Brisbane’s Northshore Hamilton Recreation Hub is among eight river pontoons earmarked for new uses, as plans advance to welcome water taxis, tour boats, and other tourism ventures to the city’s waterways.
The move aims to activate key riverfront spots with faster, more flexible transport options and fresh leisure opportunities in Brisbane. Currently used mainly for short-term recreation such as kayaking or drop-offs, the hubs including the one in Hamilton, are now being reviewed for potential transformation into busier pick-up and drop-off points.
Photo credit: Larry Chand/Google Maps
Northshore Hamilton is considered a standout site, with its proximity to dining, events and cruise ship arrivals, making it a prime candidate for future water taxi and tour services. Advocates believe the shift could boost visitor numbers and provide an “express-style” alternative to the slower CityCats, which stop at nearly two dozen terminals.
The plan also includes other hubs at Murarrie, Kingsford Smith Drive, New Farm Park, the City Botanic Gardens, West End, Dutton Park and Riverhills. Together, they could open the river to more tourism and hospitality businesses, alongside new infrastructure and a licensing system designed to encourage private investment.
Photo credit: Maria Roscida Mortimer/Google Maps
If realised, residents and visitors alike would gain greater choice in how they travel and explore Brisbane’s river precincts. Supporters see it as a way of creating more to see and do along the river, while critics question whether public assets should be leased to private operators.
The idea of water taxis on the Brisbane River has surfaced in earlier strategies dating back to 2013, but the latest announcement signals a fresh push to turn river hubs like Northshore Hamilton into gateways for transport, dining cruises and adventure tours.
Public consultation has opened on proposed amendments to the Northshore Hamilton Priority Development Area Development Scheme, aiming to unlock land for up to 10,000 new homes.
The Northshore Hamilton Priority Development Area (PDA), declared in 2008, is Queensland’s largest waterfront urban renewal project. It covers 304 hectares along more than three kilometres of the Brisbane River, close to the Brisbane Airport and the Australian Trade Coast precinct.
The precinct was previously planned to host an athletes’ village for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, announced in 2022. Following a review of Games infrastructure, the athletes’ village proposal was relocated to the RNA Showgrounds, with the Northshore Hamilton site now intended for permanent housing development.
The revised Development Scheme seeks to improve clarity, remove outdated requirements, and reflect updated community, industry, and government priorities. Key proposed amendments include:
Removing requirements for 10% of units to have three or more bedrooms. Removing requirements for 5% social, public, or affordable housing.
Relaxing building form controls, including the 30-metre wall length and 10-metre articulation limits.
Amending sustainability requirements to allow more flexible design approaches.
Relocating the planned school to the south-east corner of the community hub near Theodore Street and Macarthur Avenue, outside fuel storage hazard zones.
Removing all references to the former athletes’ village.
These changes aim to reduce regulatory barriers, speed up housing delivery, and support greater flexibility in meeting market demand.
Consultation Process
The proposed amendments are open for public consultation from 7 August to 19 September 2025. Economic Development Queensland is inviting feedback from residents, local businesses, developers, and other stakeholders.
Three public drop-in sessions will be held at The Shed, Dock C, 257 MacArthur Avenue, Hamilton:
Wednesday, 27 August 2025, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Wednesday, 27 August 2025, 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 30 August 2025, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Submissions must be in writing, include contact details, and outline any concerns or support for specific sections of the Development Scheme.
The Northshore Hamilton changes form part of a broader plan to deliver 26,000 new homes across two PDAs, with Woolloongabba targeted for 16,000 dwellings. The revisions are intended to bring forward a decade’s worth of housing land supply in Northshore Hamilton alone.
Feedback received during the consultation period will be considered before finalising the Development Scheme. A submissions report summarising feedback will be published once the scheme is adopted.
Hamilton’s proposed Olympic village is under scrutiny as concerns mount over aircraft noise potentially affecting competitors’ performance during the 2032 Brisbane Games.
The Brisbane Flight Path Community Alliance (BFPCA) has warned that noise levels ranging from 70 to 90 decibels could disrupt athletes’ preparations and tarnish Brisbane’s global reputation.
