreover, Mr Scott disputed some of the evidence presented against him. He claimed that the CCTV footage showing a man wearing a COVID-19 mask was not him and that he was seen with his own e-scooter, not one stolen from an alleged victim. However, police alleged that the masked individual had worn the “same clothing” as Scott in earlier footage where his face was visible.

Despite these disputes, Magistrate Noud granted Scott bail with conditions. Scott is required to report to the police at Dutton Park three times a week and must continue to reside at his Kangaroo Point home. Additionally, he is prohibited from contacting his ex-partner, Sarah Von Senden.

The case is scheduled to return to Brisbane Magistrates Court on 1 Nov 2023, where further developments are expected.

Published 9-Oct-2023

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

Photo Credit: CrRyanMurphy/Facebook

The Kangaroo Point Green Bridge has reached a significant construction milestone, with the successful installation of the first four lower legs of the towering 95-metre, 270-tonne mast.

The landmark infrastructure project is scheduled to open in 2024 and promises to become one of the most iconic images in the city’s skyline.

Originally budgeted at $190 million, the cost of the pedestrian bridge connecting Alice Street to Kangaroo Point has faced challenges due to global supply pressures, resulting in a recent revised estimate of $299 million.

Despite the cost increases, the project has made significant progress, with over 240 metres of the bridge’s spans already in place, surpassing the halfway mark of its eventual 460-metre stretch across the Brisbane River. Brisbane City Council’s Transport Committee Head, Ryan Murphy, attributed the cost escalation to the prevailing market conditions.

A timelapse video showcases the rapid progress of Brisbane’s newest green bridge project.

“It will finally deliver a direct link between the CBD and Kangaroo Point, which has been talked about since the 1800s, taking 84,000 cars off our roads each year,” LM Adrian Schrinner said.

“It will create a critical connection to the Gabba Stadium for AFL and cricket fans, concert-goers, and the tens of thousands of people from across the world who will visit our city during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” he added.

The Kangaroo Point Green Bridge, part of a $550 million green bridge program, was initiated in 2019 and was crucial in addressing congestion and promoting public and active transport. However, challenges such as the 2022 floods and community opposition have led to the cancellation of some proposed bridges, leaving only two in progress. Last year’s floods also caused a delay in the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge’s opening date.

Once completed, the bridge is expected to accommodate over 6,000 pedestrians, cyclists, and e-mobility riders daily by 2036, leading to a significant reduction in cross-river car trips, aligning with the council’s vision for a more sustainable and accessible Brisbane.

Published 7-Oct-2023

Brisbane Oktoberfest 2023: Grab Your Steins and Prepare to Raise the Roof

Photo Credit: Oktoberfest2023/EventBrite

Brace yourselves as Brisbane’s Original Oktoberfest roars back to life in 2023! Brisbane German Club of Kangaroo Point is all set to host a month-long celebration that promises to be nothing short of sensational.

In true Oktoberfest fashion, every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday throughout October, starting Friday, the 6th October 2023 will be a day of heart-pounding live music performances, a gourmet menu loaded with authentic German delights that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance, and a beer selection that’s the stuff of legend, boasting Brisbane’s most extensive range of imported German brews.

Oktoberfest Brisbane German Club — *Photo Credit: Brisbane German Club*

This celebration will also feature Oktoberfest competitions to test your mettle, market stalls offering treasures galore, a best-dressed showdown that’s sure to turn heads, and challenges that’ll push your eating and drinking prowess to the limit.

Feeling the adrenaline yet? You should be! And don’t miss the crowning glory – the ceremonial keg tapping that kicks off the festivities with a bang! Cheers!

LIVE MUSIC LINE-UP

Here’s the scoop: There are no table reservations, so it’s first-come, first-served. For this electrifying weekend, drinks, function packages, and bar tabs are off the menu.

But that’s not all, folks! For esteemed Current Full Members of the club, here’s a treat just for you – enjoy FREE entry to Oktoberfest 2023 on any of the festival days. Simply flash your Current Full Membership card at the Express Queue, and you’re in! Just remember, this fabulous perk isn’t transferable.

