Kangaroo Point Hotel Spark Lifestyle Shift for Riverside Suburb

A well-known hospitality venue in Kangaroo Point is leading a major shift in the area’s identity by launching a comprehensive redesign aimed at turning the quiet riverside suburb into one of the city’s primary social and cultural hubs.



A New Vision for the Neighbourhood

Kangaroo Point
Photo Credit: Google Maps

The venue formerly known as The Point Brisbane Hotel has rebranded simply as Point Hotel. This change signals more than just a new name; it represents a serious effort to make the precinct a top choice for locals, business travellers, and digital nomads. The hotel management wants to highlight the potential of the area, which is bordered by the Brisbane River and the Story Bridge. While the location has always been liked for its views and relaxed feel, the new plan focuses on adding convenience and culture to the mix.

Director Jin Keng Ng explained that the goal is to create a true landmark that the local community can feel proud of. He noted that the team is upgrading the experience with confidence and a strong respect for the unique location. The idea is to build a space where visitors naturally want to go, rather than just pass through.

Design Inspired by Queensland Life

Kangaroo Point
Photo Credit: Google Maps

To bring this vision to life, the hotel has partnered with design studio Bergman & Co and fit-out specialists Unita. These teams have worked on other famous Brisbane venues like Supernormal and The 203. The new look will focus on the subtropical rhythm of Queensland life. The design plans include the use of natural textures, plenty of lush greenery, and intimate lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere.

General Manager Aaron Roberts stated that the priority is for every guest to feel relaxed and inspired, whether they are staying overnight or just visiting for a meal. He emphasised that the hotel aims to offer a style of hospitality that helps guests feel more connected to the city.



Dining and Future Plans

Renovation work started in mid-December to reinvent the lobby, bar, and restaurant areas. During this time, all dining services have moved to the rooftop. This allows guests to keep enjoying meals with views of the skyline while the main spaces are updated. A refreshed food and drink menu is also in the works under Head Chef Marcus Turner. When the new spaces are ready in early 2026, the restaurant will feature modern dining based on seasonal Queensland produce.

This current work is just the first step in a larger plan. Future stages will include a refresh of the pool and wellness areas, as well as upgrades to guest rooms. The long-term goal is to firmly establish the hotel as a leading lifestyle destination as Brisbane prepares for its Olympic decade.

Published Date 31-December-2025

Kangaroo Point Landmark, Story Bridge, Launches Inclusive Climb Experience

Did you know that, in a world-first for inclusive adventure tourism, wheelchair users are now able to participate in guided climbs to the top of the Story Bridge? From the Howard Smith Wharves base, a special technology is used to ensure safe movement across inclines, with ergonomic and safety elements to ensure an enjoyable and inclusive climbing experience to the top of iconic bridge.



Custom Technology Enables Inclusive Access

The accessible climb includes a motorised stair climber wheelchair that has been specifically designed for the Story Bridge. The wheelchair incorporates advanced technology to ensure safe movement across inclines and features ergonomic and safety elements suited for the climb environment.

This initiative was made possible by a $250,000 grant through the State’s Accessible Tourism Elevate Fund.

Design Collaboration and Testing

The accessible climb system was co-designed by tourism operator John Sharpe, Box Wheelchairs’ Mike Box, and wheelchair motocross athlete Timothy Lachlan, who also took part in testing and refinement. The system has been customised to meet high safety standards and to accommodate the structural features of the Story Bridge.

Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games
Photo Credit: Story Bridge Adventure Climb

Climb Details and Participation

The new experience allows for up to nine participants per session, with a maximum of one wheelchair user supported by at least three companions. Each climb runs for 2.5 to 3 hours and includes commentary on Brisbane’s history, a group photo, and a commemorative cap. 

The climb begins from the Story Bridge Adventure Climb headquarters at Howard Smith Wharves, near the bridge’s Kangaroo Point connection.

Local and State Support

City officials and community figures attended a launch event at the climb site, acknowledging the climb as a boost to local tourism ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Stakeholders said the initiative aligns with increasing demand for accessible experiences in Brisbane and broader Queensland.

Research cited by the operator indicated that three in five Brisbane residents see accessibility as a key priority for the city’s development.

Kangaroo Point accessible climb
Photo Credit: Story Bridge Adventure Climb

Ongoing Significance for Kangaroo Point

While the climb base is located at Howard Smith Wharves, the Story Bridge remains a major landmark for both sides of the river, including Kangaroo Point. The development enhances visitor engagement with the bridge and its surrounding areas, offering new tourism opportunities and increased visibility for accessibility-focused infrastructure.

Conclusion and Future Outlook



The accessible bridge climb positions Brisbane as a leader in inclusive tourism. It is expected to attract domestic and international interest. It represents a broader shift towards infrastructure and tourism services that cater to a wider range of physical needs, with more initiatives likely to emerge ahead of major international events in 2032.

Published 10-Apr-2025