In a submission to the government’s 100-day review of Games infrastructure, BFPCA described the decision to situate the Olympic village in Northshore Hamilton as deeply problematic. The location, which lies near the end of Brisbane Airport’s legacy runway, is considered one of the city’s worst areas for aircraft noise pollution.
Health Risks Associated with Aircraft Noise
The BFPCA submission indicated that chronic exposure to noise levels between 70 and 90 decibels is associated with well-documented health issues, such as disrupted sleep, elevated stress, and cardiovascular strain. The group suggested that this could jeopardise athletes’ well-being and harm Brisbane’s global image.
Photo credit: TY Foo/Google Maps
“The escalation of night-time noise pollution in Brisbane has led to severe health consequences for affected communities. Chronic exposure to aircraft noise has been linked to increased risks of cardiovascular disease, sleep disturbance, mental health issues, and impaired cognitive development in children,” the group stated.
The Alliance also noted that Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) had previously recommended imposing covenants on residential developments near the airport, acknowledging that noise levels between 60 and 70 decibels are unsuitable for residential use.
Legacy or Liability?
The 2032 Games have been promoted as a transformative opportunity for Brisbane, but BFPCA cautioned against using the event as a justification for fast-tracking major infrastructure projects. Among their concerns is the proposed third airport terminal, which they argued is being advanced under the guise of Games legacy planning without adequate community consultation or thorough assessment of long-term impacts.
“The Brisbane 2032 Games must not be a vehicle for fast-tracking poorly considered infrastructure projects. Past failures, such as the New Parallel Runway, highlight the need for rigorous evidence-based assessment and genuine community engagement to prevent harm,” they said.
Photo credit: Penka Andonova/Google Maps
On the other hand, BAC defended the proposed terminal, stating that population growth and increasing travel demand were the primary factors driving the project. They clarified that the terminal’s construction was not solely tied to the Olympics and emphasised the need for additional capacity by the early 2030s.
Fears Over Emerging Technologies
BFPCA also raised concerns about the urban air mobility strategy, which involves introducing drones, air taxis, and verti-ports. These technologies are expected to increase significantly as part of the 2032 Games legacy but may exacerbate noise pollution. The frequent take-offs, landings, and hovering associated with these technologies could result in chronic noise exposure between 50 and 70 decibels.
The Alliance referenced World Health Organisation findings, which classify such noise levels as potentially harmful when experienced over long periods. They also used their submission to advocate for banning lead-based aviation fuel, citing its environmental and health impacts.
Global Standards and Local Accountability
The BFPCA’s concerns underscore a broader tension between Brisbane’s ambition to host a world-class Olympic Games and the challenge of managing growth sustainably. While the 2032 Olympics promise significant transformative potential, critics argue that these benefits must not come at the expense of community well-being or the city’s liveability.
With the government’s 100-day review underway, the proposed Hamilton Olympic village has become a focal point in debates about planning priorities, public health, and Brisbane’s future as an Olympic host city.
As Brisbane readies itself for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, a bold and innovative transformation has been proposed for Hamilton’s Northshore.
The ‘Northshore Vision 2050’—an ambitious plan developed by the Brisbane Design Alliance—aims to create a dynamic, world-class sports and entertainment precinct right on the river’s edge.
Key Features of the Northshore Vision 2050
Photo credit: HSK Architects
A Grand 60,000-Seat Stadium: At the heart of the proposal is a stadium designed to host not just Olympic events but a host of sports and entertainment throughout the year. Alongside the stadium, expect an adjacent aquatic centre, wave pool, and a lively retail and hospitality area, envisioning a vibrant destination for locals and tourists alike.
Riverfront Access and Connectivity: With pedestrian promenades, ferry access, and planned green spaces, this concept will offer locals and visitors a unique riverside experience. It’s a bold move to enhance connectivity, making it a true tourism hub and a convenient leisure spot for Hamilton residents.
Sustainability and Heritage: The vision proposes integrating sustainable features such as elevated gardens, recreational canals, and cultural venues that pay homage to the area’s First Nations heritage. It’s a balanced approach to growth, ensuring that the area’s rich history is preserved while developing a modern, green infrastructure.