And here’s the kicker – tickets to this unmissable event start at a tantalizingly $15! Snag your tickets right away to secure your spot in the wildest October party in Brisbane.

Get Tickets | Multiple Dates

For more details follow Brisbane German Club on Facebook.

Kangaroo Point’s Iconic Silverwells South Changes Hands Again

The heritage-listed Silverwells South house in Kangaroo Point has been sold at auction after being listed on the market last month.

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

The iconic duplex, dubbed as possibly the oldest residential building remaining at Kangaroo Point, was purchased for an undisclosed price after previously being listed in 2020 for $5.5 million.

With around 170 years of history behind it, Silverwells South is considered a prized real estate gem. The property, located at 267 Main Street, was handled by Place Estate Agents and described in the listing as “a true icon in the heart of the city.”

Renovations have honoured the home’s heritage whilst upgrading amenities. Kauri pine floors, 4-metre high ceilings, and crystal chandeliers reflect the grace of a bygone era. A wine cellar, glass-enclosed atrium, and spacious open-plan interior represent contemporary style and function.

The new owners acquire both a piece of Brisbane history and a luxurious inner-city residence. Place Estate Agents said buyer interest was strong for the rare opportunity to own “the perfect house alternative” at Silverwells South. Its alluring blend of old and new is sure to capture the imagination of future residents.

About Silverwells South

Photo credit: Queensland Heritage Register

Although the precise construction date is unknown, records indicate Silverwells South was likely built sometime between the 1860s and 1870s for Joseph Thompson, a prominent Sydney merchant who acquired multiple properties in Kangaroo Point. It is one of just two Georgian-style homes believed to be commissioned by Thompson in the area during this period.

As a rare Brisbane example of semi-detached brick housing in Georgian fashion, Silverwells South stands out from Queensland’s architectural norms of that era, when such duplexes were more prevalent in Sydney. The home is prominently featured in a photograph of Kangaroo Point from the mid-1870s, narrowing down its completion to sometime prior.

Ownership stayed in the Thompson family until 1902, when it passed to William Mann Thompson. He later subdivided the land, with the southern Silverwells house converted to a rental property from the 1930s to 1950s. The home was officially heritage listed in 1992 as an exemplar of Queensland’s historical development.

Read: 40 Years of Patience Pays Off as Brisbane Woman Puts Kangaroo Point Apartment Block Up For Sale

Major renovations were undertaken in 2008 to incorporate modern amenities whilst retaining the original 19th century structure. This synthesis of old and new continues the property’s enduring legacy.

Published 19-September-2023

Long-Delayed Lambert Street Development Project Back on Track

New details are set to be released on plans for a coveted development site on Lambert Street in Kangaroo Point, where approval already exists for 200 luxury apartments across three towers.

Read: Pikos Group Hits Construction Milestone at Skye Residences in Kangaroo Point

Developer Pikos Group had faced opposition from community groups when plans were originally submitted, but won an appeal in the Planning & Environment Court in May 2021 allowing the project to proceed.

Construction on the triple tower project, located at 108 Lambert Street in Kangaroo Point, was originally expected to begin this year.

Designed by architecture firm Conrad Gargett, the development dubbed ‘La Storia’ will feature a mix of two and three bedroom residences ranging in size from 135 sqm to 151 sqm. Each apartment will have custom stone island benches and integrated premium appliances and fixtures.

The site was previously home to a row of worker cottages, which have since been relocated and restored in nearby Kelvin Grove as part of the development plans.

A spokesperson for Pikos Group said they will remain committed to developing the iconic site and that they will be working closely with their consultants and builder partners to deliver this landmark project for Kangaroo Point.

Kangaroo Point has seen several major development projects in recent years, sparking fears of overdevelopment in some circles. But the City of Brisbane has defended the need for increased housing density in appropriate locations.

The La Storia site is considered a prime spot given its proximity to the CBD and public transport, one of the reasons why developers continue to flock to the area despite some lingering community opposition.

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

Pikos Group has not indicated when construction will commence following previous delays. But their recommitment to the project will be welcome news to those eager to see the vacant lot turned into a new landmark development for Kangaroo Point. Units are priced between $1.1 million and $1.6 million.

Published 8-September-2023

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