A Thriving Mixed-Use Community: Beyond sports and recreation, the precinct will feature housing, enterprise zones, and cultural spaces, bringing the concept of a vibrant, diverse community to Hamilton’s doorstep.
Stages
The first stage of this transformative project is proposed to focus on preparing for the 2032 Games. This includes the construction of the main stadium, athletes’ warm-up facilities, and a village featuring 2,500 apartments. Hotels, restaurants, and other leisure amenities are planned to activate the area year-round.
After the Olympics, the plan outlines further expansion with the development of 12,000 additional residential apartments and townhouses. The introduction of enterprise zones, cultural venues, and a state-of-the-art sports science and medicine hub is intended to bolster the precinct’s role as a center for both work and play.
The Design Team Behind the Vision
The Brisbane Design Alliance, a collaboration of local and international experts including Buchan, HKS, NRA Collaborative, Aurecon, and Nikken Sekkei, has developed this proposal. HKS Director Andrew Colling emphasised the importance of diversity in design, noting, “Our Brisbane Design Alliance aims to capture the spirit of collaboration and ensure the Northshore Vision 2050 is deeply connected to community, climate, and local context.”
For Hamilton residents, this bold reimagining of Northshore promises a future where their community will thrive, blending world-class infrastructure with sustainable, community-focused design. As Brisbane’s transformation takes shape, Hamilton is poised to become a key hub for living, recreation, and business—a lasting legacy of the 2032 Games.
The Northshore Hamilton precinct is transforming into a celebration of Australia’s most beloved cartoon export, as CityCats don the playful personas of Bluey and Bingo.
These newly christened “CityDogs” are set to become the star transport link to the eagerly awaited Bluey’s World Brisbane at the riverside location.
Photo credit: BCC/Facebook
The precinct’s ferry terminal has become the gateway to what promises to be Queensland’s most talked-about family attraction. Visitors arriving via the whimsically transformed vessels will find themselves immersed in the Bluey experience before they even reach their destination.
The collaborative effort between Ludo Studios, BBC Studios, and Brisbane’s CityCat team has turned everyday commuter craft into floating tributes to the globally successful children’s series.
The precinct’s transformation aligns with its growing reputation as a cultural and entertainment hub. The CityDogs will serve as more than just transport – they’re floating ambassadors for Brisbane’s identity as Bluey’s hometown.
Photo credit: BCC/Facebook
BBC Studios ANZ Brands and Licensing Director Kate O’Connor emphasises this connection: “Reimagining two of Brisbane’s CityCats as CityDogs is a fun and fitting tribute to the show that has become a global phenomenon while still proudly calling Brisbane home.”
Bluey’s World Brisbane, launched on 7 November, promises multiple interactive rooms and games that reference the show’s most memorable moments. The Northshore Hamilton location has been carefully chosen to create an immersive experience that captures the essence of the series’ Brisbane setting, with the river journey aboard the CityDogs adding an extra layer of authenticity to the adventure.
For visitors making their way to Northshore Hamilton, the journey has become part of the destination. Whether they’re local families, interstate tourists, or international Bluey enthusiasts, the precinct is set to become a must-visit destination that showcases Brisbane’s unique blend of family entertainment, cultural significance, and riverside charm.
For more information on how to reach Northshore Hamilton via the CityDogs, visitors can check the Translink website for details on operating times and tickets.
A consortium of global architects and planners has proposed a $6-billion Olympic precinct in Northshore Hamilton, aiming to address the ongoing planning issues for the 2032 Games without adding any extra burden on taxpayers.
The Brisbane Design Alliance, a team of world-renowned architects, engineers, and planners, has developed a comprehensive proposal to transform Northshore Hamilton into a vibrant Olympic precinct. The Alliance includes several prominent firms, including HKS Architects, one of the key members.
HKS Architects, an international architecture firm led by Andrew Colling, is known for designing major stadiums like SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and AT&T Stadium for the Dallas Cowboys. They bring their expertise in large-scale sports venue design to the project, working alongside other firms in the Alliance such as Buchan (an Australian-based architectural firm), NRA Collaborative, Aurecon (an engineering and infrastructure advisory company), and Nikken Sekkei (a Japanese architecture firm known for its innovative designs).
An Ambitious Plan for Brisbane’s Future
The proposed development would feature a 60,000-seat waterfront stadium as the centrepiece of the precinct.
Photo Credit: HSK Architects
In addition to the stadium, the plan includes a hotel overlooking the venue, a 2500-apartment athletes’ village, pedestrian walkways along the river, an aquatic and wave pool centre, and a retail and restaurant hub.
The proposed Northshore precinct is designed for the Olympics and as a long-term solution to Brisbane’s urban growth. It aims to provide an unmatched mixed-use development in Queensland.
According to the Brisbane Design Alliance, the Northshore scheme is tailored to address the city’s projected population growth over the next 25 years. The project includes plans for an additional 12,000 residential dwellings around the precinct after the Games, providing a lasting legacy for the community. The consortium believes the precinct could be privately funded, similar to Perth’s Optus Stadium, built without direct government funding.
Transport and Infrastructure Challenges
A significant aspect of the Northshore proposal is the need for substantial transport infrastructure upgrades. The consortium has identified this as a critical issue that must be addressed to ensure the precinct’s success.
The proposed site, which spans 150 hectares between Bretts Wharf on Kingsford Smith Drive and the Royal Queensland Golf Club, requires improvements to the existing transport network, including train, bus, tram, and ferry services.
Photo Credit: HSK Architects
The proposal also includes the construction of public parkland and gardens to serve the expected 22,000 residents who will live in the area post-2032. A green pedestrian drawbridge over the Brisbane River, linking the precinct to Bulimba, is part of the project. If there is enough interest and support, this bridge could be pursued as a standalone project before the Games.
The Brisbane Design Alliance sees the Northshore precinct as an opportunity to create a world-class venue that reflects Brisbane’s identity and future growth. The team believes this project could provide a unique Brisbane 2032 Olympics experience while addressing the city’s long-term needs.
Commitment to QSAC Upgrade
Despite the innovative private sector proposal, the state remains committed to its plans for the 2032 Olympics. The state has already initiated a $1.6 billion upgrade to the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC) at Mount Gravatt, with tenders for early planning and design work issued last week.
Minister Di Farmer, speaking on behalf of the state government, reiterated the government’s preference for publicly owned Olympic venues. She emphasised that the government’s vision for the Games is clear, including significant investment in social and affordable housing within the Northshore precinct.
The state promised to build 3,000 homes in the area, and recent contracts worth $87 million were awarded for road and civil works. However, the minister did not provide specific details about whether QSAC would be used for the Olympics’ opening and closing ceremonies.
However, the Brisbane Design Alliance remains hopeful that the state will reconsider its position, especially given the transport challenges currently plaguing the Northshore area.
The consortium is confident that with the necessary support from the state government, construction on the Northshore precinct could begin by early 2026, ensuring that the project is completed in time for the Olympics. They also proposed that the state provide the land required for the project, which is currently partly owned by the state, while the private sector handles the bulk of the funding and construction.
While the exact launch date remains under wraps, anticipation is building for this addition to the vibrant Portside Wharf precinct.
The team behind the popular Rise Bakery, known for their delectable baguettes, quiches, and chicken pies, is venturing into the world of French cuisine with Mademoiselle. Drawing inspiration from classic French eateries, the owners aim to create a warm and inviting space perfect for leisurely lunches and dinners.
Mademoiselle’s menu promises to showcase traditional French cuisine with contemporary twists. Diners can look forward to brasserie staples such as succulent rotisserie meats, gourmet salads, and ever-changing chef’s specials, all designed to transport patrons to the streets of Paris.
Photo credit: Google Street View
The arrival of Mademoiselle adds to the growing culinary diversity at Portside Wharf. In 2023 alone, the precinct welcomed Fosh, Rosé Gelateria, and Birds Nest Yakitori. The area’s gastronomic offerings are set to expand further with the forthcoming Portside Social gastropub, Italian eatery Sbagliata, and burger joint Dumbo.
Located at 39 Hercules Street in Hamilton, Mademoiselle will be in good company among Hamilton’s burgeoning food scene. As the Rise Bakery team takes on this new venture, locals and visitors alike eagerly await the opportunity to indulge in a slice of France right in the heart of Hamilton.
With its promise of authentic flavours and a convivial atmosphere, Mademoiselle is poised to become a standout destination for French cuisine enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of Parisian-style dining in Brisbane’s evolving culinary landscape.
Brisbane’s plan for a world-class Olympic stadium has sparked discussion among residents, pitting visionary dreams against practical concerns. The Northshore Vision 2050, a $6 billion proposal to solve the city’s 2032 Olympic Games stadium dilemma, has sharply divided public opinion.
The $6 billion proposal, which its proponents claim won’t cost taxpayers an extra cent, is the brainchild of the Brisbane Design Alliance. This powerhouse team brings together local and global expertise from firms such as Buchan, HKS, NRA Collaborative, Aurecon, and Nikken Sekkei, in collaboration with project development partners Cenfield MXD Limited.
Photo credit: Brisbane Design Alliance
At the heart of the plan is a dramatic stadium that would serve as the centrepiece for the 2032 Olympic Games. The proposed venue would be complemented by an adjacent aquatic centre, wave pool, and a vibrant retail and hospitality zone.
Photo credit: Brisbane Design Alliance
The precinct would also include a hotel overlooking the venue, a 2500-apartment athletes’ village, and pedestrian walkways along the river, creating a comprehensive Olympic experience.
The vision extends beyond the Games themselves, with the Brisbane Design Alliance aiming to create a lasting legacy that would cement Brisbane’s status as a global city. By developing world-class infrastructure, the project seeks to benefit future generations long after the Olympic flame has been extinguished.
Public Reaction
Photo credit: Brisbane Design Alliance
As with any project of this magnitude, the proposal has sparked mixed reactions among Brisbane residents and observers. Some view it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to put the city on the world map, praising the unique design and its potential to create a landmark destination.
One resident expressed concern that a 60,000-seat stadium was insufficient, pointing out that Melbourne had constructed the 100,000-seat MCG half a century ago.
A critic argued against the project, citing concerns about “homelessness” and “existing debt” as reasons why the city couldn’t afford such an ambitious plan.
In contrast, a supporter praised the proposal’s uniqueness, suggesting that Queenslanders should endorse it and emphasising the need to begin work promptly, given the eight-year timeline before the Olympics.
The debate surrounding the Northshore Vision 2050 reflects the broader challenges faced by cities hosting major sporting events like the Olympics.
As Brisbane prepares for its moment in the global spotlight, the coming months and years will likely see intense discussions about the merits of this ambitious proposal. Whether the Northshore Vision 2050 becomes a reality or not, it has already succeeded in igniting a conversation about Brisbane’s future and its aspirations on the world stage.
Did you know that the Brisbane 2032 Olympics will potentially feature revolutionary transport and mobility technology such as air taxis, drones, autonomous shuttles, and personal mobility pods at Northshore Hamilton?
The partnership marks an Australian-first in transport innovation, where Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) will work with Toyota and MIT to harness advanced transport technologies.
This collaboration aims to dramatically reshape Brisbane’s transport landscape by the 2032 Olympics, introducing modes of transport reminiscent of the futuristic 1960s cartoon “The Jetsons.”
Northshore Hamilton, the designated home for the 2032 Olympics athletes’ village, could see significant developmental changes due to this initiative. The project not only promises to enhance the Olympic experience but also foresees a long-term transformation in urban mobility across Brisbane, reducing car dependency and congestion.
Technological Advancements and Urban Planning
The 18-month design project spearheaded by EDQ will look into next-generation mobility solutions. Debbie McNamara, CEO of EDQ, highlighted the importance of leveraging Toyota and MIT’s expertise in autonomous technologies and innovative urban planning to forge new frontiers in accessibility and connectivity.
MIT’s transport expert, Professor Alan Berger, emphasized the necessity for urban planners to integrate these new mobility technologies to maximize social and environmental benefits.
“It is vital for urban planners and urban designers to start thinking about the integration of future mobility technologies to maximize, the environmental and social benefits they can bring,” said Mr Berger.
“This project will use parametric modelling tools to design and test urban configurations that support innovative forms of active mobility and universal access, reducing reliance on private cars and integrating with, active mobility options such as walking and micromobility, and traditional public transit models, which are also expected to evolve in the future.
“We are very excited to be working with EDQ and Toyota Mobility Foundation to envision future sustainable and resilient design scenarios for Northshore Brisbane.”
A Broader Spectrum of Innovations
The initiative will also explore infrastructure improvements to support these new technologies, such as alternatives to traditional parking and loading zones, and the creation of micro-mobility hubs, parcel delivery, vehicle charging, and storage solutions.
Advanced mobility technologies such as AI-driven self-driving cars and buses, electric drones, air taxis for urban commuting, and flexible ride-sharing and bike-sharing platforms are all on the research agenda. Additionally, the project will look at enhancing smart transit hubs, intelligent traffic management systems, electric personal mobility pods, and even advanced wheelchairs.
Technology Category
Description
Autonomous Vehicles
Self-driving cars and buses that use AI and sensors to navigate without human input, providing safe and efficient transportation.
Electric Scooters and Bikes
Compact, eco-friendly personal transportation devices that can be rented on-demand for short trips, enhancing last-mile connectivity.
Urban Air Mobility (UAM)
Electric drones and air taxis designed for short urban flights, reducing congestion on the ground and offering quick travel options.
Shared Mobility Services
Platforms for ride-sharing, car-sharing, and bike-sharing that provide flexible, on-demand access to various modes of transport without the need for ownership.
Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS)
Integrated digital platforms that combine different transport services (public transit, ride-sharing, bike-sharing) into a single, accessible service, enabling seamless travel across multiple modes.
Smart Transit Hubs
Innovative transportation nodes that integrate various mobility services, including public transport, shared vehicles, and personal devices, designed for easy and efficient access.
Connected and Smart Infrastructure
Intelligent traffic management systems and smart city technologies that optimize traffic flow, reduce congestion, and support autonomous and electric vehicles.
Personal Mobility Pods
Small, electric, and autonomous vehicles designed for individual or small group transport, offering a comfortable and efficient alternative to traditional cars.
On-Demand Autonomous Shuttles
Driverless, electric shuttles that operate on-demand, providing flexible and sustainable public transportation options within urban areas.
Electric Cargo Drones
Autonomous drones designed for freight transport, enabling quick and sustainable delivery of goods within urban environments.
This ambitious project not only sets the stage for a futuristic Olympics but could also herald a new era of urban mobility in Brisbane, potentially setting a benchmark for cities worldwide.
Northshore Hamilton has been transformed into an artistic wonderland with the arrival of this exhibition in Brisbane, drawing inspiration from 19th century France and the works of Claude Monet and other Impressionist painters.
Originally scheduled to run from 7 June to 6 August only, the exhibition will now continue to dazzle visitors until 27 August 2023, offering a rare opportunity to be immersed in a 360-degree display of Monet’s world.
Photo credit: Monet in Paris/Facebook
Enormous projections of famous paintings by Monet and other Impressionist artists illuminate the space, bringing their bold brushstrokes and vibrant colours to life.
Photo credit: Monet in Paris/Facebook
Beyond the visual spectacle, the exhibition explores the historical context of the Impressionist movement. Visitors can learn about the social and political turbulence of the time through interactive displays and informative exhibits. The exhibition captures the essence of 19th century Paris, with its lively cabarets, elegant salons, and bustling streets that inspired the artists.
To create a truly immersive experience, Monet in Paris engages all the senses. Visitors can enjoy the scent of flowers, the sounds of city life, and the vibrant colours of the projected artworks, transporting them back in time to Monet’s era.
This highly anticipated exhibition has become a must-see cultural event, attracting visitors from far and wide. It not only revives interest in the Impressionist movement but also sparks conversations about the intersection of art, history, and society. By celebrating the legacy of Monet and his contemporaries, Monet in Paris pays tribute to the artists who revolutionised the art world.
